• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 1 Magazine Record year in Caribbean cruising REVIEWING CRUISE BUSINESS GLOBALLY SPRING 2025 Unexpected delights around every corner in Hong Kong TUI Cruises introduces inTUItion-class CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 1 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 1 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 2 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Photo: Fiona Wardle / Aurora Expeditions We build for beyond. sunstoneships.com Whether the destination is to the remotest parts of the planet or to the cultural capitals of the world, SunStone provides all-in-one B2B solutions for small ship cruising on long-term or seasonal charters in cold and warm waters. Our clients and partners depend on SunStone’s commitment to environmental sustainability and pioneering initiatives to build a class of expedition vessels that delivers efficiency, safety, and comfort. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 2 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 2 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 3 6 Editor’s Commentary 8 Unexpected delights around every corner in Hong Kong 10 Upfront 14 Four Seasons unveils culinary offerings on its luxury cruise vessel 16 PSTF 2025: The cruise industry convenes in Crete 18 Caribbean cruising: 2024 was a record year 23 Interview with Mike Maura Jr. 24 Opinion: How Mexico’s $42 fee could cost more than just money 26 Good news continues in French Polynesia 28 TUI Cruises expands with new class of ships 30 Chat with Malvina Guarnieri, Design Director at TDoS 36 Stena RoRo’s approach to standardized ropax ferry design 38 Anglo-Eastern moves to new offices in Miami, signs with new customers ON THE COVER: Scarlet Lady docked at Virgin Voyages’ dedicated cruise terminal in PortMiami. Photo credit: Virgin Voyages ON THE CONTENTS PAGE: Disney Treasure and Nieuw Statendam at St. Thomas. Photo credit: Carolyn Spencer Brown CONTENTS SPRING 2025 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 3 Photo: Fiona Wardle / Aurora Expeditions We build for beyond. sunstoneships.com Whether the destination is to the remotest parts of the planet or to the cultural capitals of the world, SunStone provides all-in-one B2B solutions for small ship cruising on long-term or seasonal charters in cold and warm waters. Our clients and partners depend on SunStone’s commitment to environmental sustainability and pioneering initiatives to build a class of expedition vessels that delivers efficiency, safety, and comfort. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 3 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 3 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 4 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SUMMER 2024 Visit viking.com, call 1-800-2-Viking or see your Travel Advisor The Viking Polaris in Antarctica #1 for Oceans... When you are named #1 for Rivers... Onwards . Now it is time for us to work even harder. and #1 for Expeditions, two years in a row... Where do you go next? A Viking Longship in Budapest, Hungary The Viking Sky in the Westman Islands, Iceland CST# 2052644-40 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 4 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 4 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• Ph oto cre dit : Te ijo Ni em elä Visit viking.com, call 1-800-2-Viking or see your Travel Advisor The Viking Polaris in Antarctica #1 for Oceans... When you are named #1 for Rivers... Onwards . Now it is time for us to work even harder. and #1 for Expeditions, two years in a row... Where do you go next? A Viking Longship in Budapest, Hungary The Viking Sky in the Westman Islands, Iceland CST# 2052644-40 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 5 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 5 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 6 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 A lmost 24 years ago, the events of Sept. 11, 2001 created one of the worst crises in the tourism and travel industry in recent decades, surpassed only by the COVID-19 pandemic. After the tragic terrorist attacks, many American travelers chose to avoid flying and to vacation closer to home instead. Norwegian Cruise Line invented the slogan “Homeland Cruising,” offering regional U.S. turnaround ports. Other cruise lines followed suit, and since then we have witnessed a growing number of U.S. homeports. In 2025 we are living in a different world. International travel has rebounded. Traveling abroad from the U.S., which is the largest source market in the cruise industry, is once again popular. As cruise lines have gotten bigger and have been building larger cruise ships, they have also become more visible to lawmakers and policymakers all over the world. In Europe, ports-of-call are beginning to curb mass tourism in locations like Amsterdam, the Balearic Islands, Nice, Venice and some Greek Islands. Similar sentiments have been heard in several North American cities. But the U.S. faces other problems. One is American laws that make it difficult for foreign ship operators to get their vessels flagged in the U.S. Another is the fact that the U.S. itself has a very small domestic fleet of overnight cruise vessels. The largest U.S.-flagged cruise ship, the 80,439-gross-ton and 2,500-guest Pride of America, which operates in Hawaii, was actually finished in Germany for its owner Norwegian Cruise Line in 2005. The situation has allowed cruise lines to avoid U.S. income taxes. Still, the cruise industry pays $2.5 billion in various taxes and fees and contributes $65 billion annually to the U.S. economy, supporting 290,000 jobs, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) calculations. So why are cruise ships flagged outside the United States? It’s because of the Jones Act and Passenger Vessel Services Act, which dictate that ships in domestic service have to be built in the U.S. and crewed by American citizens and permanent residents. Currently the U.S. has no infrastructure to construct large or even medium-size cruise ships (which is required to obtain the U.S. flag). Recently, we have witnessed a domestic newbuild activity only from American Cruise Lines and Viking. American Cruise Lines is affiliated with Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland. While we don’t see American cruise shipbuilding and U.S.-flagged large cruise ships (with U.S. crews) coming anytime soon, we could suggest that current foreign-flagged cruise ships could increase calls in U.S. ports, and thus support local jobs. Alaska is already popular, which also benefits turnaround ports like Seattle and Canada’s Vancouver. But in many cases Alaska has become as saturated as many ports in Europe. So here’s an idea: extend the season. This past winter, Cruise St. Lawrence did just that by hosting Le Commandant Charcot, Ponant’s icebreaking expedition cruise ship. And here comes the segue: the United States is planning to rebuild its icebreaker fleet during the next few years. Why not build a few icebreakers with luxurious accommodations, restaurants, science centers and public lounges, that could be marketed for winter cruises all over North America, including Alaska, the Great Lakes and the Canadian Arctic? This would pave the way to construct more medium-size cruise ships in U.S. shipyards in the future. I am well aware that bringing cruise shipbuilding to the U.S. could be wishful thinking due to high cost and a lack of supply chains, but it could be done with partners with European expertise. Teijo Niemelä EDITOR’S COMMENTARY Homeland Cruising 2.0 HOW TO FOLLOW US X/@cruisebusiness || Facebook/CruiseBusinessUSA || Instagram/niemelateijo || E-mail christer.gorschelnik(a)kolumbus.fi CruiseBusiness.com Magazine Editor Teijo Niemelä Publisher Cruise Media LLC Chief Content Officer Carolyn Spencer Brown Sales Christer Gorschelnik COMPANY ADDRESS Cruise Media LLC 409 Riverview Road Chestertown, MD 21620 USA Telephone +1-609-751-2344 E-mail cruisemediallc(a)gmail.com SALES OFFICE USA Teijo Niemelä 409 Riverview Road Chestertown, MD 21620 USA Telephone +1-609-751-2344 E-mail cruisemediallc(a)gmail.com SALES OFFICE FINLAND ChrisGo Consulting Pahtankatu 10 as 10 FI-21200 Raisio, Finland Telephone +358-440-159 554 E-mail christer.gorschelnik(a)kolumbus.fi FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR A native of San Diego, David Swanson’s award-winning writing and photography has been featured in the pages of National Geographic Traveler, American Way, and the Los Angeles Times for more than 20 years, along with cruise and travel stories for dozens of U.S. newspapers and magazines. David served as President of the Society of American Travel Writers in 2018-2019. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 6 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 6 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 7 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 7 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 7 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 8 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Bustling Hong Kong is living up to its reputation as a city that never sleeps, offering an ever-expanding array of mega events and festivities on top of renowned UNESCO-honoured historical treasures, city and great outdoors attractions, ready to pack in exhilarating experiences and endless surprises for the onshore programmes of regional and international cruises. Spectacular world-class events delivering money-can’t-buy-experiences Throughout the year, Hong Kong’s mega events scene will continue to thrive with festive celebrations, captivating drone shows, immersive art and culture shows, popular concerts featuring globally acclaimed artists, thrilling international sports events and more. Just like a month ago, the action-packed March has set the scene with a host of international spectacles staged in the month, aptly branded Super March. From the world’s leading sporting events such as World Snooker Grand Prix 2025 on 4-9 March, LIV Golf on 7-9 March and Hong Kong Sevens on 28-30 March to art month fixtures including Art Basel on 28-30 March, Art Central on 26-30 March and ComplexCon on 21-23 March, these exceptional events add extra thrills to shore visits. Spirit-lifting and eye-opening events are lined up all year round in Hong Kong to keep visitor experience always fresh. By collaborating with cruise lines, these special events can be transformed into unique shore experiences, creating once-in-a-lifetime memories for cruise passengers. A notable example of this took place during the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival in October 2024, when an exclusive stage event was held for Silver Nova’s VIPs. They were treated to a specially organised orchestra performance, a sumptuous tasting menu, wine-tasting of Chinese wine and more. Hidden gems and unexpected treats all around Beyond its iconic attractions and classic experiences, Hong Kong continually offers new and impressive discoveries, inviting visitors to explore the different sides of the city at every turn. Within compact Hong Kong lies a wealth of historical buildings and landscapes, some 22 spots have even received the prestigious UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation. Among them are revitalised buildings like the former police station compound Tai Kwun and restored pre-war traditional tenement The Blue House. Characterful neighbourhoods in Sham Shui Po and West Kowloon offer a taste of quintessential Hong Kong culture and authentic tastes such as egg tarts and milk tea. And don’t miss out on Hong Kong’s hiking trails, beaches and UNESCO Global Geopark to recharge and connect with nature or having an adrenaline rush in style at horse-racing nights, or cruising famous bars listed among Asia’s 50 Best Bars. In contrast, the Kai Tak district, home to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, offers a raft of new developments delivering grand sporty, retail and entertainment experiences, easily accessible by cruise passengers. Most notably, the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park that opened in March has already lined up world-class events, making use of its main stadium that boasts a capacity for 50,000 spectators. More than just events, the sports park also houses the Kai Tak Mall, a retail hub featuring the city’s first and only “sportaiment” shopping concept. Together with the AIRSIDE mall in the vicinity, Kai Tak offers cruise passengers a plethora of retail, leisure and entertainment options a stone’s throw from the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. New excitement also awaits at the city’s flagship theme parks. Join the panda mania at Ocean Park Hong Kong (OP) showcasing six pandas, including the locally born twins, and partake in “The Most Magical Party of All” 20th Anniversary celebrations at Hong Kong Disneyland (HKDL). Ever expanding and evolving, OP is planning a new Adventure Zone complete with giant ziplines, ropes park, luge, bungy and giant swing and more, while HKDL is expanding the popular Marvel Super Heroes experiences in Tomorrowland with all-new entertainment, shopping and dining offerings. Cruise scene buzzing in March and beyond March was a super month for the local cruise scene, as the city welcomed four and three ships at the same time across two dates – Silver Whisper, Seabourn Encore, Celebrity Millennium and Costa Serena sailed across the Hong Kong waters on 9 March; and Queen Anne, Queen Elizabeth and Norwegian Sky docked on 19 March. Adding pizzazz to its VIP experience on shore, Cunard Line’s newest ship Queen Anne staged a World Cruise Gala-night themed “Story of Hong Kong” at the newly opened Hopewell Hotel for 1,100 VIPs during her overnight stay in town. Beyond March, Astro Ocean Cruise is making long-term homeport deployment in Hong Kong from April. Its cruise ship Piano Land offers international routes to Japan and Vietnam departing from Hong Kong during the deployment, giving convenient access to exceptional cruise experiences for locals as well as fly-cruise and rail-cruise passengers from the region. Additionally, Royal Caribbean International’s Ovation of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas are resuming seasonal deployment in Hong Kong in April and December. The line-up underlines Hong Kong’s growing appeal as a value-added port for international cruises. Cruise to incomparable delights in Hong Kong Hong Kong’s determination to rev up cruise tourism will deliver an ever-expanding array of experiences that excite cruise passengers, contributing to enriching onshore programmes for the global cruise industry. From the moment cruise passengers step off for onshore excitement to re-embarkation, cruise companies can be assured that their deployment to Hong Kong will yield memorable experiences for their guests and generate greater word-of-mouth for cruising. Discoverhongkong.com ADVERTORIAL Unexpected delights around every corner in Hong Kong From year-round exciting events to authentic experiences Chinese New Year Parade CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 8 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 8 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 9 Unexpected delights around every corner in Hong Kong From year-round exciting events to authentic experiences CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 9 Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival Hong Kong at night Hong Kong outdoors CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 9 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 9 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 10 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 UPFRONT Norwegian Cruise Line took delivery of its first Prima Plus Class vessel, Norwegian Aqua, from Fincantieri’s Marghera yard on March 13. At 156,300 gross tons, it is 10% larger than the previously delivered Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva and has a passenger capacity of 3,571. From left to right: David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line; Harry J. Sommer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.; and Robert Lunderberg, Norwegian Aqua’s captain. Carnival Cruise Line launched year-round sailings from Norfolk, Virginia on the 102,853-gros-ton and 3,002-guest Carnival Sunshine in early February. This follows the closing of Charleston, South Carolina turnaround operations. The new year-round deployment transforms Norfolk’s Half Moone Cruise Center from a seasonal port to a permanent cruise hub that will sail 150,000 guests annually the highest volume in the city’s history. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy celebrated her 10-year anniversary at the helm of “The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line.” Duffy came to Carnival after serving as CEO of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) following a career in the travel agency and meeting planning sectors. While she was leading the industry’s trade association, former Carnival Corporation CEO Arnold Donald saw a unique set of leadership skills that could bring a new level of energy and focus to Carnival Cruise Line. Her accomplishments are clearly stated in the infographic. Everything needed for a seamless journey is right here. Port Everglades guests enjoy easy access through a leading international airport, direct highway connections, state-of-the-art terminals, secure parking, and boundless preand post-cruise possibilities in the world’s most inviting destination, Greater Fort Lauderdale, where Everyone Under the Sun is embraced with open arms. We make it easy. PortEverglades.net This Port is Paradise. Welcome to smooth sailing the voyage begins here CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 10 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 10 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 11 Everything needed for a seamless journey is right here. Port Everglades guests enjoy easy access through a leading international airport, direct highway connections, state-of-the-art terminals, secure parking, and boundless preand post-cruise possibilities in the world’s most inviting destination, Greater Fort Lauderdale, where Everyone Under the Sun is embraced with open arms. We make it easy. PortEverglades.net This Port is Paradise. Welcome to smooth sailing the voyage begins here CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 11 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 11 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 12 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 12 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SUMMER 2024 UPFRONT TUI Cruises received its first-ever Fincantieri-built ship on Feb. 7. The 157,651-gross-ton and 3,984-guest Mein Schiff Relax belongs to a new inTUItion-class and is considerably larger than Mein Schiff 1 to 7 vessels built previously at Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. Pictured from left to right: Fincantieri’s Cristiano Bazzaro, and TUI Cruises’ CEO Wybcke Meier and CFO Frank Kuhlmann. UPFRONT Crescent Heights, one of the largest real estate developers in the U.S., announced in March the launch of Crescent Seas, an exclusive new residential model offering luxury residences at sea. Crescent Seas will launch with the 28,550-grosston Navigator – in agreement with the ship’s owners, which are affiliates of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH). The ship is currently operating as 490-guest Seven Seas Navigator. Sealing the deal, from left, Harry Sommer, President & CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Russell Galbut, Managing Principal of Crescent Heights. American Legend, part of American Cruise Lines’ Project Blue series, was officially christened in Key West, Florida in February. The ceremony included speeches, plaque exchanges, and local musical performances. Surrounded by cruise guests, the ship’s official Godmother, Key West Mayor Danise “DeeDee” Henriquez, joined American Cruise Lines’ President & CEO, Charles B. Robertson, for the traditional bottle smash on the top deck. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 12 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 12 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 13 The Maltese government signed in March the first Power Purchase Agreement in the Mediterranean cruise region with Carnival UK & P&O Cruises on behalf of all Carnival Corp brands. The introduction of fully electrified cruise berths developed under the Shore-to-Ship initiative will allow cruise ships to reduce their carbon footprint by drawing power from the grid while in port. Pictured from left to right: Max Kommorowski, proprietor of MKO Marine Consulting; Norbert Grech, Senior Manager at Transport Malta; Roland Texeira de Mattos, President of European Onshore Power Supply Association; Miriam Dalli, Minister for Energy and the Environment; Prime Minister Robert Abela; Chris Bonett, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure; Paul Ludlow, President of Carnival UK; Stephen Xuereb, COO of Global Ports Holding and CEO of Valletta Cruise Port; and Kurt Farrugia, CEO of Transport Malta. Get in touch! anttimarine.fi Fire safety, sound insulation, and durability requirements make ship doors relatively heavy. However, thanks to over 30 years of experience and active product development, Antti Marine has now successfully managed to reduce the weight of its next-generation doors. The new optimized structural and insulation solutions in Antti doors benefit both shipowners and our shared environment. LIGHTER ANTTI DOOR – LESSER LOAD FOR THE SHIP CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 13 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 13 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 14 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 As Four Seasons prepares to bring its reputation for hotel luxury to the high seas with the 2026 launch of Four Seasons I, it has announced the restaurants and lounges that cruise guests will have available to them onboard the 14-deck, 195-guest yacht. Four Seasons I is currently in the outfitting stage at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard in Italy. According to a press release from Four Seasons, the 679-foot (207-meter) vessel features 11 restaurants and bars that promise “a unique gastronomic experience.” The ship’s design is crafted by Tillberg Design of Sweden. “Our restaurants and bars are the heartbeat of our hotels, and when we set sail in 2026, the same will be true aboard Four Seasons I, creating moments of connection, celebration and culinary excellence at sea,” says Alejandro Reynal, Four Seasons’ President and Chief Executive Officer. The new oceangoing venture builds “on the success of our more than 600 restaurants and bars around the world, while introducing something entirely new,” says Reynal. Featuring 95 suites with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, private terraces, double vanity bathrooms and walk-in closets, the vessel launches in January with a 7-night maiden voyage in the Lesser Antilles. Cruises are also planned in the Mediterranean, among the Greek isles, along the Dalmatian coast and the Bahamas, among other destinations. Menus aboard the Four Seasons I will be “curated by Four Seasons craftspeople, including chefs, sommeliers, and mixologists,” and will be “ever-evolving to ensure each venue has a distinct concept and personality,” according to the company press release. Children’s menus will also be available. Breakfasts will be complimentary “and all other dining and beverage experiences will be offered a la carte,” according to Four Seasons. The gastronomic centerpiece onboard Four Seasons I is the Sedna, which, according to Four Seasons, will be “home to rotating master chefs-in-residence, with a calendar featuring culinary talents from Four Seasons restaurants around the globe.” When a guest chef is not onboard, the Sedna will “present a menu rooted in modern French techniques with global influences, enhanced by sommelier-curated wine pairings.” A private dining room for up to 10 guests will be available for special events. Another onboard restaurant, Terrasse, is inspired by the Côte d’Azur, offering “Mediterranean dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner.” The Terrasse will feature fresh-caught seafood and “light, seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients.” It has an indoor-outdoor design with an “open kitchen and live culinary stations.” The vessel’s Miuna restaurant offers up to 16 guests a full-immersion omakase experience, according to Four Seasons, featuring high-quality seafood, interactions with the sushi chef, and “signature beverage pairings -whether it’s a rare sake from Kyoto