cruise ships into new plymouth

New Plymouth in New Zealand

New plymouth.

New Plymouth is a city located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand’s North Island. It is the largest city in the region and is situated on the western coast of the island, overlooking the Tasman Sea. The city is known for its stunning coastline, which features dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, and lush forests. The city’s population is around 70,000 people and it is a popular tourist destination. New Plymouth was founded in 1841 by the New Zealand Company and was the first planned settlement in the country. The city was named after Plymouth in England, and the two cities still share a strong connection. The city was an important port during the gold rush of the 1860s, and it was also the site of the first New Zealand Rugby Union match in 1876. New Plymouth is home to the iconic Mount Taranaki, an active volcano that rises from the surrounding plains. The mountain has been an important part of the city’s culture and is featured in the city’s official logo. The city is also home to the Pukekura Park, a large public park that features beautiful gardens, a lake, and a variety of wildlife. New Plymouth is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. It is a popular destination for tourists, with its stunning coastline, lush forests, and iconic mountain. The city is also home to a variety of museums, galleries, and other attractions, making it a great place to explore and experience New Zealand’s history and culture.

Excursion tips for a day in New Plymouth

Experience New Plymouth with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit New Plymouth. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in New Plymouth

New Plymouth in New Zealand experiences mild temperatures and moderate rainfall throughout the year. In summer (December to February), temperatures range from 16-25°C, with humidity levels rising in January. Autumn (March to May) sees temperatures range from 8-19°C and rainfall increases. Winter (June to August) is generally cool and wet, with temperatures ranging from 6-13°C and rainfall around 200mm. Spring (September to November) is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C and rainfall decreasing.

Cruise weather for New Plymouth

Our weather forecast for New Plymouth helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Cruises to New Plymouth

Would you like to travel to New Plymouth on a cruise ship or would you just like to know when a certain ship will dock there? Here you will find an overview of the cruise ships that will be calling at the port of New Plymouth.

Scheduled ship calls in New Plymouth, New Zealand

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Cruises from/to New Plymouth, New Zealand

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• Visitors should definitely pay a visit to the beautiful Pukekura Park that is found in the center of the city. The garden has been named as a Garden of National Significance. It has a diverse range of exotic and native plants. Some of them are endemic to the region.  
• Adventurers and fun loving visitors should definitely visit Mount Taranaki, which is also known as Mount Egmont. The mountain provides a host of recreational activities that would keep visitors engaged. The mountain allows for skiing, rock climbing, and snowboarding among other activities.  
• Art fanatics should visit the Len Lye Center that was opened in 2015. It is a contemporary art museum and boasts being an interesting museum that is completely dedicated to a person, film maker and artist, Len Lye. The museum exhibits collections of the artist’s works.  
• Visitors should not miss out on the opportunity to visit the city’s Puke Ariki, which is the world’s first fully-integrated museum, visitor information center, and library all built in one structure. Additionally, it has a café and the venue won an award in 2003 for the creativity behind its design.

Top 10 Cruises to New Plymouth, New Zealand

• Silver Nova 32 NIGHT Expedition CRUISE Departing From Cairns, Australia (Nov 2024)
• Silver Nova 16 NIGHT Australia CRUISE Departing From Sydney, Australia (Dec 2024 - Jan 2025)
• Silver Nova 34 NIGHT World CRUISE Departing From Auckland, New Zealand (Jan 2025)
• Silver Nova 22 NIGHT Australia CRUISE Departing From Auckland, New Zealand (Jan 2026)

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New Plymouth, New Zealand

What began in the19th century as a trading post on Mãori land is now New Plymouth, a city renowned for its beautiful parks, botanical gardens and coastal walkway, ideal for exploring on foot or bike.    

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Home » News » American Cruise Lines ship to dock in Plymouth Harbor this summer

American Cruise Lines ship to dock in Plymouth Harbor this summer

In the Press

June 16, 2023

Old Colony Memorial Courtesy See Plymouth

Published 5:17 a.m. June 16, 2023

PLYMOUTH – The town and American Cruise Lines have agreed to schedule overnight cruise ship visits to Plymouth Harbor this summer.

