Choosing a new leader with strong trade perspective, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced the appointment of Marc Kazlauskas, most recently CEO of Avoya Travel, as the new president of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), effective January 19, 2026. With more than 30 years in the travel industry, Kazlauskas also previously served as president of FROSCH and managing director of Chase Travel Group, a JP Morgan Chase company.
In a unique twist, Virgin Voyages will extend instant elite status to 50 million travelers who hold top-tier status with more than 35 airline, hotel and cruise loyalty programs. Among those are programs of Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International. Travelers can apply for Virgin Voyages’ Status Match now through January 16, 2026, and book a voyage by March 31, 2026, to snag even more Blue Extras amenities, according to Seatrade Cruise News.
Ship Shape: Industry Growth
On the new ship front, Regent Seven Seas Cruises floated out its first new ultra-luxury ship class in a decade. Introducing a new era, the new 822-passenger Seven Seas Prestige will launch in late 2026. A second Prestige-class ship will set sail in 2030. Also, a third ship in the class will take to the high seas in 2033.
Another ultra-luxury line, Crystal, unveiled the first suite renderings of its highly anticipated new Crystal Grace, debuting in 2028. Separately, Mystic Cruises signed a deal with China Merchants Shipbuilding for one ship as well as took an option for three other new vessels. But it’s not yet known which Mystic brand will operate these new ships. They could go to either Atlas Ocean Voyages or Nicko Cruises.
New Seasons, Wave Sales
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions unveiled the expansion of its Alaska program beginning in 2027. The company will charter the Greg Mortimer for a three-year period. That comes as National Geographic Sea Bird and National Geographic Sea Lion will set sail for the last time in Alaska in 2026. Separately, Royal Caribbean announced its lineup of 2027-2028 voyages
Holland America Line unveiled its 2027 Alaska Cruise Tour season. The line also showcased a new look and updates for Zuiderdam. Princess Cruises posted a 2026 Wave Season sale while Cunard Line introduced its Wave Season perks. Atlas Ocean Cruises extended its Black Friday offer through December 31, 2025. Oceania Cruises announced holiday season savings for more than 140 voyages.
Into the Future
AI continues to gain momentum as a time-saving business tool for the trade. In one recent development, Virgin Voyages announced that it would bring AI to travel advisors via a partnership with Canva. As for cruise industry insight about what’s ahead, MSC Cruises revealed six travel trends that are inspiring bookings for 2026.
Right now, though, advisors are helping their clients navigate through the busy December holiday period. To assist, Travel Agent Central recently provided insight about what to do if flight delays or cancellations impact your cruise vacation.
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