Better trips this year
THIS year’s cruise developments are set to peak with the world escaping the clutches of COVID-19 pandemic and its effects.
For those ready to take on their next cruise, there will be more destinations and fleets in 2023.
According to Cruise Industry News, trends and highlights indicate that the fleet of 20 operators, including major brands such as Carnival and MSC Cruises and niche cruise lines including American Cruise Line and Swan Hellenic, is expected to increase.
“Virgin will be the brand adding the most ships, with the Resilient Lady and the Brilliant Lady scheduled to enter service during the year,” it stated.
“New brands launching service include Compagnie Française de Croisières and Exploris, as well as Explora Journeys and Adora Cruises.
“After debuting in 2022, other start-up operators including Ambassador and Emerald will add ships to their fleets this year.
“Additional brands that could debut in 2023 include Foresee Cruises, who acquired the former Sea Princess for a local operation in China.”
The first large cruise ship built in China will enter service later this year.
“Currently in final stages of construction in Shanghai, the still unnamed vessel is set to offer year-round cruising in Asia for Adora Cruises.
“With a design similar to the one used by Carnival’s VistaClass ships, the 135,000-ton ship will have capacity for 5000 guests, as well as custom-designed features and public areas.
“A joint venture between China State Shipbuilding Corporation and Carnival Corporation, the brand also has a sister ship under construction at the same shipyard.”
Cruise Industry News reported that the MSC Group would be debuting a new cruise line in 2023 with Explora Journeys, offering a luxury experience and schedule to enter service in July.
“One of the most important markets in Asia, Japan is set to welcome international cruising back in early 2023.
“Cruise Lines returning to the country include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Silversea, which are set to offer full seasons in the region starting in March.”
The article noted that several ships were looking for new operators, for vessels like Fred Olsen’s Breamar, the Astoria, the Pacific Venus and the Birka Stockhom.
“Meanwhile, Carnival Corporation said it would sell three more ships, including two Costa ships, on this year-end and fourth quarter earnings call in December.
“The expedition market will welcome five new vessels in 2023 as vessels are set to enter service for various brands, including Swan Hellenic, Scenic and Oceanwide according to the orderbook.”
It also stated that Disney Cruise Line with their new Disney Wish would be growing its operations by sailing its first full year.
“The brand is set to add a new home port in North America and also debut in Australia and NZ.
“Starting in November, the brand is set to expand to Port Everglades, offering four and fivenight cruises onboard the Disney Dream.
Prior to that, the article stated that a local program would be offered which included itineraries sailing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland.
“In 2023, Disney is also expected to reveal its plans for the former Global Dream, which was acquired by the brand last November.”