All articles by Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Sail to the top of the world
From the Baltic to the Bosporus, there are few parts of Europe that have yet to catch the cruise ship bug. Now it’s Iceland’s turn. But how are operators and officials working to ensure that all this new activity protects the remarkable local environment? And are there ways to promote sustainable economic growth even as the tourists pour in? Andrea Valentino talks to Sigurður Jökull Ólafsson at Associated Icelandic Ports and Chris Austin of Explora Journeys to learn more.
Opulence on the ocean
The ultra-luxury market is on the rise as the cruise industry sees a triumphant return to the seas for eager travellers. While established cruising companies are constantly looking for ways to up their game, luxury-hotel groups are also taking increasing interest in the cruise business. Brooke Theis speaks to Christopher Prelog, president of Windstar Cruises, and Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of the Merchant Ships Division at Fincantieri, to hear more.
Going it alone
As more single adventurers are seeking out and trying new experiences on their own, cruise ships are increasingly looking for ways to entice the solo traveller on board. Mae Losasso speaks to Gary Anslow, head of UK and Ireland business at Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Peter Deer, managing director at Fred Olsen, to find out what they offer the solo cruiser.
Dive into the metaverse
Cruise operators have long found ingenious ways to keep guests occupied, but over recent years few have proved as intoxicating as video games. With the growing power of new technologies like virtual reality, some operators are taking passengers on even more exciting digital adventures. Andrea Valentino talks to Peter Grant at Norwegian, and Melissa Mahaffey of Carnival, to learn more.