The pilot program will consist of three small-ship cruises to Plymouth on Aug. 19, Aug. 26 and Sept. 2 on the cruise line’s “Cape Codder” itinerary. Stops also include ports in Boston, Gloucester, Martha’s Vineyard, New Bedford, Provincetown and Newport, Rhode Island. More stops in Plymouth are planned for 2024.

This summer’s cruises will be aboard a new ship, the 100-passenger American Eagle. The first cruise, leaving Boston on Aug. 14 and landing in Plymouth on Aug. 19, will be the ship’s inaugural cruise.

The Plymouth port calls represent the next step in an ongoing relationship between the town and the cruise line, which has been offering regularly scheduled visits to Plymouth via motorcoach from Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay.

The door was opened to visits from major cruise lines after harbor dredging was completed ahead of the 400th anniversary of the landing of the Mayflower in 2020. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began dredging in 2018.

“Plymouth is proud to expand our partnership with American Cruise Lines and appreciate the support from our maritime community,” Town Manager Derek Brindisi said. “Docking in the harbor and spending the night will increase business in our downtown waterfront area and give passengers the opportunity to explore Plymouth.”

Lea Filson, president/CEO of See Plymouth, said, “This is a great opportunity to grow tourism, the No. 1 industry in the town and county of Plymouth. We welcome the additional visitors who will dine in our restaurants, visit our shops and attractions and enjoy our history.”

Nine incredible cruise ships will be visiting Plymouth this summer

Plymouth has pledged to get serious about cruising with 2022 set to be a bumper year for visits to Britain’s Ocean City.

• 05:30, 14 MAR 2022

Nine cruise ships have already been confirmed as visiting Plymouth this summer.

After a successful cruise re-start in 2021 with seven cruise ships visiting following the pandemic, Plymouth will welcome a diverse range of vessels this year.

Read More - Disney Magic cruise ship coming back to Plymouth in 2022

The cruise ships include:

Noble Caledonia Cruise Line’ expedition vessel Ocean Nova

Built in Denmark in 1992, the Ocean Nova was completely refurbished in 2006 and now operates as a small expedition ship, accommodating up to 84 passengers

Seabourn Ovation

Seabourn Ovation , the sister-ship to the already prestigious Seabourn Encore . Makers say Seabourn Ovation represents another welcome stage in the evolution of small-ship cruising.

Hebridean Princess

Hebridean Princess cruises the magnificent Scottish Highlands and Islands and beyond. Carrying a maximum of just 50 guests, her small size means she can reach secluded ports out of the reach of larger ships.

Vasco da Gama of Niko Cruises

VASCO DA GAMA has a wide range of different bars and restaurants in an exclusive setting, lots of public space with a modern interior and design elements. On board, you'll find a full range of equipment for spa, fitness and your personal leisure activities.

Disney Magic

Created with the entire family in mind, the company says Disney Magic combines classic nostalgia and modern amenities with Disney’s signature service. It offers spacious staterooms and first-rate dining. From bow to stern, set sail for unforgettable storytelling that only Disney could bring to life.

Holland America Line’s Niew Rotterdam

Rotterdam hits all the right notes: exquisite dining, innovative entertainment, superbly appointed staterooms and suites, the finest service and craftsmanship that reflects nearly 150 years of expertise. Music is front and centre on Rotterdam and the result is a ship that moves—not only through water, but through the hearts of guests. With world-class dining and the best live music at sea, this new cruise ship creates the soundtrack to the discoveries you’ll make each day.

Amadea of Phoenix Reisen

MS Amadea is a cruise ship owned by Amadea Shipping Company and operated under charter by the Germany-based Phoenix Reisen, The Amadea contains 2 royal suites, 40 suites, and 254 cabins. 106 cabins have a private balcony.

But now more volunteers are needed to provide a warm welcome to the visiting passengers as they step ashore.

