Cruise lines are moving through the gears as vacations get going again. Here’s some of this week’s news that will boost our spirits.
Ice Queen Crystal Endeavor sets sail at last
Crystal’s new expedition yacht, Crystal Endeavor, has set sail from Reykjavík on her belated maiden voyage – the first of five Iceland circumnavigations.
The 20,200-ton vessel carries just 200 passengers, and Crystal president Jack Anderson promises guests “experiences beyond anything they’ve experienced before”. www.crystalcruises.com
Scotland welcomes first UK-only sailing following lifting of COVID restrictions
Noble Caledonia’s Island Sky became the first passenger vessel to visit Scotland since early last year, arriving in Shetland on Monday morning (19 July).
Her arrival followed the lifting of COVID restrictions by the Scottish and English governments the same day.
Island Sky berthed at Lerwick’s Victoria Pier with just 66 passengers on board – half her normal capacity – during her cruise of the British Isles.
Saga’s Spirit of Adventure named in Portsmouth
On the same day Saga’s Spirit of Adventure was christened at a special ceremony in Portsmouth.
Commodore Inga Kennedy, who recently retired as head of the Royal Navy Medical Service, did the honours by smashing a jeroboam of English sparkling wine against the ship’s hull.
The celebrations were streamed live on YouTube and Saga’s Facebook page. https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/ocean.aspx
Crystal launches seven-night Luxury Bermuda Escapes in August
Crystal Symphony is to sail from Boston and New York on a new series of seven-night Luxury Bermuda Escapes starting in August.
The first four voyages will depart round-trip from Flynn Cruiseport Boston beginning 22 August followed by nine round-trip departures from New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal starting 24 September. www.crystalcruises.com
MSC Virtuosa to be named in Dubai in November
The naming of MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC Virtuosa, will take place in Dubai on 27 November at Mina Rashid (Port Rashid). The glittering christening celebration will be attended the global travel trade and world’s media. www.msccruises.com