HX Recruits 350 Travel Advisors to Promote Expedition Cruises


Les participants ont pu découvrir l'ensemble de l'offre à bord : détente dans le sauna panoramique, jacuzzis et piscine, ou encore dégustation de gaufres  préparées sur le pont supérieur, avec vue sur la mer du Nord - Photo : HX, Timo Hein

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HX Expeditions a accueilli, du 5 au 7 mai 2026, plus de 350 conseillers en voyages à bord du MS Fridtjof Nansen, à l’occasion d’un voyage de familiarisation d’ampleur.

Objectif : immerger les partenaires commerciaux dans l’expérience HX de l’intérieur, afin qu’ils puissent mieux la raconter et la vendre à leurs clients.

L’itinéraire a conduit les participants vers Helgoland, en mer du Nord allemande, avec des débarquements sur l’île principale et l’îlot de Düne, des rencontres avec la faune locale et plusieurs activités encadrées par les équipes d’expédition.

À bord, les conseillers ont aussi pu tester l’offre du navire, entre sauna panoramique, jacuzzis, piscine et dégustation de gaufres sur le pont supérieur.


A Recreated 19th-Century Cabin

Également, dans le centre scientifique du navire, les participants ont échangé avec les scientifiques et l’équipe d’expédition, tout en découvrant les initiatives de science citoyenne proposées aux passagers : analyse du plancton, paysages sonores océaniques, météorologie ou observation des nuages, en lien avec l’initiative NASA GLOBE Observer.

Durant ce voyage, HX Expeditions a également dévoilé la « Cabine 1896 », une expérience immersive proposée à bord du MS Fridtjof Nansen.

Inspirée des premières expéditions de la fin du XIXᵉ siècle
, elle permet aux passagers de passer une nuit dans un espace reconstitué avec décors d’époque et ambiance historique.

L’expérience est proposée au tarif de 100 euros par personne, pour trois personnes maximum. La moitié des bénéfices est reversée à la Fondation HX, qui soutient des projets environnementaux, scientifiques et communautaires dans les destinations visitées.


Anniversary Offers

La compagnie a aussi dévoilé plusieurs offres commerciales liées à son 130e anniversaire, dont un incentive de 130 euros par réservation pour les conseillers en voyages, valable du 1er mai au 31 juillet 2026, ainsi qu’un crédit aérien pouvant atteindre 1 000 euros par personne sur certains départs en Antarctique 2026-2027.

HX propose également une offre anniversaire avec jusqu’à 25% de réduction ou des surclassements en suite offerts sur une sélection de voyages, pour des réservations effectuées entre le 1er mai et le 31 août 2026.

Costa Guarantees Mediterranean Fuel Prices All Summer


© Costa Croisières

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Fuel Guarantee: Transparency and Commitment

First differentiating element, and probably the most impactful today in the customer journey: the guarantee of no fuel-related price increase after booking on the maritime portion. In a context where energy fluctuations remain on everyone’s minds, Costa chooses transparency and commitment. Specifically, for Mediterranean departures this summer, the price displayed at the time of booking is final for departures through September 30, 2026. No surcharge will be added as departure approaches. For travel agents, this promise radically changes the commercial dialogue. It immediately removes a frequent objection and builds a climate of trust. The customer knows where they are going, and, most importantly, how much it will cost, with no surprises. In a competitive market, this price stability becomes a strong competitive advantage capable of tipping the decision.


Flexibility: Free Changes Before Departure

Alongside this price control, there is a direct answer to another key traveler need: flexibility. Costa thus offers free changes up to 31 days before departure. A flexibility that fits perfectly with current expectations, especially among hesitant clients or those planning ahead. Booking no longer means rigid commitment, but securing an opportunity while keeping the ability to adjust the plan. For sellers, this approach greatly facilitates conversion: it helps encourage immediate decision-making by reducing the sense of risk.


Modifiez sans frais © Costa Croisières


“Today, the true value when choosing a vacation lies in the ability to plan it with complete serenity. Travelers who book in advance seek both simple solutions and the freedom to adapt their plans if circumstances evolve. This is what our ‘Modify without fees’ offer makes possible,” says Aurélie SOULAT, France Commercial Director of Costa Croisières. “This flexibility is part of a broader approach of transparency and reassurance, with notably our guarantee of a locked-in price, with no fuel-related increases after booking. In a context where budget control is essential, it is fundamental to be able to offer our clients a clear view of the final price of their holidays, with no surprises.”