The city’s Cruise Ambassador Volunteers greet cruise visitors as they arrive and share information and advice about what to see and do in Plymouth.

Destination Plymouth and the Cruise Ambassador Volunteer team are holding an open day next week where local people with an interest and passion in Plymouth can come along to find out more about what’s involved in being a representative.

The open day, sponsored by and hosted at the New Continental Hotel, takes place on Wednesday, March 16, between 11am to 1pm. There’s no need to book, anyone that’s interested is welcome to turn up on the day.

The day will include a presentation about the cruise industry by Glen Gardner, Cruise Development Manager for Destination Plymouth, who was appointed last year.

Cruise Ambassador lead and volunteer Douglas Kerr will also give an overview about what’s involved, and attendees can meet other members of the volunteer team, learn about different types of ships, berthing and attractions, and sign up to the next training session which takes place on April 13.

Destination Plymouth, working with key city partners Associated British Ports, Cattewater Harbour Commissioners, Plymouth Waterfront Partnership and Plymouth City Centre Company, now aims to increase both the number of cruise visits and the financial and reputational benefits that come with each visit, year on year.

Cruise tourism brings additional revenues through passengers and crew spending on everything from visiting attractions, taking tours, buying gifts, eating in cafes and restaurants and taking boat trips. It also generates port revenues for berthing, pilotage, harbour fees and staff, creating potential new employment opportunities.

Amanda Lumley, chief executive of Destination Plymouth said: “Plymouth has historically provided a warm welcome to passengers and visitors by sea even from the time of the Mayflower. We want to ensure that everyone who comes to the city feels like they have had a great experience and wants to come back and visit again.

“The Cruise Ambassador team led by Douglas Kerr have been invaluable providing local knowledge, guidance, enthusiasm and a warm welcome to visiting ships over the past few years. This is a great opportunity to join them if you are passionate about showcasing Britain’s Ocean City.”

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Plymouth prepares to welcome over 10,000 passengers in 2024

The English city is expecting maiden port calls from several cruise ships, including two Ambassador Cruise Line vessels 

One Plymouth

By Laura Hyde | 13 February 2024

The English city of Plymouth expects to welcome over 10,000 cruise passengers in 2024, following a 40 per cent increase in bookings from 2023. 

The port city has 14 cruise ships already confirmed to call this year, including several ships which will visit for the first time. Ambassador Cruise Line’s ships, Ambition and Ambience, will make maiden calls in April and June respectively.  

Other ships calling at Plymouth for the first time in 2024 include Seabourn’s expedition vessel, Seabourn Venture, Exploris Cruises’ Exploris One, Windstar Cruises’ Star Legend and Ponant Cruises’ Le Dumont d’Urville. 

Cruise ships returning to the port include: Silversea Cruises’ Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit, Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Sirena, Seabourn’s Seabourn Sojourn, and German operator Phoenix Reisen’s vessels, Artania, Amadea and Amera. 

Phoenix Reisen’s Amera will return to Plymouth in 2024

The port will welcome the first cruise ship in April and has bookings scheduled monthly until October, with cruise lines from the UK, USA, Germany and France represented. It also has more visits in the pipeline for 2024 and is receiving enquiries for 2025 and 2026. 

Plymouth has been visited by seafarers, adventurers and explorers for centuries

Cruise guests will be greeted by Cruise Plymouth Ambassador volunteers and the town crier and will be able to watch performances of Plymouth Maritime Corps of Drums. The welcome experience is supported by Plymouth Waterfront Partnership. 

“Plymouth, ‘Britain’s Ocean City’, has been working hard to cement our reputation as a must-see port of call and a great many people are busy behind the scenes to make these cruise visits a huge success,” said Amanda Lumley, Destination Plymouth’s chief executive. “We’re delighted to say the city has already achieved a reputation within the industry as one of the most welcoming ports for cruise ship visits. One passenger from Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Discovery said that, having been on over 50 cruises around the world, the welcome provided in Plymouth was ‘one of the best’ they had seen.” 

