Fincantieri to build a new vessel for Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 07 July 2026 07 July 2026

Fincantieri today announced that it has signed a contract with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator of Four Seasons Yachts, for the construction of a third ultra-luxury hospitality vessel, further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two companies and confirming Fincantieri’s leadership in the high-end hospitality segment. The value of this agreement, subject to financing and other typical terms and conditions, is considered as large[1].

Scheduled for delivery in 2031, the new vessel will be the third unit in a new class of ultra-luxury hospitality vessels designed and built by Fincantieri at its Ancona shipyard. The order confirms the success of a pioneering program that is redefining hospitality at sea. Building on the successful delivery earlier this year of Four Seasons I - the inaugural vessel conceived under Fincantieri’s Navis Sapiens vision - and the construction of a second ship scheduled to enter into service at the beginning of 2028, the new order further strengthens the longstanding collaboration between Fincantieri and Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD and reflects growing demand for a new category of bespoke luxury travel experiences.

The new vessel will feature the same all-suite, residential-style concept that has defined the first-in class. At 207 meters in length and approximately 34,000 gross tons, it will accommodate suites designed to maximize the connection between guests and the ocean through expansive terraces and open-air living spaces.

Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fincantieri, said: “This new order marks another significant step in the development of the partnership with Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD that has become a benchmark for innovation in luxury hospitality at sea. The decision to expand the fleet with a third vessel reflects the strength of a long-term industrial vision and confirms the market’s appreciation for a concept that has successfully created a new segment at the intersection of luxury hospitality and advanced shipbuilding. Designed and built at our Ancona shipyard, the vessel further reinforces Ancona’s role as Fincantieri’s center of excellence for ultra-luxury shipbuilding, where innovation, craftsmanship and industrial expertise come together to deliver the highest standards of quality and sophistication.”

Century Cruises expands into Europe with the launch of Century Star

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 02 July 2026 02 July 2026

Century Cruises' new vessel, Century Star, has left the shipyard on schedule and is undergoing the final finishing touches ahead of its inaugural sailing on September 18, 2026, from Budapest to Passau. A series of pre-inaugural sailings is set to begin on August 11 as the ship prepares to welcome its first guests.

The new vessels, the first of three to be delivered over the next two years, are built with advanced technology to protect the fragile environment of the European Rivers. This is something Century Cruises has always advocated since it was established 30 years ago.

Apart from being environmentally responsible, the interiors of Century Star are designed by renowned MG Design, offering an immersive on-board experience. The restaurant was built from the black forest wood, where the Danube originates. The lobby is decorated with rosewood, a material Bulgaria is known for. The coffee shop breathes Vienna atmosphere, while the cabins are decorated in the style of Serbian homes.

Century Star will offer a collection of thoughtfully curated journeys, with two Classic Journey: an 8-day Danube River Cruise between Budapest and Passau, and an 8-day Rhine River Cruise between Amsterdam and Basel.

For discerning travellers seeking a deeper exploration of Europe's great waterways, Century Star will also offer two Grand Journeys.

The 15-day Danube voyage from Passau to the Black Sea and back covers centuries of history, diverse cultures and spectacular scenery. The 15-day Journey from Amsterdam to Budapest and back follows Europe's legendary rivers through some of the continent's most captivating cities, landscapes and cultures.

Following Century Cruises' years of expertise in providing authentic cultural experiences on the Yangtze River, the company is introducing The Heritage Collection, a curated portfolio of premium shore excursions designed to enrich the Europe travel experience.

A journey along the Danube is travelling through the pages of history. From the legacy of the Roman Empire to the grandeur of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the lasting influence of the Ottoman world, each civilisation has shaped the landscapes, architecture and cultures you'll encounter along the way. Century Star will capture the depth of the unfolding history through the unique shore excursions. The Heritage Collection aboard Century Star will reveal the rich history of the Danube, from the regal beauty of Vienna and Budapest to the spectacular Iron Gates Gorge, the ancient Tabula Traiana, medieval fortresses and authentic local traditions.

Cruising the Rhine is more than simply travelling from one destination to the next. It's an opportunity to experience Europe at an unhurried pace, where medieval castles crown the hillsides, storybook villages line the riverbanks, and vibrant cities reveal centuries of history. Around every bend, there is something new to discover, making every day on the Rhine as memorable as the last. The Heritage Collection aboard Century Star offer exclusive experiences, from private concerts in historic castles and churches to meeting boutique winemakers and joining the ship's chef at local markets.

The onboard dining experience has all the hallmarks of East meets West. Guests can indulge in a truly international culinary journey, meticulously planned to meet the expectations of discerning travelers from around the world.

Life on board Century Star will be filled with enriching cultural experiences. From history lectures exploring the cities and regions along the vessel’s route to presentations and onboard classes, each day will be designed to create lasting memories.

David Fredericks, President and General Manager of The Americas, said: “We are very proud to see the first of many vessels, Century Star, delivered on time in Europe. This achievement is the result of working without borders and bringing together expertise from across the globe – from the USA, through Europe, to China and back again. It is a true testament to international collaboration and a commitment to excellence. We are also excited about launching our vessels on the Nile in Egypt in 2027. The future of cruising is bright with Century Cruises, and we look forward to bringing our unique vision to even more destinations around the world.”

Photo: Suite of Century Star

 

Norwegian Cruise Line names Lee Applbaum as Chief Marketing Officer

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 02 July 2026 02 July 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the appointment of Lee D. Applbaum as Chief Marketing Officer beginning July 6, 2026.

