SS Future Re-Open Plan: Timing, Testing Needs??!!

[TLCOhio]

As people get back to cruising again, Europe is a big destination this summer.  But, what about for France right now?  Things getting challenged there?  

 

From the New York Times this morning, they had this headline: “Traveling to France? What You Need to Know About the Protests" with this sub-headline: "Unrest has spread across France in response to the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb.”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Violent protests have spread across France over the past week since the fatal police shooting of a 17-year-old in a Paris suburb.  More than 800 people were arrested on Thursday night after protesters caused widespread destruction in dozens of cities, setting cars and buildings on fire, looting stores and clashing with the riot police. On Friday, many roads in the Paris region and other major cities like Marseille were cordoned off, and public transport routes were disrupted as more than 40,000 police officers were deployed across the country to bring the protests under control.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/30/travel/travel-france-unrest.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal.  Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 32,113 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

[TLCOhio]

From the Associated Press/AP this morning, they had this headline: “The wait for US passports is creating travel purgatory and snarling summer plans” with these highlights: “Seeking a valid U.S. passport for that 2023 trip? Buckle up, wishful traveler, for a very different journey before you step anywhere near an airport.  A much-feared backup of U.S passport applications has smashed into a wall of government bureaucracy as worldwide travel rebounds toward record pre-pandemic levels — with too few humans to handle the load. The result, say aspiring travelers in the U.S. and around the world, is a maddening pre-travel purgatory defined, at best, by costly uncertainty.  Passport seekers describe a slow-motion agony of waiting, worrying, holding the line, refreshing the screen, complaining to Congress, paying extra fees and following incorrect directions. Some applicants are buying additional plane tickets to snag in-process passports where they sit — in other cities — in time to make the flights they booked in the first place.”

 

Many, varied details as to the history and growth in demand for overseas passports.  Part of it is connected with an increased desire for "I want to visit the rest of the world."

 

Full story at:

https://apnews.com/article/us-passports-summer-backlog-wait-pandemic-84b7cd369a96d591319f2d04558e7840

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 21,918 views.  Connect at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

[TLCOhio]

From the MSN News and FOX Business News this morning, they had this headline: “Cruise industry seeing summer boom with pandemic restrictions lifted” with these highlights: “The cruise industry is seeing a spike in demand as more people are looking to spend their vacations on the water this year.  This is the first full summer without travel restrictions since the pandemic and cruiser goers are excited to get back to their wanderlust.”

 

Here are more specifics from this reporting:  " 'Guests have booked earlier than we’ve ever seen before,' said Holland America’s Senior Vice President of Revenue Management Beth Bodensteiner. 'Ships are full throughout the summer at this point. And guests are booking into 2024.'  The Cruise Line International Association expects 31.5 million people to cruise this year. That would surpass the nearly 30 million people who cruised in 2019, the last normal year before the pandemic."

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/cruise-industry-seeing-summer-boom-with-pandemic-restrictions-lifted/ar-AA1dAKGN

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas!  Now at 19,463 views. Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

[TLCOhio]

From the MSN News and a financial news website this morning, they had this headline: “These are the cruise ships with the best — and worst — sanitation scores so far this year” with these highlights: “There's nothing like a stomach virus to ruin your vacation, as hundreds of cruise ship passengers have unfortunately learned this year.  The CDC has reported 13 Norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships so far in 2023. The last time the industry's yearly gastrointestinal illness outbreak total was that high was back in 2016 — and it's only July.”

 

Great news for Silversea?  The Silver Moon was listed as one of 15 cruise ships with perfect scores of 100.  Excellent!!  My guess is that the rest of the Silversea ship tested scored between 96 and 99.  

 

AND, for the 15 cruise ships with scores below a 95, not one was for a Silversea sailing craft.  More good news.  

