(Press Release) MONACO/MIAMI -- (Aug. 5, 2026) – Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, announced today that the contract for the construction of the third next-generation ocean ship by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has become effective. The vessel, scheduled for delivery in 2034, is covered by the option exercised in 2024 and reflects Crystal's continued investment in the future of luxury cruising.
 
The new vessel will join Crystal Grace, currently under construction at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard, scheduled to debut in 2028, along with her sister ship arriving in May 2031. Together, the three ships will represent the next evolution of Crystal's renowned approach to exceptional service, spacious design and immersive luxury travel.

(Press Release) Barcelona, Spain, August 5, 2026 – Explora Journeys today celebrates the departure of EXPLORA III following her official Naming Ceremony in Barcelona, as the newest ship in the fleet embarks on her inaugural season and continues the brand's journey of redefining ultra-elegant ocean travel.

Following an elegant Naming Ceremony held alongside the new MSC Cruise Division Terminal in Barcelona, EXPLORA III departed on her Maiden Journey to Lisbon in a memorable moment for the brand. As she left the city, she was accompanied by sister ship EXPLORA I, with the two ships sailing together before setting course on their respective Journeys—an inspiring tribute to the continued growth of the Explora Journeys fleet.

(Scenic Group) There are destinations you visit, and then there are destinations that change the way you see the world. Antarctica belongs firmly in the latter. A place of staggering beauty and profound silence, the White Continent remains one of the last true frontiers on Earth. It is a destination that feels untouched by time and a place where nature remains entirely in command. 

Antarctica represents the ultimate journey because of how few people will ever experience it. 

(SCENIC GROUP) There are still places on Earth that resist being tamed. Southern Chile is one of them. Glaciers shape the landscape, fjords disappear into mist, humpback whales surface without warning, and entire coastlines remain inaccessible except by sea.  
It’s precisely why Patagonia has become one of the world’s most compelling destinations for luxury travelers, not because it’s easy to reach, but because it isn’t. 

By GERRY BARKER
Cruise News

American Cruise Lines is having a moment.

In operation for over a half-century, the most successful U.S. river cruising line is riding a crest of success, as cruising America’s waterways has never been more popular. With over 25 ships and 50 itineraries in 35 states, cruises are all but sold out for the rest of the year, and over 70 percent booked for 2027.

Built in the USA, flagged here and featuring American crews, ships across the fleet are celebrating the country’s 250th birthday in grand style.

​That includes their newest and largest ship, the crown jewel of the fleet, American Encore, launched in May and the first riverboat ever christened in Lewiston, Idaho.

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