(Press Release) This morning, Feb. 8, MSC Seascape arrived at the new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal, marking an exciting milestone as the first ship to call at the state-of-the-art facility. The new terminal is the largest in the world, capable of accommodating three ships at once, and set to revolutionize the cruising experience for up to 36,000 guests each day. The project is a partnership between the Cruise Division of MSC Group, PortMiami and Miami-Dade County. The iconic structure was designed by Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure.

MSC Cruises will have a total of four ships sailing from the new terminal throughout 2025, alongside ships from MSC Group’s luxury brand, Explora Journeys.

Underscoring MSC Cruises’ commitment to the U.S. and unwavering dedication to South Florida, the cruise line will launch its newest World Class ship, MSC World America, at the new terminal in April with a naming ceremony and celebratory sailing. Following the celebrations, MSC World America will continue to make use of the facility, offering 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries sailing from Miami.

By GERRY BARKER

Last month, Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne  -- Cunard's first new build in 14 years -- made a much-anticipated stop in Miami as part of her current world voyage, and media were invited to come aboard.

As is customary, Cunard rolled out the red carpet as uniformed staff directed us to Terminal D, where the almost 3,000-passenger ship was docked.

After taking advantage of some photo ops, Pam and I joined the group taking the tour. Your first impression is just how beautifully Queen Anne is appointed, offering a smart mix of British traditional with modern contemporary. There were familiar spaces, like the Commodore Club, and new ones, like the Bright Lights Society, where we enjoyed an interactive, murder mystery show. The Pavilion is a spectacular space, featuring a pool with a retractable glass roof.

We had an opportunity to sample sushi at the Aji Wa restaurant, one of several specialty restaurants onboard, including Sir Samuels steakhouse. 

​While in the short time we were there we could only get a brief taste of everything Queen Anne offers, it's evident this ship will carry on Cunard's long tradition into the future. 

​By GERRY BARKER

One thing we have learned from experience: If you have an international flight leaving from Miami, plan for the unexpected. On one occasion, on our way to the airport, a drawbridge got stuck in the up position and we almost missed our flight to Germany.

That's why this time around, we looked for a hotel near Miami International where we could relax and enjoy some leisure time before braving the airport security lines. We found just the ticket at the Sonesta Miami Airport hotel.

Fresh from a newly-completed, $40 million, top-to-bottom makeover that renovated all 309 guest rooms as well as the public spaces and meeting areas, the new look reflects the vibrant colors and culture that embody Miami. That was by design, said the hotel's manager, Karoline Montoya.

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(Press Release) ​MIAMI, Feb. 5, 2025 – In early February 2015, Christine Duffy took an unconventional path to become president of Carnival Cruise Line – the world’s most popular cruise line – and her leadership of the namesake brand of Carnival Corporation’s suite of global cruise lines continues to bring impressive results as she celebrates her 10-year anniversary. To watch a video highlighting her accomplishments, click here.

(Press Release) ​Seattle, Wash., Feb. 5, 2025 — Holland America Line and A+E’s The HISTORY Channel™ have teamed up for a first-of-its-kind collaboration that will better allow guests to not just be told about a destination’s history, but to experience it. The exclusive partnership is set to further elevate Holland America Line cruises with custom itineraries and shore excursions operated by Holland America and curated in partnership with The HISTORY Channel, which will transport guests to ancient ruins and legendary landmarks, all while revealing the stories of the civilizations that shaped them.

(Press Release) According to Forbes.com, the second most prevalent trend driving luxury travel in 2025 is cultural and culinary immersion. Riviera Travel, the UK's largest river cruise and tour operator for more than 40 years, is setting the standard for immersive travel with new itineraries that defy the depths of discovery. Widely known for its themed cruises, upscale dining experiences and thoughtfully crafted excursions, the brand now offers additional departures geared toward showcasing Europe’s best hidden-gem destinations and culinary delicacies.

(Press Release) MIAMI (Feb. 4, 2025) — Following the launch of the 2027 World Cruise, Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, has now unveiled the complete first half of its 2027 itineraries aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Designed for discerning travelers, these voyages span six continents and more than 170 destinations, offering guests unparalleled access to iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes and authentic cultural traditions.