The Navigator (Credit: Bespoke Luxury Marketing, Crescent Seas)
Crescent Heights, one of the country’s largest and most prestigious real estate developers, announced the launch of Crescent Seas, an exclusive new residential model offering luxury residences at sea. Designed for discerning travelers accustomed to the private oasis of the yachting lifestyle, Crescent Seas now brings Crescent Heights vision of creating magical communities in the sky to the high seas.
Luxury Residences At Sea
Crescent Seas will launch with the Navigator – in agreement with the ship’s owners, which are affiliates of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (“NCLH”). It will undergo an extensive and top-grade refurbishment of more than $50 million. Three elite design firms are working with Crescent Seas to complete the redevelopment, Lissoni & Partners, Journey and MAWD, each responsible for respective features across the ships. The Navigator will feature 210 residences, ranging from $750,000 to $8 million. Amenities will include white-glove butler service for all units and Starlink internet connection to allow for remote work or schooling. Residence sales will open to the public on April 9th, with a sales gallery in Miami available for prospective buyers. The Navigator will embark on its maiden voyage in December 2026. Crescent Seas also plans to announce four more luxury residence ships over the next five years.
Russell W. Galbut, a founding partner of Crescent Heights and a leader in the cruise industry, is spearheading the growth of Crescent Seas, “After spending so much time on the seas, we noticed that travelers yearned for more. People on the ships kept telling us they wanted to live this luxurious lifestyle. So, we decided to select ships with the right configurations to convert to the most magnificent cruising yachts,” Galbut said. “With most of the earth’s surface covered by water, it only felt right to use our 50 years of development expertise on land, to create the most magical residences at sea. Why vacation to just one gateway city when you can be at home and live in all the greatest gateway cities around the globe? After hand-selecting this ship, we hired the same experienced management teams to operate the ship for the first 10 years of operations. We are delighted to be able to provide luxury homes to people that will carry them to places they’ve only dreamed of.”
Best-In-Class Residences
Unlike traditional commercial cruises, owners of these best-in-class residences will journey on extended voyages around the world staying in each destination for 2 to 3 days. The adventurous itineraries will span across all seven continents, reaching some of the most far stretched destinations on the planet. Marisa Galbut, President of Crescent Seas stated, “Residents will venture to exotic parts of the world to explore places like French Polynesia, the Faroe Islands and Madagascar.”
Ensuring a first-class level of service, each ship will be continuously operated and maintained by their existing crews; and the day-to-day on-board hospitality services will continue to be handled by the existing service provider, The Apollo Group. With more than 50 years of experience in the cruising industry, The Apollo Group will provide the highest level of service and dining for every resident as they have in the past.
“We are delighted to announce that Navigator will continue to sail the ocean with Crescent Seas. While we know Navigator is a favorite to many guests, with our two new Prestige Class ships on order, this agreement allows us to optimize our fleet while ensuring Navigator continues creating unforgettable memories at sea,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Crescent Seas is being launched through GFO Investments, Galbut’s global family office and a major investor in Crescent Heights. As Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Crescent Heights, Galbut has an exemplary track record of developing urban projects in gateway cities across the country, including Ten Thousand Santa Monica Blvd and The Remington in Los Angeles, Forma Miami, and the redevelopment of 25 Broad Street in New York City into the most desired homes and residences. Galbut’s development expertise coupled with his over 23-year tenure in the cruise industry gives Galbut a unique vantage point to meet the current market demands and drive the success of Crescent Seas.
Get To Know Crescent Seas
Crescent Seas is the ultimate residence at sea community, redefining the art of world travel with unparalleled sophistication, personalized service, and a sense of home no matter where you are. Crafted for the discerning explorer who craves adventure without sacrificing exclusivity and opulence, Crescent Seas delivers extraordinary long voyages and immersive destination experiences staying in ports for 2 to 3 days overnight. Our fleet guarantees smooth, top-tier service from port to port, creating a seamless journey that welcomes you home on the open seas. For more information, visit crescentseas.com.
World Navigator Antarctic expedition (Photo by Atlas Ocean Voyages)
Atlas Ocean Voyages has unveiled Polar Expeditions by Atlas to Antarctica beginning November 2026 through March 2027, which are now available for bookings. Offering discerning travelers unparalleled access to remote and awe-inspiring corners of Antarctica, guests booking by June 30 will receive a complimentary stateroom or suite category upgrade and save up to $10,400 with bonus savings of up to 20% per stateroom. Marking the fifth season in Antarctica, World Navigator and World Traveller will operate 23 departures as World Voyager is under full charter.
“Over the past five seasons, Atlas Ocean Voyage’s talented expedition team has had the privilege of connecting travelers to one of the most sought-after ‘bucket list’ destinations in the world – Antarctica,” said Atlas Ocean Voyages President and CEO James Rodriguez. “We look forward to exploring the region, providing a variety of itinerary and activity options, and discovering Antarctica with under 200 guests onboard.”