 

Of those 14 ships scoring only between 94 and 86, it included, in order from best scoring down to those lower: Freedom of the Seas/Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Gem, Explorer of the Seas/Royal Caribbean, Azamara Onward, Island Princess, Queen Victoria/Cunard, Noordam/Holland America, Star Pride/Wind Star, Le Boreal/Ponant, Norwegian Epic, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, Carnival Liberty and Carnival Pride.  The MSC Seaside was the lowest of group, only scoring a 67.  Not good!!

 

They noted in summary: "The majority of vessels have received scores in the high nineties."

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/these-are-the-cruise-ships-with-the-best-and-worst-sanitation-scores-so-far-this-year/ar-AA1dCK3E

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia.  This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc:  Live/blog:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/

[TLCOhio]

Where is the future for cruising?  From CNN, the cable news network, and MSN News in this past week, they had this headline: “The future of cruises: Bigger, longer and electric” with these highlights: “In travel news this week: epic cruise experiences around the world, crocodile ramen and other wild food trends hitting Asia,  Construction is complete on the world’s biggest cruise ship, which is expected to set sail in Caribbean waters in January 2024.  Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is nearly 1,200 feet long and will be home to the world’s largest waterpark at sea.  In Italy, where beaches are so overwhelmed they’re putting daily caps on visitors, misbehaving tourists are out of control. The latest high-profile incident was the man who allegedly carved his name into Rome’s Colosseum. He now claims he didn’t know the 'antiquity of the monument.' "

 

For most Silversea cruisers, that "BIG, BIG" trend is not as desired.  But, over the past decade or so, Silversea has roughly doubled the size from their original Silver Cloud and Wind ships with roughly 298 passengers.  Now, the newer Silver Muse-class ships are a little under 600 as the maximum capacity.  But, fortunately, that is not a ship holding 5000-6000 passengers.  

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/the-future-of-cruises-bigger-longer-and-electric/ar-AA1dAJoY

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Late Summer 2022, many scenic visuals and details from Canada Maritimes doing Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island, etc., via a Tauck land tour.  Visual Summary:

www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

[TLCOhio]

How BIG is "BIG" for future cruise ships?  Here is more background.  

 

From the London/UK Independent this morning, they had this headline: “World’s largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas, labelled ‘monstrosity’ ahead of maiden voyage” with these highlights: “The world’s largest cruise ship has been unveiled to a range of reactions, with many unsure what to make of the gigantic ship.  Construction on Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas cruise ship recently completed in Finland, with the vessel expected to make its first official voyage in January 2024.  According to Royal Caribbean, which describes the cruise ship as a 'game changer' for vacations, the vessel will boast amenities such as seven pools, including the 'largest pool at sea,' the 'world’s largest waterpark at sea,' six waterslides and nine whirlpools.  The ship promises more than 20 ways to dine, and more than 15 bars and 'nightlife experiences.'  ”

 

Here is more from this reporting: "On social media, the first photos and videos of the cruise ship, which is currently undergoing sea trials, have divided viewers, with many expressing horror over the 'monstrosity'.  'As visions of hell go, that’s pretty much the most hellish,' one person tweeted in response to a photo of the new cruise ship, while another said: 'I’m sorry but this is a nightmare.'  'Netflix securing the rights to Titanic 2: Icon of the Seas,' one person tweeted, while another said: 'I think I’ve seen this film before and Jack didn’t like the endinggggg.' ”

 

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/biggest-cruise-ship-2023-icon-of-the-seas-b2374412.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 256,686 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/

[TLCOhio]

A number of "items" are bubbling out there as to what affects decisions as to whether to cruise or not, how to get to the port in order to board and return home, etc.  Have several news articles to share.  Reactions as to how this affects your booking decisions and travel priorities?  

 

From a key travel trade publication four days ago, they had this headline: “Luxury Cruise Line Extends Multiple Booking Perks" with this sub-headline: "Royal Caribbean-owned Silversea Cruises is extending its Suite Upgrades promotion for new bookings by the end of August 2023.”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Silversea  announced it has extended an earlier promotion that provided three booking incentives. Travelers who book a Silversea’s sailing by August 31, 2023, will qualify for a three-pronged incentive that offers a suite upgrade (up to two categories), a $1,000 per stateroom onboard credit ($500 per guest), and reduced deposits of just 15%.   Cruisers can choose from a wide variety of sailings departing in an 18-month time frame, between November 2023 and May 2025.”

