From seaweed-forward dining to full ship transformations, cruise brands are rolling out a wave of new enhancements. Atlas Ocean Voyages is introducing flexible booking options, Windstar Cruises has completed a full transformation of Wind Star and Hurtigruten is spotlighting seaweed as a core part of its onboard culinary program.
Atlas Ocean Voyages Launches Atlas Assurance Program
Atlas Ocean Voyages has introduced Atlas Assurance, a new booking program that gives guests flexibility when reserving 2026 voyages.
The program lets travelers cancel for any reason up to 15 days before departure and receive a Future Cruise Credit equal to 100 percent of the cruise fare paid. Guests can then rebook without losing the value of their original fare.
“Atlas Assurance also serves as a powerful tool for our travel advisor partners. It gives them added confidence when recommending Atlas to their most valued clients, knowing they can offer meaningful flexibility and peace of mind throughout the booking process,” said Kristian C. Anderson, Executive VP, Global Sales, in a media statement.
Atlas Assurance applies to new 2026 bookings across the Arctic, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Guests can apply Future Cruise Credits to new bookings within 12 months for travel through Dec. 31, 2027. The program applies to reservations made between April 20 and May 15, 2026, with full payment required before cancellation.
For more information, visit atlasoceanvoyages.com.
Windstar Cruises Completes Wind Star Transformation
Windstar Cruises completed a full transformation of Wind Star, marking a major milestone in its multi-year Setting Sails refurbishment program.
Windstar redesigned the signature restaurant, Amphora, with new furnishings and updated seating layouts. It also refurbished Veranda with a new buffet concept that improves flow and enhances the guest dining experience.
Earlier upgrades included high-traffic areas, such as the lobby, the Compass Rose Lounge, the Yacht Club Cafe and the pool deck. The line also enhanced the spa and fitness center.
Guest accommodations featured new headboards, lighting and technology upgrades such as improved connectivity and in-room entertainment systems. The Owner’s Suite also received a full redesign.
Across the yacht, new artwork, lighting, audio systems and teak decking was added to refresh the ship while preserving its signature “home at sea” atmosphere. Wind Star’s completion advances its broader fleet evolution. Wind Surf and Wind Spirit will complete their upgrades in December 2026 and March 2027.
For more information, visit windstarcruises.com.
Hurtigruten Highlights Seaweed as Culinary and Wellness Focus
Hurtigruten is using seaweed as a key ingredient across its onboard culinary and wellness programming, aligning with demand for locally sourced and destination-driven cruise experiences.
The line integrates seaweed into its Coastal Kitchen concept, which focuses on fresh ingredients sourced along Norway’s coastline. Seaweed appears in about 20 percent of onboard dishes, including soups, pasta, bread and fine dining menus, where chefs use it to enhance flavor and reflect Nordic culinary traditions.
Hurtigruten also featured seaweed in its beverage program, using seaweed-infused gin and beer created with local producers in Arctic Norway. The ingredient extends into onboard amenities such as bath and body products, creating a consistent guest experience across dining, drinks and wellness.
For more information, visit hurtigruten.com.