But beyond price and flexibility, Costa also provides a concrete answer to a very operational constraint: access to the departure port. On this point, the cruise line enriches its offering with simple and attractive solutions, notably around the Costa Pacifica. For certain departures from La Seyne-sur-Mer, a free train option is offered from Paris and Lyon. An initiative particularly relevant to broaden the catchment area, attract an urban clientele or meet the expectations of travelers who want to avoid driving. This ease of transportation fits into a seamless customer journey mindset, where every step of the trip is designed to be simple.


Train gratuit au départ de Paris & Lyon © Costa Croisières


Enhanced Accessibility: Train, Car, and Alternatives to Flying

Simultaneously, departures from Marseille also enjoy excellent accessibility. The port is easily reachable by train, with direct connections from many French cities, and also by car, providing great scheduling freedom. This plurality of options lets agents tailor their messaging to the client profiles, highlighting the most relevant solution according to their travel habits.

Ultimately, Costa builds a coherent and especially effective proposition: a secured price, flexible booking, and simplified access. Three elements that directly meet market expectations and give travel agents tangible, immediately actionable arguments at the point of sale. In a context where reassurance has become a key conversion factor, this approach not only facilitates the sale but also positions cruising as a clear, calm, and controlled choice.


A Clear, Readable, and Accessible Pricing Policy

Beyond the fuel guarantee, Costa also strengthens its appeal with a powerful promotional offer: -50% off the second passenger until June 8, 2026.

This promotion helps reposition cruising as a product that is both competitive and transparent. The client perceives real value: a fair and controlled price.

By combining a guaranteed price on the cruise portion, an immediate discount, and flexibility, Costa offers a pricing narrative that is clear, reassuring, and engaging. A strategy that perfectly meets current market expectations and makes the act of purchasing easier than ever.



How Ponant Brings Science to the Heart of Expeditions


C'est en 2021 que le programme Ponant Science a été lancé à bord du Commandant Charcot @Ponant-Nicolas Dubreuil

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On board the Commandant Charcot, exploration goes beyond landscapes. At the start of May, during a crossing from Brest to Reykjavik, passengers witnessed a series of scientific talks held in the ship’s theater. Climate, biodiversity, plastic pollution, marine mammals, or Arctic sea-ice dynamics: a range of topics that complemented the field experience.

Among the speakers were notably François Galgani, a specialist in plastic pollution, Olive Andrews, an expert on marine mammals, Aymeric Houstin, a conservation ecology researcher, or Vito Vitale, associate research director at the Institute of Polar Sciences.

The stated ambition is clear: to make the expedition not only an observational journey but also a tool for understanding the territories traversed.


A floating laboratory at the heart of polar regions

Launched in 2021 under the leadership of Megan Clampitt, the Ponant Sciences program relies primarily on the Commandant Charcot, described as the first luxury polar exploration ship designed from the outset to host scientific activities.

Behind the talks offered to passengers, the Commandant Charcot operates as a genuine scientific platform.

On board, several laboratories host researchers. It is up to the scientists to obtain the necessary permits to carry out their work.

Among the equipment deployed is an oceanographic rosette equipped with Niskin bottles, enabling water sampling at different depths – up to 1,000 meters depending on missions – while recording parameters such as temperature, salinity, or depth.

The data collected are then shared by the scientific community. More than one hundred projects have already been hosted since the program’s launch, yielding around ten scientific publications.


The ‘Science Officers’, New Knowledge Facilitators


Gwenaël Trividic, science officer,  a pour mission de faciliter la vie des cherchercheurs enmbarqués à bord @LG

Selon Ponant, plus de 150 chercheurs ont déjà participé à une soixantaine de projets scientifiques depuis le lancement du programme. Les données récoltées alimentent ensuite des travaux partagés avec la communauté scientifique internationale.

Pour faire le lien entre recherche et expérience client, la compagnie a créé un rôle spécifique : celui de science officer.

À mi-chemin entre coordinateur scientifique et médiateur, ce professionnel accompagne les protocoles de recherche, supervise les équipements embarqués et traduit les travaux menés à bord en contenus accessibles aux voyageurs : conférences, présentations ou échanges informels.


