Celebrity Cruises has introduced new short Caribbean itineraries featuring stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Beyond were the first to visit, offering guests premium getaway experiences. The island includes the adults-only Hideaway Beach, the Coco Beach Club with an infinity pool and fine dining, and the Bahamas’ first Overwater Cabanas. These additions aim to provide Australians with a luxurious beach escape as part of their U.S. travel plans.

British actress Hannah Waddingham christened the new Sun Princess ship in a maritime tradition ceremony, joined by the ship’s Captain Craig Street. Waddingham, known for her role in Ted Lasso, was praised by Princess Cruises president John Padgett for her talent and connection to the sea. The event also featured other celebrities like Tyra Banks and Randy Fenoli. The Sun Princess is notable for its family facilities and new accommodation offerings.

British actress Hannah Waddingham christened the new Sun Princess ship in a maritime tradition ceremony, joined by the ship’s Captain Craig Street. Waddingham, known for her role in Ted Lasso, was praised for her talent and connection to the sea. The ceremony included the release of a celebratory Nebuchadnezzar of Champagne. Princess Cruises president John Padgett highlighted Waddingham's qualities and her role in the ship's legacy. Other celebrities like Tyra Banks and Randy Fenoli were also mentioned. The Sun Princess features dedicated family facilities and new accommodation offerings.

Emerald Cruises offers luxurious Adriatic voyages on their award-winning yachts, Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara. These cruises explore the stunning Croatian coastline, including historic towns and World Heritage sites. The itineraries feature daily onshore excursions, watersports, and other amenities, with prices starting from $7595 per person for an 8-day cruise.

The Sun Princess, a new Sphere class cruise ship by Princess Cruises, is nearing completion at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy. It's a game changer for the brand, offering features like a large casino, extensive kids' clubs, and 30 dining venues. The ship is 21% larger than its Royal fleet sisters, with a capacity of 4300 guests. It's designed to be immersive and globally applicable, able to navigate the Panama Canal. The ship boasts innovative design elements such as more light, space, and smart technology. Princess Cruises is confident in the ship's timely completion for its maiden voyage in February 2024, with construction on the second Sphere-class ship, the Star Princess, already underway.

A debate has emerged over Carnival Cruise Line's 15-drink daily limit in its Cheers package, with some passengers arguing it is insufficient for vacationers, while others support the limit for safety and family-friendly reasons. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care recommends no more than 10 standard drinks a week, contrasting sharply with the package's allowance. Other cruise lines offer varying drink package options, from unlimited to pay-per-drink, highlighting differing approaches to alcohol consumption on cruises.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has introduced the Scenic Neptune II submersible for its Scenic Eclipse II voyages, offering guests 100-meter dives with panoramic views. The submersible will be featured in itineraries across the South Pacific, Australia, and East Antarctica. Jason Flesher of Scenic and Patrick Lahey of Triton Submarines emphasize the innovation and unique experiences provided by the new submersible, which enhances luxury cruise offerings and marine exploration.

Despite recent disasters highlighting the importance of travel insurance, a significant number of Australian travelers still opt to travel without it. The Insurance Council of Australia reports that one in six Australians travel uninsured, and a survey by Smarttraveller reveals that 41% would consider traveling overseas without insurance. Common reasons include perceived safety and uncertainty about the necessity of insurance. The article emphasizes the importance of cruise-specific travel insurance, covering medical costs, evacuations, and other cruise-related incidents. Key advice includes purchasing insurance before trips, reading policy terms, and using Smarttraveller for updated travel information.

Viking is set to enter China's cruise market with the Viking Yi Dun, formerly known as Viking Sun, offering international travelers domestic sailings to explore iconic Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. The voyages, starting from September to November, will feature cultural immersion through lectures, Chinese cuisine, and excursions to landmarks such as the Great Wall of China. Viking's chairman, Torstein Hagen, highlighted the company's history in China and the enriching experiences planned for guests. The article details three itineraries with varying lengths and prices, all designed to showcase China's wonders, history, and design.

Australian artist David Bromley unveiled a large art installation onboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, created over 72 hours during a voyage from Melbourne to Sydney. The six-time Archibald finalist's work, reflecting his distinctive pop sensibility, will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting the charity Lifechanger. Cunard President Katie McAlistair highlighted the brand's history with art, noting the fleet will soon become the largest art gallery at sea. Queen Elizabeth is set for a season of itineraries in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.