or Fukushima or a carefully constructed Japanese-inspired cocktail.” Light breakfasts, sweets, artisanal coffee and tea will be offered in the Pistachio cafe. Guests seeking a quick bite, or heading out to explore the port-of-call, can stop by the Pistachio for fresh croissants, petite gâteaux, and house-churned gelatos, among other offerings. The Salon, a lounge onboard Four Seasons I with all-day service, is envisioned as the yacht’s “living room,” where guests can mingle, enjoy an a la carte breakfast, afternoon tea, curated bottled cocktails, and an evening glass of wine. The poolside bar Piscine will feature “Mediterranean-inspired bites,” jeroboams of rosés from Provence and Champagne, Mojitos, and a curated soundtrack to set the mood, according to Four Seasons. Adjacent to the Sedna restaurant is Champagne & Caviar, an adults-only terrace bar overlooking the pool deck that will serve Balik salmon, rare caviar, grand cru and grower Champagnes, as well as Proseccos, cavas, and wines from around the globe. Four Seasons describes the ship’s Horizon Lounge as a “Moroccan-inspired retreat,” open midday throughout the evening and offering Levantine dishes, complemented by “classic and exotic cocktails.” When the Four Seasons I anchors on dedicated marina days at various locales, the Marina Bar offers light fare, watersports, and in the evening an opportunity for open-air stargazing while enjoying cocktails and bottle service. Guests desiring “an ultra-glamorous setting reminiscent of 1960s jetset Europe” will find it at the vessel’s Bar O, with its crafted drinks, “rare vintage liquors and tableside mixology.” At the Arabic-inspired Cigar Lounge, cruise guests can treat themselves to cigars, “rare spirits, and a unique premier cru chocolate pairing experience,” according to Four Seasons. Four Seasons unveils culinary offerings of its luxury cruise vessel SHIP PREVIEW Horizon Lounge CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 14 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 14 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 15 Champagne & Caviar Salon Cigar Lounge Terrasse Marina Bar CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 15 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 15 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 15 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 16 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 The cruise industry convenes in Crete: What you need to know The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum will gather for the eighth time since the first conference in Athens in 2011. Since then, Greece has regained its position again as a major turnaround point in the Eastern Mediterranean, thanks to investments at the Port of Piraeus and improved air links to Athens airport. But due to the popularity of just a handful of ports in Greece, the country has also experienced some growing pains — especially in the popular ports of call Mykonos and Santorini. The 8th Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum (PSTF 2025) is set to bring together an elite assembly of global cruise industry leaders in Heraklion, Crete, on May 6-7. With the strong support of the Region of Crete and the Heraklion Port Authority, this premier event will convene executives from the world’s major cruise lines, industry associations, destinations and maritime tourism authorities from Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean to engage in high-level discussions on the evolving landscape of cruise tourism. The forum will address a broad spectrum of industry challenges and opportunities, shaping the future of sea tourism in the region. In 2023, the cruise industry generated €2 billion for the domestic economy of Greece and €1 billion in direct spending, supporting 22,600 jobs. The number of cruise passengers reached approximately 7 million last year. The success has created some problems with overtourism. For example, Santorini received 800 cruise ship calls during 2023. Theodore Vokos, Managing Director of Posidonia Exhibitions S.A., the forum’s organizer, said: “Over the next three years, 40 new cruise ships will be delivered, adding another 90,000 berths to global capacity. With the East Med becoming more important to the industry due to plans for increased ship deployment in the region, it is natural that all major and niche cruise lines will want to be in Crete for PSTF 2025.” Over the course of two days at the state-ofthe-art Mikis Theodorakis Convention Centre, key decision-makers will explore strategies for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Conference program On Day 1, discussions will focus on striking a balance between growing passenger demand and responsible tourism management, as well as fostering collaboration to introduce cruise travelers to emerging ports with marquee potential. With sustainable sea tourism at the forefront, the forum aims to shape a resilient and forward-thinking cruise landscape for the region. Elisabetta de Nardo, Senior Vice President, Global Port Relations & Commercial Services, MSC Cruises, highlighted the forum’s significance: “The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a fantastic opportunity to exchange the knowledge that can help inform and shape our continued growth path. It is in the interests of all cruise lines, ports, destinations, and other tourism industry stakeholders to ensure we POSIDONIA SEA TOURISM FORUM 2025 Torsten Büssow CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 16 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 16 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 17 The cruise industry convenes in Crete: What you need to know work together to address the issues facing us in the Mediterranean, such as ensuring frameworks are in place for the introduction of OPS, and the work underway to mitigate overcrowding, an issue of particular focus in the host nation, Greece. As Europe’s leading cruise line, MSC Cruises is committed to a cooperative approach towards responsible tourism, ensuring we meet the needs of our guests while protecting the destinations we visit and the marine environment on which we rely.” One of the must-attend panel discussions on the opening day of PSTF 2025 is the Small Ships Panel, introducing a dynamic and rapidly growing market segment to the region. With increasing interest from major hotel conglomerates in ultra-luxury small cruise ships, this panel will explore how these vessels — perfectly suited for the Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean — are reshaping the cruising experience. Attendees will gain insights into how small cruise ships offer a more intimate and personalized onboard atmosphere, along with greater flexibility in itinerary design, allowing access to smaller, off-the-beaten-path ports. Industry experts will discuss the demand and future construction of these ships, operational challenges in serving remote destinations, and key factors that set this niche apart from mainstream cruising. Spyros Almpertis, Vice President Port and Destination Operations at Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, commented: “We believe that the East Med will play a crucial role in our future plans, as we aim to provide our guests with unique opportunities to explore lesser-known ports while enjoying the highest standards of luxury. The PSTF 2025 is an invaluable forum for connecting with industry leaders and stakeholders. It provides opportunities for dialogue around sustainability, innovation and the future of the maritime industry — values that resonate deeply with the Ritz-Carlton brand. We are excited to introduce our new yacht collection to this dynamic region and are committed to delivering exceptional service while promoting responsible tourism practices that support local communities and preserve the delicate marine environment.” The event’s exhibition floor will provide a prime networking space for regional destination stakeholders to connect with itinerary and excursion planners, as well as with leading cruise industry executives keen to engage with both established and up-and-coming destinations looking to leverage the sector’s rapid expansion. Greek Celestyal Cruises offering destination-rich cruises The two-ship Celestyal Cruises is the major operator headquartered in Piraeus, Greece. It recently completed the acquisition and refurbishment of two secondhand ships, Celestyal Discovery and Celestyal Journey replacing its two older vintage vessels. Both have a capacity of in the range of 1,300 guests and can easily navigate to smaller, lesser-known islands. Chris Theophilides, CEO of Celestyal shared his vision: “The Central and Eastern Mediterranean remains a core region for Celestyal, with our beloved Iconic Greek Islands, Idyllic Greece, and Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia itineraries. Coupled with our fleetwide year-round operations now in place, we are excited to present our upgraded brand, enhanced services, and expanded itineraries. Our investment in both our fleet and guest experience underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional, destination-rich cruises. With our recent expansion into the Arabian Gulf, offering new year-round itineraries, we are thrilled to bring Celestyal’s signature experience to even more travelers. The Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum is a great opportunity to connect with industry partners, explore new collaborations, and showcase our vision for the future. I am looking forward to meeting industry peers, partners, and local authorities to discuss the exciting opportunities ahead.” Sponsors for the 2025 PSTF include: Diamond sponsor Heraklion Port Authority; Gold sponsors Region of Crete and Hellenic Organisation of Cultural Resources Development (ODAP); Silver sponsor Piraeus Port Authority; Bronze sponsors Celestyal, Heraklion International Airport and Kyvernitis Travel Group; sponsor Thessaloniki Port Authority, and official airline SKY express. The forum is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy and the Ministry of Tourism, and is supported by the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports (MedCruise) and the Union of Cruise Ship Owners & Associated Members of Greece. Mykonos is one of the busiest ports-of-call in Greece Ph oto cre dit : Te ijo Ni em elä CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 17 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 17 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 18 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Some of the popularity can be attributed to simple proximity. Nassau and other Bahamian ports are an easy overnight sail from South Florida, meaning even a 3or 4-night cruise out of Miami or Ft. Lauderdale can deliver a couple days of island rhythms while minimizing fuel consumption. While the December-March winter season sees the bulk of the cruise traffic, most of the contemporary brands maintain a presence in the islands during summer months. For summer 2025, Royal Caribbean International will operate 15 ships in the Caribbean — more than half of the line’s 29-ship fleet — including its three latest and biggest showstoppers, By David Swanson DESTINATION REPORT 2024 was a record year, but some ports struggle No question: Cruisers love sailing the Caribbean. The region — which includes Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean coast of Mexico and Central America — captures the largest market share of any cruise area in the world, and the passenger count continues to rise. In 2019, the region had a 39% share of global cruise capacity. For 2024, projections show the Caribbean has grown to capture 42% of the world’s cruisers — more than two-and-a-half times the market share of the next most popular area, the Mediterranean. Caribbean cruising: 18 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 #WeLoveCruising CRUISE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD ® PortMiami.biz START your CRUISE ADVENTURE from MIAMI Nassau Cruise Port Ph oto cre dit : Te ijo Ni em elä CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 18 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 18 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 19 Ph oto cre dit : Te ijo Ni em elä #WeLoveCruising CRUISE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD ® PortMiami.biz START your CRUISE ADVENTURE from MIAMI Nassau Cruise Port CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 19 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 19 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 20 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas and Star of the Seas. Other cruise lines, such as Carnival and Disney, have an even larger share of their berths vested in the Caribbean’s summer season. Although the threat of hurricanes looms for several months, July through October, the Caribbean’s great variety and spread of ports means cruise ships can alter itineraries when a major storm spins through, making the region truly a year-round cruise option. Across the Caribbean, destination development follows different business models. The traditional path has been island governments overseeing port operations, either through the public or private sector, or a combination of both. Caribbean destinations where this has been the case for years include the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, St. Maarten, the Port of La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and the Crown Bay Center on St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Jamaica faces challenges The island of Jamaica has no less than five cruise ports, owned by different combinations of government, government agencies and private entities. The ports at Montego Bay and Ocho Rios have longstanding relationships with the cruise industry, but for the development of the Historic Falmouth Port in 2011, the Port Authority of Jamaica entered into a joint venture with Royal Caribbean. Today, Falmouth is the island’s busiest port, with capacity for two of the line’s Oasis-class ships simultaneously. Other brands regularly calling on Falmouth include Celebrity, Disney, Holland America, MSC, and Norwegian. Passenger cruise visits to Jamaica have not kept pace with land vacations which, at 4.3 million visitors in 2024, are basically even with 2019 numbers. During the same period cruise visitors declined 19%, to 1.25 million in 2024. Despite this, Joy Roberts, Executive Director of Jamaica Vacations, says expanding Falmouth Port has been discussed. “We’re looking at additional fingers, but there’s no timeline yet,” says Roberts. “Our biggest challenge is road infrastructure, and that is being developed.” However, additionally because Grand Cayman not being able to accept larger vessels there has been a challenge for cruise lines being able to make an itinerary that includes Jamaica. Roberts notes that the port of Ocho Rios has been impaired by an accident in February 2024, when strong winds caused Carnival Magic to slam into the pier, causing significant damage to both the ship and pier. Currently operating as a tender port, Robert anticipates the Ocho Rios pier will be fully operational again by September. Following the opening of Falmouth, the Port of Montego Bay slid to a number three position in arrivals for the country, but still lures such lines as Carnival, Cunard, Oceania, Viking and European operators AIDA and TUI. With its location close to Montego Bay Airport, one of the Caribbean’s best-connected airports, Roberts says that the government has looked at using Montego Bay as a homeport for Jamaica-focused itineraries, possibly with one of the European cruise brands. “The airport has just built a special cruise lounge so that passengers can be checked in at the airport and bags can be sent directly to the ship,” Roberts adds. Other Jamaican ports such a cruise could visit include Port Antonio, where the Ken Wright Pier currently serves a few smaller ships annually (under 1,000 passengers). Explora Journeys, Oceania and Crystal each have scheduled calls in Port Antonio during the 2026-27 seasons. The Historic Naval Dockyard at Port Royal was restored and opened as a cruise port in January 2020. It’s located about 15 miles from downtown Kingston but has not yet caught on as a regularly scheduled cruise call. Barbados find success with homeporting A Caribbean destination that has had success with homeporting is Barbados. The achievement is all the more notable given the island’s location at the far southeast of the region, a three-and-a-half-hour flight from Miami. Tia Broomes, Senior Business Development Officer for cruise at Barbados Tourism Marketing, says infrastructure, efficiency of turnaround operations, and constant upgrades to the port have been key. “It was originally a cargo port,” Broomes explains. “But we’ve undertaken a multimillion project to separate cruise from cargo. With rapid development of the cruise business, and with the decline of sugar production over the years, Barbados has become more of a cruise port.” Broomes says turnaround operations are increasing on the island, and that homeporting has grown “dramatically, by almost 50%.” For the 2025-26 season, Barbados expects to host a wide variety of brands for homeporting — from small-ship operators like Star Clippers and Windstar, to European brands such as P&O, Marella and AIDA, to luxury operators Silversea and Seabourn. “We’ve got Ritz-Carlton coming in for its third winter season and Four Seasons Yachts will use Barbados as a Caribbean homeport,” adds Broomes. “We deliver memorable days for guests preand post-cruise, so they really get to experience the island.” Global Ports Holding expanding operations Global Ports Holding is the world’s largest cruise port operator, with a presence in the Mediterranean and Asia-Pacific, as well as the Caribbean. Global Ports’ operation in the Caribbean includes the ports of Antigua, St. Lucia, San Juan, and Nassau, which celebrated a record-breaking year in 2024, with 5.6 million passengers. Nassau’s growth comes on the heels of a $300 million project to enhance the passenger experience, including redeveloping the waterfront, a new terminal building, new food and beverage facilities, and the addition of an event and entertainment amphitheater. Loading areas, traffic flow and signage were improved, and 60 retail spaces were created, hosting both luxury goods and local crafts. The port has six operational berths and can accommodate three Oasis-class ships simultaneously, as well as the new Icon class. (Including cruise line-managed private island ports and Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, the Bahamas overall attracted 9.35 million cruise guests in 2024.) In Antigua, where cruise passenger arrivals grew 23% in 2024 — a record year for the island — Global Ports announced the start of construction in February on a new cruise terminal at the port’s fifth berth. Last December, St. Lucia also celebrated an increase in cruise arrivals, up 18% over 2023, while also embarking on a cruise port redevelopment project, to modernize the island’s cruise tourism infrastructure. In 2024, Global Ports signed a 30-year concession agreement with the Puerto Rico Ports Authority for the San Juan Cruise Port, and last year announced plans for $100 million focused on critical infrastructure repairs at Pier 4 and Pan American Piers I and II, in addition to upgrades to the terminal buildings and the passenger walkway. Future development in San Juan includes an estimated $250 million investment to expand the port’s capacity by building a new cruise pier and state-of-the-art homeport terminal at Piers 11 and 12 to handle the largest cruise ships. San Juan, St. Kitts, St. Maarten still struggle Last year was a record year for cruising in the Caribbean, but not all ports are seeing growth. Since 2019, the last full year of cruising prior to the pandemic, the ports of San Juan, St. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 20 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 20 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 21 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 21 Perfect Day at CoCoCay Disney Cruise Line’s Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Aerial view shows progress of construction work at Carnival’s Celebration Key CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 21 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 21 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 22 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Kitts and St. Maarten have suffered a double-digit percentage loss in arrivals. Although Grand Cayman, long one of the Caribbean’s busiest cruise ports, received almost 1.1 million cruise guests in 2024, that number is down 41% over the last five years. Cruise lines point to Cayman’s position as a tender port, which hinders the ability to efficiently receive passengers off the largest ships that increasingly dominate the Caribbean. On the other hand, Grand Cayman has hosted MSC’s 5,878-passenger Seascape multiple times this season. The lack of a cruise pier for Grand Cayman has been a contentious issue since at least the 1990s, but with falling arrivals the matter has come to a head. Cayman residents have expressed concern over the financial outlay for such a project, crowding, and environmental degradation, especially for the island’s world-renowned reefs. Following a “raucous” public meeting attended by island residents, industry stakeholders and business owners, a non-binding referendum was called for. On April 30, Cayman Island residents will have the opportunity to vote on whether cruise berthing infrastructure should be developed. Ellio Solomon, Executive Program Manager with the Association for Cruise Tourism in the Cayman Islands, says the industry is moving towards larger ships, and has been adapting itineraries. “Those larger ships are starting to go around Cayman,” suggests Solomon. “Are the cruise lines trying to send a message? Possibly.” Soloman also argues that a cruise pier would improve the visitor experience. “Right now, you have to get on a tender — it might not be an enjoyable ride for someone who is handicapped or elderly. It’s just not a very good customer experience.” Growth of ‘private island’ ports However, perhaps the most impactful cruise development in the Caribbean in recent years has been the growth of so-called “private island” ports. A decade ago, their number could almost be counted on one hand. Including several that will open this year and next, 16 are now spread across the region, with more than half of them in the Bahamas alone. Some of the ports are owned outright by individual cruise lines, while others are public-private partnerships. Insiders point to the success of Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, which opened in 2019, as a catalyst for current growth. The $250 million project in the Berry Islands includes a waterpark with two pools and a pair of towers containing waterslides, one of which is North America’s tallest. CocoCay is visited by two ships daily through the winter season — exclusively Royal Caribbean vessels along with occasional calls by Celebrity ships. But since there are only so many islands in the sea, cruise lines have launched a new type of development, looking towards existing ports to develop attractions that supplement what is already available. This summer, Carnival will debut Celebration Cay, a purpose-built beach club on Grand Bahama Island with its own cruise pier, bypassing the island’s longstanding dock at Freeport. Celebration Cay features a 10-story Suncastle with racing water slides, two freshwater swimming lagoons sprawling across seven acres, an adults-only area, and 30 food and beverage outlets. Carnival Vista will make the inaugural call at Celebration Cay on July 19. Royal Caribbean is developing a 17-acre Royal Beach Club, on the narrow western end of Paradise Island (where the Atlantis Resort is located), immediately facing the Nassau cruise port. Unlike other private cruise islands, the beach club will require purchase of an all-inclusive day pass. The facility is expected to open in December. Last year Royal Caribbean bought the Costa Maya port and more than 200 acres of adjacent land for a planned $600 million investment to transform the destination into Perfect Day Mexico. The Costa Maya port will still exist in some form, allowing ships from competing cruise lines to continue docking, while Royal Caribbean passengers will be allowed to utilize the Perfect Day facilities (or walk into the beach town of Mahahual, or take shore excursions to other Yucatan sights). While the port will remain open during construction, Perfect Day is expected to be completed in 2027. Meanwhile, two of the original private island ports are currently being revamped. Half Moon Cay, the shared