Tags: ports and destinations     News     Plymouth

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New Plymouth, New Zealand (NZNPL)

Port of New Plymouth is located in New Zealand at 39.0525S, 174.0462E. 5 vessels have arrived within the past 24 hours and 2 ships are expected to arrive in the next 30 days.

Port time: Apr 20, 02:03

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Port of New Plymouth vessel arrivals, departures, scheduled arrivals and ships in port are detected by processing of AIS data. Weather data is based on GFS model (NCEP/NWS). The data is for informational purposes only and VesselFinder is not responsible for the accuracy and reliability of Port of New Plymouth data.

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A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels.

Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.

See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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‘It’s disheartening’: Plymouth Harbor lobstermen brace for impact of cruise ship surge

Cruise dockings are set to surge this summer in plymouth, where lobstermen are concerned a short season could grow even shorter.

P LYMOUTH — On a cold, rainy afternoon last month, lobstermen Tom O’Reilly and Kurt Holmes walked out to a nearly empty pier overlooking Plymouth Harbor.

It’s quiet here in the winter, but the public pier quickly becomes crowded in the warmer months as fishermen, lobstermen, shellfishermen, and charter boats crowd in, all vying to load and unload catch at the three publicly provided winches.

This spring, users of the pier will often have a new obstacle to face: a cruise ship. And they worry the tourist vessels could upset the delicate balance of Plymouth’s working waterfront.

“We’re very functional right now,” said Holmes, president of the Plymouth Commercial Fishermen Association. “But it doesn’t take much to shake that up.”

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Last summer, cruise ships came to Plymouth for the first time in decades, with three pilot dockings by American Cruise Lines , a “small ship” cruise operator that’s adding Plymouth to its itinerary of summer stops in New England coastal towns.

To the town, it’s an injection of tourist dollars — American Cruise Lines claims its average passenger spends $175 per day at restaurants and stores on dry land. But to fishermen like Holmes, the ships represent wasted time and lost product by making it even harder to access the narrow passage to the harbor’s three winches.

After pleading with the town and American Cruise Lines to make accommodations, the Plymouth Commercial Fishermen Association, which has 85 boat members, felt left in a lurch as neither the town nor American Cruise Lines granted their concessions.

In January, the Plymouth Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to allow the cruise line to come more often, permitting 23 visits between May and the end of October. As part of the agreement, the cruise line will pay the town $3,000 per stop between May 11 and June 15 and $2,000 per stop thereafter when the prime fishing season is through. But Holmes’ fisherman’s group urged more accommodations to enable fishing to coexist with cruises. They got nowhere.

So now, the Plymouth association is threatening legal action.

“I’ve been so upfront in the forefront of this — I’m just so tired,” said O’Reilly. “Fighting everything, constantly.”

The main cause for concern, O’Reilly said, is clogging up the pier at the beginning of what is a relatively short season. Fishing grounds are closed for about three months beginning in February due to whale activity in Cape Cod Bay, after which the lobstermen scramble to get their traps into the water before lobsters begin their molting season in June and are no longer as active in the water. Lobstermen also find it highly profitable during this period due to a winter shortage, with the supply yet to recover in the summer.

But even the date they can return, Holmes said, is fluid, hard to predict, and depends largely on the whales. As they prepare their equipment, they wait for an email from the state that gives them the go-ahead at 9 p.m. the night before the closure ends. The reopening date is typically anywhere from May 1 to May 16.

Right when the cruise ships arrive.

Initially, O’Reilly said, the town promised a blackout on cruises from May to June 15. But the cruise line argued they would lose out on a third of their season.

The fishermen then asked if the cruise ship could dock in the harbor and ferry passengers in rather than pulling up to the pier. That didn’t work either: the cruise line argued that their clientele tends to be older, and getting on and off a small boat would be difficult.

Now, the cruise line says it would not interfere with the town winches. Both O’Reilly and Holmes said they would wait and see.

O’Reilly questioned if the town was looking out for the economic input the fishermen create each year. Plymouth’s commercial lobster fleet brings in over $4.3 million alone, he said, with fishing overall generating over $10 million.

