MSC Explora Journeys Redefines Loyalty With A Generous New Member Referral Programme

The luxury ocean travel brand MSC Explora Journeys revealed a novel referral-driven enhancement to its Explora Club loyalty programme, thus endorsing its desire to establish stronger and more personal relationships between the tourists and the oceans they visit. The new measure, which was made public in December 2025, adds a well-defined referral part to the loyalty program that was first introduced in the current year, encouraging present members to invite their acquaintances and relatives to experience the sophisticated sea travel and at the same time get rewarded for their support.

For travellers drawn to immersive journeys across the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Northern Europe, the new programme arrives as a thoughtful extension of Explora Journeys’ promise: that time at sea should feel unhurried, meaningful and shared with those who matter most.

A Loyalty Programme Designed Around the Modern Ocean Traveller

The Explora Club was introduced in April 2025 as a tier-based loyalty programme aimed at recognising repeat guests and enhancing their end-to-end journey. According to information published on the official MSC Explora Journeys website, members benefit from early access to new itineraries, priority pre-departure services and invitations to curated onboard experiences designed to deepen engagement with destinations and life at sea.

With the addition of the referral initiative, the programme evolves from a traditional loyalty model into a community-driven ecosystem, rewarding not only continued patronage but also personal recommendations. Company representatives have indicated that the initiative reflects the brand’s belief that ocean travel is best experienced together, with shared moments forming the foundation of lasting loyalty.

How the New Explora Club Referral Initiative Works

Under the new structure, each registered Explora Club member can refer up to ten new prospective guests per calendar year. These prospective guests must be entirely new to Explora Journeys, with no prior sailing history with the brand.

Once referred, the new guest enrols in the Explora Club and, upon successful registration, receives Future Journey Credits that can be applied towards their first voyage. In addition, they are awarded a defined number of loyalty points after completing that inaugural sailing. These points contribute to their progression within the club’s tiered hierarchy.

The referring member, meanwhile, becomes eligible for equivalent Future Journey Credits and loyalty points once the referred guest completes their first journey. This reciprocal structure ensures that both parties benefit, reinforcing a sense of shared reward rather than one-sided incentive.

Tier Progression and Enhanced Recognition at Sea

Accumulated loyalty points earned through both sailing activity and referrals contribute to progression through the Explora Club’s tier system, which ranges from Classic through Silver, Gold, Platinum and ultimately Diamond status.

Each tier is associated with increasing levels of recognition and onboard privileges, reflecting the brand’s commitment to acknowledging guest loyalty in meaningful ways. While specific benefits vary by tier, they are designed to enhance comfort, convenience and access throughout the journey, from booking through to life onboard.

Explora Journeys has suggested that the referral initiative will help members advance more quickly through these tiers, particularly those who regularly travel with like-minded companions or introduce new travellers to the brand.

Benefits for Passengers: More Than Just Credits

From a passenger perspective, the referral programme offers tangible and experiential advantages. Future Journey Credits reduce the cost of upcoming sailings, making it easier for guests to plan repeat voyages or extend their exploration to new regions within the Explora Journeys portfolio.

Beyond financial incentives, the programme fosters a shared travel experience. Travellers can invite friends or family to join them aboard, knowing that both parties will be recognised and rewarded. This aligns closely with Explora Journeys’ positioning as a brand that values connection to the sea, to destinations and to fellow travellers.

Industry observers have noted that such initiatives are increasingly important in the luxury travel space, where personal recommendation remains a powerful driver of trust and brand affinity.

A Travel-Centric Vision for Long-Term Engagement

Explora Journeys has indicated, in indirect remarks published alongside the announcement, that the referral programme forms part of a broader strategy to cultivate long-term relationships rather than transactional bookings. By encouraging members to become ambassadors for the brand, the company aims to create a network of travellers who feel personally invested in its evolution.