Atlas Ocean Voyages – Antarctic Expeditions
Atlas Ocean Voyages 2026/2027 Antarctica Season features six expedition itinerary options for both variety and flexibility:
The “Antarctic Discovery” 9-night roundtrip from Ushuaia includes up to four immersive days at the Antarctica Peninsula. Guests will enjoy multiple landing opportunities and Zodiac safari experiences when weather and safety conditions allow. Departures are Nov. 8, 28, Dec. 27, 2026, and Feb. 1, 5, 10, March 8 and 19, 2027.
Two “Antarctic & Falklands Adventure” itineraries include a 16-night Buenos Aires to Ushuaia expedition to dive into the diverse wildlife of two continents featuring Gentoo penguins and black-browed albatrosses. Guided adventures include kayaking, shore landings, Zodiac safaris, and more. Departures are Nov. 12, 2026, and March 13, 2027.
Two 11-night expeditions titled “Exploring the Last Continent” will embark from Ushuaia, framing the summer season on the continent. Passengers can expect to witness stunning landscapes featuring snowy mountains and sea ice. The trips will depart on November 17, 2026, and March 2, 2027, offering extraordinary sights of nesting penguins and feeding whales.
The 9-night “Drake Express” King George Island roundtrip is a comprehensive exploration of Antarctica, flying over the Drake Passage at the beginning and end of the expedition. All Drake Express Expeditions offer the experience of also sailing the Drake Passage one way and then a private charter flight back to Punta Arenas. All Drake Express expeditions conclude in Punta Arenas with a post-expedition hotel night stay. Departures Nov. 28, Dec. 7, 14, 2026.
The “Crossing the Antarctic Circle” expedition sails 11 nights roundtrip from Ushuaia and features up to six days at the Antarctica Peninsula, including multiple Captain’s Choice landings and Zodiac safari experiences. Departures Dec. 16, 23, 2026, Jan. 21, Feb. 14, 19, 25, 2027.
An 18-night “Grand Antarctica & Beyond” expedition from Ushuaia showcases the pristine landscapes of Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. This comprehensive and immersive itinerary by Atlas Ocean Voyages explores diverse and breathtaking environments—departure Jan. 3, 2027.
Atlas offers a range of Always Included amenities onboard, such as fine wines, spirits, craft beers, and specialty coffees. Gratuities for onboard staff and shore landings, along with sightseeing safaris by Zodiac, are also included. Expeditions to Antarctica feature a pre-expedition hotel night in Buenos Aires or Punta Arenas. Additionally, charter flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia or from Punta Arenas to King George Island are included in Fly the Drake expeditions. Before your expedition begins, you’ll enjoy an Atlas Immersive Experience in Ushuaia or Punta Arenas.
Atlas Ocean Voyages expedition yachts offer the Water’s Edge, an open deck just 30 feet above the sea’s surface, where you can spot whales, dolphins, and marine life while enjoying the comfort of heated seating. For the adventurous seeking an icy right-of-passage, the polar plunge into the frigid waters of Antarctica is the ultimate invigorating experience. For those seeking the ultimate bucket list experience, camping is an Antarctica option when conditions allow.
The Explorer’s Table specialty dining experience recently unveiled global culinary highlights from Spain, Korea, France, Argentina, and North America. Prepared for only ten guests in the domed Observation Lounge, The Explorer’s Table guests embark on a culinary journey amid scenes of glaciers and icebergs. The multi-course tasting menu is elegantly paired with a selection of premium wines. Reservations open 60 days before the embarkation date and are priced at $179 per guest. Pre-reservations can be made by contacting a travel advisor or one of our Voyage Specialists.
The 3rd Hour of TODAY is hitting the high seas with MSC Cruises in Miami. The show will broadcast live from the deck of MSC World America Wednesday, April 9 and will air live at 9 a.m. ET.
The 3rd Hour of TODAY co-hosts will tour Miami’s newest ship ahead of its maiden voyage. Wednesday’s broadcast will spotlight the ship’s newest dining and entertainment venues along with its world-class amenities including the MSC Yacht Club luxury ship-within-a-ship, an all-new outdoor venue for families, the three-level World Galleria and more.
“MSC World America’s arrival in Miami will be a big moment for us, and an even bigger moment for our guests and travel advisors. We know travelers are clamoring for a look at the finished ship and all the amazing features awaiting them onboard. There’s no one better to provide a sneak peek than the hosts of the 3rd Hour of TODAY. We can’t wait for them to experience the ship’s blend of European style and American comfort, and we hope everyone tunes in on April 9!” said Lynn Torrent, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, MSC Cruises USA.
Many people book their own travel today. Don’t you visit an airline or hotel company website and make your own arrangements? Hotels have an even tougher situation because it is easy to find websites that aggregate online prices for the hotel you want on the dates you have chosen. Why do you need a travel agent when you can easily do it yourself?
