Celebrity Cruises has introduced new short Caribbean itineraries featuring stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Beyond were the first to visit, offering guests premium getaway experiences. The island includes the adults-only Hideaway Beach, the Coco Beach Club with an infinity pool and fine dining, and the Bahamas’ first Overwater Cabanas. These additions aim to provide Australians with a luxurious beach escape as part of their U.S. travel plans.

The Sun Princess, a new Sphere class cruise ship by Princess Cruises, is nearing completion at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy. It's a game changer for the brand, offering features like a large casino, extensive kids' clubs, and 30 dining venues. The ship is 21% larger than its Royal fleet sisters, with a capacity of 4300 guests. It's designed to be immersive and globally applicable, able to navigate the Panama Canal. The ship boasts innovative design elements such as more light, space, and smart technology. Princess Cruises is confident in the ship's timely completion for its maiden voyage in February 2024, with construction on the second Sphere-class ship, the Star Princess, already underway.

Viking is set to enter China's cruise market with the Viking Yi Dun, formerly known as Viking Sun, offering international travelers domestic sailings to explore iconic Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. The voyages, starting from September to November, will feature cultural immersion through lectures, Chinese cuisine, and excursions to landmarks such as the Great Wall of China. Viking's chairman, Torstein Hagen, highlighted the company's history in China and the enriching experiences planned for guests. The article details three itineraries with varying lengths and prices, all designed to showcase China's wonders, history, and design.

Australian artist David Bromley unveiled a large art installation onboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, created over 72 hours during a voyage from Melbourne to Sydney. The six-time Archibald finalist's work, reflecting his distinctive pop sensibility, will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting the charity Lifechanger. Cunard President Katie McAlistair highlighted the brand's history with art, noting the fleet will soon become the largest art gallery at sea. Queen Elizabeth is set for a season of itineraries in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.

Ponant, a luxury French expedition line, will launch 18 voyages in the Kimberley region for the 2025 season with two ships, Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Soleal. The voyages will feature 10-night sailings between Broome and Darwin, led by expert guides and anthropologists, focusing on the region's natural beauty and Indigenous cultures. Deb Corbett, Ponant's general manager sales & marketing Asia Pacific, highlighted the seamless experience offered by the Ponant Plus program, which includes flights, transfers, and local excursions. Prices start from $10,170 per person, with departures from 24 May to 21 September 2025.

Norway's government plans to ban fuel-powered cruise ships from its fjords starting in 2026, allowing only those powered by alternative fuels such as LNG. This could affect major cruise lines like Cunard, Holland America, and others, as many of their new LNG-fueled ships will not be ready by the deadline. However, lines like Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Princess are expected to meet the requirements. The Norwegian government's move is part of an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with cruise ships accounting for about 3% of the country's total. Hurtigruten is upgrading its fleet to cleaner energy sources, and Ponant is designing ships with wind and hydrogen power. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and Carnival Corporation have expressed their commitment to environmental protection and compliance with the new regulations, while some companies have declined to comment.

Holland America Line has opened bookings for four Legendary Voyages for 2025 and early 2026, offering cruises ranging from 28 to 56 days from North American ports to destinations like Alaska, Hawaii, the South Pacific, and South America. The voyages will take place on the Nieuw Amsterdam, Volendam, Westerdam, and Zaandam ships. An early booking bonus called 'Have It All' includes shore excursions, specialty dining, beverage packages, Wi-Fi, and prepaid crew appreciation. Mariner Society loyalty members can also receive a USD$400 onboard credit per stateroom.

Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Icon of the Seas, will feature a Labrador named Rover as a permanent resident and mascot. Crew members welcomed Rover during the ship's stop in Ponce, Puerto Rico, before heading to Miami. The Royal Promenade on Icon of the Seas will replace the traditional classic car statue with a statue of a dog, marking a departure from the line's previous design choices.

Ultra-luxury family holidays are gaining popularity among high-net-worth individuals, with a significant increase in six-figure bookings for family trips. Luxury travel operators like Scott Dunn Private, Black Tomato, Original Travel, Cartology Travel, and The House of DreamMaker are catering to this demand by offering personalized and experiential travel experiences. These trips often involve private jets, yachts, and unique cultural engagements, with a focus on creating memorable family moments. The trend reflects a post-Covid desire to make the most of family time and the willingness to spend on extraordinary holidays.

The White Lotus, a hit TV series, is reportedly set to film its third season in Thailand, with speculation about which luxury resort will feature in the show. The series has previously filmed at Four Seasons resorts in Hawaii and Sicily, and the creator Mike White has been seen at the Four Seasons Koh Samui and Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai. Other potential filming locations include the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok, Phulay Bay, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Krabi, and Kamalaya in Koh Samui. These resorts are known for their luxurious amenities, cultural significance, and scenic beauty, making them fitting backdrops for the show's exploration of themes such as death, Eastern religion, and spirituality.

