More News

American Encore – first riverboat ever christened in the state of Idaho

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 21 May 2026 21 May 2026

American Cruise Lines announced that brand new riverboat American Encore was christened in Lewiston, Idaho on May 12th. The boat’s inaugural 9-Day Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise departed from Stevenson, Washington on May 6th with guests also enjoying an included hotel stay in Portland, Oregon on May 5th.

Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who represented Eastern Washington and the Snake River in Congress for twenty years, was named American Encore’s Godmother. Rodgers was joined on the ship’s top deck for the ceremonial blessing and bottle smash by cruise guests, travel advisors, company executives, crew members, as well as local officials from Lewiston, Idaho, and Clarkston, Washington.

Speeches and remarks were given by American Encore’s Captain, Andrea Mickelson; Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines; Kristin Meira, American’s Director of Government Affairs; Joe Anderson, Commissioner of the Port of Lewiston; the Honorable Dan Johnson, Mayor of Lewiston; and Steven McGee, President of Chesapeake Shipbuilding, where all American Cruise Lines small ships are built. The day’s festivities also included a special flyover and patriotic music by The Victory Belles, as well as a ship tour and reception in American Encore’s stunning Sky Lounge.

During the event, Robertson, American’s President & CEO, remarked to the gathered crowd that “this is our 6th ship on the river and the flagship of our aggressive posture to up the game globally.”

American Encore underscores the domestic industry’s innovation and furthers the understanding that U.S. River cruising is here to compete with Europe. The brand-new riverboat is easily one of the finest riverboats ever built and raises the bar for all riverboats worldwide. Among its many advantages, it offers more space per passenger than any other riverboat in the world. American Encore will be quickly followed by sister ships American Anthem in 2027 and American Grace in 2028.

The christening celebrations also included ongoing recognition of the new dock which was recently built through a partnership between the cruise line and the Port of Lewiston. The Lewiston dock provides additional space for American’s growing fleet and host of itineraries in the region – also allowing the company’s riverboats to visit Lewiston and Clarkston simultaneously. The dock enables better access to many shore excursions for cruise guests and provides the local community with enhanced waterfront access year-round. American’s expanding operations on the Columbia and Snake Rivers are a considerable driver of increased tourism in the region, and the cruises deliver a significant economic impact to local communities throughout the area.

American Cruise Lines has also rapidly expanded operations around the country in the past decade, most notably in the Pacific Northwest, where American Cruise Lines also operates a fleet of small ships sailing coastal itineraries in Puget Sound and Alaska. The company remains the leader in U.S. River and small ship cruising and has introduced over 80% of all new cruise ships built in the United States in the past several decades.

American Encore features five decks and accommodates 180 guests in 100% private balcony accommodations. The riverboat showcases a stunning four-story glass atrium at the center of the ship and introduces American’s newest stateroom category, the extraordinary Signature Suite. At 1,500 square feet, American Encore’s Signature Suite is the largest riverboat suite in the world, offering a wrap-around balcony, panoramic views, separate living and sleeping spaces, and a hotel-sized bathroom with soaking tub and heated floors. Other onboard amenities include a grand dining room and casual café, multiple indoor and outdoor lounges, top deck lounge and outdoor walking track, large gym, complimentary laundry room, and elevators to all passenger decks.

American Encore is the newest and most elevated ship in the company’s acclaimed series of modern American Riverboats, first introduced to the U.S. market in 2018 with American Song. American Encore will continue to sail the company’s popular 9-Day Columbia & Snake Rivers cruises through early November 2026. Cruises for 2027 and 2028 are already open to book.

Viking announces CEO transition and reports first quarter 2026 financial results

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 14 May 2026 14 May 2026

Viking Holdings Ltd today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Leah Talactac, President and Chief Financial Officer, as Chief Executive Officer. Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO, has been appointed as Executive Chairman and will continue to serve as Chairman of Viking’s Board of Directors. The Company also announced that Linh Banh, Executive Vice President of Finance, has been appointed as CFO.

Since joining Viking in 2006, Talactac has been a key leader on the executive team. Alongside Hagen, she led Viking’s initial public offering in 2024, which was the largest offering on the NYSE that year, and she was appointed President in January 2025 while retaining her responsibilities as CFO. Starting today, Talactac will report to the Board of Directors and continue to lead Viking’s executive committee, a highly experienced group who have been integral to Viking’s sustained success. As Executive Chairman, Hagen will focus on long term strategy and continue to support Talactac in her role as CEO.

“This leadership transition reflects the strength and depth of Viking’s management team and the succession planning we have built over many years,” said Hagen. “Leah’s appointment as CEO is a natural next step, and the Board and I have full confidence in her ability to lead Viking with the same continuity, discipline and vision that have guided us since Viking was founded. On behalf of the entire Viking family, we congratulate Leah, and I look forward to partnering closely with her and the Board as she guides Viking forward in this next chapter.”