The Swap2Zero project on the 2030 horizon

Cette logique dépasse aujourd’hui le seul Commandant Charcot. Sur d’autres navires d’expédition de la flotte, des naturalistes, glaciologues ou spécialistes de la biodiversité interviennent régulièrement lors des itinéraires polaires ou tropicaux.

En Polynésie française, le Paul Gauguin participe également à plusieurs initiatives de sensibilisation autour des écosystèmes marins et des récifs coralliens.

Ponant prépare enfin l’étape suivante avec son projet Swap2Zero, un futur voilier transocéanique à propulsion vélique et piles à combustible, annoncé pour l’horizon 2030 et pensé comme une plateforme ouverte aux travaux sur la décarbonation maritime.

Dans un marché de l’expédition où l’accès aux destinations reculées tend à se banaliser, la science devient progressivement un argument de différenciation.


Laurent Guéna Published by Laurent Guéna Journalist – TourMaG.com
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MSC Aims to Capitalize on Cruise Growth in France


Cécile Walson : "la croisière continue à gagner du terrain alors que d’autres segments ralentissent, cela montre que le produit trouve sa place au sein du tourisme" - Photo MSC

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Growth remains modest, but MSC sees a underlying signal.

While the French cruise market expanded by 1.8% in 2025, the company prefers to place this figure in perspective against a global tourism market that remains under pressure.

« We are probably not going to see double-digit growth every year. But if cruising continues to gain ground while other segments slow down, it shows that the product has found its place within tourism », notes Cécile Walson, Chief Commercial Officer.

Today, growth is driven by a twofold engine : a solid base of repeat customers, but also the arrival of new clients attracted by the cruise model. « Many French people have not tried it yet. Once they embark, satisfaction and repeat-visit rates are typically very high. »


« The Reserved Price Is the Price Paid »

Selon les données mises en avant par MSC, près de 31 % des Français n’ayant jamais effectué de croisière se déclarent intéressés par l’expérience, attirés notamment par le rapport qualité-prix, les destinations proposées et la simplicité d’organisation.

Ainsi, depuis Marseille, à bord du MSC Orchestra, on trouve des cabines à partir de 399 euros par personne pour un départ le 12 juin. Et, pour un embarquement le 2 juillet sur le même navire, c’est à partir de 569 euros

Pour la compagnie, le produit bénéficie aussi d’un effet de comparaison favorable : formule intégrée, logique de club, itinérance et maîtrise du budget. MSC rappelle que son offre comprend hébergement, restauration, activités et clubs enfants.

Autre message adressé au marché : aucune surcharge carburant ne sera appliquée en 2026 sur la partie croisière opérée directement par MSC. « Le prix réservé est le prix payé », insiste la compagnie.

Cécile Walson évoque un environnement plus complexe que la seule question du pouvoir d’achat: contexte géopolitique, climat international plus incertain et recherche croissante de voyages simples à organiser.


Marseille, the Antilles… and new routes to boost demand


Cécile Walson et Patrick Pourbaix (MSC) lors de la mise à l'eau, le 12 novembre, du World Asia aux Chantiers de l'Atlantique. Le navire proposera des croisières de 7 nuits en Méditerranée dès décembre 2026 @LG

Although summer bookings are appearing more cautious and oriented toward last-minute, MSC notes a more favorable dynamic for the upcoming winter season.

The positioning of the MSC World Europa in the Antilles has notably triggered a strong acceleration in bookings, driven by both overseas and mainland clientele.

In parallel, the MSC World Asia will join Marseille from December 2026 to operate year-round in the Mediterranean. Yet the company is also refreshing its offer for the more seasoned customers.

Among the novelties are the opening of Alaska itineraries from Seattle and Vancouver, but also a new program departing from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, with an extended summer presence.

MSC continues to invest in Florida, notably driven by the appeal of Miami, a destination that many French travelers now combine with a few days on site before setting sail.


Laurent Guéna Published by Laurent Guéna Journalist – TourMaG.com
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Oceania Cruises Announces Holiday Season Cruises


Oceania Cruises dévoile ses croisières pour les fêtes de fin d’année, Depositphotos.com Photo by NANCYPAUWELSPHOTO

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For the holiday season, Oceania Cruises goes all out.

It has just unveiled its new festive lineup. The menu includes 7- to 40-day itineraries around the world, from Europe to Asia and across the Americas, to celebrate Christmas and New Year. The program features private concerts and performances.

