52 | CRUISE NEWS
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educational efforts and contribute valuable scientific research onboard ships across the world. After completing a comprehensive four- month online training course, which will dive deep into topics ranging from conservation threats to life at sea, each group will take part in a real-life assignment alongside current ORCA staff members, with participants given the chance to put their knowledge into action while onboard. This hands-on experience will allow trainees
to practice their skills in a live environment, delivering inspiring talks, collecting scientific data and guiding guests in wildlife watching sessions while exploring the ocean’s diverse habitats. “We believe that everyone who cares about whales and dolphins can take an active role in safeguarding their future,” says Steve Jones, Director of Fundraising & Operations at ORCA. “Through our Ocean Conservationist Network, we provide individuals from all walks of life – teachers, finance professionals, police officers and more – with the tools and knowledge they need to protect marine life. It is through collaboration with valued partners such as Ambassador Cruise Line that we can inspire more people to get involved and make a difference.” Guests onboard the summertime itinerary
will have the chance to engage directly with the training process, helping to support the next generation of conservation heroes, all while enjoying a fantastic 16-night cruise to some of Europe’s most beautiful regions.
Cruise Line Furthers Commitment to Marine Conservation
AMBASSADOR Cruise Line have announced announce a new initiative with long-standing charity partner, ORCA, the marine conservation charity dedicated to the protection of whales and dolphins, that will see future Ocean Conservationists undergo training onboard Ambassador’s second lady of the sea, Ambition. These highly
skilled individuals will soon
join the ranks of ORCA’s global team of experts, working to protect marine life and inspire the public through educational initiatives and
research. The 24 trainee Ocean Conservationists will join guests onboard Ambition on the Marvels of France, Portugal & Spain itinerary, departing from Bristol on 13 June 2025. With 12 future Ocean Conservationists sailing from Bristol to Cadiz from 13 June to 22 June 2025 and a further 12 trainees replacing them for the ship’s return leg from 22 June 29 June, this will form part of a rigorous, multi-stage training programme designed to develop conservation experts who can lead
Each guest who participates in these activities will play a part in developing a new cohort of passionate Ocean Conservationists, highlighting the importance of public engagement in ocean conservation and the opportunity for cruise travellers to make a lasting impact on the future of our oceans. “We are proud to extend our partnership with ORCA and offer our guests this unique and meaningful opportunity to engage with the organisation and its important work on a deeper level,” says Bob McGowan, Chief Experience Officer at Ambassador. “Our guests will not only experience the
beauty of the European coastline but also gain an understanding of the critical work being done to protect some of our ocean’s incredible creatures.”
CRYSTAL REVEAL DETAILS OF NEW ITINERARIES FOR THE SECOND HALF OF 2026
CRYSTAL has announced its highly-anticipated line-up of itineraries for the second half of 2026 aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Known for delivering exceptional experiences and personalised service, Crystal invites travellers to explore an expanded range of destinations and immersive cultural adventures across five continents from July through December. These thoughtfully curated voyages feature new ports, iconic cities, islands and hidden
gems reflecting Crystal’s dedication to cultural enrichment and exploration. From July to December 2026, Crystal Serenity and Crystal
Symphony will visit destinations across Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and North America. Crystal Serenity will host guests on 18 sailings, encompassing 36 countries and 108 ports, while Crystal Symphony will explore 32 countries and 79 ports,marking its return to North America for the first time since 2019.
CELESTYAL has confirmed its flagship, Celestyal Journey, has arrived in Doha, Qatar, to start the line’s maiden Arabian Gulf season. The season begins with two specially themed F1 voyages, which will take in the Qatar and Abu Dhabi grand prix events. 32 global agents are being hosted on a
five-day F1 themed ‘super fam’ to mark the launch. The fam comprises a three-night land stay, with various local excursions including to the Arabian Travel Market, and two days on Celestyal Journey while she is docked at Doha’s Grand Cruise Terminal. The attendees also had the option to attend the Qatar Grand Prix races and join a speaking session with Formula 1 driver and presenter David Coulthard, and Formula 1 presenter Laura Winter. During the event all of the global agents in attendance were gifted a free ‘Desert Days’ cruise credit so that they could return to experience the full voyage.
In addition, Celestyal hosted an onboard event in partnership with Visit Qatar, Qatar
Celestyal’s Inaugural Arabian Gulf Season Launches in Qatar Tourism,
Qatar Airways and Mwani Port
Authority for local dignitaries, while the ship was docked in port on November 30. They joined for a series of presentations, a ship tour, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony and a celebratory lunch. Subsequent Celestyal Journey departures
will comprise a series of seven-night ‘Desert Days’ itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Doha, up to March 2025. Each cruise features calls to the iconic destinations of Bahrain and Abu Dhabi, an overnight stay in Dubai Marina, as well as visits to the lesser-known destinations of Khasab and Sir Bani Yas Island. Celestyal Journey will sail from Doha
for three consecutive years throughout the winter seasons, following a collaboration between Celestyal and Visit Qatar. The ship features 630 suites and
staterooms, seven restaurants, eight bars and lounges, two pools and Jacuzzis, and a deck dedicated to wellness including a spa and fitness area.
HX
January 2025
HX Launches Exciting New Signature Cocktail Range
Expeditions),
(Hurtigruten have
annnounced the launch of its brand new HX Signature Cocktail Range, featuring 14 exquisite cocktails inspired by the pole-to- pole voyages they offer. The
new innovative
menu, which will launch this month is designed to enhance
the experience
for their guests, allowing them to fully embrace their curiosity as they explore the world through all their senses.
27 Unique New Voyages Specially Designed for Adventure Seekers & Women Travellers
AE Expeditions has announced an exciting lineup for its 2026-27 Antarctica season, featuring 27 unique voyages designed for adventure seekers, photographers, science aficionados, and women travellers. The season will showcase trips that range from nine to 34 days, utilising the company’s three state-of- the-art expedition ships: the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle, and the newly launched Douglas Mawson.
Cruisers will have the chance to experience the stunning landscapes of the White Continent, including the Antarctic Peninsula, East Antarctica, the Ross Sea, South Georgia, and the Falklands- Malvinas. Returning this season are popular itineraries
such as the ‘Spirit of Antarctica’
and the ‘South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey,’ alongside fly voyages like the ‘Antarctic Explorer’ and ‘Antarctic Explorer Express.’ The ‘Antarctica Active: All-Inclusive Activities’ voyage will also return, offering adventurous options like camping, snorkelling, snowshoeing, and paddling. A new offering this season is the 10-day ‘Taste
of Antarctica,’ catering to travellers with limited time who seek an impressive introduction to this remote region. Additionally, specialty voyages will include a dedicated Photography Expedition, a Women’s Only Voyage aboard the Sylvia Earle, and two excursions in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours. Michael Heath, CEO of AE Expeditions, enthusiasm
expressed about the upcoming
season, stating: “Antarctica continues to inspire and captivate explorers from all backgrounds, and our 2026-27 season aims to strengthen those connections. With new itineraries like ‘Taste of Antarctica’ and themed expeditions, including our Women’s Only Voyage and collaborations with New Scientist, we are excited to provide travellers with more opportunities to engage with the beauty, science, and adventure of Antarctica. This season truly embodies our commitment to crafting transformative journeys that enrich both our travellers and the destinations they explore.”
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