As the travel industry changed, travel agents realized they needed to change too. Many shifted away from the mass market, focusing on business travel or luxury vacations like safaris. Cruises are an example of a category where it makes sense to bring in a professional instead of dealing direct.
Looking at travel agents in general and cruises as a specific category, what is the case for working with a travel agent?
When something goes wrong…Instead of calling an airline and waiting on hold forever, it makes sense to have a professional as your intermediary. If you are stuck somewhere because a volcano erupted, disrupting air traffic, let a professional sort out your alternate route.
How to get from point A to point B. You might assume you could figure this out on your own. If you are flying nonstop from JFK to LHR, you are right. If you are traveling from the US to Slovenia on the Adriatic, that’s a different story. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Rely on someone else with the experience.
Work with a specialist. Some travel agencies specialize in cruises. The first thing they can do is help you decide which cruise line aligns with your personality. They can help you shop for deals and best fares. Sometimes the cruise lines might have better rates with the airlines because they do lots of business.
Interact with a human. Airlines, hotels and cruise lines have customer service desks, but you need to get to them. A local travel agency in your metro area has people sitting at desks or working from home. Like working with a CPA or financial advisor, you should have a dedicated career person who knows your name. This is very important if a problem develops during your vacation.
Pricing should not be that different vs. booking direct. Cruise lines want travel agents to be in the equation. When you book your next trip onboard they indicate the credit for the booking can be assigned to your travel agent back home. There might be a benefit like an onboard credit to spend (OBC) or a bottle of wine waiting in your stateroom.
The travel agency business has it’s own credentials. Some states might require travel agents to be licensed, others might not. (1) Certifications are a different story. Ideally you would want a travel agent experienced and specializing in the cruise industry. As an example, the Cruise Lines international Association (CLIA) has four levels of Cruise Counselor certification. (2)
Has the agent sailed on your line?Your Ship? Years ago, this was hugely important. Ships like Cunard’s famous Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2) had cabins in all sorts of sizes and configurations. Today, cabins on ships, like LEGO blocks, are pretty standardized. Your travel agent will know some locations are better than others. Sometimes there are cabins that are larger (or maybe smaller) than normal because of their location. Is proximity to the self service launderette a positive or a negative? There are cruisers lined up on each side of this question.
Shore excursions. You can boom them onboard, but the best ones might sell out quickly. You can book them with the cruise line through your travel agent. Your travel agent might be able to book direct with the tour operator, saving you a bit.
We live in a culture where “booking online” and dealing direct is considered the wise way to go. There are still areas like luxury travel, where it makes sense to work with a professional.
If you like statistics, this article is for you! Research shows that 49% of shoppers consider reviews equally as valid as firsthand recommendations from friends. (1) 95% of travelers read 10+ reviews before booking. (2) It’s been said under 2% of people will write a review. (3) If online reviews are perceived as trustworthy, should they influence your choice of cruise line as much as your choice of restaurants? Probably not.
Bad News Sells
It’s a sad fact, but bad news gets people’s attention. When you turn on TV news in the morning, the lead story is often about a shooting or a fire. (At least in the Philadelphia broadcast market.) The new industry had a saying, “If it bleeds, it leads.” (4) Bad news gets people’s attention. Finding things about a cruise you didn’t like (and adding them into the title) gets people’s attention.
Weather Is A Factor
Photo by Niklas Jeromin on Pexels.com
Ocean-going cruise ships travel on the ocean. The weather can be unpredictable. If you get rough seas, you can’t blame it on the cruise line. The captain will often attempt to steer around the storm as best they can. If there is a storm between you and your port, there will be rough weather at some point. In our area a realtor remarked; “If you buy a house near a train track, you should expect, at some point, a train might come through.” (You can’t act as if this was a great surprise.
Is the reviewer giving all the facts? Suppose the review said, “The food portions in the main dining room are small.” Is that the entire story? Could you ask for seconds? Could you ask for a double portion? If you could ask for more food, then portion size is not that big an issue.
The cruise line is not responsible for passenger behavior.
Some people might write “The passengers were rude.” Suppose the ship holds 3,000 passengers. How many did the reviewer encounter? What standard was the reviewer expecting? You would not mark a restaurant down because the couple at the next table were arguing. You cannot hold the cruise line responsible for passenger demeanor.
The cruise line is nickel and diming us.
Photo by Breakingpic on Pexels.com
You might have seen this before. “They charge for everything. Lets nor forget “They are only interested in making a profit.” Let us assume cruising fits in two categories; the Mass Market and Luxury (Ultra Luxury). One might be priced at $200/pp per day with deep discounts available and the other at $500 to $1,000/pp per day. It is unreasonable to expect free drinks and inclusive shore excursions if you are paying an “unbundled” price. Some passengers might not drink alcohol or prefer to stay onboard in port. They don’t want to pay for services they might choose not to use.
Cruising on (ship) is not what it used to be.
Our memories can be very selective. Some people giving a bad review might remember when dinner stretched over seven courses. They might be forgetting cabins were smaller, Internet service was poor, TV reception was worse and stabilizers used an older level of technology. A fairer comparison would be to recall and compare the total previous experience, not only the parts you miss.