“We are not against the cruise ship at all,” said O’Reilly. “But how many people can go that long without a paycheck?”

American Cruise Lines, the largest river cruise line in the country, says there shouldn’t be much overlap. Alexa Paolella, a spokeswoman for the company, says American Cruise Lines are not the massive vessels that big cruises evoke. The vessel visiting Plymouth is compact, holding only 100 passengers interested in curated experiences on land. Two of its itineraries — the Yankee Seaports Cruise and the Cape Codder Cruise — will stop at Plymouth, part of an eight-day voyage that costs between $5,000 and $7,000.

According to Chad Hunter, the Plymouth harbormaster, in preparation for the town’s 400th anniversary in 2020, the harbor was dredged to allow historic tall ships and other large vessels to enter. The $18 million federally-funded project followed a town-funded project to redo the nearly 100-year-old pier in 2017.

Town Manager Derek Brindisi said adding a cruise line to the port is part of Plymouth’s economic vision and plan. Ultimately, they want to expand cruise visits by taking ownership of the harbor’s state-owned pier, which holds the Mayflower II and is steps from Plymouth Rock.

He acknowledged that things could get tight this summer but said the impact should be minimal.

“There may be a stressful day or two during that period,” said Derek Brindisi. “The Selectmen say we can overcome one or two days. We are not trying to overcome an entire six-week window. I think people lose sight of that.”

But to lobstermen like Dan Holmes — Kurt Holmes’s cousin and a former president of the Commercial Fisherman Association — it’s not just about a few days but a way of life. He grew up lobstering with his grandfather and uncle, and his family still owns five boats in Plymouth Harbor, but he’s not sure he’d recommend his children, who are in college, continue with it.

“The fishing industry is there if they choose it. We haven’t given up hope yet,” Holmes said. “But, honestly, the way the regulations are going, I would not push them but encourage them to go in a different direction. It’s a great life, but it’s a hard life.”

And he worries the cruise ships will make it harder. For two years, he has sat in late-night meetings, voicing concerns not just about the ships’ impact on lobstermen but on the harbor itself, to no avail. Lobstermen like him have had to deal with new regulations, new gear, fishing ground closures, and now this in their own home port.

“We’re fighting the feds, we’re fighting the state, we’re fighting the whale people,” said Dan Holmes. “You would think the town would have our back, and they don’t, and it’s disheartening.”

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• Devon's Plymouth Port anticipates record cruise ship visits in...

Devon's Plymouth Port anticipates record cruise ship visits in 2024

Devon UK, is preparing to welcome 14 cruise ships carrying 10,000+ passengers this year, signaling a significant increase in maritime activity. Plymouth has experienced a notable surge in bookings, boasting a 40% rise compared to last year, solidifying its status as a premier destination for cruise voyages.

Among the 14 ships scheduled to dock in Plymouth in 2024 are several making their inaugural visits to the city. Notable vessels include Ambassador Cruise Line 's Ambition and Ambience , as well as expedition ships like Seabourn Venture , Exploris One , Star Legend , and Le Dumont D'urville .

Luxury liners such as Silver Dawn , Silver Spirit , Sirena , and Seabourn Sojourn will also grace the port, alongside German operator Phoenix Reisen 's Artania , Amadea , and Amera . The cruise season kicks off in April, with bookings extending monthly until October, featuring a diverse array of cruise lines from the USA, Germany, France, and the UK.

The burgeoning cruise line business is expected to provide a substantial boost to the city's economy and job market. Tourism leaders emphasize that the arrival of cruise ships brings significant economic benefits, as passengers indulge in various activities such as tours, shopping, and dining.

Furthermore, the port stands to benefit financially from fees associated with ship parking and navigation services. Plymouth has gained a reputation for its warm hospitality, with volunteers welcoming visitors, a town crier adding to the charm, and even a lively drum band enhancing the overall experience for cruise passengers and tourists alike.

