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Holland America Line reveals Zuiderdam as next ship in Evolution program

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 17 July 2026 17 July 2026

Holland America Line has announced Zuiderdam as the next ship in its Holland America Evolution program, bringing signature Pinnacle Class experiences as part of the line’s largest fleet update in its 153-year history. In addition to revealing the newest ship to be part of this fleet enhancement, Holland America Line also is releasing renderings of the new Pinnacle and Bridgeview Suites for the first time – offering an inside glimpse into this new stateroom category that is a highlight of the ship transformation.

Building on the momentum of Oosterdam, Zuiderdam is the second of six ships revealed as part of Holland America Evolution. The enhancements expand the ship’s accommodations with the addition of a reimagined Pinnacle Suite, two new Bridgeview Suites, 14 Vista Suites and 32 Solo Verandah staterooms, creating more options for guests while maintaining the spacious experience for which the ship is known. The ship will also now feature refreshed accommodations throughout and see the addition of Grand Dutch Café. Voyages aboard Zuiderdam following its Evolution enhancements will open for booking July 30.

“We’ve seen strong interest in our Bridgeview Suites and Solo Verandahs on Oosterdam, and we’re excited to make these new accommodations available on Zuiderdam,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “We’re building on that momentum and look forward to sharing more details, including itineraries, very soon.”

Together, these updates represent the next phase of Holland America Evolution as the program continues to take shape across the fleet.

New staterooms and suites expand choice

As part of Holland America Evolution, Zuiderdam will introduce new stateroom and suite categories alongside refreshed accommodations throughout the ship, expanding options for how guests travel today. New accommodations include:
– Bridgeview Suites – Two suites located above the bridge offering sweeping, forward-facing views with wraparound windows, a private balcony and distinct living and sleeping spaces designed to maximize light and scenery.
– Solo Verandahs – Purpose-built staterooms designed specifically for solo travelers, each featuring a private balcony and thoughtfully designed living space tailored to one guest.
– Vista Suites – A guest-favorite category from Pinnacle Class ships, Vista Suites bring spacious, light-filled accommodations with a sitting area, oversized windows and a private verandah to Zuiderdam.
– Reimagined Pinnacle Suite – The most expansive accommodations on board, redesigned to offer an elevated residential-style experience with generous living space, refined finishes and panoramic ocean views.

Grand Dutch Café comes to Zuiderdam

As part of Holland America Evolution, Zuiderdam will introduce the Grand Dutch Café, expanding one of the line’s most distinctive Pinnacle Class experiences to more ships across the fleet. Rooted in the company’s Dutch heritage and inspired by the easy rhythm of cafés throughout Amsterdam and Northern Europe, the venue is designed as a welcoming, all-day gathering place that fits naturally into the flow of the day on board. Guests can stop in for a morning espresso, settle in over a beer or aperitif in the afternoon, or share a light bite in the evening, making it a versatile space for both quick visits and longer moments of connection. With comfortable seating, an approachable menu and a social atmosphere, the Grand Dutch Café reflects Holland America Line’s signature unhurried style of travel. The venue aboard Zuiderdam will be the largest introduced as part of the Evolution program.

Bookings open for Oosterdam’s first post‑Evolution voyages

Oosterdam will be the first ship to debut its Evolution transformation, marking the opening chapter of the program as Holland America Line begins rolling out enhancements across the fleet. Bookings are now open for the ship’s first collection of voyages following its refurbishment, giving guests an early opportunity to experience its updated staterooms, enhanced spaces and expanded venues firsthand.

StarCruises to return Hong Kong with Star Voyager for autumn cruise holidays

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

StarCruises is bringing back a season of cruise holidays to Hong Kong as Star Voyager returns from 30 September to 13 November 2026, coinciding with the region’s peak travel period, including Golden Week. Offering a diverse collection of 2, 3 and 5 night cruises, the autumn sailing invites travellers to discover vibrant coastal cities, scenic island escapes and high seas getaways – all with the convenience of sailing directly from Ocean Terminal, located in the heart of Hong Kong.

Star Voyager guests can discover the scenic coastal charm of Xiamen and Sanya, explore the vibrant port city of Kaohsiung and the picturesque Penghu islands, or venture further to the tropical beauty of Okinawa, with calls at Miyakojima, Ishigaki and Naha.

