Asia’s biggest party ship on its way to Australia

It's the Ship - Australia

Asia’s biggest party cruise It’s The Ship is expanding to Australia and the Asian region. “Australia is one of the countries which It’s The Ship has their sights on. It’s The Ship is currently in talks for a sailing in Australia in the near future,” a company spokesperson said. The company, Livescape Group will initially … Read more

At last, you’ll be able to retire at sea

Enchanted Explorer

A Melbourne startup, Cruise Retirement Ltd founded by former Ramsay Healthcare executive Christian Bannard is entering the challenging business of residential cruising. The company is targeting the 50-plus age group who like to travel extensively by offering them an alternative retirement lifestyle – the right to buy a 20-year lease on a cruise cabin. The … Read more

Brisbane gets new terminal and a homeported ship

Carnival Spirit

In a stark contrast to Sydney’s paralysed port, Brisbane International Cruise Terminal will be operating new facilities in two years, thanks to a remarkable deal with Carnival Cruise Lines. Carnival Australia has committed to buy up to 100 “foundation” berthing days, with no more than four in any one week. The 15-year deal means the … Read more

Keeping the body and mind healthy at sea

Staying healthy on a cruise ship

Can you really come off a cruise ship in better shape than when you went aboard? Jane Archer investigates. It’s an oft-quoted “fact” that cruise passengers put on about half a kilo per day on the ship. And while those determined to get their money’s worth can eat non-stop – cooked breakfasts, mid-morning snacks, lunch, … Read more

Le Laperouse completes trials ahead of 2019 Australian debut

Le Laperouse

Luxury French Line Ponant’s first ship in its Explorers series, Le Laperouse, has just completed her first sea trials in Norway, taking her one step closer to Australia where she will cruise the Kimberley region next year. “These sea trials are a real success for the company. Remarkable nautical performances, technical excellence, a high standard … Read more

The most luxurious spa at sea?

Celebrity spa main entrance

Celebrity Cruises has unveiled a new luxurious The Spa on board Celebrity Edge designed to “renew, restore and reinvigorate” the experience of guests. Spread over a sprawling 22,000 sq ft, The Spa has been designed by Kelly Hoppen, the renowned interior designer to the rich and famous, to create a “holistic wellness journey like no … Read more

Scenic sets the pace with free flights and refurbished ships

Scenic Royal Owner's Suite

Luxury line Scenic is offering free flights to Europe next year for all new bookings on river cruises of at least 11 days which are made before 31 August as the early bird European river cruise season gets underway in earnest. Guests who pay in full by 31 October will also be entitled to a … Read more