Private jet holidays are gaining popularity, offering luxury travel experiences that bypass traditional airport hassles. Tour companies like Captain’s Choice, Four Seasons, and Aman Resorts provide exclusive itineraries with business-class flights, gourmet meals, and unique activities. Destinations include South America, Asia, and various luxury hotels worldwide. The pandemic has increased interest in these private-jet 'bubbles'. Prices range from AU$5950 for a short domestic trip to AU$300,000 for an international tour. New innovations and a variety of tours cater to different interests, including family-friendly trips and wellness-focused journeys.

Luxury travel is evolving as high-end travelers seek unique experiences, such as participating in scientific research during their vacations. Companies like The Luminaire offer trips where guests can join real palaeontologists in excavating dinosaur fossils in Wyoming, with a portion of the proceeds supporting scientific institutions like the Naturalis Biodiversity Center. While these trips offer personalized luxury and activities, they also contribute to scientific research and public knowledge. Critics question the depth of the scientific contribution by tourists and the potential environmental impact, but proponents argue that these trips fund important research and make science more accessible and appealing to the public.

The top cruise stories of 2023 included a range of consumer experiences and industry developments. Retirement at sea became a popular topic, with a failed three-year cruise leaving a Melbourne woman homeless and a Florida couple finding it cost-effective. Passengers faced issues such as forced cabin upgrades, visa misinformation leading to being stranded, and hefty charges for COVID-19 treatment. Small ships in Europe outmaneuvered larger ones to avoid crowds, and savvy travelers saved on airfares by booking around-the-world flights. The year also saw itinerary changes due to strict biosecurity regulations in New Zealand and the impact of Cyclone Jasper in Queensland.

Villa Vie Residences, a start-up formed by ex-Life at Sea management, has acquired a ship from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to offer a three-and-a-half-year world cruise starting May 2024. The company offers both apartment ownership and rental options for extended voyages. This announcement follows the cancellation of a three-year cruise by Miray Cruises, which left customers like Melbourne's Fran Paroissien without a home. Villa Vie's CEO Mikael Petterson emphasizes a customer-informed approach with flexible payment options and a variety of cabin prices. The cruise includes food, drinks, and other amenities, with a 10% deposit required to secure a place. Skepticism remains due to past failures, but Petterson assures that private investment has funded the ship purchase and that deposits will not be used until February 15.

Lionel Messi, renowned football star and TIME’s 2023 Athlete of the Year, has been named the official icon for Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Icon of the Seas, which is set to debut in January 2024. Messi will participate in the ship's naming celebration in Miami and has expressed his excitement about the partnership. The ship boasts a record-breaking launch in terms of bookings and features six waterslides, seven pools, and over 40 dining and entertainment options. It will offer seven-night Caribbean itineraries, including visits to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Hurtigruten Norway has relaunched three itineraries that showcase the Nordic capitals and the Aurora Borealis. The itineraries, paused during the pandemic, include a 15-day Follow the Northern Lights: Land and Sea Tour, a 15-day Follow the Midnight Sun Land and Sea Tour, and a 12-Day Follow the Stars: Astronomy Voyage. These tours offer experiences such as husky dog and reindeer safaris, cultural insights into the Sámi people, and astronomy-focused activities with renowned scientists. Hurtigruten Norway's Northern Lights Promise guarantees a free voyage if the Northern Lights are not seen. The Original Coastal Express, part of all three itineraries, visits 34 ports and showcases over 100 fjords and 1,000 mountains.

P&O Australia's Pacific Adventure, formerly Princess Cruises' Golden Princess, has begun its summer season in Sydney. The ship, refurbished in 2021, offers 1316 staterooms, various dining options including free specialty restaurants, and a range of onboard activities such as waterslides and an adventure park. It also features performance areas, bars, lounges, pools, and a kids club program. The deck plan includes 18 decks with numerous guest facilities, highlighting the ship's suitability for family entertainment and cruise enthusiasts.

Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Cruises' first edge-class ship, will sail in Australian waters starting November 2023, offering 6- to 16-night itineraries. The ship features 1467 staterooms, various dining options including 29 restaurants and bars, and a range of onboard activities such as the Magic Carpet, a high-tech theatre, and a Rooftop Garden. The ship also offers a spa with high-tech treatments and a comprehensive fitness center. The deck plan includes 15 decks with unique features like the Infinite Veranda cabins and a two-level Atrium stairway.

Cruise passengers are opting out of cruise line packages, such as those offered by Princess Cruises, due to additional charges and finding it more economical to pay-as-you-go. Princess Cruises introduced fees for services like OceanNow Delivery and room service, leading to customer dissatisfaction. Comparisons with other cruise lines like Royal Caribbean show varying costs for similar services. Some passengers have shared strategies for saving money, such as bringing their own drinks and using travel cards, with one Royal Caribbean cruiser saving $1000 on her alcohol expenses.