 

For our upcoming February 2024 Mumbai to Singapore sailing, these sales options do not help us as we had previously booked much earlier when the base prices were significantly lower.  

 

Full story at:

https://www.cruisehive.com/luxury-cruise-line-extends-multiple-booking-perks/106134

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 247,933 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

[TLCOhio]

From Forbes magazine this morning by experienced writer Christopher Elliott, they had this headline: “Is An Expedition Cruise Right For You? Here’s How To Know” with these highlights: “Expedition cruises are one of the fastest-growing segments of the cruise industry. A recent Allianz Partners survey found expedition cruising is becoming increasingly popular this year, especially among travelers making up for lost time. Allianz noted that among the 33% of its respondents who went on a cruise, 22% have been on an expedition cruise, and 74% who haven’t would consider booking one in the future.  But what sets an expedition cruise apart from other vacations at sea? Where should you go if you want to experience an expedition cruise? And, is expedition cruising right for you?   I've been on several recent expedition cruises, including coastal Norway and the Antarctic. I was consistently surprised by the people I met on the ships and by the overall experience, which is a world away from a traditional ocean cruise.”

 

Silversea has wisely and aggressive positioned itself with more offerings in the expedition category and to reach more unique and interesting locations.  Also from this reporting: "Expedition vessels tend to be smaller, allowing the vessel to cruise in more remote areas that larger cruise ships just can’t reach. It's a wild time. Most expedition cruises are about nature. It's educational. 'There are no glamorous theater shows, but you will have fabulous lectures from biologists, geologists and historians,' explains Mitch Krayton, a small ship cruising specialist based in Denver.  Oh, and there's the cost. You will definitely pay more for an expedition cr  Here's a secret about expedition cruising: It's not a cruise, at least in the traditional sense."

 

Much good background and factors to consider in this detailed profile.  

 

Full story at:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherelliott/2023/07/15/is-an-expedition-cruise-right-for-you-heres-how-to-know/?sh=461bc9956bf4

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 244,458 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1896175-solstice-live-australianzhawaii-many-pix’s-jan-20-feb-3/

[TLCOhio]

From the Wall Street Journal yesterday morning, they had this headline: “Can Airline Seating Get Any Worse? ‘A New Form of Torture Chamber’ " with this sub-headline: "Passengers have flooded the FAA with complaints about narrow seats and scant legroom; ‘It’s literally painful to fly today’. ”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Passengers have been sounding off for years about airline seating—no legroom, thin cushions, too narrow. Now politicians are listening. A bill introduced in Congress last month to update aircraft evacuation standards would compel federal regulators to study seat sizes and spacing.   U.S. regulations cover aisle width and the number of seats allowed on planes, but not minimum seat sizes. The Federal Aviation Administration has said in court it isn’t required to set seat standards unless it finds they are necessary to protect passenger safety. In late 2019 and early 2020, it simulated emergency evacuations and found seat size and spacing didn’t adversely affect the process.  In March, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia denied a petition that would have required the FAA to stipulate minimum seat sizes and spacing. The court said FlyersRights.org, the advocacy group that filed the petition, didn’t prove that seat-size regulations are necessary for passenger safety.  The court did agree with one point. 'To be sure, many airline seats are uncomfortably small,' it wrote. 'That is why some passengers pay for wider seats and extra legroom.' ”

 

Safety versus comfort?????

 

Full story at:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/airline-seat-size-complaints-legroom-faa-f065e76e?mod=automatedsf_trending_now_article_pos3

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 104,879 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

[A Tucson Guy]

3 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

A number of "items" are bubbling out there as to what affects decisions as to whether to cruise or not, how to get to the port in order to board and return home, etc.  Have several news articles to share.  Reactions as to how this affects your booking decisions and travel priorities?  

