Mediterranean “Sunset Eclipse” Expected to Offer Rare View Off Spain in August 2026

Astronomers say the western Mediterranean could provide one of the most dramatic viewing locations for the Aug. 12, 2026, total solar eclipse, with observers off the coast of Spain expected to see totality unfold close to the horizon.

The low position of the sun may create a rare “sunset eclipse” effect, combining the colours of dusk with the temporary darkness of totality. Experts say viewers could also experience long shadows, a seemingly enlarged sun caused by the horizon-proximity illusion and a pronounced diamond-ring effect as the sun approaches the sea.

Why Swan Hellenic Appeals to Australian Small-Ship Cruise Fans

Australians have never been afraid of travelling a long way for a remarkable experience. We cross continents for wildlife, history and landscapes that feel genuinely different from home. That adventurous outlook helps explain why Swan Hellenic deserves attention from Australian travellers who prefer small ships, remote destinations and thoughtful exploration over floating resorts.

The cruise line occupies an appealing middle ground. Its voyages offer the access and expert guidance associated with expedition cruising, but the atmosphere aboard is more refined than rugged. For travellers who want to explore Antarctica, the Arctic or culturally rich coastal regions without sacrificing comfort, that combination is persuasive.

Holland America Line Expands to Year-Round Europe Cruises for Winter 2027–2028

Holland America Line is expanding its European deployment with a new year-round cruise programme for the 2027–2028 winter season, keeping Nieuw Statendam in the region beyond the traditional summer sailing period.

Five Major Cruise Ship Launches Set to Shape the Second Half of 2026

The second half of 2026 is expected to be a significant period for the global cruise industry, with several high-profile vessels scheduled to enter service across different market segments. From hydrogen propulsion and LNG-powered luxury cruising to large-scale family resort ships and ultra-luxury accommodations, the upcoming launches reflect the industry’s continued investment in capacity growth, sustainability, onboard innovation, and product diversification.

New terminal and itineraries drive Solomon Islands cruise growth

Honiara — The Solomon Islands is reporting increased cruise activity, with 2026–2027 schedules indicating growth in ship arrivals and a rise in expedition-style itineraries.

Royal Caribbean spotlights 2026 Asian travel trends with 9 in 10 Aussies heading to Asia this Easter

Asian holidays have emerged as the overwhelming favourite destinations for Australian travellers this Easter, accounting for nine of the top ten international destinations (Booking.com 2026). Royal Caribbean is leaning into this trend by offering discounted holidays that connect Aussies to their favourite Asian destinations.

Celestyal Launches ‘Big Savings for a Big Summer’ Across 2026–27 Sailings

Celestyal has launched a new promotional campaign titled “Big Savings for a Big Summer”, covering 100 Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf sailings scheduled for 2026 and 2027.

Celestyal extends summer sale

Up to 50% off cruises until Feb 19

As a result of strong demand, Celestyal has extended its summer sale until February 19 and added more sailings to the Wave promotion.

The number of sailings now included in the ‘Unmissable Sale’ is almost 200, with additional departures of its ‘Heavenly Greece, Italy & Croatia’ itinerary, alongside four extra sailings of the ‘Idyllic Greece’ cruise, added to the promotion, with both seven-night itineraries now priced from $1299 per person twin share.

The sale includes savings of up to 50%, up to €500 speciality food and beverage credit, and up to £180 shore excursion credit per cabin on select sailings.

All fares are inclusive of all meals, soft drinks, WiFi, port fees and gratuities. The offers are available to book until February 19, 2026, while availability lasts.

For more information visit celestyal.com or call 1800 648 737.

Queen Mary 2 Completes Panama Canal Transit

The Queen Mary 2 has completed its first transit through the Panama Canal as part of its 108-night World Voyage. The ship is headed to Australia, with stops in Los Angeles, New Zealand, and Sydney, where it will dock on March 4.

Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas homeports in Brisbane

Royal Caribbean has marked a significant return to Australia with Voyager of the Seas arriving in Brisbane for its first-ever season homeporting from the Queensland capital. The deployment introduces 20 sailings designed to appeal to families and adventure-seekers alike, ranging from short three-night weekend escapes to extended 12-night voyages. These itineraries showcase Australia’s east coast and the South Pacific, positioning Brisbane as a key cruise hub for summer holidays.

