5 Current Trends in the Cruise Industry Direct from Cruise Line Presidents at Cruise 360

Purple Light again attended Cruise 360, the annual conference for the Cruise Line International Association. As part of this conference, we got up to date info from the Presidents/CEO’s of the top cruise lines. Here are 5 current trends in the cruise industry:

New Ships with Different Designs

Most of the major cruise lines have new ships slated to have their maiden voyage in 2018 and 2019. The cruise lines are fighting for your attention by making their ships stand out. For example, MSC’s Seaside to set sail in 2018, sets itself apart from its competitors by having an innovative design that includes a hull that looks more like a luxury South Beach condo complex than a cruise ship.

A Drawing of the Innovative Design of the MSC Seaside

Royal Caribbean continues to design ships that are bigger and more impressive. In April of 2018 it will inaugurate the Symphony of the Seas.  It will take over the title off the World’s largest cruise ship. At 215.5 feet wide this ship will offer 2,775 cabins and accommodate 5,550 passengers based on double occupancy. With 18 decks, it is predicted to be as tall as the leaning tower of Pisa. As usual, Royal Caribbean plans to make the Symphony a ship that thrill seekers will love with lots of attractions and active options.

The Soon to Be Largest Cruise Ship at Sea, the Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

New Technology

The cruise lines are using new technology to improve the customer experience. Several cruise lines will be using face recognition technology to help passengers find the photos taken of them by the cruise line easily. Celebrity Cruises is using new technology to add an innovative attraction to its new Edge class. These ships will feature something they call the Magic Carpet. It is the first cantilevered floating platform at sea. It will offer great views as it can reach a height of 13 stories above sea level. With lounges and comfortable seating, it will function as everything from an outdoor dining venue on one deck, to a concert space on another.

The New Celebrity Magic Carpet is a Remarkable Achievement in Engineering

Celebrity Chef Restaurants

Cruise lines are continuing to partner with award winning and celebrity chefs to take their dining options to the next level. Crystal cruises has partnered with famed LA chef Nobu.  MSC has partnered with James Beard award winning chef Roy Yamaguchi.  Oceania, a cruise line known for top notch dining, has long partnered with Jacques Pepin. Royal Caribbean has partnered with Michael Schwartz and Jamie Oliver. Their Quantum class of ships features Chef Schwartz’s “Michael’s Genuine Pub”. Holland America has partnered with Master chef Rudi Sodamin. Even Carnival has embraced this trend and partnered with Guy Fieri.

Jamie Oliver’s “Jamie’s Italian” on Royal Caribbean

More Time in Port

While some cruise lines are focusing on their ships, others are focusing on their destinations and time in port. Azamara Cruises President takes pride in the fact that his company’s cruises spend more time in port with several overnights and some multi-night stays in certain exciting ports.

Continued Expansion of River Cruises

River cruises are continuing to gain in popularity due to the intimate, all-inclusive experience they offer. 13 new river cruise ships are on order for this year, adding to the more than 184 ones that currently exist. River cruise itineraries are also becoming more varied and exotic. The decor of many of these new cruise ships is elegant, modern and streamlined.

River Cruise Ship Decor is Becoming More Modern and Upscale

If you are interested in a cruise, why not come to a cruise expert? Purple Light Vacations provides you with the knowledge, insight and personalized service to make your vacation all you want it to be at no additional cost. We help you travel in the know wherever you go. To get started, fill out this quick form or call 619.324.1444 (ext. 3).