 

From a key travel trade publication four days ago, they had this headline: “Luxury Cruise Line Extends Multiple Booking Perks" with this sub-headline: "Royal Caribbean-owned Silversea Cruises is extending its Suite Upgrades promotion for new bookings by the end of August 2023.”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Silversea  announced it has extended an earlier promotion that provided three booking incentives. Travelers who book a Silversea’s sailing by August 31, 2023, will qualify for a three-pronged incentive that offers a suite upgrade (up to two categories), a $1,000 per stateroom onboard credit ($500 per guest), and reduced deposits of just 15%.   Cruisers can choose from a wide variety of sailings departing in an 18-month time frame, between November 2023 and May 2025.”

 

For our upcoming February 2024 Mumbai to Singapore sailing, these sales options do not help us as we had previously booked much earlier when the base prices were significantly lower.  

 

Full story at:

https://www.cruisehive.com/luxury-cruise-line-extends-multiple-booking-perks/106134

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 247,933 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1172051-livesilver-cloud-norway-coastfjords-july-1-16-reports/

I find this current "sale" from SS a non-starter for us. The two category suite upgrade only means you get the same size cabin in a different location- a nothing burger. Lower deposit- huh! Is that supposed to be a big deal. The only part that makes any difference us is the $1,000 SBC. As we usually get $350 SBC, now we could get an additional $650. No much of a "sale" IMHO!

[TLCOhio]

18 hours ago, A Tucson Guy said:

I find this current "sale" from SS a non-starter for us. The two category suite upgrade only means you get the same size cabin in a different location- a nothing burger. Lower deposit- huh! Is that supposed to be a big deal. The only part that makes any difference us is the $1,000 SBC. As we usually get $350 SBC, now we could get an additional $650. No much of a "sale" IMHO!

 

Agree with the wisdom from our Arizona friend via these comments and follow-up.  Lots of sales hype, such as doubling the cruise prices and then offering "Buy One, Get the Second for Free" games.  Most people are smarter than falling for such silly "games".  

 

From the AP/Associated Press this morning, they had this headline: “Tourists, mostly american, packing European hot spots” with these highlights: “Tourists are waiting more than two hours to visit the Acropolis in Athens. Taxi lines at Rome's main train station are running just as long. And so many visitors are gathering around St. Mark's Square in Venice that crowds get backed up crossing bridges — even on weekdays.   After three years of pandemic limitations, tourism is expected to exceed 2019 records in some of Europe's most popular destinations this summer, from Barcelona and Rome, Athens and Venice to the scenic islands of Santorini in Greece, Capri in Italy and Mallorca in Spain.   While European tourists edged the industry toward recovery last year, the upswing this summer is led largely by Americans, boosted by a strong dollar and in some cases pandemic savings. Many arrive motivated by 'revenge tourism' — so eager to explore again that they're undaunted by higher airfares and hotel costs.”

 

Full story at:

https://omaha.com/eedition/sunrise/articles/tourists-mostly-american-packing-european-hot-spots/article_28afbef7-e247-5651-904d-9543beb3812f.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 72,099 views:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2076101-live-amazon-river-caribbean-many-pix’s-terryohio/

 

[TLCOhio]

Is there a "War" happening against cruising?  Is the "Ban Bandwagon" growing?

 

From the New York Times this morning, they had this headline: “Amsterdam to Cruises: ‘Party Time Is Over’ " with this sub-headline: "The Dutch capital will stop cruise ships from docking in the city center as part of a campaign to curb pollution and reduce the flow of tourists.”

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights by Isabella Kwai: “Amsterdam will bar cruise ships from docking in the city center as part of a broader effort to curb pollution and reduce the large numbers of tourists who visit the Dutch capital.  The City Council passed a proposal on Thursday to close a terminal where more than a hundred cruise ships dock each year. 'The motivation of the proposal from the City Council was to reduce the number of tourists, but also for environmental reasons,' Amsterdam’s deputy mayor, Hester van Buren, said. The municipality has not yet determined when the change will take effect.  The cruise ship measure was the latest attempt by Amsterdam to cap the number of visitors and crack down on bad behavior as the tourism industry has rebounded, addressing residents’ longstanding grievances linked to overcrowding and rowdy tourists.”