There are too many people not like us.
The reviewer might be referring to young children or older passengers. All cruise lines have personalities. You might consider them “target markets” or “sweet spots.” That is where a good travel agent makes a difference. They can guide you. You can think of a few restaurant chains catering to children. You would not have dinner there and complain there are too many kids around. You would have known beforehand.
There is not enough closet space.
A better expression might be storage space. Cruise ship cabins are much more standardized in size compared to thirty years ago. There is storage space under the bed. There might be space on top of the cabinets. Everything does not need to go in a closet or drawer. Some clothing (like the overcoat you wore on arrival) can be stored in a suitcase under the bed.
The cabins are tiny.
You might say, “You get what you pay for.” The online brochure should indicate the square footage of different grades of cabins. Logically, inside cabins are smaller than ocean-view cabins. Oceanview cabins are smaller than balcony cabins. Balcony cabins are smaller than suites. This is information you would have before you booked. It influences your booking decision. Once you step outside your cabin, all passengers should be getting the same uniform level of service in the public areas.
The entertainment was poor. Were the shows or music poor, or not to your taste? In the evening, the ship probably has a dozen active bars with live music. You might not like one, but have you considered the range of what is available? Although the live entertainment in the theater might not have thrilled you, was it the same show every night or did the entertainment vary? You need a full picture. Different entertainment appeals to different segments of the audience.
What are the factors that make a difference?
Embarking and disembarking. Many cruise lines have you checking in weeks ahead of time, getting a credit card on file. This should speed up the embarkation process. (They still need to see your passport.) It should not take hours.
Problems that don’t get addressed. If your toilet doesn’t work, that is a real problem. The ship should promptly send a maintenance person or engineer to address the issue. If it cannot be fixed, they should have a remedy, like changing your cabin.
Delays in dining room service. If you have your meals in the main dining room, the meal should proceed like a symphony orchestra performance. They are putting on the same “show” every night. Assuming you did not make special requests, your entrée should not take 45+ minutes to arrive after you finished your first course.
Let us go back to the statistic indicating 95% of travelers read 10+ reviews before booking. If you check out reviews beforehand, you need to see a range including ones with differing evaluations. Obviously it needs to be about the same cruise line and ideally the same ship. That will help you get a more complete picture.
Captain Kate McCue in front of the Four Season I which is set to debut in 2026.
Four Seasons Yachts has announced the appointment of Kate McCue as the inaugural Captain of Four Seasons l, the first ultra-luxury yacht in the highly anticipated fleet. A graduate of the California Maritime Academy, Captain Kate brings nearly three decades of maritime expertise, combining technical precision with a passion for hospitality to create a genuinely transformative yachting experience. A pioneer in the industry, she made history in 2015 as the first American female captain of a mega-ton cruise ship.
“Captain Kate McCue is the ideal leader to helm Four Seasons I as we embark on this exciting new chapter in luxury yachting,” says Rainer Stampfer, President of Global Operations, Hotels, and Resorts at Four Seasons. “Her passion for hospitality, commitment to excellence, and trailblazing leadership align perfectly with our vision to reimagine the yachting experience. We are thrilled to welcome her aboard as we prepare to set sail in 2026, knowing she will inspire both our guests and employees alike.”
Four Seasons I rendering (Photo by Four Seasons Yachts)
As Captain, she is responsible for the safe navigation of the Yacht and the onboard experience for all guests and crew members—a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio that ensures a truly personalized journey from port to port. From charting journeys throughout the Caribbean and the Mediterranean to establishing a best-in-class onboard service culture, Captain Kate is eager to shape the journey ahead.
“Yachting truly embodies the essence of the sea – calm, effortless, and deeply rejuvenating. This is the same philosophy behind Four Seasons I,” says Captain Kate. “This role is both an incredible honour and an exciting opportunity to shape the Four Seasons Yachts experience from the very first voyage. I look forward to doing what I love most – connecting with guests, leading an exceptional crew, and engaging with local communities. Together with our crew, we’ll craft unforgettable journeys and set new standards in luxury yachting, ensuring every milestone is a celebration of Four Seasons legendary service and innovation.”
Before joining Four Seasons, Captain Kate spent nearly a decade with Celebrity Cruises, where she most recently served as Captain of the Celebrity Beyond and played a key role in increasing female representation on ship bridges to more than 30% across the fleet. She has also held numerous maritime positions, from cadet and deck officer to Master Mariner and Captain, and has sailed with Royal Caribbean International and Disney Cruise Line.
“We are thrilled that Captain Kate has assumed the leadership position for Four Seasons l and will be responsible for the overall operation, safety, and navigation of our first luxury Yacht,” says Tony Faso, General Counsel and Chief Talent and Culture Officer, Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator, Four Seasons Yachts. “The selection of Captain Kate for this leadership position reflects our mission to attract and retain a first-in-class team of exceptional crew and top talent in the industry. She brings a wealth of experience, expertise, dedication, and passion for excellence that aligns perfectly with our commitment to being leaders in luxury hospitality at sea.”
