Norwegian Cruise Line Expands 2027-28 Season with More Cruises, Longer Stays, and New Exciting Itineraries

Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its 2027-28 season with more cruises, longer stays at ports, and an exciting selection of new itineraries designed to offer travelers greater flexibility and deeper immersion in each destination. With over 370 sailings across 144 destinations, passengers will enjoy longer port times, allowing for richer experiences and a more leisurely pace. This expansion reflects Norwegian’s commitment to providing an enhanced cruise experience, offering a variety of new routes and increased options to explore the world in style. Whether looking for a quick getaway or an extended journey, Norwegian’s 2027-28 season is set to deliver unforgettable travel experiences tailored to every type of traveler.

Set to run from September 2027 to April 2028, Norwegian’s deployment will include more than 370 sailings to 144 destinations across 47 countries. These voyages range from quick, two-night getaways to extended 22-night explorations, providing options for all types of travelers. Whether guests are seeking a relaxing escape or a deep dive into new cultures, Norwegian offers a variety of destinations that will capture the interest of both seasoned cruisers and first-timers alike.

The upcoming season will highlight some of the world’s most sought-after regions, including the Bahamas, the Caribbean, Bermuda, the Mexican Riviera, and further afield in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Norwegian’s itineraries are designed for those who wish to explore these incredible destinations at their own pace, with a focus on providing deeper experiences. For guests eager to spend more time in each destination, the cruise line has integrated longer port stays, with an average port time of 9.5 hours. In addition, 71 late departures at 31 ports will allow for more relaxed exploration, while 70 overnight stays provide ample time to experience the nightlife and local culture.

One of the key features of the 2027-28 season is the introduction of two Prima-class ships, which will sail from Puerto Rico. These vessels promise to offer a luxury experience, sailing to beautiful Caribbean islands and beyond. The line is also enhancing its Florida operations, with seven ships setting sail from various ports throughout the state. For those seeking convenience, Norwegian will provide year-round sailings from Philadelphia, as well as cruises from Galveston and New Orleans, offering travelers more options for departure points.

In addition to its Caribbean offerings, Norwegian is expanding its reach to the Mexican Riviera with sailings from Los Angeles, providing access to vibrant coastal cities like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas. For those venturing further, Norwegian will operate two ships on voyages to the Far East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. These itineraries are perfect for those seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s emphasis on flexibility is evident in the variety of itineraries available. Passengers can select voyages that best match their travel style, whether they’re craving a quick Bahamian escape or a month-long exploration of the Pacific. The combination of convenience, choice, and personalization makes it easier for guests to craft their perfect getaway.

Onboard, Norwegian continues to set the standard for world-class experiences. Guests can look forward to extended stays in ports, giving them the freedom to explore at a leisurely pace. The cruise line’s extensive offerings, including diverse dining options, award-winning entertainment, and wellness programs, ensure a well-rounded experience. Norwegian also features a range of shore excursions, giving guests the chance to truly immerse themselves in the local culture of each destination.

For many itineraries, Norwegian will include a stop at its private island destination, Great Stirrup Cay, in the Bahamas. This exclusive location is undergoing significant upgrades, including the addition of a new pier and a heated pool to ensure guests can enjoy the island year-round. The Great Tides Waterpark, with its exciting slides and water attractions, will provide hours of entertainment for families.

In a move that will enhance the overall value of cruising with Norwegian, the Free at Sea Plus package will return for the 2027-28 season. This package includes a variety of unlimited amenities, such as premium beverages, streaming Wi-Fi, and Starbucks selections, ensuring that guests have everything they need to relax and stay connected while onboard.

Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its 2027-28 season with more cruises, longer port stays, and exciting new itineraries, offering travelers greater flexibility and deeper exploration of each destination. This expansion ensures a richer, more immersive cruise experience with diverse routes and increased options for all types of travelers.

By offering longer port stays, overnight calls, and an enhanced Free at Sea Plus package, Norwegian Cruise Line is elevating the cruise experience for its guests. The 2027-28 deployment presents an exceptional opportunity for travelers to explore new destinations, relax in luxury, and enjoy seamless onboard amenities. Whether you’re looking for a short, rejuvenating escape or an extended adventure, Norwegian Cruise Line’s varied itineraries promise to meet every need, making it the ideal choice for those seeking freedom, adventure, and unforgettable moments at sea.

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Fort George Hotel & Spa Named Belize’s Best MICE Hotel for 2025 at the Prestigious World MICE Awards Gala

Fort George Hotel & Spa has been honored with the title of Belize’s Best MICE Hotel for 2025 by the World MICE Awards. This prestigious accolade was revealed at the World MICE Awards Gala Ceremony on December 6, 2025, in Bahrain, recognizing the hotel as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions in the region.