 

For added background, here is more: " 'Amsterdam prides itself on being a very open and tolerant city,' said Ko Koens, a professor of new urban tourism at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam. But residents felt that the open attitude was being abused by tourists.  Covid showed residents how quiet the city could be, he said, adding that Amsterdam wanted to send a message: 'Party time is over.' "

 

Could cruise lines face these limits or curbs in other popular cities and locations?  Part of the "attack" against in Amsterdam is about "environment' opinions that cruise ships pollute too much and are not "green" enough.   Reactions?

 

Full story at:

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/21/world/europe/amsterdam-cruise-ships.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Visuals, details from two visits in a city and nearby with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 55,153 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

Edited July 22, 2023 by TLCOhio

[TLCOhio]

From MSN News and skilled travel guru/writer Gene Sloan earlier this past week, they had this headline: “5 reasons you might not want to book a brand-new cruise ship” with these highlights: “There’s nothing quite like the thrill of being on the maiden voyage of a new cruise ship. The crew is excited. Passengers are excited. It’s almost always a festive affair, often with lots of extra pizazz like fireworks over the ship and deck-top parties with free-flowing Champagne. Plus, you might spot a celebrity or two — or, at least, the top executives of the line.  Among hardcore cruise fans, it also can bring the ultimate in bragging rights, even years later.  Still, booking a maiden voyage (or any of the first few sailings of a brand-new ship) isn’t without risks.”

 

Silversea has been bringing on many new ships in recent years.  "New" can be exciting!  BUT, there are potential down-sides, including: "sailing might be canceled", "not everything will work right", "some venues might not be open" and "some of the crew is still learning". 

 

One of his wise cautions is: "don’t tie the cruise into a bigger trip that includes lots of other travel arrangements with hotels, airlines, tours, car services and private guides. That way, if the cruise is canceled at the last minute, you won’t find yourself scrambling to unwind many other elements of your trip."

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/news/5-reasons-you-might-not-want-to-book-a-brand-new-cruise-ship/ar-AA1dYPg5

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 54,531 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

[TLCOhio]

Is going to Europe in 2024 going to get a little more complicated?  From CBS-TV News two days ago, they had this headline: “European Union to require U.S. travelers with passports to fill out visa application” with these highlights: “New requirements are on the horizon for travelers with a U.S. passport looking to get to Europe. The European Union continues to plan the rollout of new travel document requirements through its European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). It would require travelers with U.S. passports to fill out an online visa application before being granted entry into the EU.  'It won't be complicated, it's just an annoyance,' said CBS News Travel Editor Peter Greenberg. 'Most Americans are not used to doing this to go to Europe so there's going to be lots of surprises at boarding gates with people being denied boarding over the first couple of weeks, if this goes into effect.'  Greenberg was quick to point out this new system is not a done deal. Currently slated to roll out in January of 2024, the idea has been delayed before and is expected to be delayed again. ”

 

Full story at:

https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/european-union-american-travelers-fill-out-visa-application/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit.  Now at 33,606 views.  Many pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

[gnome12]

And on the Canadian Cruisers forum I discovered another new initiative coming to European travel soon. It is called Entry/Exit System (EES) and will occur when leaving Europe. 
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/key-differences-between-etias-and-ees-2023-06-06_en

also with no official start date. 

Edited July 23, 2023 by gnome12

[TLCOhio]

On 7/23/2023 at 5:45 PM, gnome12 said:

And on the Canadian Cruisers forum I discovered another new initiative coming to European travel soon. It is called Entry/Exit System (EES) and will occur when leaving Europe. 
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/key-differences-between-etias-and-ees-2023-06-06_en

also with no official start date. 