Captain Kate’s appointment marks another milestone for Four Seasons Yachts, which is preparing to welcome its first guests aboard Four Seasons I in January 2026.
Get To Know Four Seasons Yachts
This venture combines luxury yachting company Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator Four Seasons Yachts, venerated Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, and Four Seasons luxury hospitality leadership. With 95 meticulously designed residential-style suites, the Yacht will set a new sea luxury standard. Setting sail in January 2026, winter and spring itineraries in the Caribbean will be followed by Mediterranean locales each year in the summer.
All voyages are styled to immerse guests into each locale’s culture, history, and natural splendor and crafted with flexibility to allow for exploring beyond the familiar. Included among the Yacht’s exceptional features are the 9,975 square feet (927 square meters) Funnel Suite’s iconic floor-to-ceiling wraparound curved glass window modules, made up of the most significant contiguous piece of glass at sea and a bespoke onboard transverse marina featuring expansive openings across the vessel from port to starboard.
For more information on Four Seasons Yachts, click here.
Seine Class Viking Longship on the Seine River in Paris, France. (Photo by Viking)
Viking® (www.viking.com) (NYSE: VIK) announced today that it has delivered the Viking Nerthus, the company’s newest Viking Longship®. The delivery occurred this morning when the ship was presented at Meyer’s Neptun Werft shipyard in Rockstock-Warnemuende, Germany. The 168-guest Viking Nerthus joins the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art sister ships on the Seine River and will sail Viking’s popular 8-day itinerary, Paris & the Heart of Normandy, and the new 8-day Christmastime in Paris & Normandy itinerary.
“We are proud to welcome the Viking Nerthus to our growing fleet of award-winning Viking Longships,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “France continues to be a destination of great interest for our guests, and with the arrival of our newest ship on the Seine River, we look forward to introducing even more curious travelers to the region’s rich history and cultural treasures in ‘the Viking way.’”
The Viking Nerthus
Viking logo from sister-ship Viking Kari (Photo by John Shallo/Cruise Addicts)
Hosting 168 guests in 84 staterooms, the new Viking Nerthus features Viking’s signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. An identical sister ship to the Viking Kari, the Viking Radgrid, the Viking Skaga, and the Viking Fjorgyn, the Viking Nerthus features several aspects familiar to Viking guests, such as a distinctive square bow, an Aquavit Terrace and a wide variety of stateroom choices. The vessels feature a hybrid propulsion system with batteries and exhaust gas after treatment. They are also equipped for shore power to reduce reliance on fuel while in port. Onboard solar panels further contribute to the ships’ energy efficiency.
With two itineraries and sailing dates from March through December, the Viking Nerthus will journey roundtrip from Paris, with ports of call along the Seine, including Giverny, Rouen, and the beaches of Normandy. In Paris, Viking’s ships dock in an exclusive location at Port du Grenelle, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower.
Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Dock in the heart of Paris, admiring views of the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the Statue of Liberty from your ship. Experience history at the Normandy beaches and delight in Rouen’s Gothic architecture. Explore Giverny and the charming house and gardens where Claude Monet lived and worked, the setting inspiring many of his masterpieces. This voyage celebrates history, art, food, and customs in France’s most alluring urban and pastoral settings.
NEW Christmastime in Paris & Normandy (8 days; Paris roundtrip) – Discover the renowned sights of Paris, France’s twinkling “City of Light,” and sail through the seasonal landscapes of Normandy. Admire scenes of fairy-tale villages and call at Rouen, the region’s vibrant cultural capital. Meander along the winding Seine River, passing elegant residences and charming riverside cafés, returning to Paris to explore its iconic treasures, from the illuminated Eiffel Tower to the elegant Champs Élysées and more.
Today’s ship delivery milestone is the most recent development as Viking grows capacity. Based on the committed order book, the Company expects to deliver 25 additional river ships by 2028 and nine additional ocean ships by 2030. With these orders, Viking will have 109 river ships in 2028 and 21 ocean and expedition ships in 2030.
When Virgin Voyages’ newest Lady Ship sails into the New York harbour this September, fans and First Mates alike can expect the brand’s award-winning entertainment line-up to be, in a word – Brilliant. Shaped by First Mate (travel advisor) and Sailor feedback, the brand’s commitment to continuous innovation is showcased through Virgin Voyages’ new entertainment, introducing even more comedy, live music and immersive storytelling.
Designed to keep pace with the ship’s adventurous spirit, Brilliant Lady will debut seven electrifying, original productions and a variety of new Happenings, a move heavily influenced by the brand’s high proportion of repeat Sailors – a figure that’s up to more than 60% on some voyages. Brilliant Lady will also set the stage for day-to-night entertainment with the return of fleet favorites, all designed to complement the ship’s longer itineraries and diverse destinations. For clients seeking even greater variety in their voyages or wanting to explore the brand on a deeper level, Brilliant Lady’s new routes range from five to 16 nights. Not only can travelers explore new destinations like Bermuda’s pink shores and Alaska’s glacial fjords, but the festival-like Happenings line-up is designed to be anything but dull.
