Warm weather means the world of cruising is alive and thriving. From the debut of ships to exciting new routes and onboard passenger experiences, here’s what you may have missed on the cruise scene:

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ eight-ship summer season in Europe kicked off last week, marking an increase of two additional ships in the continent compared to last year. Celebrity Xcel spends its first summer in the Mediterranean and Atlantic this season, sailing various itineraries to places like Italy, France, Spain and Greece. Later this year, Celebrity Silhouette is slated to appear in Europe for cruises to Iceland.

Holland America Line

The line’s flagship Rotterdam will debut in the Mediterranean for the fall 2027 season. Bookings are now open for these journeys, spanning both the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Voyages include 10- and 11-day trips to destinations like Lisbon, Naples, Rhodes and Alexandra. Trips will also offer shore excursions in each port.

© Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys makes its Alaska debut in 2027 on EXPLORA III, offering guests the chance to discover the region from the unique vantage point of the sea. Sailings will run from May to September 2027. The inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection was designed for guests wishing to experience the wild grandeur of Alaska at an unhurried pace. Destinations include Juneau, Hubbard Glacier, Wrangell, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, Seward and Skagway.

Virgin Voyages

The line’s Valiant Lady recently underwent a head-to-toe refresh in dry dock, returning better than ever with reimagined spaces, fresh flavors and a renewed energy. The Athletic Club, a new Indian dining concept, an elevated coffee venue and new activities grace the vessel.

© The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The first-ever Ginori Terrace concept at sea debuts on The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima. Ginori 1735 takes over three outdoor spaces on the ship, merging craftsmanship and colorful spirit. Custom-designed textiles and décor enrich the space, complementing signature cocktail offerings. The Pool House, deck eight and signature Marina will all be graced with Ginori touches. Select pieces from the Ul Viaggio di Nettuno collection will also be available for purchase at The Boutique.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

The line and tour company was recently accepted into Virtuoso’s exclusive travel network as a regional partner serving the group’s member agencies and travel advisors in Latin America, the Caribbean, United States and Canada. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours joins Virtuoso’s curated portfolio of the finest luxury travel providers, including top-tier resorts, hotels, cruise lines, airlines and tour operators.

© Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises

The cruise line unveiled its new 2028 and 2029 Collection of Voyages, featuring more than 230 itineraries across the world. Sailings in this collection range from seven to 180 days and include more than 60 overnight port stays. Featured cities include Tokyo, New York and Amsterdam. Bookings are now open.

Azamara Cruises

Azamara Cruises announced its 2027 Overland Experiences collection, featuring 18 curated journeys across seven countries, allowing guests to delve deeper into some of the world’s most captivating destinations. The collection introduces enhanced programming, expanded access to destinations and thoughtfully curated small-group experiences. Featured itineraries include the 18-night Pacific Islands Cruise to Oahu, Kauai & Bora Bora; 19-night Southeast Asia Cruise to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City & Hong Kong; and 14-night East Asia Cruise to Hong Kong, Shanghai & Beijing.

© Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line revealed a new wave of culinary experiences to launch on Carnival Festivale in 2027 and Carnival Tropicale in 2028. Called The Next Course, these new experiences will include Emeril’s Coastal Seafood; Uku Lei Lei, a restaurant offering Hawaiian specialties and Asian classics; Fetaccine, a Mediterranean-inspired space blending Italian favorites with Greek specialties; and Le Bistro Musicale, a class French restaurant exclusively on Carnival Festivale, welcoming diners in a relaxed, music-filled Parisian setting.

Are you taking a cruise this summer? Where are you going and what are you looking forward to most? What news excites you most? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.