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February 19.2026
3 Minutes Read

Unlock Luxury: Join the Contest for a Spot on Crystal Grace's Inaugural Voyage

Crystal Grace Contest cruise ship at sunset, serene ocean.

Crystal Grace: A New Dawn in Ultra-Luxury Cruising

Crystal Cruises has taken a major step toward redefining luxury at sea with the announcement of a contest designed for travel advisors, aptly named the "Book & Sail" contest. This initiative not only aims to reward travel professionals but also signals an exciting era for Crystal with its new ship, the Crystal Grace, set to debut in 2028.

Empowering Travel Advisors in a Competitive Market

Recognizing the pivotal role travel advisors play in shaping customer experiences, Crystal’s new contest provides an exceptional incentive. Matias Lira, Crystal's SVP of trade sales for the Americas, emphatically states, “Travel advisors are at the heart of Crystal’s success.” The contest encourages advisors to secure bookings and earn points based on their engagement with the brand, while simultaneously fostering a dynamic environment amidst fierce competition in the travel industry.

How the Contest Works: Earning Points for Crystal Grace

Beginning February 17 and running through March 31, 2026, the contest allows travel advisors to accumulate points for each booking. Advisors earn one point for bookings made for departures in 2027–2028, two points for 2026 bookings, and three for 2026 bookings specifically in Alaska, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean. This tiered point system not only amplifies the excitement but also incentivizes travel advisors to prioritize high-value bookings.

Building Anticipation for Crystal Grace

The unveiling of Crystal Grace marks a significant milestone as the first new ocean ship launched by Crystal in 25 years, now under the ownership of the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group—a name synonymous with travel excellence. The reveal of suite renderings showcases a commitment to ultra-luxury that promises guests an unparalleled voyage experience. With an emphasis on innovation and guest comfort, Crystal Grace aims to satisfy the sophisticated tastes of its clientele.

The Future of Cruising: What Lies Ahead

As Crystal embarks on this new journey, the cruise industry faces evolving consumer preferences, especially among younger travelers who seek more than just a vacation; they want transformation. Insights into the latest trends suggest that future cruises will increasingly incorporate sustainable practices, personalized services, and immersive experiences. Crystal's focus on engaging travel advisors through this contest may just be the beginning of a more advisor-centric approach in the evolving market.

Collective Growth Through Collaboration

The “Book & Sail” contest serves as a reminder of the synergistic relationship between travel advisors and cruise companies. By creating pathways for advisors to engage directly with their brands, companies like Crystal can enhance customer satisfaction while advancing their market presence. Crystal’s strategy encapsulates the importance of partnership and collaboration in navigating the competitive landscape of luxury travel.

The debut of Crystal Grace is not just about the ship itself; it represents a revival of luxury cruising's essence, enhanced through innovative collaborations and meaningful relationships. As travel advisors vie for a chance to be among the inaugural guests, they’ll be carrying forth not just personal ambitions but the collective vision of the future of ultra-luxury cruising.

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02.18.2026

Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Unique Travel Cruises

Update The Celebration of America’s 250th: A Unique Travel Opportunity As the United States approaches a remarkable milestone—the 250th anniversary of its independence—Princess Cruises is not missing the chance to celebrate. Launching special offers for 2026 cruises to stunning destinations like Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada/New England, the cruise line taps into the nostalgia and pride associated with this historic occasion. Available until March 17, 2026, these limited-time offers include up to $600 in savings, a modest $99 deposit requirement, and free passage for third and fourth guests on select cruises. Marie Lee, Chief Marketing Officer of Princess Cruises, stated, "It feels especially meaningful to celebrate by sailing alongside the landscapes and visiting landmarks that helped shape our nation." This points to a sentiment shared by many, as history comes alive through travel. What’s on Offer: Diverse and Enriching Cruise Experiences The "Princess Signature Sale" presents an array of options for travelers. Notable offerings include: Alaska Inside Passage: A seven-day cruise roundtrip from Seattle starting July 4, 2026, aboard Royal Princess. Canada & New England: A week-long journey beginning October 24, 2026, on Majestic Princess, leading guests through charming coastal towns. Hawaiian Islands: A luxurious 16-day cruise set to commence on November 8, 2026, on Emerald Princess, inviting guests to bask in tropical splendor. The cruise line is expected to enhance the onboard experience with themed programming and exclusive offerings, including a bouquet of culinary delights celebrating America’s diversity and culture. Exploring the Landscapes that Shaped America Princess Cruises is poised to operate its largest Alaska season ever in 2026. Featuring the debut of its newest ship, Star Princess, the expanded program will showcase eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations. It emphasizes the beauty and magnitude of Alaska’s untouched wilderness, enabling travelers to explore by sea, or combine their journeys with land tours. Among the exciting options is the 15-night National Parks Expedition Tour, combining majestic cruise adventures with eight nights spent on shore, experiencing five breathtaking national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the stunning natural beauty that defines America. Commemorative Offerings: Treasures from the Sea To commemorate the anniversary, onboard offerings will include focused themes celebrating America’s heritage. Special items like a Pendleton blanket inspired by Glacier Bay and a collector pin—“Celebrating America 250 by Princess”—will serve as keepsakes for guests. This blend of history with luxury cruising reflects today’s trend in travel, where travelers seek not just relaxation but a deeper connection with the places they visit. Actionable Insights: Make Your Travel Plans Today With such enticing options available, now is the perfect time to consider a cruise with Princess. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or planning your first adventure, these special offers provide an excellent opportunity to explore incredible destinations while celebrating a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories! As you ponder the experiences ahead, remember that travel can connect you to the story of a nation. With Princess Cruises, the adventure begins with a rich tapestry of history waiting to be explored on the high seas.