“Brilliant Lady has so much in store for our Sailors and travel advisors. The new incredible additions to our entertainment is just the first reveal in a series of imaginative experiences we’re unveiling for our fourth and final ship,” said Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages. “Our brand has come so far since our launch in ‘21, and we’re grateful to our travel advisor community for being such an important part of our journey. Thanks to their valuable feedback, we’re constantly challenging ourselves to raise the bar by offering more entertainment and never-before-seen experiences. Not only will Brilliant’s entertainment take us to the next level, but it will also answer the areas where we needed to grow.”
With Resilient Lady having earned the 2025 USA Today 10Best award for “Best Entertainment at Sea,” Brilliant Lady will ride this wave of success as she makes her debut this fall. Harnessing the power of the Virgin brand and Richard Branson’s heydays as a music exec, Brilliant Lady’s entertainment strategy reflects Virgin Voyages’ growth and evolution from an industry disruptor to the No. 1 cruise line in the world. Aboard Brilliant Lady, decadent supper club affairs turn into comedic whodunit murder mysteries, culminating in electric parties that glow all night.
Red Room Shows
Red Hot – A high-energy musical revue tracing Virgin’s 50-year legacy through five decades of iconic hits from Virgin Records’ musical catalogue. Featuring archival clips and inspired by the rebellious spirit of Sir Richard Branson, there is something for everyone with this jukebox.
Out of Time – A creative collaboration between Virgin Voyages and No Ceilings, this time-traveling comedy is a wild ride through history thanks to Dr. Victoria Vortex’s time machine. When things go off-track, the road back makes its way through a cavalcade of music, fashion, dazzling flappers and a few acrobatic cavemen.
The Manor Shows
Up With a Twist – Inspired by the roaring 20s is this decadent new installment of Virgin Voyages’ Supper Club Series. Sailors find themselves at Lady Valentina’s Emporium of Excess, which offers both elevated dining and high-concept characters on the menu. Alongside a live band, vintage numbers from yesteryear and summer soundtrack favorites are given a modern twist with audience members even having a say in the show’s ending.
Murder in the Manor – Heavily influenced by today’s true crime fascination and 1980s murder mystery novels, this immersive theater performance blends spectacle, spooky mystery and incredible dancing. Created by No Ceilings, this show puts Sailors front & center. They’ll be tasked with assisting the hapless investigators who seem to keep missing the most obvious clues. Together, they’ll help a plain-Jane figure out who killed her rockstar twin sister.
Duets – A showcase of soulful duets across generations and genres, this stage show features Motown, classic rock and contemporary ballads, all performed with jazz-infused arrangements.
Electric – Dive into the depths of Brilliant Lady’s immersive UV wonderland. Teeming with fluorescent accents, UV reactive ‘fits,’ neon face paint and even a jellyfish parade, this electric dance party is pure luminous joy. Of course, this epic glow party wouldn’t be complete without the Electric Slide (boogie, woogie, woogie).
Disco Reimagined – Studio 72 is getting a major upgrade in this reimagined take on a disco party. Dance breaks and circus moments take hold in a 90-minute explosion of sequins, flared pants and acrobatics so good Sailors will gasp.
Reimagined Fleet Favorites
Scarlet Night Red Room Glow Up – The night that celebrates the octopus goddess and reigns supreme above all others is getting an indoor glow-up when Brilliant Lady makes her way to Alaska’s woody shores. On nights too cool for an under-the-stars, poolside affair, the Red Room will come alive with specialized programming designed to keep the energy as high as it would be outdoors.
Duel Reality – The fleet’s acrobatic flagship returns to Brilliant Lady with its high-flying acrobatics and breathtaking aerial feats. A modern take on Romeo and Juliet, Duel Reality made history as the first cruise ship production to go from sea to land, debuting in Boston last year.
For the first time ever, the entire fleet is making waves with a Caribbean takeover this fall. Voyages promise visits to the world’s most popular islands and feature late stays and overnights, a cruise experience that is distinctly Virgin. All four Lady Ships will sail in the same region, equating to more choice for travelers with 28 incredible ports and 44 unique itineraries currently on sale. Longer itineraries of 10+ nights explore the hidden gems of the southern Caribbean while Virgin’s five- to eight-night mid-length voyages often include a stop at the exclusive Beach Club in Bimini, a Sailor favorite. Direct access to Miami and San Juan from major international hubs make it easier than ever for clients and Circles (groups) to set sail with Virgin, while competitive commissions on the voyage fare and bookables (and no NCFs) make it a win-win for advisors.
For more information or to book a voyage, visit www.virginvoyages.com or contact a First Mate (travel advisor).