This recognition follows the unveiling of the hotel’s new, cutting-edge Lord Ashcroft Centre, a 6,600-square-foot venue designed to accommodate a wide range of events. From corporate conferences and social gatherings to retreats, the center offers versatile spaces that can be tailored to meet the needs of any event. The venue’s design prioritizes flexibility, making it an ideal location for both large and small gatherings.

The Lord Ashcroft Centre boasts a capacity to host up to 500 attendees. It features two main breakout rooms—Caracol Hall and Lamanai Hall—that can be used separately or in conjunction, offering event planners greater flexibility in how they organize their events. Additionally, the Altun-Ha space, adjacent to the main hall, provides more options for meetings, workshops, and banquet-style functions, ensuring that planners have access to a variety of layouts suited to different event types.

This award underscores Fort George Hotel & Spa’s growing prominence in Belize’s business tourism sector. Known for its commitment to excellence, the hotel has become a top choice for both local and global organizations seeking a dynamic venue for their events. With its ongoing enhancements and focus on delivering exceptional facilities and service, the hotel is solidifying its reputation as a leading destination for high-profile MICE events in the region.

“We are honored to be recognized as Belize’s Best MICE Hotel at such a pivotal moment in our growth,” said Scott McArdle, Vice President of Hospitality. “Since the opening of the Lord Ashcroft Conference Center in August 2025 and as Fort George Hotel & Spa approaches its two-year anniversary, our team has remained focused on delivering seamless, high-quality experiences for corporate groups seeking destinations that blend world-class meeting facilities with meaningful cultural and travel opportunities. This award reaffirms our commitment to elevating Belize’s presence in the regional meetings and events market.”

Fort George Hotel & Spa has quickly become a standout destination for meetings and events, offering a full spectrum of services tailored to corporate groups and international visitors. The hotel’s offerings include comprehensive event planning, bespoke banquet and catering options, and top-tier audiovisual facilities, all complemented by expert on-site technical support. Equipped with high-definition digital projectors, large-format screens, conference audio systems, and hybrid-meeting capabilities, the venue ensures a seamless experience for both in-person and virtual events. These advanced tools, along with additional features for enhanced presentations, provide the perfect setting for impactful business gatherings.

In addition to the high-tech amenities, the hotel boasts an array of flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces. These venues are designed to accommodate various group sizes and event formats, whether hosting an intimate meeting, a grand conference, or a social celebration. The ability to customize event layouts gives planners the freedom to design an experience that perfectly suits their needs, making Fort George Hotel & Spa an ideal choice for any type of event, from professional seminars to festive corporate retreats.

The hotel’s recognition as Belize’s Best MICE Hotel for 2025 comes at a time of exciting growth and development. Since its opening in early 2024, Fort George has continually expanded its facilities, recently debuting the Lord Ashcroft Conference Centre in August 2025. This new addition, offering over 6,600 square feet of versatile event space, positions the hotel as a leader in hosting large-scale business events and conferences in Belize.

Looking to the future, Fort George Hotel & Spa plans to further enhance its capacity with the addition of a new 120-room tower, set to open in Fall 2026. This expansion will significantly increase the hotel’s ability to accommodate larger corporate groups, while also offering expanded resort amenities that cater to the evolving needs of international travelers.

Strategically located just 30 minutes from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, the hotel offers easy access to Belize City’s attractions, including its archaeological sites and the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. This prime location allows business and leisure travelers to enjoy both productive meetings and unforgettable excursions, making Fort George Hotel & Spa a standout choice for those looking to combine work with relaxation in a stunning tropical setting.

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Dakshina Kannada Set to Become the Must-Visit Holiday Destination with an Extensive Coastal Festival Tourism Experience in 2025

Dakshina Kannada is set to become the must-visit holiday destination in 2025, thanks to its extensive coastal festival and an all-encompassing tourism experience. With its stunning beaches, vibrant cultural events, and a variety of outdoor activities, the district offers an experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and local heritage. The festival, spanning multiple beaches such as Tannirbhavi, Panambur, and Sasihithlu, promises to deliver unforgettable experiences, from water sports to music and cultural performances. These events, paired with the region’s rich local cuisine and scenic beauty, make Dakshina Kannada an ideal destination for holidaymakers seeking a unique and diverse tourism experience in 2025.

