The Sixth Annual Samuel Cunard Prize for Vision, Courage and Creativity was awarded to Scott Armour McCrea on September 16 during the gala event at the International Congress of Maritime Museums in Halifax, Nova Scotia. McCrea's recognition celebrates his transformative project, Queen's Marque, an urban district in downtown Halifax featuring luxury residences and public spaces. The award highlights McCrea's achievements in real estate, furthering economic growth and community development in his hometown, which reflects the qualities of the prize's namesake, Sir Samuel Cunard.
Holland America Line conducted the cruise industry's first multiweek biofuel test on its ship Volendam at Port of Rotterdam, in partnership with GoodFuels and Wärtsilä. The trial, lasting 20 days, showed a significant 78% reduction in lifecycle CO2 emissions during the final 15 days using 100% biofuel compared to marine gas oil. This test aligns with Carnival Corporation's sustainability goals, aiming for a 40% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and net carbon neutral operations by 2050. The promising results may bolster investor confidence in the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Princess Cruises unveiled Sun Princess, its largest ship to date, accommodating over 4,000 guests, set to debut in early 2024. At 175,500 tons, the ship features innovative amenities, including The Dome, a unique covered entertainment space inspired by Santorini. Sun Princess will offer Mediterranean cruises in spring 2024, followed by Caribbean voyages from Port Everglades, Florida. This new ship focuses on sustainability, using LNG fuel technology. It showcases upgraded staterooms and exclusive suites as part of its design, reinforcing Princess Cruises' commitment to exceptional guest experiences.
Holland America Line has announced its 2024 Grand Australia and New Zealand Voyage, a 94-day journey commencing on January 3, 2024, from San Diego. This voyage includes 43 port calls, featuring destinations like the Great Barrier Reef, Hawaii, and New Zealand. Guests can enjoy scenic cruising and various onboard activities with enhanced dining experiences. Early bookings by June 1, 2023, offer up to $4,770 in amenities and savings. The event marks the reintroduction of this itinerary, last offered over 10 years ago.
Xponential Fitness, Inc. (NYSE:XPOF) has announced a five-year licensing agreement with Princess Cruises, allowing the incorporation of its boutique fitness brands across Princess' fleet of 15 ships. This partnership will offer a minimum of 120 licensed studio experiences, enhancing fitness offerings for passengers. The onboard fitness options include Pure Barre, Club Pilates, and others, while digital subscriptions will be accessible in over 23,000 staterooms. This collaboration aims to provide unique vacation experiences and mutual marketing benefits.
Holland America Line has achieved Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, becoming the first cruise line to serve only fresh, certified sustainable Alaska seafood. This certification applies to all six ships that operate in Alaska, confirming their commitment to sustainability through independent audits. The RFM certification assures traceable seafood origins from wild-capture fisheries, aligning with international standards set by the FAO. The initiative supports local fishing communities and enhances the culinary experience aboard their ships.
Princess Cruises has launched The Love Boat Sale, offering guests significant savings on cruises and cruisetours for 2023 and beyond. The promotion, which runs from September 1 to October 31, 2022, provides a value of $765, including a $100 shore excursion credit. The sale honors the company's connection to the iconic show, 'The Love Boat,' and aligns with the upcoming reality series, 'The Real Love Boat.' Guests booking during this sale can enjoy added amenities when choosing Princess Plus or Princess Premier packages.
Holland America Line announces its 2022 Culinary Cruises featuring celebrity chefs from its Culinary Council. Guests will enjoy cooking demonstrations, exclusive dinners, and special menu offerings during the cruises, available on select voyages from September to December 2022. Notable chefs include Ethan Stowell, Jacques Torres, Rudi Sodamin, David Burke, and Andy Matsuda, each bringing unique culinary experiences. The cruises aim to enhance the onboard dining experience, offering guests direct interaction with renowned chefs.
Holland America Line has launched its new campaign, "See the World from Your Doorstep", in response to increasing demand for roundtrip travel from U.S. homeports. The cruise line offers more than 15-night voyages from Boston, Fort Lauderdale, San Diego, and Seattle, with itineraries visiting 225 ports in 91 countries. A recent survey indicated that 82% of U.S. respondents prefer cruises departing from domestic ports. The cruise line also features four Grand Voyages for travelers seeking extensive exploration options.
Carnival Cruise Line has announced that reservations are now open for their newest ship, Carnival Luminosa, with inaugural sailings beginning on Nov. 6, 2022 from Brisbane, Australia. The ship will also reposition for seasonal service to Alaska in May 2023. Carnival Luminosa features a blend of classic and new elements, including a vintage funnel design and popular onboard activities such as dining, entertainment, and spa services. The ship will offer various itineraries, including trips to the Great Barrier Reef and key Alaskan ports.