 

Appreciate this follow-up about the various options being considered that affect travelers.  Last weekend we were up in the Waterloo area east of Toronto.  In going there mid-day Thursday when crossing over the Ambassador Bridge from Detroit into Windsor, we got hung up for over an hour as the Canada customs folks were very slow in checking cars through.  The lines for the trucks were much shorter and very quick.  Coming back mid-day Monday, the U.S. Homeland Security people were even slower and worse.  At one point, not planning ahead for lunch breaks, only one of six booth were open and operating.  Not very well managed on both sides!! 

 

From the New York Times yesterday, they had this headline: “Elon Musk’s Unmatched Power in the Stars" with this sub-headline:  "The tech billionaire has become the dominant power in satellite internet technology.”

 

Much of the story was raising questions about how unregulated worldwide are various satellite networks and other long-range security questions.  But, there was interesting background and details as to how large of worldwide satellite network has been built.  Clearly with Silversea moving in this direction with Musk, it will improve significantly the connection quality as we sail and explore for many different part of the world.  

 

Here are some of their reporting highlights: “Since 2019, Mr. Musk has sent SpaceX rockets into space nearly every week that deliver dozens of sofa-size satellites into orbit. The satellites communicate with terminals on Earth, so they can beam high-speed internet to nearly every corner of the planet. Today, more than 4,500 Starlink satellites are in the skies, accounting for more than 50 percent of all active satellites. They have already started changing the complexion of the night sky, even before accounting for Mr. Musk’s plans to have as many as 42,000 satellites in orbit in the coming years.  Many small satellites are necessary for this to work. That’s because as one satellite moves above a Starlink terminal on land, it hands the internet signal to another satellite behind it to keep up a single, uninterrupted flow to users below.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/07/28/business/starlink.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal.  Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 32,193 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

[TLCOhio]

On another good CC thread as relates to why good TA's are important and valuable, several issues came up.  As to these issues and questions for TA's and their future, I did some quick web searching. Then, I was reminded of a huge, looming factor facing travelers and TA's.  It's called AI or Artificial Intelligence.  Right or wrong?  Love it or hate it?  

 

From this cruise industry news website last week, they had this headline: “New AI-Powered Travel Agent Tools” with these highlights: “Mondee announced the launch of Travel Marketplace featuring Abhi, its AI-powered travel assistant platform that simplifies the cruise booking process.   Mondee’s Marketplace features an integrated cruises platform allowing users to easily browse and book a cruise of their choice. The mobile-first solution was designed to instantaneously create personalized travel suggestions based on a user’s interests so they can instantly book their favorite vacation. Abhi is capable to engage in conversations, understands complex queries and can offer comprehensive responses.”

 

Will this new AI software really help the consumer in meaningful ways or just allow corporate/agency owners to hire less experienced and lower-skilled staff to be only "order-takers"?

 

Thing about the word I heard a long time ago as related to a growing trend called: "disintermediation".  Heard that word previously?? It occurs whenever a step in the supply chain is eliminated. A consumer calls a hotel directly to make a reservation rather than booking through a website or a travel agent. A retailer orders directly from a manufacturer rather than a sales representative for a local distributor.  Isn't Amazon all about "disintermediation"??  Look what has happened to retail, "brick-and-mortar" stores!!

 

The cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, tell the TA's that they are highly important.  BUT, they are working hard at the same time to encourage more on-line bookings and using the web to get customers to sign up for tours, spa, extra-cost dining, etc., in advance.  I heard that "do it yourself on the web" message several times during this past week's RCL briefing to the Wall Street analysts by the top cruise executives.

 

Reactions, predictions, insights and comments? 

 

Full story at:

https://cruiseindustrynews.com/cruise-news/2023/07/mondee-introduces-new-ai-powered-travel-agent-tools/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 21,957 views.  Connect at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

[Mr Luxury]

All very well Terry but can Abhi decipher a dress code.😀

[TLCOhio]

7 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

All very well Terry but can Abhi decipher a dress code.😀

 

Great, excellent point!!  Super smart and wise area where AI will totally stumble and fumble. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

[TLCOhio]

The "luxury" brand competition is ramping up, UP in a major way.  