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Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

8 new ships coming to Norwegian Cruise Line, sister brands plus dock at Great Stirrup Cay

O RLANDO, Fla. — The parent company to Norwegian Cruise Line announced Monday a major order for eight new ships among its three brands as well as the construction of a pier to allow its cruise ships to dock instead of tender to its private Bahamas island for the first time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings said it was planning to bring on four new ships for NCL, two new ships for upper premium brand Oceania Cruises and two ships for luxury brand Regent Seven Seas, all to be built at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and debut during a 10-year run from 2026-2036.

The NCL ships would be the largest ever built for the line at around 200,000 gross tons and capacity of about 5,000 guests. They won’t arrive until after the final delivery of its Prima-Plus class ships expected between 2025-2028, the larger sister ships to the Norwegian Prima and Viva that debuted in the last couple of years. The four ships from the unnamed class of vessel would arrive in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036.

The new class for Oceania Cruises, which in 2023 debuted its first new ship in more than a decade — the Oceania Allura — will also be the largest ever built for the line at 86,000 gross tons and a capacity of 1,450 guests. They’re expected in 2027 and 2029.

And the Regent Seven Seas fleet’s new vessels will also be larger coming in at 77,000 gross tons with a capacity of 850 guests. They’re expected in 2026 and 2029. Regent just debuted the third of its Explorer class ships in December 2023.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” said NCLH president and CEO Harry Sommer in a press release. “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

No other details about the ships were released. Financing is already in place to fund 80% of the cost for the four ships among the Oceania and Regent orders, but financing for the four NCL ships is not finalized.

The eight ships expects to add 25,000 more to the three cruise lines’ passenger capacity.

In addition, the line is set to construct a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the popular Bahamas private destination visited by all three brands. The move follows the introduction of a dock that can support two Oasis-class vessels at neighboring Perfect Day at Coco Cay for Royal Caribbean while other private Bahamas destinations including Disney’s Castaway Cay and its new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point feature tenderless docks for easy access.

“We are likewise excited with the addition of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay to support our increased capacity in the Caribbean and multiple ships to call on the island, enhancing our guest experience and bringing seamless and reliable access to our private island year-round,” Sommer said.

___________

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit at orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

This major cruise line operator just announced its biggest ship order ever

One of the world’s leading cruise operators unveiled its biggest ship order ever on Monday.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. will take delivery of eight ships between 2026 and 2036 across its three brands. 

Norwegian Cruise Line will welcome four ships in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036, each with a capacity of close to 5,000 guests. The additions are subject to financing.

The vessels will follow the line’s previously announced Prima-Plus class vessels.

The upscale Oceania Cruises will take delivery of two 1,450-guest ships in 2027 and 2029, and luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises will add two ships in 2026 and 2029, each accommodating 850 passengers.

"This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” Harry Sommer, the company’s president and CEO, said in a news release . “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

Specifics about the ships’ accommodations and amenities will be announced “in the coming months,” according to the release.

The company will also add a new multi-ship pier at its private Bahamas island, Great Stirrup Cay, scheduled for completion by late 2025. The pier will be able to accommodate two large ships at once.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Nearly 50 pounds of meth found in ice chest full of dead fish as car tries to cross into US from Mexico

The seizures are the result of a new initiative called Operation Apollo.

Almost 50 pounds of methamphetamine found in an ice chest full of fish has been discovered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers during a routine screening of a vehicle trying to cross the U.S.-Mexico border.

The discovery took place on Sunday evening at approximately 8:39 p.m. when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers encountered a 34-year-old man who was driving a 2021 sedan through the SENTRI (Secure Electronic Network for Travelers Rapid Inspection) lane as he was trying to enter the United States at the Calexico West Port of Entry in southern California and authorities referred the driver and vehicle for further examination, according to a statement released by CBP officials on Wednesday.

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“In the secondary inspection area, a non-intrusive inspection of the vehicle was conducted,” authorities said. “CBP officers utilized the port’s imaging system to screen the vehicle and observed irregularities within an ice chest found in the vehicle’s trunk. A CBP K-9 team responded and alerted to the presence of narcotics.”