private island of Carnival and Holland America Line that opened in 1997, will sport an expanded beachfront, more lunch spots and bars, tram services, and new facilities on the island’s north side. Previously a tender-only port, a pier will be built on the west end of the beach to accommodate Carnival’s Excel-class ships. The project, expected to be completed by the end of 2026, will be renamed RelaxAway. Norwegian Cruise Line Holding’s private island Great Stirrup Cay, also currently reached only by tender boat, has a $150 million pier in the works. Large enough to accommodate two ships at once, Harry Sommer, NCLH CEO, says the island has typically received about 400,000 guests annually, a number that is expected to balloon to 1 million in 2026. The project broke ground in January and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy and Carnival Corp. CEO Josh Weinstein lay commemorative keys in the Celebration Key Suncastle CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 22 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 22 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 23 David Swanson: What port developments are in the works for you in the Caribbean? Mike Maura Jr: In 2025, Global Ports Holding is focused on further enhancing its portfolio of cruise ports across the Caribbean, including key developments in Saint Lucia, Nassau, and Antigua. Nassau has a new pool experience under construction and several new F&B offerings coming soon. The special events program there is also bustling. We are working closely with local governments and stakeholders to invest in sustainable, innovative infrastructure upgrades that will offer cruise passengers an exceptional experience while benefiting local economies. This includes expanded facilities, improved shore-side amenities, and environmental sustainability initiatives to ensure our ports can meet growing demand while reducing environmental impacts. Additionally, we are looking to explore new destinations to further strengthen our Caribbean presence, enhancing the region’s attractiveness for global cruise lines. David Swanson: Are you considering developing any “private island”-style ports? Mike Maura Jr: Our core focus will remain port developments, which enhance tourism products and destination brands. Global Ports Holding is committed to maximizing the economic benefit to the people of the destinations where we operate. We have no specific plans regarding private island developments like Perfect Day or Castaway Cay. We continually explore innovative and creative ways to enhance passenger experiences and provide cruise lines with unique offerings across the world. We are aware of the success of private island destinations and recognize the growing interest in these types of exclusive experiences. As part of our broader strategy, we do consider a variety of models that blend sustainability, luxury, and the local cultural experiences that our destinations are known for. However, any such development would be approached thoughtfully, with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and collaboration with local communities. We also see private island developments as complementary to destinations and believe that they add value to the overall itinerary for cruisers. David Swanson: Including the Bahamas and Mexico, where are the growth opportunities for future port development in the Caribbean? Mike Maura Jr: We believe that for any port-related development to be successful, a balance must exist between these developments and the ports of call. Growth in or around the port destination cannot occur at the expense of the city and the community therein. The Caribbean remains a key region for cruise tourism, and we see several areas with significant growth potential. In the Bahamas, the outer islands and less-developed regions present exciting opportunities for expansion, as they offer a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. Additionally, Mexico continues to be a key market, with destinations like Cozumel, Mahahual, and Ensenada (on the Pacific Coast) seeing continued demand. Beyond these, we also see opportunities in less saturated markets within the Caribbean and Central America, where we can offer cruise lines new, exciting destinations that appeal to a wide range of travelers. Investment in port infrastructure and sustainable tourism initiatives is essential to support this growth, and Global Ports Holding is actively exploring these opportunities. David Swanson: What advantages do you offer destinations over local port management, as in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Jamaica? Mike Maura Jr: Our approach is to work in partnership with the destination and with local port management to enhance the existing structure and ensure continued support from local experts. In fact, we hire completely local teams in each port. Global Ports Holding brings several key advantages to destinations looking to enhance their cruise tourism offerings. First, our international experience in port management enables us to apply the best industry practices and innovations to improve operational efficiency, passenger experience, and infrastructure development. Our team is skilled in creating sustainable, world-class port facilities while focusing on reducing environmental impact and promoting local culture. Moreover, we have strong relationships with major cruise lines, allowing us to attract high-quality vessels and provide opportunities for consistent growth in cruise arrivals. We also have the ability to introduce global standards in port development, marketing, and cruise line partnerships, all while ensuring that the benefits of growth are shared with the local community. David Swanson: Beyond San Juan, St. Maarten, Antigua, and Barbados, are there any other Caribbean destinations with potential to be developed as turnaround embarkation ports? Mike Maura Jr: Yes, there are several Caribbean destinations with potential to be developed as turnaround embarkation ports. One hurdle is the available airlift, which is influenced by source markets, airport infrastructure at the destination, aircraft passenger capacity, and frequency of flights. That said, opportunities exist. Nassau, for example, has roundtrip flights from around the world. Hotel capacity is also a key consideration and, in some instances, can pose a challenge. With the right investment, we believe there is significant potential for some destinations to grow into thriving turnaround ports. INTERVIEW INTERVIEW WITH MIKE MAURA JR, CEO & Director of Nassau Cruise Port Ltd. and Reginal Director of the Americas for Global Ports Holding Mike Maura Jr CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 23 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 23 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 24 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 T he cruise industry, particularly in the Florida-Caribbean region, recently received a temporary reprieve from the Mexican government’s proposed $42 immigration fee for cruisers, now postponed until July 1 instead of its original Jan. 1 implementation. Yet in the past week, there is growing concern that this relief may be short-lived. If President Donald Trump moves forward with his proposed tariffs against Mexico, the country may feel compelled to retaliate by reinstating this fee — or even imposing additional costs — on American cruise passengers. The economic and diplomatic dynamics at play could turn this temporary delay into an inevitable burden on travelers and the cruise industry. Worse still, beyond the financial implications, such a fee could lead to unintended safety consequences, making cruising a more dangerous activity for passengers. Trump has long advocated for strict economic measures against Mexico, arguing that tariffs are a necessary tool to pressure the country on issues ranging from immigration to trade imbalances. His administration previously imposed tariffs on Mexican goods in 2019, threatening escalating duties unless Mexico took steps to curb migration across the U.S. border. If Trump reintroduces tariffs, Mexico may respond by reversing its temporary hold on the $42 fee and pushing forward with its implementation, perhaps even expanding its scope. From Mexico’s perspective, such a fee could serve as a countermeasure to American economic aggression. If tariffs were to disrupt Mexico’s trade with the U.S., its government could seek alternative revenue streams to offset the financial hit. The cruise industry, which brings millions of passengers to Mexico’s ports each year, represents an easy target. Taxing cruisers directly could be framed as a way to compensate for lost trade revenue and to assert Mexico’s sovereignty over its tourism policies. This economic standoff would not just be a political battle — it would hit American travelers directly. A reinstated $42 fee would drive up costs for cruisers, potentially discouraging some from visiting Mexico altogether. In a worst-case scenario, Mexico might introduce additional fees beyond the original proposal, further exacerbating the financial strain on passengers and cruise operators alike. A cycle of economic retaliation would hurt both sides, but it’s the passengers who would ultimately bear the burden. While the financial impact of a reinstated immigration fee is concerning, there is an even more troubling consequence that has been overlooked: passenger safety. The introduction of the $42 fee could inadvertently make cruise travel a riskier experience in several key ways. When cruise passengers disembark in Mexico, they often book excursions through either the cruise line or independent local operators. Cruise line-approved excursions are generally considered safer, as they’re supposed to adhere to safety standards, carry liability insurance, and have direct communication with the ship in case of an emergency. However, if passengers are burdened with an additional $42 fee, many might opt for cheaper, unregulated excursions to offset the extra cost. Unregulated excursions often lack proper safety measures, do not conduct thorough background checks on staff, and may not provide adequate emergency response in case of an accident. This increases the likelihood of incidents ranging from vehicle crashes in poorly maintained transportation to inadequate supervision during water activities. The tragic drowning of tourists in poorly managed snorkeling and diving trips, for example, has been a recurring issue in some Mexican port citCruising into danger HOW MEXICO’S $42 FEE COULD COST MORE THAN JUST MONEY OPINION By Aron Solomon 24 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 24 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 24 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 25 ies. If more passengers seek to cut costs by choosing budget options, they may unknowingly be placing themselves in danger. For many travelers, a $42 fee might not seem exorbitant on its own, but when compounded with other expenses, it could push some budget-conscious passengers to remain on the ship rather than exploring Mexican ports. However, those who do wish to visit may choose to avoid the official port areas — where fees are typically collected — and instead seek alternative ways to experience the destination. This shift could drive more passengers into informal, unregulated areas where they are at greater risk of crime. Many Mexican cities that rely on cruise tourism have well-policed port zones designed to ensure visitor safety. Straying beyond these zones — especially into areas where law enforcement presence is weaker — exposes tourists to a greater risk of robbery, scams, and even violent crime. In destinations like Cozumel and Ensenada, crime rates can be significantly higher outside of tourist-friendly areas, and passengers seeking to avoid the fee may inadvertently place themselves in harm’s way. The broader implications of a reinstated $42 fee extend beyond individual passengers. The cruise industry has already voiced concerns about how this additional cost could negatively impact Mexico’s economy, particularly in coastal communities reliant on tourism. If fewer Americans choose to disembark due to increased fees, local businesses — ranging from restaurants and tour operators to artisanal markets — will suffer. Job losses and economic downturns in these areas could lead to increased desperation and, consequently, higher crime