 

From this travel news website this morning, they had this headline: “Crystal Cruises Shares Plans for Four New Ships in Six Years” with these highlights: “A&K Travel Group CEO, Cristina Levis, announced that Crystal Cruises is working with its advisors, lenders, and export credit agents to sign a memorandum of agreement with two European ship manufacturers to build four new vessels and two new expedition ships!  'We have ambitious growth plans for Crystal and are proud of what we have accomplished with the relaunch of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony in just under a year following the purchase of the brand,' said Levis.  On July 31, 2023, Crystal Serenity will embark on her inaugural sailing from Marseille, France, after her remodeling is complete. Additionally, Crystal Serenitys’ sister ship, Crystal Symphony, will cast off from Athens, Greece on September 1, 2023, for her inaugural voyage.”

 

Clearly the Silversea founder and former owner is not just sitting on his hundreds of millions after selling out to Royal Caribbean.  Nor, is he coasting.  He sees the need for a bigger fleet in order to compete and offer the options many at this economic and cruising level seek, including for doing more with expedition cruises.  Reactions and insights???  

 

Full story at:

https://porthole.com/crystal-cruises-shares-plans-for-four-new-ships-in-six-years/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas!  Now at 19,560 views. Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

[TLCOhio]

From super experience travel guru Gene Sloan two days ago, his website had this headline: “Luxury cruise line Crystal plans to grow fast after restart with new ships” with these highlights: “Crystal has yet to sign a contract for the new ships with a shipyard, but the planning for the new vessels is "quite advanced," according to Levis.  The plan is to start construction on the first two vessels — one a traditional cruise ship and one an expedition ship — by the second quarter of 2024.  Levis said the expedition ships were being designed to hold about 220 passengers. The traditional ships would hold about 650 passengers, she said.  'We are keeping it small,' she noted.”

 

Full story at:

https://thepointsguy.com/news/crystal-cruise-ship-order/?fbclid=IwAR03rRBf-4Ahj3vob4CtKHmJLywRW6arVGaLAS78u9AB2O0Vzwgrt5tV5M0

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Early 2020, many visuals and details from New Zealand/South Pacific in going from Auckland to French Polynesia.  This includes Bora Bora, Fiji, NZ experiences, etc:  Live/blog:

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2735732-live-terryohio-“new”-regatta-south-pacificnz-pix’s/

[Mr Luxury]

36 minutes ago, TLCOhio said:

The "luxury" brand competition is ramping up, UP in a major way.  

 

From this travel news website this morning, they had this headline: “Crystal Cruises Shares Plans for Four New Ships in Six Years” with these highlights: “A&K Travel Group CEO, Cristina Levis, announced that Crystal Cruises is working with its advisors, lenders, and export credit agents to sign a memorandum of agreement with two European ship manufacturers to build four new vessels and two new expedition ships!  'We have ambitious growth plans for Crystal and are proud of what we have accomplished with the relaunch of Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony in just under a year following the purchase of the brand,' said Levis.  On July 31, 2023, Crystal Serenity will embark on her inaugural sailing from Marseille, France, after her remodeling is complete. Additionally, Crystal Serenitys’ sister ship, Crystal Symphony, will cast off from Athens, Greece on September 1, 2023, for her inaugural voyage.”

 

Clearly the Silversea founder and former owner is not just sitting on his hundreds of millions after selling out to Royal Caribbean.  Nor, is he coasting.  He sees the need for a bigger fleet in order to compete and offer the options many at this economic and cruising level seek, including for doing more with expedition cruises.  Reactions and insights???  

 

Full story at:

https://porthole.com/crystal-cruises-shares-plans-for-four-new-ships-in-six-years/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals, Our firsts in these scenic areas!  Now at 19,560 views. Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

I do believe that Expedition is the way the luxury lines are going.

You go to places and do things that ordinary cruise ships can't go.

You can also charge way more for a suite for an equivalent ten day trip over a jaunt around the Med or the Caribbean.