Once CBP officers had access to the vehicle, they discovered and extracted a total of 25 packages from the ice chest, the contents of which were tested and identified as methamphetamine, with a total weight of 47.13 pounds.

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The subject was immediately turned over to the custody of Homeland Security Investigations for further investigation and the narcotics from the vehicle were seized, CBP said.

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“Drug traffickers will go to great lengths in attempt to deceive our officers,” said Roque Caza, Calexico Area Port Director. “I’m proud of our highly trained officers working diligently every day to combat these dangerous drugs that have claimed so many lives.”

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These seizures are the result of Operation Apollo, which CBP says is a “holistic counter-fentanyl effort that began on October 26, 2023 in southern California, and expanded to Arizona on April 10, 2024.”

Operation Apollo focuses on intelligence collection and partnerships, and utilizes local CBP field assets augmented by federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial partners to boost resources, increase collaboration, and target the smuggling of fentanyl into the United States, CBP said.

The identity of the suspect involved in this case has not been released and the investigation is currently ongoing.

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Middle East conflict

April 14, 2024 - Iran's attack on Israel

By Jerome Taylor, Heather Chen , James Legge, Sophie Tanno, Emma Tucker , Kaanita Iyer , Paul LeBlanc , Catherine Nicholls, Maureen Chowdhury , Antoinette Radford and Eve Rothenberg, CNN

Our live coverage of Iran's attack on Israel has moved  here .

India calls on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board seized container ship 

From CNN's Sandi Sidhu in Hong Kong 

India has called on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board a container ship seized by Iran on Saturday. 

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that he spoke to his Iranian counterpart Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and "took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries."

Four Filipino seamen were also on board the ship, according to the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers.

The department said it was working with its government, the ship owner, and the operator to release the captured seafarers.

On Saturday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked container ship in a helicopter operation near the Strait of Hormuz, state news agency IRNA reported. 

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) said there were 25 crew members on board.

Japanese prime minister condemns Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Junko Ogura in Tokyo 

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday said he "strongly condemns" Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel.

"(The attack) further aggravates the current situation in the Middle East. We are deeply concerned and strongly condemn such an escalation," Kishida told reporters.

Kishida said Japan would continue diplomatic efforts to "prevent the situation from worsening and to calm the situation down," and "respond in cooperation with other countries."

Blinken calls British and German counterparts following Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Philip Wang 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with his counterparts from the United Kingdom and Germany on Sunday following Iran's attack on Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

All parties agreed "the importance of condemning Iran's attack in the strongest possible terms and preventing further escalation," the readout said. 

Blinken earlier held phone calls with his counterparts from Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia , in which he emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the Middle East and of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

US forces destroyed more than 80 attack drones from Iran and Yemen, Central Command says

From CNN's Philip Wang

US forces intercepted more than 80 one-way attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles from Iran and Yemen during its attack on Israel, according to a statement from the Central Command.

The operation included destroying a ballistic missile on its launcher vehicle and seven drones on the ground in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, CENTCOM said. 

"Iran's continued unprecedented, malign, and reckless behavior endangers regional stability and the safety of U.S. and coalition forces," the statement added. 

Israeli and Iranian ambassadors trade accusations during UN Security Council session

From Abel Alvarado in Atlanta

Israel and Iran’s United Nations ambassadors condemned each other’s actions during Sunday’s UN Security Council emergency session called to address Iran’s attack on Israel.

Israel’s UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said Iran "must be stopped before it drives the world to a point of no return, to a regional war that can escalate to a world war." Erdan accused Iran of seeking world domination and that its attack proved that Tehran "cares nothing, nothing for Islam or Muslims" before pulling out a tablet to show a video of Israel intercepting Iranian drones above Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Erdan called on the UN Security Council to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror organization.

“Action must be taken now, not for Israel's sake, not for the region's sake, but for the world's sake. Stop Iran today."

Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said his country’s operation was "entirely in the exercise of Iran’s inherent right to self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and recognized by international law."

Iravani said:

"This concluded action was necessary and proportionate," adding that the operation was “precise and only targeted military objectives” to reduce the potential of escalation and to prevent civilian harm. “Iran is never seeking to contribute to the spillover of the conflict in the region, nor does it to escalate or spread the tension to the entire region," he said.

Tehran’s attack had been anticipated since  a suspected Israeli strike  on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria earlier this month.

Iravani added Iran has “no intention of engaging in conflict with the US in the region” but warned Iran will use its “inherent right to respond proportionately” should the US initiate a military operation against “Iran, its citizens or its security.”

Israeli war cabinet says it's ready to respond to Iran's attack but delays immediate action. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

The hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack , an Israeli official said.

The cabinet is determined to respond — but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

Separately, a senior Biden administration official told reporters that an Israeli official told the United States that it's not looking to significantly escalate the showdown with Iran.

CNN analyst Barak Ravid said Israeli ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot advocated for swift action, but US President Joe Biden's phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led to a decision to delay the response until the next day. 

Here are the latest headlines:

• Retaliation is over, Iran told US: Iran privately messaged the United States that its retaliation against Israel had concluded, echoing what Tehran said publicly, according to a senior administration official. Late Saturday, Iran said its attack on Israel is a response to Israel's strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, and "the matter can be deemed concluded." However, President Ebrahim Raisi said any “new aggression against the interests of the Iranian nation will be met with a heavier and regrettable response,” according to Iran’s state news channel IRIB. 
• United Nations response: UN Secretary-General António Guterres  called for a de-escalation of violence after Iran’s attack. Guterres said the United Nations and member countries have a “shared responsibility” to engage “all parties concerned to prevent further escalation.” He also called for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “Neither the region nor the world can afford more war,” he said.
• G7 and others: Amid a flurry of diplomatic activity in response to Iran's attack, the G7 nations said they would work together to "stabilize the situation" in the Middle East, according to a statement from Biden. Also, Jordan summoned Iran's ambassador in Amman on Sunday after it intercepted Iranian drones over the country.
• Meanwhile in Gaza: As thousands of Palestinians were turned away from returning to their homes in northern Gaza on Sunday, a 5-year-old girl was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers, her mother said. Video showed a man carrying a 5-year-old girl named Sally Abu Laila, who was bleeding from her head, with people crowding around her in panic trying to cover her wound.

Also on Sunday:

• Israel decided to lift its restrictions on large gatherings and to reopen schools on Monday.
• The US Department of Homeland Security has not identified any “specific or credible threats” to the US since Iran attacked Israel.

Blinken calls Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian and Saudi counterparts following Iran's attack 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia following Iran's attacks in Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

During his phone calls, Blinken emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

In his conversation with Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an "enduring end to the crisis in Gaza."

Iran will be held responsible if any action is taken against the US or Israel, deputy ambassador warns

From CNN’s Abel Alvarado

The United States warned Iran against taking any action against the US or Israel during the UN Security Council emergency session over Iran’s attack on Israel.

“Let me be clear, if Iran or its proxies take actions against the US or further action against Israel, Iran will be held responsible,” US Deputy Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said Sunday.

The United States is “not seeking escalation, our actions have been purely defensive in nature,” adding that the “best way to prevent such escalation is an unambiguous condemnation of the council of Iran’s unprecedented large-scale attack,” he said.

The envoy reiterated US support for Israel and condemned Iran’s attack. “Iran’s intent was to cause significant damage and death in Israel,” Wood said.

Wood also said the UN Security Council had an “obligation to not let Iran’s actions go unanswered.”

“For far too long, Iran has flagrantly violated its international legal obligations,” he said before listing occasions Iran has violated UN Security Council resolutions and international law.

Wood accused Iran of being in a “broad sense complicit” of the October 7 attack on Israel by providing “significant funding and training for the military wing of Hamas.”

He added the US will explore "additional measures to hold Iran accountable here in the UN.”

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