For the 2026-2027 season, the celebrations will come to life aboard the Oceania Insignia and the brand-new Oceania Allura. The following year, it will be the turn of the Oceania Sonata and the Oceania Aurelia, two ships whose launches are slated for 2027.


The Luxury of Exploration and Dining

The itineraries feature destinations such as the Caribbean, Peru, Chile, and also Vietnam and New Zealand. The cruise line offers extended port stays with overnight calls in Barcelona, Bali, or Singapore, as well as crossings like the Panama Canal or Milford Sound.

Guests can also delve into regional traditions through cooking classes at the Culinary Center on board. Exclusive chef-led excursions will bring travelers to markets to discover the finest local flavors and meet producers firsthand.


The Cruise Selections for the 2026/2027 and 2027/2028 Seasons :

Season 2026/2027 :

  • Australasian Allure: from Sydney to Perth, 23 days aboard the Oceania Riviera™, departing December 15, 2026.

    A voyage across Australia and Indonesia, featuring an overnight in Darwin on Christmas Eve and another in Bali.

  • Caribbean to Cape Horn: from Miami to Buenos Aires, 36 days aboard the Oceania Insignia, departing December 19, 2026.

    A grand South American crossing, including a Panama Canal passage, several days in Peru with access to Machu Picchu, and scenic cruises through the Chilean fjords

.

  • Legends of Jade: from Hong Kong to Singapore, 15 days aboard the Oceania Nautica™, departing December 21, 2026.

    An Southeast Asia itinerary with overnights in Hue and Singapore plus calls in Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei.

  • Iberia & Italian Treasures: from Lisbon to Rome, 14 days aboard the Oceania Sirena™, departing December 21, 2026.

    A Mediterranean cruise with an overnight in Barcelona the night before New Year’s Eve, calls in Spain, Portugal, and the French Riviera, ending with an overnight in Rome.

  • Tropical Serenade: from Miami to Miami, 17 days aboard the Oceania Allura, departing December 21, 2026.

    A Caribbean itinerary blending the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with calls to Saint-Barthélemy, Saint Kitts, and Saint Martin.

Season 2027/2028 :

  • The 2027‑2028 holiday season will be celebrated aboard the Oceania Sonata and the Oceania Aurelia, two brand-new ships scheduled to launch in 2027.

  • Holiday Harbors & Hollywood: from Miami to Los Angeles, 29 days aboard the Oceania Sonata, departing December 21, 2027.

    A transcontinental cruise featuring the Panama Canal, Christmas at sea, and New Year along the stunning Pacific coast of Mexico.

  • Heavenly Holidays: from Athens to Rome, 26 days aboard the Oceania Allura, departing December 8, 2027.

    A Mediterranean adventure spanning Greece, Turkey, Spain, and North Africa, with a remarkable Christmas in Morocco.

  • European Holiday: from Athens to Barcelona, 10 days aboard the Oceania Aurelia, departing December 18, 2027.

    A festive Mediterranean cruise visiting Greece, Malta, Italy, France, and Spain, with Christmas at sea and must-see calls in Florence, Rome, and Barcelona.

  • Holiday Horizons: from Miami to Miami, 17 days aboard the Oceania Marina™, departing December 20, 2027.

    A Caribbean escape mixing the treasures of the Eastern and Western Caribbean, with calls to Saint-Barthélemy, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.

  • A Holiday to Remember: from Barcelona to Rome, 14 days aboard the Oceania Allura, departing December 20, 2027.

    A Mediterranean cruise with calls in Spain, Morocco, Tunisia, and Italy, to celebrate the holiday season amid fascinating cultures.

  • Fairytale Holiday: from Hong Kong to Singapore, 14 days aboard the Oceania Riviera, departing December 21, 2027.

    A festive Southeast Asia cruise, including a night in Ho Chi Minh City and an overnight in Bangkok to ring in the New Year.

  • A Kiwi Holiday: from Sydney to Auckland, 12 days aboard the Oceania Vista®, departing December 23, 2027.

    A spectacular Australia and New Zealand itinerary, featuring Milford Sound and a New Year celebration in Wellington.

  • Iberian New Year: from Barcelona to Lisbon, 7 days aboard the Oceania Aurelia, departing December 28, 2027.

    A New Year voyage along the Iberian Peninsula, including an unforgettable New Year’s Eve in Málaga and an overnight in Seville.