A central part of this initiative is the much-anticipated Coastal Festival, set to kick off on December 20. This festival will be a month-long celebration, offering a packed schedule of beach-focused events designed to appeal to a wide range of visitors. The festival’s aim is to not only attract long-time tourists but also to draw first-time visitors from Bengaluru, who are looking for a quick escape during the festive season. To ensure the festival’s success, the local government has committed significant financial support, and community stakeholders are actively involved in organizing and scaling up the celebrations. The festival will unfold across five key beaches: Tannirbhavi, Tannirbhavi Blue Flag Beach, Sasihithlu, Panambur, and Ullal.

The festival’s opening weekend, on December 20 and 21, promises to be a dynamic start. Panambur Beach will be a hive of activity with beach volleyball tournaments, sand art displays, and thrilling water sports. Tannirbhavi Beach will feature a wine and cake festival, adding a festive touch to the cultural programs on offer. As the festival continues into the following week, Sasihithlu Beach will take center stage on December 27 and 28, where visitors will enjoy a seafood festival, stand-up paddling, kayaking races, and a variety of cultural performances. These activities will offer a rich coastal experience, perfect for those looking to engage with both nature and local culture.

The Coastal Festival will be much more than just a series of beach events. Each participating beach will host its own unique set of activities, making it easy for visitors to explore different facets of Dakshina Kannada’s coastal offerings. Events will also be scheduled at Ullal and Someshwar beaches, where visitors can enjoy the combination of leisure, cultural immersion, and local cuisine. The region’s diverse offerings are poised to appeal to tourists seeking everything from relaxation to adventure and culture.

One of the major draws of this year’s Coastal Festival is the robust financial support provided by the local government. With an allocation of Rs 2 crore, the district is ensuring that the festival is well-funded, with additional funds expected to be raised locally. This financial backing will cover the costs of organizing the event, from infrastructure upgrades to event coordination and promotion. By leveraging these resources, the authorities aim to create a high-quality, memorable experience for visitors, helping to boost local tourism and stimulate the regional economy.

As the festival progresses into the New Year, the excitement continues with a host of key events. Among the highlights is a musical evening scheduled for early January at Tannirbhavi Beach, featuring performances by well-known singers. Ullal Beach will also host a beach football tournament, tug of war, and a food festival on January 10 and 11, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy both competitive sports and delicious local cuisine. For those seeking something more spectacular, the international kite festival at Tannirbhavi Beach on January 17 and 18 will offer a stunning visual treat, with vibrant kites filling the sky.

The festival will culminate with a grand finale taking place from January 23 to 25. Events will be staged across multiple beaches, including Someshwar, Tannirbhavi Blue Flag Beach, and Tannirbhavi Beach. The closing celebrations will feature music performances, Zumba dance sessions, and cultural shows, offering a lively and festive conclusion to the month-long event. These final days will provide an exciting end to what promises to be a memorable festival.

Although some beaches in the region, such as Surathkal, Chitrapura, and areas near Iddya in Mangaluru, will not host events this year, plans are already in place to develop these areas further. Infrastructure upgrades are being planned to ensure that these locations can be included in future editions of the festival, expanding the range of beach destinations available to tourists. With these improvements, Dakshina Kannada’s tourism offerings will only continue to grow in the years to come.

Dakshina Kannada is set to become the must-visit holiday destination in 2025, offering a unique tourism experience with its extensive coastal festival, vibrant cultural events, and stunning beaches. The festival promises to attract visitors with a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and local heritage.

The Coastal Festival represents a unique opportunity for Dakshina Kannada to showcase its coastal beauty, rich culture, and vibrant community spirit. By offering a mix of leisure, adventure, food, and culture, the festival is set to draw tourists from across the country, particularly those seeking a more diverse holiday experience. With government support and strong community involvement, the festival is poised to put Dakshina Kannada on the map as a leading holiday destination. The festival’s success could serve as a model for other coastal regions looking to boost their tourism appeal while preserving the unique charm of their beaches and local culture.

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Virginia Beach Leads the Nation as the Most Caring City for 2025, Combining Volunteerism, Charity, and Community Well-Being

Virginia Beach has been named the most caring city in the U.S. for 2025, thanks to its impressive combination of volunteerism, charitable efforts, and dedication to community well-being. The city stands out for its high volunteer participation, with residents consistently giving their time to local causes and making a significant impact on the lives of others. In addition to volunteering, Virginia Beach excels in charity, with a large portion of the population actively fundraising and donating to support those in need. The city’s commitment to community well-being is further demonstrated by its low crime rates and focus on ensuring a safe, supportive environment for all residents. Together, these factors make Virginia Beach a shining example of compassion and civic responsibility, securing its place at the top of the list for 2025.