Fincantieri has announced the successful delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the first ship in the expanded Prima Plus class, built for Norwegian Cruise Line.
Pierroberto Folgiero, AD Fincantieri
With a gross tonnage of 156,300 and a length of approximately 322 meters, Norwegian Aqua is 10% larger than the first two ships in the Prima class, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. The ship offers guests a range of unique experiences, including the world’s first hybrid roller coaster with a water slide, the Glow Court interactive digital sports complex, and the Aqua Game Zone, a multifunctional entertainment area featuring immersive games and virtual reality. Norwegian Aqua also features the largest 360-degree outdoor promenade ever built, Ocean Boulevard.
Norwegian Aqua
The delivery ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard and was attended by key leaders from both companies, including Fincantieri’s Chairman, Biagio Mazzotta, CEO Pierroberto Folgiero, and General Manager of the Merchant Ships Division, Luigi Matarazzo. Harry Sommer, President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and David J. Herrera, Brand President of Norwegian Cruise Line, also participated in the ceremony.
In addition to this delivery, Fincantieri is preparing for the launching ceremony of Norwegian Aqua’s sister ship, Norwegian Luna, which will sail in Spring 2026.
This milestone highlights the ongoing collaboration between Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line, reinforced by the recent announcement of a historic order for four cruise ships, marking Fincantieri’s largest-ever vessels to be built for NCL.
Chef Peter Campbell, a master pizza chef, has appeared on shows like “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” and “Guy’s Grocery Games.”
Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced an impressive lineup of chefs and culinary experts for its upcoming 2025 Epicurean Expeditions. Guests exploring Europe will be immersed in each destination’s culture, cuisine, and wines aboard an intimate yacht for under 200 guests. Visiting boutiques and iconic ports across the region, culinary demonstrations and tastings onboard will be led by guest chefs and experts. Ashore, local guides will showcase farmers’ markets, sample regional cuisine, and discover the culinary culture of ports firsthand. Exclusively on Epicurean Expeditions, guests will indulge in the Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7Aft Grill, a Yachtsman Cookoff challenge, culinary presentations, wine tastings, and more. Select expeditions will feature events hosted by a Taste & Traditions Expert, providing insights into cultural heritage. Culinary Experts for the 2025 season include:
Chef Paulette Mitchell, author of 14 cookbooks, is internationally renowned for her series “The 15-Minute Gourmet.” Several of her books have received prestigious Gourmand World Media Awards. She is a culinary instructor, food and travel writer, photographer, and recipe developer for websites and various publications. Aboard our Epicurean Expedition, she will engage explorers with culinary presentations, including the Mediterranean diet as a way of life, showcasing fresh and natural ingredients sourced from local markets. Her cooking demonstrations will also highlight the regional use of herbs, spices, and distinctive flavorings in traditional Italian dishes and easy-to-prepare recipes for typical Greek cuisine that you can replicate at home.
Pastry Chef Anna Wilamowska is a talented French pastry chef and chocolatier and has trained in Michelin-starred restaurants and French pastry boutiques. Her passion for pastry is evident in every bite of her delectable creations. Chef Wilamowska collaborates with local artists and sculptors, adding artistic flair to her desserts. Her commitment to quality is unwavering, and she only uses the finest ingredients and caters to those with dietary restrictions, offering delicious vegan and gluten-free desserts.
Chef Philip “Ippy” Aiona hails from “The Big Island” and has a heritage of Italian American and Native Hawaiian. His cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditions of his Italian heritage and Hawaiian upbringing, masterfully blending this cultural richness with playful creativity and flair for an exquisite experience from start to finish. A culinary prodigy, he graduated top of his class from Le Cordon Bleu, San Francisco, and at 23 years old, he gained national acclaim as the youngest finalist on Food Network’s “Food Network Star,” followed by a feature in Forbes Magazine’s Food & Wine “30 under 30.”
Master Foodie™ Mara Papatheodorou is a nationally established entertaining specialist. As a culinary specialist and historian, she highlights the diverse stories and connections of cuisine and culture worldwide through facts, flavors, flair and folklore. As a 12-year editor at Bon Appétit Magazine, Mara scouted and produced the “Entertaining with Style” section that highlighted how real people entertain around the world. She was the producer of their award-winning annual international Special Collector’s Editions that highlight Italy, France, Greece, Spain, Mediterranean Islands and the British Isles. She works as a Tastes & Traditions expert with food companies and Master Chefs developing recipes, menus and promotional consumer campaigns.
Jeff’s winemaking journey began in his family’s vineyard in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley, learning the art of grape growing on their 22-acre plot. His hospitality roots grew deeper as he worked as a busboy in local valley restaurants. A true Napa Valley native, he balances their wine endeavors with community involvement, including six years serving on the Yountville Town Council. His connection to hospitality and design shines through at the Gentleman Farmer Bungalow, where he transforms family heirlooms and unique pieces into treasures throughout their wine and hospitality space. When he’s not sharing his hospitality expertise or entertaining guests, you’ll find him practicing his newest pursuit — learning the clarinet.