In addition, the 2-night cruises to nowhere will be offered. Departing every Friday at 8:00 PM and returning on Sunday afternoon, guests can unwind on the open seas while enjoying live entertainment, world-class dining and a variety of onboard experiences – all without the need for flights or annual leave.

For those looking for a longer holiday at sea, StarCruises will also offer a special 5-night one-way voyage to Singapore as Star Voyager repositions for her next homeport deployment. The itinerary includes calls at the popular Vietnamese destinations of Nha Trang, renowned for its beautiful beaches and coastal charm, and Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis celebrated for its rich history, dynamic culture and renowned local cuisine, before arriving in Singapore.
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The Hong Kong autumn season includes:
– 2 Night Xiamen Cruises (Wednesday departures on 30 Sept; 14 & 28 Oct; 11 Nov)
– 3 Night Kaohsiung & Penghu Cruises (Sunday departure on 11 Oct)
– 3 Night Sanya Cruises (Sunday departures on 25 Oct & 8 Nov)
– 5 Night Okinawa Cruise
o Miyakojima & Naha (Sunday departures on 4 Oct & 1 Nov)
o Ishigaki & Naha (Sunday departure on 18 Oct)
– 2 Night High Seas Cruises (Friday departures)
– Special 5 Night One-Way Relocation Cruise:
o From Hong Kong to Nha Trang, Ho Chi Minh & Singapore (Sunday departure on 15 Nov)

"Hong Kong has always been one of StarCruises' key homeports, and we are delighted to return this autumn with Star Voyager during one of the busiest holiday seasons of the year," said Michael Goh, President of StarDream Cruises. "From short getaways over weekends and public holidays to longer vacations, we have curated a variety of itineraries to suit different travel preferences. Combined with the convenience of sailing from the heart of Hong Kong, guests can simply step onboard and enjoy a memorable holiday filled with great dining, world-class entertainment and exciting destinations."

Concordia Damen to build two new river cruise ships for TUI River Cruise

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 09 July 2026 09 July 2026

Dutch specialised shipyard Concordia Damen has announced it has received a contract from TUI River Cruise. The contract consists of two CDS River Cruise 135 vessels. These vessels are of in-house design and have been tailored to TUI’s explicit wishes.

TUI River Cruises’ fleet is currently expanding from 6 to 10 ships, which will operate across Europe, the Rhine, Nile and the Douro. The two river ships that Concordia is constructing are designed specifically for the UK market.

In addition to the innovative hull shape, and many technological and sustainable features, these two newbuilds are constructed with methanol as a future fuel in mind. Each ship will contain 94 cabins for 188 guest capacity. Delivery is expected in 2028.

Star Clippers appoints Leo Chang as Chief Executive Officer

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 09 July 2026 09 July 2026

Star Clippers, the world’s premier tall ship sailing specialist, announced the appointment of Leo Chang as its new Chief Executive Officer. Chang brings over three decades of distinguished management leadership along with deep expertise in driving strategic growth and operational excellence to the role. He will oversee operations, growth initiatives, the expansion of Star Clippers' global market presence and brand development for Star Clippers' unique fleet.

The appointment marks a strategic transition for Star Clippers, which was established in 1989 by Mikael Krafft, a passionate yachtsman. Under the foundational vision, Star Clippers grew to operate three of the largest sailing ships in service today: Star Flyer and Star Clipper, both four-mast barquentines, and the five-mast full rigged flagship Royal Clipper. The brand remains deeply committed to providing guests with the romance of traditional sailing coupled with the modern amenities of a mega-yacht.

"Leo has incredible passion for our unique and authentic style of travel,” said Eric Krafft, owner and current CEO of Star Clippers. “His deep understanding of small ship cruising operations and its expanding market opportunity, combined with his forward-thinking leadership style make him the ideal leader to continue the Star Clippers legacy. Our travel advisor partners and loyal guests can look forward to a continued commitment to product excellence, impeccable service and operational innovation."

Krafft will remain closely involved as an engaged owner and Executive Chairman.

Chang joins Star Clippers at a pivotal moment as the industry experiences unprecedented demand for boutique, sustainable and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Prior to joining Star Clippers, Chang served as Chief Business Development Officer at Lindblad Expeditions, where he led corporate development and strategic planning, successfully driving key fleet growth initiatives and expanding its land-based adventure travel portfolio. His prior experience includes serving as Chief Financial Officer at Frontida BioPharm, Inc. and holding senior positions at Jefferies.