rates, which would further deter tourism in a vicious cycle. Furthermore, cruise lines themselves may reconsider the frequency of their Mexican stops if passenger dissatisfaction rises. If alternative destinations — such as the Bahamas or the Dominican Republic — offer more cost-effective and hassle-free experiences, cruise companies might redirect their itineraries away from Mexican ports. Such a shift would be devastating for cities that have built their economies around the steady influx of cruise passengers. Peter Walsh, founder of The Cruise Injury Law Firm, warns that “additional costs like the $42 fee will push passengers toward riskier choices, whether it’s unregulated excursions, informal travel arrangements, or avoiding key safety measures altogether. In an industry where safety should always be the priority, this could be a disastrous unintended consequence.” While the temporary delay in implementing Mexico’s $42 immigration fee is a welcome development, it should not be mistaken for a permanent solution. If Trump proceeds with his tariff threats against Mexico, the country will likely seek ways to counteract the economic damage, making the reinstatement of the fee almost inevitable. This would not only impose an unnecessary financial burden on American cruise passengers but also introduce significant safety concerns that should not be ignored. From encouraging riskier travel decisions to slowing emergency response times, the unintended consequences of this fee could turn an enjoyable cruise vacation into a more dangerous experience. At a time when tourism should be recovering and thriving, introducing policies that deter safe travel is counterproductive. It is in the best interest of both Mexico and the U.S. to seek diplomatic solutions that do not endanger passengers or destabilize the cruise industry. If policymakers fail to recognize these risks, the temporary reprieve granted today could transform into a costly and hazardous mistake tomorrow. Cruising into danger HOW MEXICO’S $42 FEE COULD COST MORE THAN JUST MONEY CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 25 Cozumel in Mexico is one of the busiest ports-of-call in the world Ph oto cre dit : Te ijo Ni em elä CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 25 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 25 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 26 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 26 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Good news continues in French Polynesia For cruise travelers, the islands of French Polynesia have never offered more choices and itineraries – many on a year-round basis. In addition, nonstop airlift from the U.S. West Coast is offered by Air Tahiti Nui, Air France and United Airlines. DESTINATION UPDATE CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 26 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 26 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 27 A lthough hotel stays in French Polynesia experienced a slight drop last year, the booming cruise industry kept the archipelago’s tourism at record levels and will continue to expand, says Tahiti Cruise Club. About 52,000 passengers embarked on cruises of 7 to 10 days from Tahiti in 2024 – an increase of almost 20% from the year previous, Tahiti Cruise Club says in a press release. In addition, 62,000 other passengers who were in transit arrived and departed with a ship, up 45% from 2023. “Overall, more than a third of the people visiting French Polynesia took a cruise during their stay,” says Bud Gilroy, President of the Tahiti Cruise Club. And the new Papeete cruise terminal, inaugurated in February, “is already an essential link in a cruise segment that has been booming steadily for over a decade,” Tahiti Cruise Club said in a press release. “In terms of the number of ports of call and cruise operations carried out in a year, we are becoming a regional leader. By 2026, our business will have grown by a further 25%,” says Gilroy. Founded to support and develop the cruise industry in French Polynesia, Tahiti Cruise Club is celebrating its 15th anniversary. “We bring together Polynesian public and private players, as well as many cruise lines. Ollivier Amaru initiated this process and was the founding president. We celebrated it at the beginning of February. And in 15 years, we have all worked together to multiply cruise ship activity in French Polynesia by a factor of three,” Gilroy says. Additional new ships for the coming years have been announced by Aranui Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Ponant (Paul Gauguin), Silversea and Oceania Cruises, according to Tahiti Cruise Club. Inaugurated on Feb. 17 by the President of French Polynesia, a new cruise terminal at Papeete is a key addition to the archipelago’s cruise industry. Already performing basic operations, the terminal will be fully operational for the second half of the year. The terminal will be capable of handling turnarounds for up to three ships at the same time and will have a capacity of 2,000 passengers, according to Tahiti Cruise Club. “In 15 years, our destination has been able to adapt to the needs of cruise ship owners, offering logistical and maritime operations, navigation and tourist experiences that live up to expectations. We have a coherent, attractive and strong model. And all the authorities in French Polynesia are aware of it and wish to see it continue. We still have a great deal of cooperation and collaboration to forge with shipowners, in a basin – the South Pacific – with proven potential,” says Gilroy. Our experience a year ago Indeed, for those of us who have taken multiple French Polynesian voyages, there’s always a new twist to explore. In February 2024, a traditional Society Islands itinerary on Windstar’s Star Breeze, which operates there year-round, ran into tropical weather and had to divert. Instead, and on the fly, its captain headed north, to the Marquesas, a destination that proved to be so popular with guests on that sailing that it has joined the line’s regular itineraries. Windstar Cruises operates two ships in French Polynesia year-round, the 148-guest Wind Spirit and 312-guest Star Breeze. New cruise terminal was opened in February Star Breeze anchored in Moorea Ph oto cre dit : Ca ro lyn Sp en ce r Br ow n CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 27 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 27 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 28 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 In February TUI Cruises took delivery of the first of its two new inTUItion-class vessels, Mein Schiff Relax, from Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard. The German brand, known for its premium service, is a joint venture of tourism conglomerate TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Group. By Teijo Niemelä Despite its rather short history, TUI Cruises has become a major player in the German tourism market. TUI Cruises started in 2007 with two second-hand vessels from Celebrity Cruises, but they were quickly replaced by tailor-made newbuilds, first with the 99,526-gross-ton and 2,500-guest Mein Schiff 3 in 2014, followed by sister ships Mein Schiff 4, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 6. Slightly larger newbuilds, 111,500-gross-ton and 2,894-guest Mein Schiff 1, Mein Schiff 2 and Mein Schiff 7, followed afterwards – all constructed at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. With the new inTUIition class, which registers 157,651 gross tons and has a capacity of 3,984 guests, TUI Cruises awarded the contract to Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone. The Mein Schiff Relax was delivered in February and sister ship Mein Schiff Flow will follow next year. After these ships, TUI Cruises currently has no new vessels on order, but its sister brand Marella Cruises committed with Fincantieri for two new ships for the British market. Marella, a fully owned subsidiary of TUI AG, has a vintage fleet of five vessels built between 1995 and 1997. With deliveries in 2030 and 2032, the new ships will be the first ever newbuilds for Marella Cruises. EXPANSION BEYOND GERMAN-SPEAKING MARKET TUI Cruises is in the midst of the biggest expansion phase in its corporate history. With the introduction of Mein Schiff Relax and Mein Schiff Flow, the fleet’s capacity will grow by 40%. The goal is not only to meet existing demand, but also to tap into new customer groups. The cruise line has already begun to look beyond its traditional German-speaking source markets in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands. Mein Schiff Relax offers numerous innovations that make it unique in the fleet. For example, 85% of the cabins offer balconies as a special highlight. There are also new exclusive suite areas, such as the X-View Restaurant and the X-Bar, a digital restaurant, the first burlesque bar and the first barrel sauna on a cruise ship. Mein Schiff Relax is also the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet and can be converted to run on e-LNG and bio-LNG in the future. There is also better passenger flow to move between decks, thanks to the three main stairwells. With 18 elevators, the ship offers 80% more elevator capacity than the other fleet members. Two escalators in particular make boarding easier. The “Floating Guest Service” concept ensures that the crew comes to the guest. Mein Schiff Relax was named in Palma de Mallorca, Spain on April 9. It will spend its inaugural season in the Mediterranean. TUI Cruises expands with new class of ships SHIP PREVIEW CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 28 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 28 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 29 Atlantik Dining Room First barrel sauna on a cruise ship Expansive sun deck with long swimming pool CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 29 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 29 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• 30 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Mein Schiff Relax is one of the most exciting new prototypes in the cruise business this year. Tillberg Design of Sweden, part of Viken Group, was deeply involved in developing the new class of the ships for TUI Cruises. We discussed the design process of the newbuild with Malvina Guarnieri, Tillberg’s Design Director. Teijo Niemelä: Mein Schiff Relax features a completely new General Arrangement (GA) compared to the Mein Schiff 1 to 7. What are the most notable changes and improvements? Malvina Guarnieri: Mein Schiff Relax is definitely departing from previous Mein Schiff vessels and developing guests’ experiences onboard way further. Starting from the boarding experience, the reception is directly connected to the boarding area and to the deck above with an escalator. This eases the process of boarding and a seamless guest experience. The reception, which GA-wise has a coherent location as on the previous vessels, features a huge improvement, which is the connection to the water and the surrounding environment thanks to the side windows which reach the floor level of the reception area. Instead of being only centrally located, the area extends transversally from port to starboard, allowing sight lines on each side of the vessel. The location and the design of the voids in the reception area allows the connection to the venues above and even more, thanks to the skylights located on the sides of Deck 5, which bring natural light in the core of the hull. The Atlantik dining room location is more or less coherent with previous vessels (aft of the lower decks) but features a fantastic aft glazing, which brings again contact with water and the sea in the venue. The Atlantik Deck 4 also serves breakfast, and the view from one of the tables close to the aft windows when the ship is in navigation is just stunning. The promenade and the circulation on the lower decks allow space for more venues compared to previous vessels, especially considering the ship is bigger in size. The entertainment venues are coherently located forward, and moving aft, we can find a nice variety and rhythm of specialty restaurants, bars, shops and other special venues like the hairdresser and barber shop. In general on the vessel, the sense of space is definitely increased, the INTERVIEW Chat with Malvina Guarnieri, Design Director at Tillberg Design of Sweden Captain’s Bar CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 30 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 30 4.4.2025 13.27 4.4.2025 13.27