Yes I know that the costs to operate these Expedition ships might be a little more but it will attract new business.

Manfredi may have a healthy bank balance but I'm not sure that he wants to put his stash onto four new ships.

It was announced that they are in talks with finance houses so we will see if they can get the finance that is needed to order and launch four new ships.

It's all good news for all of us that cruise.

I'm not sure after looking at pictures and talking to my TA who was on the Serenity last week for six nights that the two refurbished ships are up to what the competition has to offer at present.

They are not well designed in terms of new suites or public space decor.

Crystal can only move forward with new ships,not these make do refurbs.

Edited July 31, 2023 by Mr Luxury

[dawntrdr]

I see Manfredi's hand moving Crystal to the SS pattern.  The present Crystal ships - Symphony and Serenity - carry about 1,000 passengers each (when full, which I understand was not always).  Now, their next ship will be about 650 - the size of the Muse, Moon and Dawn.  

[TLCOhio]

15 minutes ago, Mr Luxury said:

I do believe that Expedition is the way the luxury lines are going.  You go to places and do things that ordinary cruise ships can't go.  You can also charge way more for a suite for an equivalent ten day trip over a jaunt around the Med or the Caribbean.  Yes I know that the costs to operate these Expedition ships might be a little more but it will attract new business.  Manfredi may have a healthy bank balance but I'm not sure that he wants to put his stash onto four new ships.  It was announced that they are in talks with finance houses so we will see if they can get the finance that is needed to order and launch four new ships.  It's all good news for all of us that cruise.  I'm not sure after looking at pictures and talking to my TA who was on the Serenity last week for six nights that the two refurbished ships are up to what the competition has to offer at present.  They are not well designed in terms of new suites or public space decor.  Crystal can only move forward with new ships,not these make do refurbs.

 

WOW!!  Super excellent summary by our expert London friend.  You have summarized many key points for the cruise industry future in an excellent, carefully-focused manner.  Getting that feed-back and details from your TA adds significant, important insights and questions.  

 

Great follow-up from dawntrdr for the wise point of "see Manfredi's hand moving Crystal to the SS pattern."  Will believe it when the financial and construction details are finalized, signed and announced.  With high interest rates and some economic uncertainty present, there are still fiscal challenges in the world.  Doubt that the smart Silversea founder is going to do all of these major capital outlays from his own bank accounts.  Risking other people's money is much safer. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Late Summer 2022, many scenic visuals and details from Canada Maritimes doing Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Cape Breton Island, etc., via a Tauck land tour.  Visual Summary:

www.flickr.com/photos/196555480@N08/albums

[TLCOhio]

From the Wall Street Journal this morning, they had this headline: “How the World’s Biggest Cruise Ship Is Docked, Explained by a Captain" with this sub-headline: "Weather conditions, vessel traffic and water depth can all affect the docking maneuve. ”

 

Tied in with an interesting and detailed five minute plus video, here are their opening highlights: “A Royal Caribbean captain explains how he docks a 1,188-foot cruise ship at Port Canaveral, Fla., and how environmental conditions pose the biggest challenge.”

 

While those sailing Silversea like the smaller, more "personal" ships, this WSJ video is well produced and shows the challenges and tools used by Captains and staff for complicated dockings.   Bigger ships, even more difficult.  As detailed, knowing the wind speed is a key factor for figuring out the process for such docking of large ships.  The Captain noted "shallow water is like turning on ice" during his being interviewed.   Not easy and simple.  

 

Make you much better appreciate what they need to do in each different port around the world. Sorry that this newspaper has a tight pay wall to make access more challenging.   

 

Here is a visual image from this report.  As shown, much is done before daylight or at night, making things more challenging!!

 

Full story at:

https://www.wsj.com/video/series/travel-guides/how-the-worlds-biggest-cruise-ship-is-docked-explained-by-a-captain/A4E9DDF4-76B0-4AF7-8333-B927F5199DFC

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio   

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 256,748 views.

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/1362155-solstice-livefirst-timer-reportspix’s-italycroatian-june-7-19/