Cruise
On Expedition: Shari Tucker discovers Belize, Honduras with PONANT
In December 2023, Halifax-based travel advisor Shari Tucker embarked on a new seven-night PONANT itinerary called Belize and Honduras: Unexpected Encounters and Nature on the expedition ship Le Dumont d’Urville. “One of my professional goals for 2023 was to try my first expedition cruise,” Tucker tells Travel Courier. “The allure of off-the-beaten track destinations with fewer tourists, combined with a company who is having a positive impact through travel, is a sweet spot for me. This trip encompassed many firsts for me. It was my first time sailing with PONANT, my first...
Passport Online, Swan Hellenic announce partnership
Travel advisors using Passport Online to populate and market their online inventory of leisure travel products will now be able to find up-to-date information and pricing for Swan Hellenic’s expedition cruises to Antarctica, the Arctic, and destinations around the world as a result of a new partnership between the two companies. “We are committed to providing our travel agency customers with the very best suppliers in the industry," said Jeanne Colombo, president of Passport Online. "We are thrilled to welcome award-winning Swan Hellenic Cruises to our portfolio. Adding Swan...
Celebrity announces huge WAVE deals on four Edge ships
Celebrity Cruises celebrates a series of firsts in 2024, with its four Edge Series ships located in top destinations for the summer season and beyond. For the first time, holidaymakers can experience the idyllic Caribbean on new three- and four-night itineraries, or board the newest Edge Series ship, Celebrity Ascent, all while making huge savings with the brand’s new Semi-Annual Sale. To entice guests to think ahead for 2024, the premium cruise line is now offering up to 75% off the fare of the second guest* on all sailings from now until April 30, 2026. Those booking on select dates...
Viking adds new China itineraries
Viking is setting a course to China, with the launch of three new, ‘first-of-their-kind itineraries that will provide guests with exclusive access’ to China in 2024. The new sailings range from 10 to 20 days and include Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. Each itinerary also includes a domestic sailing of China’s coast, highlighting ‘rarely-seen destinations and ports to The new voyages will operate from September to November on the Viking Yi Dun -- formerly the Viking Sun. The Chinese-flagged Viking Yi Dun will be the first ship dedicated specifically to the foreign market...
Seabourn heads to Alaska for summer 2024
Seabourn is looking ahead to the 2024 Alaska season aboard Seabourn Odyssey as she completes her final season with the ultra-luxury cruise line. Featuring 20 carefully curated sailings from seven to 14 days, Seabourn will immerse guests in the natural and cultural wonders of “The Great Land” from May to August 2024. Seabourn Odyssey will provide the ultimate retreat into nature and a blend of up-close adventures with luxurious amenities for guests to immerse themselves and experience Alaska in a multitude of ways. About Seabourn Odyssey The ship’s intimate size and yacht-like...
Seabourn connects with SpaceX’s Starlink
Seabourn has announced that its fleet is now equipped with next generation Wi-Fi connectivity with SpaceX’s Starlink. The upgraded technology provides Seabourn’s guests with faster service, greater connectivity and more reliable Wi-Fi wherever Starlink’s services are available. Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, said that: “Following the positive feedback we received from our guests from the successful rollout of Starlink’s enhanced connectivity on our expedition ships, we are thrilled to share that both our ocean and expedition ships in our ultra-luxury fleet now feature...
Free Wi-Fi & alcohol available on Quark’s 2024/2025 Antarctic sailings
Guests aboard Quark Expeditions' Antarctic sailings in 2024/2025 will enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and alcohol on all voyages. The "Raise a Glass and Stay Connected Free" campaign amplifies the onboard experience for guests traveling with Quark Expeditions. "Our team is dedicated to redefining expectations and shaping unparalleled guest experiences," says Beth Mercier, senior director of global partnership sales for Quark Expeditions. "Beginning with our upcoming Antarctic 2024/25 season, we are elevating our unwavering commitment to world-class services. Our free bar service...
Meet the top Canadian Virgin Voyages First Mates
The final night of Virgin Voyages’ First Mate Spectacular Soiree recognizing the cruise line’s top 100 First Mates (travel advisors) onboard Scarlet Lady this week cumulated with a special awards gala and an important save-the-date for 2025. “We have already nailed down the date for next year,” said John Diorio, vice president of North American sales for Virgin Voyages to a round of applause. “It’s done. Next year’s soiree date is Jan. 8-12, 2025. It’ll be on Valiant Lady. We want you to know first, that is the date we’re going to be celebrating our top 100. We’re...