Virginia Beach, often associated with its vibrant beach scene and lively tourist atmosphere, surprises many with the depth of its community spirit. While the city is known for its entertainment and party culture, it also places a strong emphasis on safety and civic responsibility. Virginia Beach has earned the distinction of having the second-lowest violent crime rate and the 12th-lowest property crime rate in the country. These statistics underscore the sense of safety that pervades the community, reflecting the care residents have for one another. The city also boasts one of the lowest poverty rates in the country, with its adult and child poverty rates ranked sixth and 13th lowest, respectively. This suggests a community actively working to lift those in need, with a deep commitment to economic well-being.

One of the standout metrics for Virginia Beach is its exceptional volunteerism. The city ranks first in the nation for volunteer hours per capita, a testament to the high level of community involvement among its residents. Whether it’s helping at shelters, organizing charity events, or working with local nonprofits, Virginia Beach residents contribute their time and energy to causes that improve the lives of others. This commitment to volunteerism is not a temporary trend but an integral part of the city’s culture. Many individuals dedicate substantial portions of their lives to supporting charitable causes, reinforcing Virginia Beach’s reputation as a caring and engaged city.

In addition to volunteering, Virginia Beach also excels in fundraising for charitable causes. The city ranks fourth for the share of residents who actively raise money by selling items or organizing fundraisers for charity. This demonstrates that the spirit of giving in Virginia Beach extends beyond just personal donations—residents are constantly finding new ways to support the causes that matter to them, ensuring that the city is continually giving back to both local and broader communities. Whether it’s through bake sales, charity runs, or selling handmade goods, residents are finding creative ways to contribute to causes that benefit others.

Another telling indicator of Virginia Beach’s caring nature is the frequency with which its residents search online for ways to contribute. Terms like “charitable organizations” and “donations” are among the most common search queries, reflecting a strong desire among residents to find meaningful ways to give back. This search behavior shows that Virginia Beach is more than just a city with a culture of philanthropy—it is a community where people actively seek out opportunities to help those in need.

Virginia Beach’s recognition as the top city for care in 2025 is a significant achievement, particularly as it represents the only Southern city in the top five. Other cities that made the list include Boston, which ranks second, and Scottsdale, Arizona, which takes the third spot. To determine the most caring cities, the study compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across three core areas: caring for the community, caring for vulnerable populations, and caring in the workforce. These areas were assessed using a range of 38 metrics, from volunteer hours and charitable donations to the percentage of homeless people sheltered and the amount of income donated to charity.

Beyond just financial donations and volunteer work, the cities that ranked highest on the list, including Virginia Beach, Boston, and Scottsdale, are home to residents who actively choose professions focused on helping others. These include jobs in social work, education, medicine, and firefighting—fields that directly contribute to the well-being of communities. In addition to working in such impactful careers, residents of these caring cities are often involved in other activities that enhance community welfare, such as working toward environmental sustainability, promoting social justice, and advocating for policies that reduce crime and poverty.

In addition to professional and volunteer efforts, these cities are marked by their low crime rates, environmentally conscious residents, and efforts to address homelessness. Virginia Beach, for example, has established programs and policies that aim to reduce homelessness and support individuals experiencing economic hardship. This holistic approach to caring for others, which includes professional care, volunteerism, and systemic efforts to reduce poverty, makes these cities exemplary in their compassionate approach to community-building.

Virginia Beach is recognized as the most caring city in the U.S. for 2025, thanks to its exceptional volunteerism, charitable contributions, and strong focus on community well-being, creating a supportive and compassionate environment for all residents.

Virginia Beach’s top ranking underscores the power of collective action. The city’s residents show time and again that they are not just willing to donate their time or money but are also deeply invested in the health, safety, and well-being of their fellow citizens. Their commitment to building a caring community makes Virginia Beach not just a destination for tourists but also a model of what it means to look out for one another. As other cities such as Boston and Scottsdale continue to lead the way in caring for others, it’s clear that these communities are redefining what it means to be a “caring city”—through acts of kindness, professional dedication, and a shared commitment to the well-being of all.

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Atlantic Canada’s 2025 Cruise Season Delivers Major Success with Record-Breaking Traffic and New Ship Experiences

Atlantic Canada’s 2025 cruise season has been a standout success, achieving record-breaking passenger traffic and introducing a range of new ship experiences that have captured the attention of travelers worldwide. With over 845,000 passengers and 610 vessel visits, the season exceeded expectations, surpassing previous traffic records. The introduction of new ships, such as Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady and Oceania’s Allura, brought fresh experiences to the region, elevating its status as a top cruise destination. This remarkable season highlights Atlantic Canada’s growing appeal, combining its stunning natural beauty with a diverse and dynamic cruise offering that continues to attract global visitors.

