The rise of experience as the new luxury is redefining the future of cruise, Cruise Lines International (CLIA) CEO Bud Darr has said at this year’s Cruise360 event – his inaugural visit to Australia.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has opened reservations for its (Northern) Winter 2026–2027 Caribbean season aboard Ilma. From November 2026 through April 2027, the yacht will sail more than 20 itineraries spanning three to seven nights, exploring vibrant island harbours and serene tropical coastlines. This new season introduces an expanded selection of shorter three- and four-night escapes.

Some of Southeast Asia’s most remote and ecologically rich destinations will be explored on a new 14-day expedition from small ship cruise line Heritage Expeditions, entitled Indonesia’s Forgotten Islands.

The semi-circumnavigation of the Antarctic is something very special for those in search of an unforgettable expedition.

AmaWaterways will stick to what it knows best and not venture into open seas, remaining laser-focused on the rivers of the world, Co-Founder Kristin Karst has reiterated.

A new “global” themed menu concept showcasing the flavours of the Philippines, India, Tuscany and South America, has been rolled out across HX Expeditions’ newest ships, following a successful pilot program in June.

Just about a week out from unveiling its fourth ship, Virgin Voyages has shared several new spaces and features of Brilliant Lady. The design of the ship—which will make its inaugural sailing on 5 September from New York—centres “on bringing people together in beautiful spaces.”

In 2027, Ponant Explorations will offer 12-night voyages to the geographic North Pole aboard Le Commandant Charcot. Designed to showcase “the full magnitude of polar exploration in a shorter time frame,” these itineraries are a response to demand from the Americas’ market and complement the line’s longer North Pole voyages.

Celebrity Cruises has shared that it has named Janaína Torres—recognized as the Best Female Chef in the World 2024 by World’s 50 Best—as godmother of Celebrity Xcel. Torres is the co-owner of the award-winning São Paulo restaurant A Casa do Porco and she becomes the first Brazilian chef to be appointed as a godmother for a major cruise line.

Explora Journeys celebrated its Virtuoso partners who have demonstrated unwavering support since the ultra-luxury brand’s launch at a lavish dinner held at Ocean Prime in Las Vegas. The event coincided with Virtuoso Travel Week, which itself welcomed more than 4,800 participants from around the world.

The recent launch of integrated itineraries from sister companies Crystal and Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) is “just the start” of an era of collaboration between the two, according to AKTG SVP Marketing Strategy Kate Thompson.

AmaWaterways recently hosted its first Australia and New Zealand VIP famil trip, with a select group of valued trade partners cruising the Danube River.