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 31 venues feel airy, light and especially high. There are more openings compared to the previous vessels, and I think the ship is more “architectural.” Regardless of the bigger size, on the other side, especially in the bigger venues, we tried to achieve a good intimacy and avoid the perception of being in very crowded areas. On the upper decks, the location of the pool and of the sports court is completely new. By raising the pool one deck, the pool gets more open to the sea and it allows for a very big harbor market on the deck below, which opens up to the Agora space. In the Lido and on the upper decks, the quantity of light is impressive, and it reaches its peak in the Captain’s Bar venue, located forward, with a double-height glazing. In this location previously, there was the suite lounge, which has instead been located aft more in connection with the suites areas. We think on Mein Schiff Relax the ideas of the “neighborhoods” is well achieved, especially on the location of the entertainment venues, the suites and the open decks and active areas. The addition of one stair tower helps navigation, especially thanks to the artworks chosen, which can help guests understand whether they are using the forward (ice-themed), the mid (forest-themed) or aft (desert-themed) cores. Teijo Niemelä: Relax is a step for the larger size and capacity. How was it designed to have a good people flow? Malvina Guarnieri: Some answers are already present above: grouping coherent venues, adding one stair tower. This is something we continue to push further. The Atrium in my opinion plays a pivotal role in the master planning, being located exactly midship. The connection to the sea I think helps guests in understanding where they are onboard. The flows are softly directed towards the different venues as well. Teijo Niemelä: What was TDoS’ role in the design process with Fincantieri, TUI Cruises and other architects and could you mention the other design companies? Malvina Guarnieri: We were designers for some of the venues onboard, and we were also involved with other firms, as well as (with the) owner and (ship)yard of course, in the master planning phase for those venues, which were deeply different from the previous vessels. Master planning-wise, we did focus only on certain venues, to support the owner in communicating to Fincantieri the vision for those areas which were new and different from previous vessels, as did other architects. In the areas, we took care of the design phase. In the concept phase, we worked together with owner and yard in setting up from one side the vision design-wise and on the other side trying to mitigate the influence of all the super complex technical items on the design. In the detail design phase, we described the design intent for all the materialities and elements which compose a venue. We did follow some venues in the construction phase, visiting mockups and seeing the progress of the venues onboard together with the site office. These areas are Lido, Osteria, Hygge and Captain’s Bar. Teijo Niemelä: What areas and spaces were designed by TDoS? Malvina Guarnieri: Listing the areas we have worked on: ? Stand0ard staterooms (which had two décors, one for all two-plus people stateroom categories and another décor for single staterooms) ? Staterooms corridors ? Suites layouts, which w ere taken over by JOI Design in the décor (internal info: due to structural constraints there are some complaints on one suite’s layout) ? Stairhalls, lift lobbies and elevator cabs ? Atrium (void shapes and stairs) and reception Deck 3-5 ? Atlantik dinings and bar Deck 4-5 — two aft dinings on two levels including voids and vertical connections, plus the forward restaurant inclusive of the bar connected to it ? Chalet Deck 4 — Alpine restaurant and bar Agora Bar CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 31 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 31 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• 32 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 ? La Cage Deck 5 — Entertainment venue, casino and burlesque shows ? Atelier and Tattoo Studio Deck 4 ? Boarding area Deck 2 ? Promenades Decks 4 and 5, including shops’ façades ? Lido Deck 16 (Harbour Market) ? Osteria Deck 16 ? Hygge Deck 16 (steakhouse) ? Captain’s Bar Deck 16 Teijo Niemelä: When did the project start for TDoS and when was the design aspect completed? Does the TDoS team have involvement in the fit-out stage in terms of overseeing your areas on the vessel? Malvina Guarnieri: The project started with master planning back in 2018. In spring 2019, we participated in a competition for the staterooms and suites design: We won the staterooms and we were therefore appointed for the suites layouts. We did start the design phase between 2019 and 2020. Teijo Niemelä: The connection with the sea of the Deck 3 reception area is obviously a key facet of the space — how is that reflected in the design, what are the core design themes of the space, and how much of a brief (style/palette/materials etc.) did you have to consider from TUI? Malvina Guarnieri: The first request from TUI for the reception was the one of having an area which was welcoming, inspiring and friendly. It should be in light colors and convey an airy holiday atmosphere, making you curious about new destinations and experiences. What I think we achieved here and what I would like to stress are the following elements. We did try to highlight the connection to water in the voids shape. We did create an architecture of the voids, which allows for interesting sight lines and unusual perspectives on the different areas. The location of the stair was to create in the half-landings “balconies,” which were overlooking the area and the ocean, with direct view to the sea when the ship is in navigation or in the harbor. With the glazing located on Deck 5, ceiling light is entering the Deck 5 restaurants from above, and the two smaller side voids are bringing light to the lowest deck of the atrium, Deck 3. We wanted to create an intimate and direct connection to the water. That’s why we did propose to locate lounge seats closer to the windows on Deck 3. We think those spots are pretty unique: super close to water, with almost a 6-meter high ceiling above you, but yet protected and in direct view and connection to the ocean. For this same reason, the location of the library at PS creates a “wing” to the reception area, which reminds one of a hotel lobby. I think it creates an intimate connection to water. Centrally in the space we have the most active areas: the Barista bar, which looks like it is “emerging” from the light floor, and the reception pods. The atrium was actually not inspired by the water, but we took our inspiration from the planets: We thought that we wanted the sea to Celebrating Milestones 30 35 40 27 27 14 Be part of the biggest annual gathering yet for the cruise community Join the celebration by registering at: www.seatradecruiseevents.com/global Mein Schiff Relax CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 32 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 32 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 33 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 33 Celebrating Milestones 30 35 40 27 27 14 Be part of the biggest annual gathering yet for the cruise community Join the celebration by registering at: www.seatradecruiseevents.com/global CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 33 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 33 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• 34 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Silver Sponsor Sponsor Official Airline Gold Sponsor Diamond Sponsor www.PosidoniaSeaTourism.com 6-7 May 2025 Heraklion,Crete,Greece Bronze Sponsors With the support of Cruise Business 210x297 22-01-25 18:19 ™ÂÏ›‰· 1 Infinity pool become the protagonist outside the vessel, while inside the vessel we wanted to develop an area which was growing vertically. In the reception, we wanted to add a deeper carpet, which could function as a deeper base to the areas above. Even if not directly inspired by water as you say, in the design and in the material choices, we were deeply inspired by nature, by the softness of the shapes, by the differentiation of sight lines, by the variety of the textures and materialities. Teijo Niemelä: Describe the design elements of the Captain’s Bar — what was the inspiration for the materials and the color scheme? Malvina Guarnieri: The idea behind this venue from TUI was to create an upscale bar with a nautical influence. We imagined for this space the house of a captain, possibly on an island, where after a life of trips in the ocean, he retires, surrounded by all his memorabilia. We did also combine this inspiration with the location of the venue onboard: We are in one of the top decks, with double-height glazing above us, stunning view forward, same or almost even better view than what you can have from the wheelhouse. We wanted to go classical nautical in the inspirations and in the details, contrasting the white of the steel structure which is typical of the liners with deeper and denser wood tones — having golden details, natural stones, which somehow reminds us of the captain’s wheelhouse on steamships. The artwork with the captain’s face is overlooking the area. I had a drink in the bar and the cocktails are just fantastic. They are nautically themed and explorative, adding another layer to the venue we did imagine together with TUI. The area has also speakeasy access from the Osteria, treated with wooden ribs which reminds one of ship structures and the captain’s vitrines for his memorabilia. Teijo Niemelä: What drove the design choices for the Osteria restaurant, and what are the highlights of the design? Malvina Guarnieri: The Osteria is in connection with the Harbour Market. It is a natural development of the Harbour Market to an “outstanding” Italian design. In the interiors, we wanted to give the essence of an osteria. We have been inspired by the terracotta colors, the warmth of the wood and the color of the olive green. We have contrasted these essences with the boldness of the black furniture and the freshness of some white accents. To enlarge the space and reflect the natural light, which is filtering from the windows, we have inserted mirrors. The design plays with contemporary and more classical details. The restaurant develops around the centrality of the kitchen counter, and there are private niches, warmed by the usage of the wood tone, the contemporary wall fixtures and the usage of the art pieces which are picturing images of Italian life. CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 34 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 34 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 35 Silver Sponsor Sponsor Official Airline Gold Sponsor Diamond Sponsor www.PosidoniaSeaTourism.com 6-7 May 2025 Heraklion,Crete,Greece Bronze Sponsors With the support of Cruise Business 210x297 22-01-25 18:19 ™ÂÏ›‰· 1 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 35 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 35 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• 36 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Stena RoRo — the Swedish heavyweight in ferry business — has found a lucrative business model providing tonnage to several ferry operators both in Europe and Canada. The company has commissioned 15 ropax ferries so far based on its E-Flexer series from the Chinese shipyard. The vessels are not fully identical, but instead are tailored for each operators’ market and operation needs. The ropax vessels are combining the cargo capacity of roro vessels with the passenger amenities of modern ferries. Stena RoRo took delivery of its first E-Flexer Stena Estrid from the Chinese shipyard CMI Jinling in Weihai in 2019. The 215-meter-long, 40,500-gross-ton vessel operates in the Irish Sea between Belfast and Liverpool. Since 2019, Stena Line has introduced four further units on various routes, including two stretched 240-meter and 45,000-grosston versions. The design of E-Flexer has become a success with other ferry operators, many of which have previously contracted