02.18.2026

Unlocking Luxury on the High Seas: Your Guide to Royal Caribbean Status Match

Update Understanding the Royal Caribbean Status Match Program The Royal Caribbean Group’s Loyalty Status Match program represents a groundbreaking initiative that ensures loyal cruisers are recognized across its various brands, including Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. As of June 2024, guests will be able to enjoy reciprocal benefits, meaning that those who have earned status within one brand can seamlessly access equivalent perks across the others. This innovative approach reflects the company’s commitment to enhancing customer loyalty within its ecosystem. The Benefits of Status Matching By participating in the status match program, guests who are members of the Crown & Anchor Society can receive tier recognition at Celebrity’s Captain’s Club and Silversea’s Venetian Society. For instance, a Pinnacle Club member from Royal Caribbean can benefit as a Zenith member within Celebrity’s program, allowing instant access to elite perks that enhance the cruise experience. A Closer Look at the Perks While the program enables loyalty points to be matched across brands, it’s essential to understand that while some benefits are consistent, distinct differences exist based on the brand. For example, Royal Caribbean offers Diamond members four complimentary drinks a day compared to Celebrity’s limited happy hour. Such variations prompt guests to consider which brand’s perks align better with their cruising preferences. What’s Not Included in Status Match? Although the status match program is comprehensive, certain exclusive benefits are not available to those who gain their status through this route. Items like milestone recognition and specific onboard events are preserved for members who have attained their status through actual sailings, ensuring that routine travelers still have a unique path to rewards. Implications for the Future of Cruising As more travelers seek brands that value their loyalty, Royal Caribbean’s initiative could set a new standard for the cruise industry. By allowing cruisers to easily transition between brands while retaining their status, the program not only fosters loyalty but also opens up various cruise experiences, making a cruise holiday more appealing for seasoned travelers. Your Next Steps If you’re considering exploring new horizons with Royal Caribbean or its sister brands, take advantage of the status match. Signing up for each brand’s loyalty program can provide you with increased perks and elevate your overall cruising experience.

02.17.2026

Elliott Investment's Stake in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings: What’s Next?

Update Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings: A New Chapter on the Horizon The recent shake-up at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) highlights the turbulent yet exciting world of the cruise industry. Following a strategic shift, activist investment group Elliott Investment Management has acquired a significant stake in the firm and is poised to make influential changes. With a new leadership structure announced last week—a departure from CEO Harry Sommer and the appointment of board member John W. Chidsey—NCLH stands at a crossroads, making it a focal point for clients and investors alike. The Implications of Elliott’s Stake Elliott Investment Management’s acquisition of over 10 percent of NCLH signals a strong intent to steer the company. Historically, Elliott has cultivated a reputation as a proactive investor, known for advocating strategic pivots in the firms it invests in. Their influence could usher in new innovations within Norwegian's offerings and possibly reshape its corporate governance to be more responsive to market needs—a necessary step in this competitive landscape. The Future Direction: New Ships, New Leadership Right on the heels of leadership changes, NCLH unveiled plans for several new ships. This decision points not just to optimism in the cruise sector’s recovery post-pandemic, but also to a long-term vision aimed at expansion. The order encompasses vessels across its three brands—Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent—adding to an industry-leading orderbook of 17 ships. Such moves anticipate growing consumer interest in cruising, especially as travel rebounds globally. Goldstein's Potential Influence Add to the mix, former Royal Caribbean International CEO Adam Goldstein, who could also step into a leadership role at NCLH. His insight and experience could prove invaluable, given his track record in transforming cruise operations and enhancing guest experience. Leveraging Goldstein's perspective within NCLH’s board could solidify its strategies moving forward, addressing both operational efficiency and customer engagement. What's Next for NCLH? All eyes will be on NCLH as it approaches its earnings call on March 2. Investors and industry watchers alike are keen to glean insights into the company’s future plans. As these developments unfold, NCLH may not only reinvent its strategy but also set a precedent for how cruise lines can successfully innovate within a fast-evolving market. Why Keep an Eye on NCLH? For those involved in travel, investment, or the cruise industry, these changes could signal a significant shift in how cruising operates. Understanding the implications of Elliott’s involvement and the company’s directional changes could provide valuable insights into future travel trends as well as investment opportunities. It's an evolving narrative that underscores the dynamism within the cruise sector. As NCLH navigates these changes, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged with developments that could reshape the cruising experience for everyone.

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