Video: Battery powered ship makes maritime history with first journey

Roald Amundsen

With the historic order:  “We could shut down the engines and run only on battery power…” Captain Kai Albrigsten sailed the MS Roald Amundsen into marine history yesterday, stopping his main engines so she could glide silently on electric propulsion through the seas off northern Norway. It’s a world first for cruise operator Hurtigruten – … Read more

Europe’s protests spark action from Aussie passengers

Cruise protests, Kiel

Cruise lines in Europe are battling a growing number of protests from small groups of activists armed with reports on ship pollution. A recent accident involving MSC and Uniworld vessels in Venice has also fueled protests. In Australia, travel agents have told Cruise Passenger they are now being asked by clients to ensure the ships … Read more

What you should do about overtourism

What to do about overtourism

Go to any dinner party a decade ago, and at least half the table would loudly vow they would never take a cruise holiday. All that changed when cruise lines created ships with amazing food, sensational entertainment and stunning service that sailed to the most desirable destinations on earth. Suddenly, even the nay-sayers wanted to … Read more

Why David Stratton loves Singing in the Rain

Singing in the rain - David Stratton's favourite musical

It’s a cruise to Antarctica with a distinct difference – film critic David Stratton will be on board Celebrity Eclipse to showcase some favourite movies and add a little of his encyclopedic knowledge. Why do you think people who love cruising also like film?  Seeing films is one of the relaxing activities aboard a cruise … Read more

When in Rome, DON’T do as the Romans

Rome bans gladiators

Rome, one of the most popular cruise centres of the Mediterranean, has just launched a raft of new regulations that ban loutish behaviour among its many visitors. It used to be said that, when in Rome do as the Romans. Today, you need to do as the Mayor and the City Council tell you. Eating … Read more

Can big ships really do luxury?

Small ship luxury

It’s always been assumed that, for luxury cruising, small ships are a must. But more and more big ship lines are now offering ship-within-a-ship experiences with many of the add ons you expect from a luxury line: exclusive dining, personal services, exclusive spa and private spaces. Spectrum of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s biggest and most … Read more