“I am honored by this appointment and deeply grateful for the trust of the Board and Tor,” said Talactac. “Tor and our entire executive team have built a phenomenal company over the last 29 years, and I am delighted to lead Viking as we continue to deliver meaningful experiences for our guests and execute our long-term strategy. I also want to take a moment to congratulate Linh on her new appointment as CFO. Linh is a trusted leader within Viking, and her financial stewardship will ensure a smooth transition.”

Today, the Company also reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, and provided an update on operating capacity and bookings.

Key highlights

– Total revenue was $1,053.7 million for the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 17.5% compared to the same period in 2025.
– Gross margin increased 21.2% and Adjusted Gross Margin increased 16.9% compared to the same period in 2025.
– Net Yield was $596, an increase of 9.5% compared to the same period in 2025.
– Adjusted EBITDA was $104.8 million, an increase of 43.9% compared to the same period in 2025.
– Diluted EPS was $(0.12) and Adjusted EPS was $(0.11).
– Net Leverage improved from 1.1x as of December 31, 2025 to 1.0x as of March 31, 2026.
– As of May 3, 2026, for its Core Products, Viking had sold 92% of its Capacity Passenger Cruise Days for the 2026 season and 38% of its Capacity Passenger Cruise Days for the 2027 season.

“2026 is off to a strong start and we are very pleased with our first‑quarter results. Total revenue for the quarter grew 17.5% driving a 43.9% year-over-year increase in Adjusted EBITDA, underscoring the demand for our product and our operational discipline,” said Hagen. “Moreover, we are already 92% booked for 2026 which positions us very well for the remainder of the year. During the quarter, we also continued to make progress increasing our fleet and destination-focused offerings, further enhancing the experiences and value we offer our guests. As we look ahead, we remain focused on delivering on the strong demand while continuing to invest in our future and generate sustainable, profitable growth.”

Viking introduces its first fully electric motor coach

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 14 May 2026 14 May 2026

Viking recently announced the launch of its first fully electric motor coach, marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship. With this debut, Viking becomes the first river line to operate a 100% electric motor coach for guest transportation in Europe. The vehicle is now in service for Viking guests in Vienna, with additional electric coaches planned for deployment across Europe in the coming years.

“We have always been deliberately concerned about the environment, which is why we design our ships thoughtfully to reduce fuel consumption. As we begin to introduce electric motor coaches to our land operations, we are proud to extend our environmental commitment even further,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Electric motor coaches are quieter and offer a zero-emission solution, and we look forward to operating them in many more Viking destinations in the coming months and years.”

The Viking-branded coach, operated exclusively for Viking guests, accommodates up to 49 passengers and joins the company’s existing fleet of motor coaches that support its destination-focused shore excursion program in Vienna.

The introduction of Viking’s first electric motor coach builds on the company’s long-standing record of environmentally considerate innovation. In 2009, Viking became the first river line to use hybrid diesel-electric engines. With the launch of the Viking Longships, Viking introduced to Europe’s rivers an innovative design featuring a patented square bow and asymmetric corridor layout, diesel-electric engines and onboard solar panels. In 2025, Viking also announced plans for the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship – the Viking Libra – scheduled for delivery in fall 2026.

Crystal Serenity to undergo drydock this October

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 13 May 2026 13 May 2026

Crystal has announced today Crystal Serenity will enter a three-week drydock in October 2026, for a scheduled refurbishment of select areas of the ship. The project is focused on refining the onboard experience through various updates to the Aquamarine Classic Suite category and several key public spaces.

The drydock will see a complete refit of the Aquamarine Classic Suites’ living area and bathrooms on Deck 10. While preserving their existing layout and spacious bathrooms featuring separate bathtub and shower configurations, these suites will be outfitted with new furnishings, aligning with the design style introduced during the ship’s 2023 transformation. Additionally, the corridors on Deck 10 will receive new carpet and wallpaper.

As well as the suite enhancements, several public spaces will also be updated, with improvements designed to elevate the onboard ambiance:

– New Pool Bar: Located on Deck 12 mid-ship, the heart of the ship’s most vibrant outdoor space, the addition allows for greater ease and efficiency of service, ensuring guests can enjoy seamless, attentive refreshment without ever leaving the Seahorse Pool area. Operating hours will be tailored to each itinerary and weather conditions, maximizing enjoyment in every destination.
– Atrium and Crystal Cove: The ship’s central gathering space will be transformed, providing a modern and fluid layout with additional seating. Key updates include a new marble dance floor, new stage for live entertainment and a De Castelli mosaic, echoing the design installed aboard Crystal Symphony during her 2025 drydock. The reception area will have an elevated space with a new desk, marble top and backlit panel. Complementing this, the surrounding walls and columns will be refinished with new wallpaper and mosaic details.
– Waterside Restaurant: Waiter stations will be renovated and chairs will be reupholstered.
– Stardust Club: This signature venue will receive new tables and chandeliers.
– Seahorse Pool: Guests will be pleased to find new loose furniture in the areas around the pool.
– Marketplace: This popular breakfast and lunch venue will receive newly renovated chairs throughout the space.