  • Iberia to New World Passage: from Barcelona to Miami, 21 days aboard the Oceania Aurelia, departing December 28, 2027.

    New Year celebrations in Málaga, exploration of the Canary Islands, and a relaxed transatlantic crossing.

Caribbean: CATLANTE Adapts Its Offering to a More Hesitant Winter Market


© Catlante Catamarans

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In the Caribbean, the real booking window often opens at the start of summer. It’s the moment when customers begin to seriously consider their winter holidays, still having choices for flight availability, cabins, and the best rates.

This year, however, many are hesitating more. The geopolitical context slows down some decisions, plans are postponed, even as we need more than ever to disconnect and look forward to joyful projections for the future.

In this context, CATLANTE provides very concrete answers to the main booking barriers: an all-inclusive onboard formula that helps manage the budget from the start, human-sized cruises on catamarans with only 12 passengers, and several offers designed to simplify the departure, including for solo travelers or families.

Clear, readable, and easy-to-sell arguments to help agencies trigger bookings now, during a key period for winter sales.


Voyageurs solo : CATLANTE réduit fortement le supplément single

Excellent news for solo travelers: the single fare is significantly reduced, with only 25 % surcharge instead of 75 % on certain periods. A rare proposition in the cruise world, where solo travelers often have to pay nearly the price of two people.

This offer applies to cruises departing from Martinique, Guadeloupe and Saint-Martin, between November 7, 2026 and December 17, 2026, then from March 4 to April 1, 2027.

The idea: travel alone at a very reasonable rate and fully enjoy the very distinctive atmosphere of CATLANTE cruises.

On board, solo travelers often find exactly what they’re looking for: genuine sociability, without crowding, in a relaxed and natural setting. Shared meals, swims in deserted coves, sunset cocktails or island-hopping quickly create simple and spontaneous bonds.

Another important advantage: unlike large impersonal cruises, CATLANTE catamarans accommodate only about 12 passengers. A human scale that completely changes the experience.


© Catlante Catamarans


CATLANTE facilite aussi les vacances en famille et entre amis

CATLANTE also makes departures for families or groups of friends easier thanks to a particularly attractive offer on triple cabins: the third passenger is free on certain Grenadines cruises, in triple occupancy, aboard the Catlante 600 catamarans of the Confort range.

This offer applies to departures on Thursdays and Fridays, from November 13, 2026 to April 15, 2027.

For a family with a teenager, three friends, or even a parent traveling with two children, the savings become quite meaningful. And above all, it allows access to a vacation package that is particularly complete: accommodation, generous all inclusive, water activities, dream stops, and turquoise sea.

Because it’s also one of the great strengths of CATLANTE cruises: once aboard, everything becomes incredibly simple.

No need to repack every two days, to catch ferries, to search for hotels, or to juggle logistics between several islands. The catamaran becomes a true floating guesthouse, moving from stop to stop while travelers fully enjoy their vacation.


Proposez une belle odyssée antillaise avec CATLANTE

À partir de 1 500 € par personne absolument tout inclus, CATLANTE propose sans doute l’un des formats les plus séduisants de l’hiver dans les Caraïbes : a seven-day one-way cruise between Guadeloupe and Martinique (or the reverse), sailing island to island.

The concept makes it very easy to build a long Caribbean voyage of nearly two weeks, with no fatigue or complicated logistics. A few days in Guadeloupe before boarding, a week of sailing along the islands with CATLANTE, then a few days in Martinique before the return flight (or vice versa).


© Catlante Catamarans


A true Antillean odyssey!

Marie-Galante and its long golden beaches, the archipelago of Les Saintes and its mythical bay, Dominica and its spectacular nature, the tranquil coves of Martinique: each stop changes completely the ambiance, landscapes, and pace.

And above all, everything unfolds with great simplicity. No permanent hotel changes, no long road hours, few transfers. The boat advances while passengers simply enjoy the journey.

Two to three stops per day, swimming that is only accessible by boat, villages reached by tender, sometimes dolphins that accompany the catamaran… All of it in the CATLANTE atmosphere: only about a dozen passengers aboard, a professional crew and a convivial vibe, far from the standards of large cruises.

A particularly appealing formula for travelers who already know the Grenadines and want to discover another facet of the Caribbean, even more varied, always immersive and incredibly easy to live.

