50 | CRUISE NEWS


www.nitravelnews.com Viking Announce First River Voyages in India


September/October 2025 DALT VILA DAY TRIPS


VIKING have announced its first river voyages in India on the Viking Brahmaputra, a new 80-guest vessel designed specifically for the Brahmaputra River. Currently under construction and scheduled to


debut in late 2027, the Viking Brahmaputra will set a new standard for modern river voyages in India. The ship will sail between Guwahati and Nimati Ghat in the northeastern state of Assam as part of Viking’s new 15-day itinerary, Wonders of India. In addition to an eight-day river voyage, the itinerary includes a fully-guided land programme with overnights in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. “With its rich heritage, deep cultural traditions


and fascinating natural wonders, India is a vast and vibrant country that has captured the imagination of explorers for centuries,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “In recent years, our guests have particularly enjoyed visiting Indian ports on our ocean itineraries. We are now delighted to introduce a new way for curious travellers to explore the heart of this phenomenal country, in-depth and in Viking comfort.”


Explora Journeys Return To Port Hercule For 2026 Monaco Grand Prix


FOLLOWING an extraordinary debut in 2025, Explora Journeys have announced that it will return to Port Hercule for the Formula 1 Grand Prix De Monaco 2026. From Wednesday 3 June to Monday 8 June


2026, EXPLORA I will serve as an sanctuary, elevating the experience of this iconic event. In May 2025, Explora redefined race hospitality in Monaco. Against the glittering backdrop of the Riviera, EXPLORA II transformed into a private-yacht-inspired sanctuary, hosting guests mere steps from the circuit. From the deck, panoramic views of Port Hercule framed the spectacle of Formula 1. “The Monaco race weekend has become a


meaningful and unforgettable chapter in the ever-evolving story of Explora Journeys,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “To see EXPLORA I poised against such an iconic backdrop is to witness our vision come alive — where the art of travel intertwines with emotional connection and refined living. Our return to the Formula 1 Grand Prix De Monaco in 2026 is not just a celebration — it’s a reaffirmation of our belief that true luxury is found in the richness of experience and the magic of shared moments.” This announcement continues the momentum of the MSC Group’s multi-year partnership with Formula 1, which was established in 2022 and renewed at the race in Monaco this year until 2030. As the relationship expands to include


Explora Journeys, guests will benefit from exclusive access to one of the most sought- after weekends on the sporting calendar.


American Cruise Line Celebrates Christening of Brand New Ship


AMERICAN Cruise Lines christened American Patriot in Newport, Rhode Island on 4th July 2025.


American Patriot is the first ship in the company’s


new Patriot Class – a fleet of 130-passenger ships designed exclusively for cruising the USA. Patriot Class sister ships, American Pioneer, American Maverick and American Ranger will launch later this year and into 2026. American Patriot’s christening was attended


by cruise guests, community members, officials from Sail Newport and a small group of American’s executives and crew members. Charles B. Robertson, president & CEO of American Cruise Lines, spoke at the event along with American Patriot’s Godmother and president of Sail Newport, Susan Daily, and Carol Robertson, co-founder of American Cruise Lines. Cruise guests and christening attendees gathered on the ship’s top deck for the official blessing and ceremonial bottle smash, followed by a traditional New England lobster bake at Fort Adams State Park just steps from where the ship was docked. The company’s rapid fleet expansion is also well- timed to celebrate the country’s 250th birthday.


DOCKING into Dalt


BY ERIN ENGLISH erin@nitravelnews.com Vila whilst on a


Mediterranean cruise is a majestic sight. The fortress stands tall amidst the rugged coast of the Balearic Island, offering unparalleled views of Ibiza’s old town. Once docked, the cruise terminal sits only a short


fifteen minute transfer away from Ibiza’s Old Town. If heading to Dalt Vila, and Ibiza’s vibrant Old Town, most taxis or transfers drop off passengers on Avenida Santa Eularia des Riu, just outside of the Tourist Information Office. However, if you are longing to dive into Ibiza’s iconic party scene, excursions and self-transfers can be arranged heading in the direction of San Antonio, or Playa De En Bossa, where a majority of Ibiza’s super-clubs and iconic pubs


reside. The fortified town


historic


of Dalt Vila is a haven of side-streets and


winding avenues, each lined with al fresco restaurants, trinket shops, and points of ancient interest. Dalt Vila, translating to ‘Upper Town’, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history that spans over 2,500 years. Just a short walk


from Avenida Santa Eularia des Riu, you will be greeted by the grand entrance to Dalt Vila. Located on Portal de Ses Taules, a monumental


stone entrance will stand before


you, a gentle slope which leads you through the gates of Ibiza Old Town. In Dalt Vila, history intertwines perfectly with the


vibrant atmosphere of the boutiques and restaurants which line the rustic cobblestone streets. Inside the fortress walls, lies a trove of historic treasures, travellers can explore Ibiza Cathedral, Dalt Vila’s city walls and cannons, alongside the Castle of Eivissa. These attractions not only offer a scope into the history of Ibiza, including the island’s Carthaginian roots and the connection between Ibiza and the Ottoman Empire; but panoramic views of the area’s beauty, including the bustling marina and the neighbouring Balearic Island of Formentera. As a tip, I would thoroughly recommend wearing comfortable footwear on your trip through Dalt Vila, due to uneven terrain and cobblestone streets. Dalt Vila is a hilly area, so can be difficult to access if you suffer from mobility issues, especially due to the uneven terrain. It is also advised to bring bottled water,


especially in the summer months when temperatures soar. If you’d prefer to admire the vivacious Dalt Vila while


soaking up the sun, the area is home to many bars and restaurants that offer ample opportunity to take in the authentic Ibizan atmosphere. Music spills out of bars onto the streets, inviting you in to enjoy some of Spain’s traditional culture. Boutiques in Dalt Vila are varied, not only do they sell classic Ibiza trinkets, but also beachwear, accessories, high quality leather goods and ornaments. Depending on if you prefer to party it up in San Antonio


or Playa De En Bossa, or explore the historic sights and sounds of the fortified town of Dalt Vila, or perhaps a peruse of the bars and boutiques is more your style, in Ibiza you can truly go at your own pace, without missing a beat of the island’s magnetic offering.


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