April/May 2025
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CRUISE NEWS | 55
Windstar Cruises Rides New Waves with Podcast Launch
WINDSTAR Cruises has debut its new podcast, ‘Winds of Change’. Hosted by Windstar’s chief commercial officer Janet Bava, the podcast offers an exclusive behind the scenes look at the people and stories that make Windstar’s experiences. The new podcast features conversations
Viking and Fincantieri Announce World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Cruise Ship
VIKING and Fincantieri have announced details of the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions. Already under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, the Viking Libra is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. The Company’s subsequent ocean ship,
which is also currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen powered. Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking
the Viking Astrea,
ocean ships, the Viking Librawill have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons, with
499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. While the ship is considered a sister ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet, she will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This hybrid propulsion system will make her capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, which would allow her to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. Enabled by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technology, the ship’s state-of-the-art propulsion system will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power.
KNOWN for its beloved recipes of Italian cuisine, fresh pasta, and outstanding wines,
the signature specialty restaurant of Princess Cruises, has unveiled a notable new collaboration with the renowned Frescobaldi family,
Tuscan winemakers. Introducing Sabatini’s Italian
Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria,
Inspired by Frescobaldi - an updated menu that brings the essence of Italy to the sea. The newly designed menu features select dishes crafted by the flavours of Frescobaldi’s celebrated restaurant in Florence, highlighting the tradition of fresh, simple ingredients paired with exquisite Frescobaldi wines. Additionally, each voyage will feature a Grand Tuscan Dinner, a special evening dedicated to the heart of Italian hospitality, where guests can enjoy an exquisite multi- course dining experience that embodies the rich flavours and warmth of Tuscany.
Italy’s legendary Trattoria,
with key members of the Windstar family, including leadership, collaborators, crew and even returning guests. Listeners will gain insider perspectives on Windstar’s most popular destinations, the creative inspiration behind ship refreshes and insights into the strategic decisions that shape the company’s future itineraries. The podcast promises to pull back the curtain on what makes Windstar a leader in small-ship cruising. In a recent episode, Windstar Cruises’ Christopher Prelog
President
Janet Bava to discuss his career journey at Windstar and the crucial role of crew members as part of the Windstar experience,
joins
questions from Yacht Club members. “We’re thrilled to connect with our guests in a new and engaging way through Winds of Change,” said Janet Bava, Windstar’s Chief Commercial Officer and podcast host. “From sharing behind- the-scenes
details of how we create our extraordinary voyages, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone passionate about travel.”
Princess Cruises and Frescobaldi Uncork a Taste of Tuscany
“At Princess, we celebrate the incredible destinations we sail to by bringing the flavours and traditions of these destinations onboard,” said Sami Kohen, Princess Cruises Vice President of Food and Beverage. “Since Sabatini’s first opened, guests have embraced the authentic tastes of Italy, the warm atmosphere, and, of course, the perfectly paired wines on the menu. Our new collaboration with Frescobaldi elevates our connection to Italy, allowing guests to savor the rich flavours of Tuscany while creating unforgettable memories at sea.” The new Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, Inspired
by Frescobaldi menu features six Frescobaldi inspired dishes showcasing the finest ingredients and time-honoured culinary traditions of Tuscany. Guests can indulge in dishes offered throughout this multi-course menu spanning Zuppe e Insalata, Antipasti, Primi Piatti, Secondi Piatti and Dolci served daily and included as part of the experience.
World’s Largest Cruise Terminal Opens in Miami stories to diving into the while also answering
Aqua was an experience that exceeded every expectation. From the luxury of The Haven to the outstanding entertainment and dining options, there was something for everyone. Whether you're a couple seeking a romantic getaway, a family looking for adventure, or a solo traveller
wanting to unwind, Aqua offers an experience that caters to all. I left with a new appreciation for NCL’s ability to blend relaxation, luxury, and fun into one seamless package. Without a doubt, I would not hesitate to return, and I can wholeheartedly recommend it to others.
MSC Cruises inaugurated the world’s largest cruise terminal on Saturday (5 April) at PortMiami. The new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal is the first in the industry to implement a complete biometric journey with digital identity verification. Designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, the 492,678 square foot facility is capable of
processing up to 36,000 passengers daily. The new terminal will serve both MSC Cruises’ and Explora Journeys’ ships sailing from PortMiami, including MSC Cruises’ new flagship, MSC World America, which will be named during a ceremony at the terminal on 9 April before she sets sail for her inaugural season in the Caribbean.
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