The cruise news abounds this week! Even as we are writing this week’s look back at all of the exciting happenings, more breaking news is being reported including exciting ship updates, cruise line info, and new ship announcements. Of course, we have the latest scoop in this edition of Cruise News April 23, 2017.

Cruise News April 23, 2017

More Viking Ocean Cruise Ships

This premium cruise brand continues to grow. This relatively young cruise line just released it’s third ship, the Viking Sky, this February, and a fourth ship is set to arrive later this year. Now, the line has announced the addition of two more ships. These new vessels will be essentially identical to the current ships in the fleet. Set to launch in 2021 and 2022, respectively, the 47K gross ton ships will carry about 930 guests. Whether the ships will have different restaurants or slightly altered onboard amenities is not yet known. Where the ships will sail and their home-ports have not yet been released either. We will have more updates as they become available.

Cruise News April 23, 2017

Symphony of the Seas Updates and More from Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International’s president, Michael Bayley, revealed some exciting new developments. According to Bayley, Symphony of the Seas will include a new “adventure feature” that will be kid friendly. He also promised updates to the dining, entertainment, and service onboard the ship. Be on the lookout for more details next month. In addition, Bayley indicated the company will begin construction of a massive water park on the brand’s private island, Coco Cay. In addition to the water park, new cabanas will also be constructed on the island. These new dwellings would allow guests to stay on the island for a few days and hop on/off different cruise ships. The island is also set to get a pier next year which will be able to accommodate the Oasis-class ships.

Lifeguards Being Added to Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

Another major cruise line has decided to add more staff to the pool decks. Norwegian Cruise Line announced they will be adding lifeguards to family pools aboard their four largest ships this summer. The cruise line has had pool monitors on their ships for a few years, but this will be the first time the line will have certified safety guards at the pools. Along with Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International, NCL is the third major cruise line to do so. The cruise line is set to roll out Red Cross certified guards on their other ships through 2018. Additional swim vests will also be made available for adults and children as an added safety precaution.

Cruise News April 23, 2017

Norwegian Bliss Entertainment Revealed

It looks like we have some very exciting entertainment coming in 2018. Just a few days ago, Norwegian Cruise Line leaked the details of the nighttime entertainment on their newest ship, Norwegian Bliss. Coming to the main theater is the Broadway hit, Jersey Boys. In addition, there will be an exclusive production show from renowned choreographer and director Warren Carlyle. The new Cuban-inspired musical will certainly be a heart-pounding spectacle. Beyond the main theater, the ship’s comedy club, Alibi, will also have its own show, “Happy Hour Prohibition-The Musical”. The venue will also host comedy most nights with both a family friendly and more adult show.

Carnival Cruise Line Adding More Family Fun

Carnival Cruise Line was also in the spotlight this week. First off, the line revealed plans for their newest WaterWorks on Carnival Horizon. The brand’s newest ship will have the first ever Dr. Seuss themed water park. Expect to find the Cat in the Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, and even the Grinch at this new family attraction. The park will include two waterslides, along with several other wet and wild attractions.

Cruise News April 23, 2017

If you’d prefer your family fun to remain dry, then you can check out one of two new family experiences coming to Carnival Imagination. The line has extended its partnership with Hasbro to bring two beloved universes to the ship. My Little Pony and Transformers will be onboard for a series of family fun activities. During the three and four day cruises leaving from Long Beach, CA, your little ones will be able to engage in a series of events, including meet and greets, games, and more. From this July to September, be prepared for an out-of-this-world experience.

PS – Are you looking to save some cash on your next cruise? Our recent contribution on Cruise1st shares our seven simple ways to save money on cruise drinks. Less money spent = more cruising.

Comments

Did we miss any major announcements in this edition of Cruise News April 23, 2017? Do you have cruise news to share? Drop us an anchor below with your breaking travel headlines.