The 2025 season began on March 10, when Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot made its first winter call in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador. The season concluded on November 19 with the departure of AIDAdiva from Halifax, Nova Scotia. This extended season, spanning from early spring through late fall, solidified the region’s status as a top destination for cruise travelers throughout the year.

While Atlantic Canada has long been a favorite for fall cruises, famed for its stunning autumn foliage and the iconic Canada-New England itinerary, the region’s appeal is expanding beyond the fall months. More visitors are discovering the region’s vibrant summer offerings, such as its rich cultural heritage, delicious local cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. These year-round experiences have positioned the region as a prime destination for both summer and fall cruises.

The 2025 season welcomed several new ships, including Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady, Oceania’s Allura, the Celebrity Silhouette, Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot, Majestic Princess, Seven Seas Splendor, and Silver Dawn. These new additions have diversified the cruising options available to travelers, further boosting the region’s appeal.

Port Highlights:

Saint John, New Brunswick:
Saint John saw 83 cruise ships dock in 2025, with more than 196,000 passengers visiting the port. One of the most remarkable moments of the season occurred between September 29 and October 3, when 15 vessels arrived, bringing over 32,000 passengers. This marked the port’s busiest week on record, showcasing its capability to manage large numbers of cruise tourists efficiently. Additionally, Saint John played a pivotal role in handling several weather-related diversions, ensuring that the region continued to offer a seamless experience for travelers.

Halifax, Nova Scotia:
Halifax, a cornerstone of the region’s cruise tourism, hosted over 200 delegates for the Cruise Canada New England Symposium from June 9 to 11. This event proved to be a major gathering for industry stakeholders, fostering networking opportunities and discussions about the future of cruising in Canada and the U.S. The symposium further highlighted Halifax’s growing importance within the Canada-New England cruise network and emphasized the city’s role as a key player in the cruise industry.

Sydney, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia:
Sydney on Cape Breton Island welcomed more than 100 cruise ships in 2025, with the Port of Sydney handling several busy days featuring multiple ship arrivals. Among these were some exceptional days with up to four ships arriving at once. The region’s breathtaking views, particularly along the famed Cabot Trail, and the warm hospitality of local communities continue to draw passengers seeking a blend of culture, nature, and adventure. The ability to accommodate multiple ships on the same day has positioned Sydney as one of the most popular and busiest ports in Atlantic Canada.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island:
Port Charlottetown celebrated a major milestone in 2025 by welcoming its two millionth cruise passenger during a call by Holland America Line’s Volendam on July 4. This achievement underscores the growing demand for cruise tourism on Prince Edward Island, which offers a mix of stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and an inviting atmosphere for travelers. As the island continues to attract more cruise ships, it strengthens its position as a premier destination within the Atlantic region.

St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador:
St. John’s saw nine inaugural ship calls in 2025, along with eight turnarounds and multiple overnight stays, allowing passengers more time to explore the city. Known for its colorful row houses, rugged coastline, and vibrant arts scene, St. John’s remains one of the most sought-after destinations in Newfoundland and Labrador. The city’s continued success as a cruise port speaks to its ability to offer visitors a unique and immersive experience, blending the charm of its historic past with the beauty of its natural surroundings.

Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador:
Corner Brook’s 2025 season began with the Le Commandant Charcot’s winter call, a first for the region, and later welcomed Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 for its third visit. Known for its scenic views of the Bay of Islands and proximity to Gros Morne National Park, Corner Brook offers passengers an opportunity to experience both natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town continues to be a popular port for cruise passengers seeking adventure in the great outdoors, as well as a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Atlantic Canada’s 2025 cruise season marked a major success with record-breaking passenger traffic and the introduction of new ships, offering fresh experiences that solidified the region’s appeal as a top cruise destination. With over 845,000 passengers and 610 vessel visits, the season surpassed expectations and showcased Atlantic Canada’s growing prominence in the cruise industry.

The 2025 cruise season not only showcased the natural beauty and rich cultural offerings of Atlantic Canada but also underscored the region’s continued growth as a premier destination for cruise travelers. With new ships arriving and the region’s ports handling increased traffic, Atlantic Canada is set to remain a key player in the global cruise market, offering unforgettable experiences for passengers across every season.

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