Cruise Industry Innovations: A Look into New Offerings

The cruise industry is continuously evolving to adapt to the needs and desires of travelers. Lines such as Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian have introduced new suite accommodations and family-friendly attractions, thereby appealing to multigenerational groups. Meanwhile, Holland America worked with renowned interior designer Adam D. Tihany to create a sleek, contemporary aesthetic for its newest launch.

Viking Cruises’ Impact

One of the most significant advancements in recent years came when Viking Cruises, a line celebrated for its well-designed longships sailing European rivers, launched its first ocean vessel, the Viking Star. This 930-passenger ship received accolades for its mid-century Scandinavian interior design and notable features like a cantilevered infinity pool and a Nordic-inspired spa. Moreover, the inclusion of complimentary WiFi made sharing moments from the pool deck effortless for travelers.

Acknowledgment of Excellence

Consequently, travelers were so enamored with the Viking Star that it was awarded top honors in the World’s Best Awards in the large-ship ocean cruise lines category, just one year post-launch. This accolade is derived from the annual survey where readers share their opinions on outstanding travel experiences, including hotels, resorts, and cruise lines.

Reader Ratings

Readers rated cruise ships based on various criteria, including cabins and facilities, food quality, service excellence, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, as well as overall value. Notably, large-ship ocean cruise lines cater to passengers ranging from 600 to 2,199 individuals. Viking’s success exemplifies how a newcomer can disrupt the industry.

Industry Competitors

Other notable lines in this category included Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises, each recognized for their exceptional culinary programs. Additionally, both Crystal and Regent are renowned for their unrivaled all-inclusive experiences.