CATLANTE advisors are available to answer all your questions 7 days a week at 01 55 20 90 90.

Sign up for the CATLANTE Catamarans agency newsletter!



The Hondius (Oceanwide Expeditions) Authorized to Resume Its Cruises


Le M/V Hondius reprendra son activité « avec les normes de sécurité et de préparation opérationnelle les plus élevées possibles » ©Franklin Braeckman - Oceanwide Expeditions

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The Hondius will be able to resume sailing. Rotterdam health authorities announced on Saturday that they had lifted the remaining restrictions on Oceanwide Expeditions’ expedition vessel, following a final inspection conducted after a wide-scale operation of cleaning and disinfection.

« From a public health standpoint, there are no obstacles to putting the Hondius into service », said the Rotterdam Municipal Health Agency. The appointed experts judged that the cleaning and disinfection had been carried out in accordance with established protocols.

The vessel must now resume its cruise program from June 13, in line with the schedule announced by Oceanwide Expeditions.


Hondius: an unprecedented crisis

The Hondius had found itself at the heart of a major health crisis following the emergence of an hantavirus outbreak during a cruise from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the Cape Verde archipelago.

According to the latest data released by the World Health Organization (WHO), 13 confirmed or probable cases have been recorded, including three deaths.

In response to the gravity of the situation, passengers were evacuated to Tenerife before being repatriated to their respective countries. The ship subsequently joined Rotterdam on May 18, while the remaining crew was placed in quarantine.

In a lengthy statement published on May 19, Oceanwide Expeditions CEO Rémi Bouysset described the incident as “one of the most difficult situations in the company’s history.”


A virus very likely contracted before embarkation

The leader notes that the information gathered so far suggests that the virus was contracted before boarding and did not originate from the ship itself. According to the company, no signs of rodents or pests were detected aboard despite inspections conducted during the voyage.

“We are now in the phase of resuming operations”, states Rémi Bouysset, who assures that the ship will resume its activity “with the highest possible safety and operational preparedness standards.”

The company also emphasizes that it remains “financially solid” despite the consequences of this episode.

“We remain resilient, focused, and financially solid. Since our creation in 1993, we have weathered difficult periods, always staying true to our values: serious operations, expeditions aboard small ships, an experienced crew, and a long-term vision.”

Corsica Ferries: Mega Serena Makes Its First Crossing


Le Mega Serena vient de faire sa 1ère traversée, despositphotos.com, Photo by dmiiva1987

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Acquis en novembre 2025, the Mega Serena, Corsica Ferries’ new ferry, has just completed its first crossing between Toulon and Bastia on the evening of May 28, 2026.

This vessel strengthens the company’s fleet of 11 units operating across all routes to Corsica, Sardinia and the Balearic Islands.

According to Jean-Charles Teurlay, Corsica Ferries’ operations director, this ship “represents a fundamental new milestone for our growth and confirms our constant commitment to delivering an efficient, safe and environmentally friendly service.

This new vessel will allow us to improve the offering we provide to our customers and to meet the market’s challenges with even greater resolve.”


The company recently announced strengthening its summer connections in the Mediterranean, notably toward Sardinia.


Corsica Ferries: the Mega Serena can accommodate up to 2,000 passengers

This vessel, boasting a gross tonnage of around 39,200 tonnes and a capacity of up to 2,000 passengers and 670 vehicles, or 2,000 linear meters for rolling freight, incorporates the most advanced technologies in safety, sustainability and operational efficiency.

It is already equipped for shore-side electrical connection at the quay during its calls. The commissioning of this system will be completed in the coming months.

This initiative aims to reduce atmospheric emissions and port noise, thereby promoting the decarbonization of maritime transport and the shift toward port infrastructures that are more environmentally friendly.

To read : Corsica Ferries acquires the Stena Vision


Oceania Cruises Rewards Travel Agents With a Free Cruise


Oceania Cruises lance une nouvelle opération incentive à destination des conseillers voyages européens - Depositphotos.com @portosabbia

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The luxury cruise line Oceania Cruises is launching a new commercial stimulation campaign aimed at European travel advisors.

Named “Sell 5 & Sail Free”, the program runs from June 1 to June 30, 2026 and seeks to reward professionals who make new bookings on itineraries scheduled for 2026.