Oceania Cruises First-Ever Full Mediterranean Winter Season

Oceania Cruises invites travellers to embark on a new era of exploration during its first-ever full winter season of Mediterranean sailings aboard Oceania Allura, the line’s latest expression of intimate, seagoing luxury.

Carnival Luminosa Kicks Off Brisbane Season

Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Luminosa has officially begun its 2025/26 Brisbane season, marking its fourth summer sailing from the Sunshine State. The ship will welcome over 70,000 guests on 27 voyages between November 2025 and April 2026. Carnival Luminosa will offer a range of itineraries, including short 2-3 day Getaway cruises, 4-day Airlie Beach voyages, and longer 6-7 day Great Barrier Reef sailings.

Anthem of the Seas makes Australian debut

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas has arrived in the iconic Sydney Harbour for its highly anticipated Down Under debut, setting the stage for an unforgettable 2025-26 summer season. From its new home in Sydney, the award-winning Quantum Class ship is bringing bigger, bolder adventures and show-stopping new experiences to Australian shores. With 24 getaways ranging from 2-night weekend escapes to epic 18-night adventures, this summer’s lineup delivers more ways than ever to celebrate and holiday across Australia, the South Pacific and New Zealand.

Sapphire Princess Returns from Drydock

Following a two-week drydock in Portland, Oregon, Sapphire Princess has set sail unveiling exciting new guest experiences, including the addition of two popular specialty restaurants - Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill. Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill will be open for guests starting November 16, 2025.

Crown Princess kicks off WA's 2025-26 Summer Cruise Season

The arrival of Crown Princess in Fremantle marks the launch of Western Australia's 2025-26 summer cruise season. Princess Cruises' commitment to the region is expected to generate hundreds of millions of dollars in economic benefits for the local economy. The cruise season will feature visits to key regional ports, including Broome, Yampi Sound, Exmouth, Margaret River (Busselton), and Albany.

Exclusive Opportunity: Explore Japan with Azamara

• Travel Dates: 14 September 2026 - 20 Night Package | Limited Time Offer: Book by 14 November!
• Starting Rates: $11,790* pp (twin) | $20,390* (solo)

In a remarkable chance for avid travellers, Azamara invites you to immerse yourself in the enchanting essence of Japan through a unique 20-night journey aboard the luxurious Azamara Pursuit.

Crown Princess returns to Sydney

Crown Princess has returned to our waters after successfully completing her 113-night World Cruise, marking the end of her round-the-world voyage. She sailed 33,500 nautical miles, visiting 42 destinations across 24 countries and 5 continents, and crossed the equator twice.

The 2025/26 summer season officially begins with her arrival, as Crown Princess becomes the first international ship of the season.

Celestyal ‘Sail & Save’ campaign

up to 50% off and ‘Kids go free’ in the Gulf

Celestyal has unveiled a new ‘Sail & Save’ campaign offering big savings on 331 Greek, Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf cruises between September 2025 and March 2027, with 45 itineraries reduced by more than 50%.

Seabourn reveals entertainment for 2026 World Cruise

Seabourn has announced a world-class entertainment lineup for its 2026 World Cruise – Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems on board Seabourn Sojourn. Departing January 6, 2026, the 129-day journey will feature Grammy-winning and internationally acclaimed talent, including ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro, Brazilian jazz guitarist Diego Figueiredo, Hamilton star Christine Allado, and singer-songwriter Ashley Campbell, daughter of country legend Glen Campbell.

Guests will also enjoy performances from renowned Steinway pianists, the theatrical debut of Being Mr. Wickham starring Adrian Lukis, and the new Broadway-style production V for Variety in partnership with Belinda King Creative Productions.

MORE Seabourn website

Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Star of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean's newest ship is the Star of the Seas, the second Icon-class vessel, which debuted in summer 2025 and shares the title of the world's largest cruise ship with its sister, Icon of the Seas. The ship offers week-long Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida, and features family-focused amenities like the largest waterpark at sea, seven pools, over 40 dining options, the Absolute Zero ice-skating arena, and a shortened version of the Broadway musical Back to the Future.