their newbuilds directly from the shipyards. Currently the clientele includes Brittany Ferries, DFDS Seaways, Marine Atlantic and in the future, Corsica Linea and Attica Group as well. The order book stretches now until 2027, when two ships ordered for Attica will be handed over. The largest non-Stena customer is Brittany Ferries, which operates five ships, including the most recently delivered 194-meter and 39,000-gross-ton Guillaume de Normandie. The ship is a shortened version compared to its sister ships due to the port restrictions. It is interesting to note that Brittany’s E-Flexers serve routes ranging just from six hours up to over 30 hours. FLEXIBLE DESIGN The E-Flexer concept is a result of a collaboration between Stena RoRo, Finnish naval architect company Deltamarin and CM Jinling. Deltamarin itself is part of China Merchants Group. It has been responsible for the complete basic and detailed design of the ships. Meanwhile, the interior of all the ships has been designed by Swedish Figura Arkitekter, which has been working with Stena for decades. In many cases, the interiors have been created to reflect the destination they serve. The E-Flexer series is based on a basic concept with vessels larger than most existing ropax ferries and features a highly flexible design. Each ship is tailored to customers’ needs, both commercially and technically. An optimized design of the hull, propellers and rudders along with opportunities to incorporate new environmentally friendly technology contribute to the E-Flexer vessels being at the forefront in terms of sustainability and performance as well as cost and energy efficiency. “It is with great satisfaction and pride that we have now taken delivery of the 12th E-Flexer vessel in the series,” said Stena RoRo AB Managing Director Per Westling, when accepting the delivery of Guillaume de Normandie in January 2025. “Within the framework of the E-Flexer concept, there has been continuous technical development and we can offer our customers flexible and future-proof propulsion systems that by a wide margin meet both today’s and future environmental requirements,” he continued. ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS This fifth and last unit for Brittany Ferries has further environmental innovations. It is powered by multi-fuel engines as well as the market’s largest battery-hybrid package of 12 MWh. With these batteries, the ship will be able to operate in and out of port solely on battery power and even maneuver when docking and undocking without using the ship’s diesel engines. This is a unique technical solution that provides significantly lower CO2 emissions for the ship. The E-Flexer concept has been continuously developed in line with future environmental requirements, and through its technical design and high degree of innovation, it can fulfill and exceed both existing and future international requirements. The Guillaume de Normandie is also equipped with a shore connection with an output of 8 MW for high-speed charging of the batteries, which also enables a completely fossil-free stay when in port. With the installed battery capacity, the vessel can operate at speeds of up to 17.5 knots on batteries alone. The ship’s engines can be powered by marine diesel (MGO), liquefied natural gas (LNG), biodiesel or biogas. In addition, the PTI/PTO system with the Battery Power function can be used for propulsion at sea or FERRY BUSINESS Stena RoRo’s approach to standardized ropax ferry design Viking expedition ship in Welland Canal CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 36 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 36 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 37 maneuvering in port. The system is scalable, which means that in the future, the Guillaume de Normandie can operate entirely on batteries or with a combination of the different fuels. PASSENGER CHOICES ON SHORT CHANNEL CROSSINGS At presstime, the newest E-Flexer of Brittany Ferries, Guillaume de Normandie, will begin service between Portsmouth, England, and Caen, France. Depending on the daytime, the crossing can take from six hours to up to eight hours. The ship is certified for 1,300 passengers, with 2,410 lane meters for trucks and trailers as well as 175 lane meters for private cars. As far as passenger comfort, Guillaume de Normadie offers nine cabin categories, ranging from luxurious Commodore cabins to both allergy-friendly and pet-friendly options. All cabins are fitted with private toilets and showers as well as flatscreen TV and video on demand. Wi-Fi is also available. All passengers, however, do not require a cabin accommodation during the short crossing, so the ship offers several wining and dining options as well as other public rooms. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE NEXT THREE VESSELS? Last June, Stena RoRo entered into an agreement to build two more vessels in the CMI Jinling shipyard with deliveries in 2027 for the Greek shipping company Attica Group. These two vessels will be a long-term charter contract with an option to purchase and a potential option for two more vessels. The ships will be 240 meters long and will have a capacity of 1,500 passengers and 3,320 lane meters. The vessels’ engines will be multi-fuel type and can run on conventional marine fuel (HFO or MGO) or biodiesel. In addition, the engines will be methanol ready. The E-Flexer concept has been designed in line with future environmental requirements and, through its technical design, can meet both existing and future international requirements by a wide margin. The vessels will be designed with the classification society notation “Battery power,” which means that in the future, the vessels will also be able to utilize batteries as a means of propulsion, partly or completely, depending on battery development. Panos Dikaios, CEO, Attica Group commented: ”For three decades, the Attica Group has been renewed through the design and construction of new vessels. The Superfast series redefined the Adriatic ferry market in terms of quality and speed, the sister vessels Blue Star Patmos and Blue Star Delos significantly upgraded the travel experience on the Aegean Sea routes and the latest addition, the three state-of-the-art Aero Highspeed, have already contributed substantially to the increase of visitors to the Saronic Islands. Our agreement with Stena RoRo for the charter of two new state-of-the-art vessels, sets new standards for the entire Greek ferry industry. It drastically reduces our environmental footprint, redefines the travel experience and responds dynamically to the challenges of tomorrow.” Viking expedition ship in Welland Canal Le Planches Bar Guillaume de Normandie CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 37 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 37 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
• 38 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Anglo-Eastern Univan Group, a global player in independent ship management services, has moved to new offices in Miami’s Blue Lagoon district. Recently it also signed new ship management service agreements with Four Seasons Yachts and Victory Cruise Lines. To support its growth, the company has also strengthened its top management. The Miami office for Anglo-Eastern’s cruise and leisure management services has been relocated to a new and modern space near the Blue Lagoon district, not far from Miami airport, the company said in statement. The new location represents an “enhanced presence” that “strengthens the company’s commitment to delivering world-class, innovative services tailored to the unique needs of the cruise sector,” the company said. Founded as a firm for managing merchant vessels, Anglo-Eastern expanded into the passenger cruise industry in 2022 with the acquisition of Cruise Management International Group. The acquisition included the group’s ship management division, Cruise Management International Inc., and its hospitality branch CMI Leisure Management Inc., plus its third-party fleet of 15 expedition/cruise ships. Those businesses, rebranded Anglo-Eastern Cruise Management Inc. (AECMI) and Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management Inc. (AELM), are now “fully integrated into Anglo-Eastern’s eco-system,” a company statement said. “The Group is now ready to drive the combined entity forward, having undergone advanced knowledge transfers across the business,” according to Anglo-Eastern. . New executive appointments Anglo-Eastern also made two executive appointments within its cruise division. Neil McNeil, who sailed professionally on ferries and roll-on/roll-off passenger vessels for nearly two decades before joining the cruise industry in 2006, has been named Managing Director at AECMI. “With over two decades of leadership experience across multiple companies in the maritime and cruise sectors in the United States, Neil is well-positioned to lead Anglo-Eastern’s growing cruise management portfolio,” the company said. Frits van der Werff, who has held executive positions in the cruise and hotel sectors, has been named Vice President of Commercial at Anglo-Eastern’s cruise and leisure division. Van der Werff “brings nearly two decades of leadership experience blended from major cruise lines and hospitality brands, with a strong focus on cruise operations and client relationships,” the company said. “His addition to Anglo-Eastern is set to further elevate its position in the cruise sector as the industry continues to evolve.” New clients for Anglo-Eastern from cruise sector Anglo-Eastern also announced that it has been named by Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings as ship management partner for Four Seasons Yachts’ ultra-luxury vessel, Four Seasons I, which is to set sail on its maiden voyage next year. The vessel is under outfitting at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy. “Anglo-Eastern will support the construction phase to ensure seamless integration of advanced maritime technology and operational excellence,” Anglo-Eastern said. Carsten Ostenfeldt, Chief Operating Officer of Anglo-Eastern, said the partnership “marks a significant step in our growth as a premier provider of ship management services, now spanning into the luxury yachting category.” “By uniting leaders in hospitality and ship management, we’re creating a one-of-a-kind experience at sea,” Ostenfeldt said. “Anglo-Eastern will leverage its deep expertise in the maritime sector and the Group’s global resources to meet the exacting standards of Four Seasons Yachts.” Another new client for Anglo-Eastern is Victory Cruise Lines, which is to begin cruise operations on the Great Lakes in April. Victory is partnering with Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management for hotel operation, provisioning, crewing and logistics services, the two companies said. “Dietmar Wertanzl and the Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management team have a proven track record of superior service delivery across the cruise industry and small ship space, paired with firsthand knowledge of these specialized vessels operating in the Great Lakes,” said David William Kelly, Chief Operating Officer of Victory Cruise Lines. Wertanzl is President and CEO of Anglo-Eastern Leisure Management. The new partners have worked together to develop a “fine food and beverage program onboard Victory I and Victory II delivering casual pub fare to elegant meals,” the two companies said. ANGLO-EASTERN moves to new offices in Miami, signs with new customers CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 38 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 38 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28
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• 40 CRUISEBUSINESS.COM MAGAZINE SPRING 2025 Skagway Anchorage Hubbard Glacier Glacier Bay Sitka Juneau Ketchikan Prince Rupert Vancouver Astoria Eureka Santa Barbara San Francisco Monterey Los Angeles San Diego Ensenada Victoria por tseattle.org With three shore power cruise berths, a natural deep water harbor, award-winning airport, and a vibrant tourism economy, Seattle is perfectly positioned as the largest cruise port on the West Coast. SEATTLE Seattle LEARN MORE C M Y CM MY CY CMY K ai172419454031_CS2024_FullPgAd_210x297_Print.pdf 1 8/20/24 3:55?PM CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 40 CB-TAITTO SPRING 2025.indd 40 4.4.2025 13.28 4.4.2025 13.28