“Following the successful drydock of Crystal Symphony, our work aboard Crystal Serenity is guided first and foremost by the guest experience. These enhancements underscore our commitment to creating meaningful, memorable experiences for our guests at every touchpoint, while ensuring that Crystal Serenity continues to feel as welcoming and enriching as the journeys themselves," said Bernie Leypold, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations for Crystal.

In parallel to the enhancements across guest-facing spaces, Crystal Serenity will undergo a series of technical upgrades designed to optimize performance, efficiency and environmental responsibility. Work along the propulsion line will support the vessel’s operational reliability, while the fin stabilizers will undergo a comprehensive mechanical overhaul to ensure continued comfort at sea. The ship will also receive extensive hull cleaning and repainting, alongside a range of electrical and automation upgrades to modernize onboard systems. New sound and entertainment systems will be installed in the ship’s main public areas, further elevating the onboard experience. These improvements are intended to maintain the highest operational standards while helping to reduce fuel and water consumption, lower emissions and minimize environmental impact.

Crystal Serenity is expected to resume service Nov. 8, beginning a 15-day Transatlantic voyage from Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale where she will the begin her Caribbean season.

MSC Cruises celebrates arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 12 May 2026 12 May 2026

MSC Cruises yesterday marked a major milestone in its North American expansion with the arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle, launching the cruise line’s first-ever Alaska season and establishing Seattle as its newest U.S. homeport.

MSC Poesia will sail 7-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle through September 2026, calling at Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point and Juneau in Alaska, along with Victoria, British Columbia. Sailings also include scenic cruising through Endicott Arm, featuring views of Dawes Glacier and Alaska’s fjord scenery.

The arrival establishes Seattle as MSC Cruises’ newest U.S. homeport and reflects the company’s continued investment in North America as the cruise line expands its itinerary offerings to include some of the region’s most sought-after destinations. Guests will enjoy MSC Cruises’ unique blend of European style and American comfort while sailing through the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of Alaska.

To commemorate the milestone, MSC Cruises hosted a traditional maritime plaque exchange ceremony alongside elected officials, local stakeholders and Port of Seattle representatives to celebrate and share in this pivotal moment for the Pacific Northwest.

Lynn Torrent, President, MSC Cruises North America, said: “The arrival of MSC Poesia in Seattle marks an exciting milestone for MSC Cruises as we bring our distinctive blend of European style and American comfort to the Pacific Northwest for the first time. Launching in Seattle reflects our continued commitment to expanding our presence across North America and offering guests new ways to experience some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. We are thankful for the strong collaboration and warm welcome from the Port of Seattle, elected officials and community leaders as we establish our presence in this incredible region.”

Guests sailing aboard MSC Poesia this season will enjoy a refreshed onboard experience following the ship’s recent enhancements. The ship now features MSC Yacht Club, MSC Cruises’ exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” concept, offering private amenities, elevated service and 24-hour butler service. Guests will also find new specialty dining venues including Butcher’s Cut – an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, along with an updated MSC Aurea Spa and enhanced MSC Gym powered by Technogym.

The Alaska season will feature an enhanced culinary program inspired by the Pacific Northwest, with new Alaska-themed dining and beverage offerings created specifically for MSC Cruises’ sailings in the region. Guests will enjoy hearty regional cuisine, expanded seafood selections, warming beverages and Alaska-inspired cocktails throughout the voyage. As part of the experience, MSC Cruises will source local provisions from the Pacific Northwest, including regional seafood featured throughout the season.

MSC Poesia will also feature enhanced entertainment and enrichment programming throughout the Alaska season, highlighted by “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” a live-to-film production featuring singers, dancers and a live band performing alongside the iconic movie. Guests will also enjoy live music, themed parties, comedy performances, family activities and Alaska-focused enrichment including expert talks, narrated scenic experiences and interactive workshops inspired by the region’s wildlife, geography and culture.

As part of MSC Cruises’ commitment to responsible operations in the region, the cruise line is partnering with marine conservation organization ORCA. An ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will sail aboard MSC Poesia during peak whale season to support crew training, guest education and research focused on whale behavior and vessel interaction in Alaskan waters. Guests will also have opportunities to learn more about Alaska’s marine wildlife and environment through onboard educational programming.