With more than 25 years of experience building and transforming some of the world’s most recognized consumer brands, Applbaum will lead the company’s global marketing organization, driving brand strategy, guest engagement and demand generation while fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture across the team.

Applbaum brings extensive global marketing experience across premium consumer brands. He served as global chief marketing officer at Patrón Spirits International and later Bacardi, leading the Tequila Patrón portfolio before expanding his scope to include Grey Goose. In these roles, he oversaw integrated marketing and innovation efforts across more than 150 countries, preparing him to later cofound a privately held venture focused on the development of disruptive and scalable spirits brands. Applbaum also served as a board advisor and later chief marketing officer at Wheels Up, the on-demand private aviation provider, where he played a key role in the company’s 2021 public listing. He has also held various marketing leadership roles across a number of iconic retail and consumer packaged goods brands over his career.

Known for combining bold creativity with analytical rigor, Applbaum has a strong track record of driving culturally resonant brands, leading high-performing teams, building integrated global campaigns and influencing cross-functional stakeholders.

“Lee is a visionary marketing leader with a proven track record of building brands that resonate with consumers and drive meaningful growth,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Equally important, he is known for building strong, high-performance cultures that empower teams to do their best work. His ability to blend creativity with data-driven insight will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our brand, generate high yielding demand and inspire even more guests to experience everything Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer.”

“I am honored to join Norwegian Cruise Line at such an exciting time for the brand and the broader cruise industry,” said Applbaum, newly appointed chief marketing officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “The brand has a strong legacy of innovation and a passion for delivering unforgettable vacation experiences. I look forward to working alongside this talented team to further elevate the brand, deepen guest connections and loyalty for NCL, while continuing to build a dynamic culture that inspires creativity, collaboration and demand for the brand.”

Applbaum joins Norwegian Cruise Line at a pivotal moment of growth, with seven ships on order through 2037, destination-driven itineraries designed to offer guests more choice, flexibility and ease in creating memorable vacations, and major investments underway to elevate the guest experience. His global marketing expertise will help fuel excitement and demand for NCL’s expanding fleet while bringing a thoughtful, technology-enabled approach to marketing that ensures the company is efficient with its investments and delivers the right message to the right guest at the right stage of the cruise journey. He will drive the continued momentum to position Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas, as a leading guest experience following the highly anticipated debut of Great Tides Waterpark this summer, which includes 19 waterslides, the industry’s first cliff jumps, a Wandering River, a dedicated kids area designed for aquatic adventures and more.

VIVA Cruises appoints top industry leaders to spearhead North American market growth

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 02 July 2026 02 July 2026

As part of its expanded presence in the North American market, VIVA Cruises has introduced two top industry veterans its U.S. leadership team.

Effective July 1, 2026, Nasim Ghannadian will join VIVA Cruises as Vice President Sales & Marketing North America and Michael Weldon will take on the role of Senior Director, National Accounts.

Ghannadian will focus on expanding the brand's presence in North America, strengthening travel advisor partnerships, and driving continued commercial growth while enhancing guest engagement and brand awareness.

A true cruise industry expert, she brings more than 22 years of experience leading sales, marketing, brand strategy, and business development initiatives across the cruise and tourism industries. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions with respected travel brands including American Queen Voyages, Carnival Cruise Line and Viking Cruises. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Vantage Explorations where she played a pivotal role in relaunching and rebuilding the brand following its acquisition, strengthening customer confidence and positioning the company for future growth.

Recognized for her strategic vision, customer-centric approach, and ability to drive sustainable growth, Ghannadian has successfully led brand transformations, revenue growth initiatives, product launches, and integrated sales and marketing strategies across both trade and consumer channels.

“Nasim’s deep industry knowledge, strong network, and passion for the business will be invaluable as we continue to grow our brands across North America,” said VIVA Cruises’ Co-Founder and CEO Andrea Kruse.

“I am thrilled to join VIVA Cruises and be part of a company that is redefining the river cruise experience through innovation, exceptional service, and a strong commitment to its guests and travel advisor partners,” said Ghannadian. “With North America representing an exciting growth opportunity, I look forward to building on VIVA’s momentum, strengthening industry relationships, and helping introduce more travelers to the unique experiences that make VIVA Cruises so special.”

Michael Weldon also brings exceptional expertise and a proven track record from some of the most respected names in the industry.

He started his river cruise career in 2003 with American West Steamboat Company before joining Norwegian Cruise Lines. In 2008 he went back to the small-ship river cruise sector for 15 years with Viking Cruises, American Cruise Line, and AmaWaterways. In 2022 Michael moved to Expedition Cruising as their Director, Sales and later as Director, National, Key & Strategic accounts for Hurtigruten Expeditions. He now moves back to his roots of river cruising and at VIVA Cruises.

“Michael’s experience and relationships within the market will be instrumental in driving our success and expanding our reach,” said Kruse. “I’m confident that this talented group will help us accelerate our growth, strengthen our presence, and truly inspire the North American market with everything VIVA Cruises and VIVA Boutique have to offer.”

“I am beyond excited to join VIVA Cruises,” said Weldon. “My passion is river cruising, and this brand is really a hidden gem. You may not know that much about us today…but tomorrow you will! Such an incredible product that consistently delivers and delights. I look forward to discussing VIVA with many of my North American trade partners, consortia’s, key and strategic accounts. VIVA is unique and I’m thrilled to be able to share this with all of my industry friends.”