A look at what’s next for cruise travel reveals new destinations, new amenities and a slew of new adventures for everyone on your client list.
Cruise in Style
PONANT EXPLORATIONS is opening bookings for 64 new departures aboard its small-capacity ships in summer 2027, broadening its Mediterranean and Atlantic programs. The season adds fresh itineraries across Italy, Greece, Spain, Morocco and the Atlantic islands, including Madeira and the Azores.
Le Ponant, the Relais & Chateaux sailing yacht accommodating 32 guests in 16 staterooms, will present two new Italian itineraries. The 300-foot vessel features panoramic sea views, an outdoor bar and spa treatments by Biologique Recherche. Under Sail from the Riviera to Sicily runs Nice-Palermo, June 1-8, and Palermo-Nice, Aug. 24-31. Under Sail from Puglia to Sicily sails Dubrovnik-Palermo, Aug. 17-24.
Le Boreal introduces shorter 5-night Mediterranean cruises for 2027, with Barcelona-Nice, Nice-Civitavecchia, Palermo-La Valette and Nice-Livorno departures between May and October.
PONANT EXPLORATIONS also returns to the Azores, adding Madalena and Angra do Heroismo as new ports. Voyages include The Essential Azores, July 15-22, and Madeira and the Azores, July 7-15 and July 22-30.
For more information, visit us.ponant.com.
Exploring the Great White South
Atlas Ocean Voyages will introduce a new enrichment program aboard World Traveller’s Mar. 6, 2026, Antarctica expedition. The program brings together photographer and filmmaker Karim Iliya and sustainability leader Bjork Brynjars, founder of Melta, offering your clients insight into environmental stewardship, creativity and polar exploration. Selected as a President’s Preferred Voyage by James A. Rodriguez, President and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages, the sailing emphasizes artistic and ecological engagement.
Iliya, a member of The Explorers Club and co-founder of Kogia, has documented wildlife in more than 45 countries, with work featured in National Geographic and BBC Earth. He will lead a Photography Masterclass focused on ethical techniques and visual storytelling in polar settings.
Brynjars, known for her regenerative environmental work in Iceland, will present “From Iceland’s Highlands to Antarctica’s Shores,” drawing parallels between the two ecosystems. Additional programming includes a panel on art and exploration and a guest photography exhibit at the end of the voyage.
Throughout the sailing, both expedition partners will join Zodiac outings and wildlife observations. Fares include a 20 percent Bonus Savings. With the Explorer’s Choice offer, clients may choose one complimentary amenity: $2,000 Air Credit, a Land Program in Buenos Aires or Unlimited Wi-Fi.
For more information, visit atlasoceanvoyages.com.
Fort Lauderdale News
Celebrity Xcel, the latest addition to Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series, has arrived in Fort Lauderdale, introducing seven new concepts designed through the Xcel Dream Makers program, which invited input from travelers worldwide. The ship integrates guest feedback into culinary, entertainment and design features.
Among its new spaces is The Bazaar, a 3-story venue that shifts throughout the day with local-style dining, live music and itineraries themed to each destination. The rooftop restaurant Bora offers a daytime brunch and, in the evening, transforms into a Mediterranean-inspired dinner venue with tableside preparation.
The Celebrity Pool Club introduces private cabanas and a new poolside valet service, while Attic at The Club creates a late-night social lounge with retro arcade games, pool and darts. Celebrity’s first Flagship store combines interactive retail with museum-style exhibits, with exclusive branded merchandise available only onboard. The Spa debuts the line’s first Hydra Room and expands its wellness offerings to eight experiences, including an outdoor Vitamin D Deck accessible for open-air relaxation.
Celebrity Xcel begins 7-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale, visiting The Bahamas, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas and St. Maarten. In summer 2026, it will reposition to Europe for itineraries between Barcelona and Athens, including overnight stays in Madeira.
For more information, visit celebritycruises.com.
