Cruise News

Carnival received an enormous outpouring of customer comments – both positive and negative – over the past week, but it could have been more proactive in its responses and updates given the visibility of the situation.

If the cruise industry can rebound from these six horrific trips, it’s only be a matter of time before bookings bounce back as die-hard cruisers move on from the shock and first-timers choose to take a risk.

Norwegian overcame a troublesome year for the cruising industry after the Costa Concordia capsize. This bodes well for business with two new major ships coming to New York City and Miami harbors.

On the sales side, Royal Caribbean realizes it needs to use sophisticated marketing techniques and social media. The cruise line won't say it, but it also realizes that direct sales to consumers will become an increasing important part of its business.

It’s been an extremely tough year for the cruise industry, but things seem to be looking up for 2013 with bookings back on the rise, ships still being built, and a new global trade association in the works.

The past couple of months have proved troublesome for travelers that have left home in search of sunshine only to find winds, hurricanes, or other natural disruptions at their destination.

Argentina’s touirsm will likely be the losing party in this battle if more UK-based cruise lines cancel future calls since the port workers refusal of entry won’t lead the UK to giving up their territory.

With their verified reviews, Cruiseline.com and HotelMe have laid down a challenge for TripAdvisor. There is little reason for TripAdvisor to maintain an either-or stance in its preference for reviews that aren't verified, and perhaps TripAdvisor will entertain some changes.

With acquisition talks with Delta and Air France-KLM under way, Richard Branson could reduce his direct involvement with Virgin Atlantic, but don't expect the Virgin brand to make a quick exit.

Any major shift in an industry is expected to encounter resistance and cruise companies are bemoaning the regulations that will increase costs and limit the destinations where ships can refuel.