Cairns Cruise Terminal in Queensland, Australia, accommodates up to two large cruise ships and offers access to the Great Barrier Reef and tropical rainforests. It is a 10-minute drive from the airport and close to Cairns CBD. Homeported cruise lines include Ponant, Silversea Cruises, and Windstar Cruises. Transportation options from the airport include taxis, rideshares, and shuttle services. Parking is available for $12 per day. Dining and shopping are within walking distance, and there are various hotels near the terminal, ranging from luxury to affordable accommodations.

Emerald Cruises has christened its new luxury yacht, Emerald Sakara, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with a traditional champagne bottle-breaking ceremony. The event featured flyboarders and was attended by notable figures including CLIA President and CEO Kelly Craighead, who is also the yacht's godmother. Scenic Group's US Managing Director Ken Muskat and Founder and Chairman Glen Moroney were present. The yacht boasts deluxe staterooms, an infinity pool, wellness deck, and a marina platform with water toys. It also incorporates the latest technology as part of Scenic Group's commitment to environmental sustainability.

Celebrity Edge, a ship from Celebrity Cruises' Edge-Series, has arrived in Sydney on its maiden voyage from Singapore, completing a 14-night itinerary that included stops in Bali, Darwin, Yorkeys Knob, and Airlie Beach. The ship will offer itineraries ranging from three to 14 nights around New Zealand and the Pacific, including Fiji, Samoa, American Samoa, and Tonga. The arrival in Darwin brought over 2800 tourists and 1300 crew members, and was celebrated with a Welcome to Country by the Larrakia Nation. Tim Jones, Vice President and Managing Director of Celebrity Cruises for Australia, New Zealand, and APAC, marked the occasion as a milestone. The ship's first season saw record bookings from Australia, with significant interest in the luxury suites within The Retreat.

An Australian cruise passenger recorded a 30-metre wave hitting the Atlas World Voyager in the Drake Passage on the way to Antarctica. The footage, captured on December 2, 2023, showed the ship enduring 185 km/h winds and a particularly large wave that washed over the bridge level. Despite the rough conditions, described as one of the roughest crossings by the crew, the ship returned safely to Ushuaia with no injuries or major damage, under the command of an expert captain.

Fremantle welcomes the Queen Elizabeth cruise liner, marking the start of Cunard's Australia and New Zealand homeport season. The season features 59 Australian port calls, estimated to contribute $81 million to local economies. Highlights include the Great Australian Culinary Voyage with top chefs, a Sporting Greats and Wellness Voyage, and performances by Tim Marriot and circus company CIRCA. Cunard will also focus on local produce, with 95% of proteins sourced locally and the introduction of premium Australian beef at The Verandah restaurant.

Tasmania is on track to meet its target of 300,000 cruise passengers and crew this season, with the diversion of P&O's Pacific Adventure to Hobart after being denied entry to New Zealand. The 2023-2024 season will also see the introduction of Virgin Voyages and Disney to the Australian market, contributing to a forecast of 159 cruise calls and around 287,000 passengers and 124,000 crew. The previous season recorded 126 calls with over 170,000 passengers and 88,000 crew. TasPorts and the Tasmanian Government aim to increase regional dispersal of visitation, with about half of the cruise calls going to regional ports outside of Hobart.

Virgin Voyages' third ship, Resilient Lady, has arrived in Darwin, marking the company's first port of call in Australia. This event is part of the ship's 44-day repositioning voyage from Athens, with stops in Dubai, Mumbai, Phuket, Singapore, and Bali. The arrival signifies the start of Resilient Lady's journey down Australia's East Coast, with upcoming stops in Cairns, Airlie Beach, and Sydney, before making Melbourne her homeport. Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu expressed excitement about the milestone and the anticipation for the MerMaiden voyage from Melbourne. Launch parties in Sydney and Melbourne are planned to celebrate the occasion.

The article provides a comprehensive guide to gratuity policies across various cruise lines, detailing the daily rates and additional service charges for different stateroom categories and onboard purchases. It explains that most cruise lines automatically add a gratuity charge to passengers' onboard accounts, with rates varying by stateroom type and additional percentages applied to specialty dining, beverages, and spa services. Some cruise lines, such as Azamara and P&O Cruises Australia, do not have automatic gratuity charges, as these are included in the fare or left to the discretion of the guests. The article also notes that passengers can adjust gratuity amounts based on service satisfaction and that tipping crew members for exceptional service is not prohibited.

A luxury holiday in Italy, priced at $262,000 per person, offers an 11-day adventure with cultural and culinary experiences, including the Palio di Siena horse race. Hosted by Geoffrey Kent and Charles Innes-Ker, the trip includes stays in opulent accommodations, private yacht tours, and exclusive events. Highlights feature Verona's romantic sites, Tuscan wine tastings, and a private viewing of the Palio di Siena, as well as visits to Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and Pompeii.