Trends are found in automotive styling, home building features, hotel chains, airlines and of course cruise lines as well.

Currently I am sailing on NCL Epic on a transatlantic voyage.  We have sailed the transatlantic several times, with different companies and throughly enjoyed each one. I attended the NCL presentation on some of their new ships coming into service.  In watching this I observed the trends and want to tell you about them.

New ship builds have a desire to entertain passengers while floating the seas.  In other words, a floating resort.  The focus is on activities aboard with a complement to destination.  It seems every brand has their ship within a ship experiences.  NCL Haven, MSC Yacht Club, Princess Sanctuary, and Celebrity Retreat for the pampered and luxury sailings. 

Another similarity is the small intimate venues for evening entertainment, such as a comedy club, pubs, sports bars and supper clubs.  Food venues and dining is also a huge part of the new builds as well.  Each cruise line is providing the main dining but they have found the guest wants to experience upscale dining while on a holiday and gladly pay for that. Let’s face it, not everyone who boards a ship live in communities with an array of dining experiences.

While all the newly built ships share the same features, the older and more classic ships tend to seek out better itineraries.  Perhaps the older ships will visit more unique destinations or stay in port longer.  There won’t be as many ‘bells and whistles’ because the focus of the sailing is destination driven.

Don’t forget the luxury lines such as Azamara and Oceania. These lines are smaller ship sizes, pretty much all inclusive, more intimate entertainment venues, usually have one way itineraries. Many people like this type of ship because longer port stays and smaller ports. While pricing seems higher, they offer a great value.

Another segment that is trending are Voyages. These sailings are much longer ranging from 30 -115 days. Holland America is doing an excellent job with this. The voyages visit more remote destinations such as the Amazon River! They tend to cater to more enrichment offerings based on destination.

River cruising remains robust and offers a great alternative to ocean cruising. I for one like river cruising because the ease of getting on and off the river boat. A small short gangway and off you go.

The take away from this discussion is that there is a sailing that fits your needs. If modern is what you seek, there is a lot to choose from.  If discovering a destination is of utmost importance, there are a number of cruise line that can provide that as well.  I am here to help you, your friends, neighbors and family find the right cruise experience that suits your style.

Promotions - there are always promotions.  I don’t have a ‘ticker tape’ of cruise bargains because the prices change quickly.   The price I quote is only as good as the day I send it to you.  The best way to get a good price is to put a refundable deposit on the booking.  Cruise lines have gone to dynamic pricing just like the airlines.  Today’s price is today’s price with no idea what tomorrow’s price looks like.

Here are a few sailings that I see our agency has group pricing. Other destinations and itineraries are available with our group pricing.

7 NT BERMUDA - CELEBRITY SILHOUETTE - MAY 18, 2025

PRIME VERANDA STATEROOM

THEIR PRICE: $2,416 OURS: $1,725

$691 SAVINGS PER PERSON

7 NT BERMUDA - CELEBRITY SILHOUETTE - MAY 25, 2025

PRIME VERANDA STATEROOM

THEIR PRICE:WAITLISTED OURS: $1,808

EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS PER PERSON

$45 MORE TO UPGRADE TO CONCIERGE VERANDA

Best Wishes to all and keep on cruising!

Kathy Hays