"Star Clippers is one of the most unique and differentiated travel companies in the world, offering an authentic tall ship experience that connects travelers deeply with the heritage of the sea," said Chang. "I am incredibly honored to lead this iconic and beloved company. As we look to the future, our mission will be to elevate our guest experience, broaden our global reach and continue innovating intimate, sustainable voyages that larger vessels simply cannot replicate, all while remaining completely steadfast to the timeless spirit of wind-driven sailing."

Scenic Ikon leads new 2028-29 Mediterranean and Americas collection with expanded handcrafted land journeys

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: More News More News; Published: 08 July 2026 08 July 2026

Scenic Group has unveiled its new 2028 and 2029 Europe, Mediterranean, and Americas Discovery Yacht collection, led by Scenic Ikon’s inaugural season and a significantly expanded range of handcrafted land journeys.

Launching in April 2028, Scenic Ikon will join Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, growing the Scenic Discovery Yacht fleet to three and creating greater choice across ocean and land journeys.

The collection introduces a new range of itineraries and destinations across the Eastern Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean, Atlantic and West Africa, including new land journeys in Italy, Malta, Turkey and Greece. Enhanced benefits for guests staying in premium suites and complimentary helicopter flightseeing on eligible Super Earlybird bookings will further elevate Scenic’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury experience.

Scenic Ikon opens new destinations

Scenic Ikon’s inaugural season will focus on the Eastern Mediterranean, Adriatic and Aegean, combining iconic coastlines with boutique islands, smaller harbours and lesser-visited destinations.

New itineraries will include the Greek islands, with Naxos, Milos, Paros, and Hydra, alongside Adriatic ports such as Kotor, Dubrovnik, and Zadar. The collection also introduces calls in Istanbul, an overnight experience in Egypt featuring the Pyramids of Giza, and voyages through the Dardanelles with opportunities to explore Troy and ANZAC Cove.

Further west, Scenic is expanding its Atlantic and West African program to include destinations such as Cape Verde and Dakar.

Scenic Ikon and the two Scenic Eclipse yachts have been purpose-designed to access smaller harbours and remote locations that are often beyond the reach of larger cruise ships, bringing guests closer to the heart of each destination.

A seamless journey from ocean to land

In response to growing demand from guests seeking to explore more deeply before or after their voyage, Scenic has expanded its collection of handcrafted land journeys and small-group tours.

New itineraries across Italy, Malta, Turkey and Greece have been designed to connect with selected Scenic Discovery Yacht voyages, allowing guests to combine coastlines, cities and inland regions in one continuous journey.

Delivered seamlessly by the Scenic team, the land journeys include luxury hotel accommodation, transfers, selected meals, guided experiences and the expertise of a dedicated Scenic Tour Director.

“The handcrafted land journeys have been designed to align pre or post a Scenic Discovery Yachts voyage, so guests can link storied coastlines, cities and inland regions into one continuous experience, enjoying the ease of a single, seamlessly curated journey, all delivered by Scenic.” Angus Crichton, Director of Land Product, Scenic Group

More exclusive experiences, already included

For the 2028 & 2029 seasons, Scenic is also introducing enhanced inclusions for guests staying in Panorama, Grand Panorama, Scenic Yacht, Grand Terrace, Owner’s Penthouse and Ikon’s Penthouse suites.

– A private half-day excursion with a personal guide is included on selected Signature Yacht Cruises across Europe, the Mediterranean and the Americas. Depending on the destination, experiences may include after-hours museum access, culinary discoveries with local chefs and personalised cultural encounters tailored to guests’ interests.

– Private chauffeur airport transfers are also included for eligible suite guests at the beginning and end of their journey.

– The Penthouse suite guests will receive a helicopter landing experience, where permitted, including golf experiences at Sicily’s Verdura Resort or France’s Terre Blanche, visits to destinations such as Portonovi and Elba’s Tenuta delle Ripaie, and truffle hunting with Karlić Truffles in Croatia.

Ikon Penthouse guests and Chairman’s Club members will also have access to Scenic Ikon’s exclusive Chairman’s Lounge. The private retreat will feature its own bar, with guests able to select from menus offered across Scenic Ikon’s up to 15 dining experiences.