Under the challenge rules, travel advisors who log five new eligible bookings during the reference period will be eligible to receive a complimentary cruise from a selection of itineraries offered by the line.


An immersion into the Oceania Cruises experience

Through this initiative, Oceania Cruises aims to allow sellers to directly discover its product.

The company highlights its intimate-sized ships, its itineraries focused on immersive port calls, and its renowned culinary offering, regularly presented as one of its key strengths.

The rewarded professionals will thus be able to experience the concept “The Joy of Travelling Well” and the benefits included in the Your World Included® program.

The complimentary cruise includes accommodation for two people, access to all onboard restaurants, gratuities, Wi-Fi for one device per guest, and the choice between a drinking package or an excursions credit.


2026 itineraries Across Multiple Continents

The challenge encompasses all cruises scheduled in the company’s 2026 program. This includes numerous destinations, notably in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Asia.

To be counted, bookings must be made between June 1 and June 30, 2026, with a deposit paid by July 10, 2026. Consecutive cruises will be counted as a single booking for the purpose of the operation.

The company notes that this offer is subject to availability and limited in number of seats. Specific conditions apply regarding the eligibility of bookings and the allocation of the complimentary cruises.

The detailed terms and conditions of the challenge are accessible on Oceania Cruises’ dedicated sales partners portal.


Amelia Brille Published by Amelia Brille TourMaG.com Editor
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Hurtigruten: Travel Agencies Are Highly Responsive


Grâce à son recentrage sur la Norvège, Hurtigruten a conforté sa place de référence sur cette destination auprès des voyageurs français © Hurtigruten / Espen Mills

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While customers are hesitant to decide, distribution networks are redoubling their efforts to stimulate demand.

A mobilization welcomed by Christine Bois-Beauval, France managing director of Hurtigruten.

« We had an excellent first quarter, which keeps us ahead of our objectives », explains the leader. « However, since April and May, things are quieter. »

In May 2026, the company’s sales fell by 15% compared with the same period in 2025. A slowdown being felt by a large part of the French tourism market, in a context marked by economic uncertainties and concerns about air travel.

Hurtigruten has thus had to respond to health concerns following the Hantavirus episode.


Distribution networks at the helm

In response to this situation, Christine Bois-Beauval emphasizes the responsiveness of travel agencies and distribution networks.

« I find that the distribution is very reactive », she says. « We have campaigns with Havas Voyages, TourCom or even TUI. There is a real willingness to work together. »

Promotional campaigns, dedicated storefronts, last-minute operations, trainings in person and via videoconference: initiatives are multiplying to support sales.

« Nobody wants to give up. We are all in the same boat», continues she. The company is notably seeing a strong participation in training sessions organized around the new brochure and its Norwegian products.

The company will participate this weekend in the Cruise and Travel Show organized by Périer Voyages in Le Havre, a meeting that will allow it to meet travelers directly and better gauge their expectations for the coming months.

« We need these moments of interaction with customers », stresses Christine Bois-Beauval.


The Norway Advantage


Christine Bois-Beauval directrice générale France d'Hurtigruten - Photo Hurtigruten

Despite the slowdown observed since spring, Hurtigruten continues to benefit from the appeal of Norway.

The company believes it benefited early in the year from its strategic refocus on this destination after the separation of its expedition activities.

« We have become more than ever the reference for Norway », says Christine Bois-Beauval.

The destination is benefiting, for example, from the growing enthusiasm for the “coolcation,” that search for milder destinations during the summer, as well as the still-strong interest in the Northern Lights.


A new brochure geared toward 2027-2028

If the market remains cautious in the short term, Hurtigruten continues its commercial investments and is already preparing the 2027-2028 seasons.

The company recently unveiled its new Norway & Spitzbergen brochure, which further strengthens its positioning as a destination specialist.

Among the novelties are three limited-edition Signature itineraries, a new Arctic Line between Copenhagen and Tromsø, and the strengthening of French-speaking departures on the Coastal Express. The Signature cruises will also continue to offer Francophone support aboard.

While sales have stalled since spring, the leader hopes for a revival of demand in the coming weeks.

The task now is to convert this mobilization into bookings. And if the market wakes up by then, Hurtigruten’s teams will be able to breathe a sigh of relief before the Norway-France World Cup match on June 26!


Laurent Guéna Published by Laurent Guéna Journalist – TourMaG.com
See all articles by Laurent Guéna

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