Jon Schlegel completed his first dream of opening a restaurant by age 30 when he founded Snooze, an A.M Eatery whose motto was, “It only takes a moment to make a difference.” He then moved on to his second dream – living abroad before he turned 40. He and his family moved to Monforte d’Alba in Piemonte, Italy, in 2013 and settled on the Ginestra Hill with their own small Barolo vineyard. There, Jon worked and learned from wine-producing families with generations of experience.
Luciana Berry, “Top Chef Brazil 2020,” showcases the exotic flavors and ingredients that are integral to Brazilian cuisine. She is an ambassador of Brazilian cuisine and culture in UK. Mixing modern and classic cooking techniques to deliver impressive yet subtle tastes from a country which until now few other chefs have successfully exploited. Luciana travels to many countries with Brazilian Fruit Association to the biggest Fruit Shows in the world to showcase the best Brazilian tropical fruits.
Expeditions: World Navigator:July 28, 2025 (Presidents Cruise)
Chef Bobby Marcotte is the creator of the award-winning Hop + Grind, Rise + Grind, and Barn at Merry Hill. His restaurants have appeared on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” and he has competed on “Tournament of Champions” and “Fire Masters Canada.” Since becoming Executive Chef of The Tuckaway Tavern & Butchery in 2013, he has led the restaurant to earn multiple accolades, including recognition as one of Food Network’s “Best Steakhouses in America.” Starting as a dishwasher at 14, he advanced to sous chef within three years and became head chef by 21.
Chef Peter Campell
Chef Peter Campell
Expeditions: World Navigator: July 28, 2025 (Presidents Cruise)
Chef Peter Campbell, a master pizza chef, has appeared on shows like “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” and “Guy’s Grocery Games.” In 2021, he launched an interactive cooking class, Pizza with Pete, to connect with pizza enthusiasts. He started Red Wagon Pizza Company in Minneapolis in 2012 as a mobile pizzeria, and opened a stand-alone restaurant in 2014. Now, Red Wagon Pizza Company ships bake-at-home pizzas nationwide, sharing his family tradition across the US.
Canadian celebrity Chef Massimo Capra is best known for his roles as host on his own television series “Gourmet Escapes,” judge on “Chopped Canada” and chef-host of “Restaurant Makeover” – the last two both popular on the Food Network. He is the owner of Massimo’s Italian at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel and Boccone at the Toronto Pearson International Airport, as well as his namesake restaurant, Capra’s Kitchen, in his hometown of Mississauga, Ontario. Chef Capra is the author of “One Pot Italian” and “3 Chefs: The Kitchen Men,” which received the gold Canadian Culinary Book Award in 2011.
Stephan Pyles, 2-time James Beard award winner, celebrated chef and founding father of Southwestern Cuisine, shares his culinary legacy and passion for hospitality. He is a 4-time cookbook author and host of the Emmy-award winning PBS cooking series “New Tastes from Texas.” He has cooked for 6 American presidents, 7 First Ladies, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. With a remarkable career spanning over four decades and numerous prestigious awards, Chef Pyles brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the dining experiences aboard Atlas Ocean Voyages.
Join Chef Paula Lambert, a pioneering artisanal cheesemaker and founder of Dallas Mozzarella Company, which has been crafting cheese for over 40 years. Named one of the Top 50 Cheesemakers in America by Food & Wine Magazine in 2022, her company produces over 30 artisanal cheeses. She is the author of “The Cheese Lover’s Cookbook and Guide” and “Cheese, Glorious Cheese!” Her accolades include being featured in the James Beard Foundation’s Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America and receiving the Career Achievement Award from Mary Baldwin University. She also conducts cooking classes across the US and Europe.
Chef Plum is the executive producer and host of the PBS series “Restaurant Road Trip,” which has received three New England Emmy nominations. He also produces the acclaimed video series “On the Road” with Edible Magazine, highlighting the origins of food with a comedic twist. Additionally, he hosts “Plumluvfoods Live,” a popular podcast in iTunes’ top 200 food category, featuring over 300 episodes, and regularly contributes to Fox Business and Great Day CT.
Chef Christy Rost is the nationally televised host of the cooking and lifestyle series At Home with Christy Rost on Amazon Fire, Apple TV+, Roku, and other platforms. Her one-hour holiday production A Home for Christy Rost: Thanksgiving has been featured on PBS and CREATE TV since 2009, reaching 91 percent of U.S. households. Christy was mentored by Master Chef Martin Yan of Yan Can Cook (PBS) and her early career garnered the guidance of Julia Child. Christy has lived in Paris and her menus are influenced by her travels and conversations with farmers, vintners, distillers, and culinary artisans. Her cookbooks and TV productions are a testament to her passion for celebrating each day around the table.
For information and reservations, call a travel advisor or 1.844.44.ATLAS or visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.
