Cruise News June 11, 2017

It is time again for another weekly travel update. This week, cruise lines brought us news from both land and sea. Megaships also dominated the headlines, led by the brand new MSC Meraviglia, which just set sail a few days ago. So, hop onboard this edition of Cruise News June 11, 2017 for the latest updates in the world of cruising.

Cruise News June 11, 2017

Symphony of the Seas Float Out

Not to be out-shined by the competition, Royal Caribbean International made sure its largest ship was in the news this week. The soon to be world’s largest ship, Symphony of the Seas, was floated out for the first time. With the exterior of the ship now complete, work will continue inside the ship until next April. Similar to the three previous Oasis-class ships, Symphony of the Seas will include 7 distinct neighborhoods and newer features like the Ultimate Abyss. Royal Caribbean promises Symphony will also have some unique features that are yet to be released. Stay tuned for more updates on 2018’s hottest ship.

Cunard’s Queen Victoria Gains Deck Space

If you are looking for more sun on Cunard’s Queen Victoria, then you are in luck. The ship just came out of a month long refurbishment with an additional sundeck located at the aft of the ship. Also new with this $40 million upgrade are additional cabins and suites, as well as some improvements to existing staterooms. Dining venues also got some updates, including the addition of a new restaurant, the Britannia Club. Also, a new cafe/lounge, the Chart Room, has replaced other venues in the lobby.  Refurbishment of Cunard’s third ship, the Queen Elizabeth, is scheduled for later this year. Are you ready for some British hospitality?

Cruise News June 11, 2017 (Courtesy of Cunard Cruise Line)

Changes to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven Bookings

Passengers booking Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven rooms are about to get a little bit of a price hike. The exclusive “ship within a ship” concept on Norwegian’s newest megaships provides luxury accommodations. A private lounge, bar, restaurant, and pool deck are among the upgrades for booking one of these cabins. The line also provides cruisers booking a Haven room with all five of the popular “Free at Sea” perks included with the cruise fare. As of this week, NCL announced that passengers taking part in the additional perks will now be responsible for paying an 18% service charge on both the Unlimited Beverage Package and the Specialty Dining Package. This results in an increase of over $125 a person for a 7-night cruise.

Port Everglades Terminal Upgrades

Cruisers can expect a more modern experience and an improved boarding process in 2018. In an announcement made this week, officials at Port Everglades cruise terminal indicated that Terminal 25 would receive some much needed attention. This is part of a multi-year deal that the port has with Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. As part of the agreement, the cruise company will have priority berthing rights at the terminal for the next 9 years. Both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships sail from the terminal, and it is expected to be the home port for the new Celebrity Edge, which debuts at the end of 2018. A total of $100 million is being invested to get the terminal ready for the next generation of cruise ships.

Cruise News June 11, 2017 (Courtesy of Port Everglades)

Comments

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