This approach reflects wider trends in luxury travel, where loyalty is built not only on rewards but on emotional resonance and shared values. For Explora Journeys, those values centre on ocean stewardship, cultural discovery and a slower, more intentional pace of travel.

Looking Ahead: Shared Voyages, Shared Rewards

As Explora Journeys continues to expand its itineraries across iconic and emerging destinations, the new Explora Club referral initiative positions the brand to grow through its most credible advocates: its guests. For travellers already captivated by the rhythm of life onboard, the programme offers a compelling reason to return and to bring others along for the journey.

Through this, Explora Journeys backs up the notion that luxury ocean travel is not exclusively about the destination but rather about the fellow travelers and the way their togetherness and interactions influence their succeeding escapades.

Image Credit: MSC Explora Journeys

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Exclusive Travel Perks: Your 2026 Cruise Adventure Starts Here

The world of luxury cruises is about to experience a new wave of excitement as Sea Cloud Cruises unveils its exclusive “Wave on the Horizon” offer, designed to enhance the cruise experience in 2026. This limited-time promotion promises enticing benefits for travelers looking to embark on the adventure of a lifetime. From breathtaking itineraries to exceptional perks, this offer sets a new standard for luxury travel at sea. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, Sea Cloud’s latest offer aims to redefine your expectations of luxury cruises.

Unveiling the Wave on the Horizon Offer

This special promotion, which will be available for select itineraries in 2026, offers incredible deals on some of the most sought-after cruises in the luxury travel market. Guests can expect to enjoy a wide array of exclusive perks, including complimentary beverages, luxurious cabin upgrades, and special excursions that promise to deliver unforgettable memories.

For those who have been contemplating a luxury cruise getaway, Sea Cloud’s new offer adds even more allure to what is already a premium experience. This move is expected to attract both seasoned travelers and those new to the world of cruising, all eager to take advantage of the exceptional value this promotion brings.

What’s Included in the Wave on the Horizon Offer?

The “Wave on the Horizon” offer is not just about discounted prices but a complete upgrade in the luxury cruise experience. One of the highlights is the inclusion of cabin upgrades, offering guests the opportunity to stay in more luxurious accommodations at no extra cost. Additionally, the offer includes a variety of special perks such as premium dining options, personalized excursions, and exclusive access to onboard events. Whether you want to explore a vibrant city during a shore excursion or relax with an expertly crafted cocktail at sunset, this offer elevates your entire cruise experience.

Why Choose Sea Cloud for Your Next Cruise?

Sea Cloud Cruises is renowned for its commitment to providing exceptional travel experiences. The brand’s focus on delivering high-end, personalized service sets it apart in the competitive world of luxury cruises. Whether you are sailing through the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, or the Baltic, Sea Cloud offers a variety of itineraries that cater to discerning travelers looking for sophistication and luxury. What truly differentiates Sea Cloud from other cruise lines is its attention to detail. From the design of its ships to the curated experiences onboard, every aspect of a Sea Cloud cruise is meticulously crafted to ensure guests feel like they are part of an exclusive club.

Perfect Timing for 2026 Cruising

The timing of the Wave on the Horizon offer couldn’t be better, as the cruise industry continues to experience a resurgence in popularity. With travel restrictions easing and pent-up demand for luxury travel, 2026 is poised to be a banner year for cruising. Sea Cloud’s offer comes at a time when travelers are seeking unforgettable experiences, and this promotion presents a unique opportunity to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in the utmost comfort and style.

Book Early for Exclusive Benefits

To take full advantage of the Wave on the Horizon offer, travelers are encouraged to book their cruise early. The limited availability of this promotion means that those who act quickly will secure the best rates and most desirable cabins. Early booking also provides additional benefits such as priority booking for excursions, onboard events, and personalized concierge services.

For those looking to make the most of this offer, Sea Cloud’s expert travel advisors are available to help guide you through the booking process and ensure that you select the ideal itinerary and cruise experience for your needs.

The Perfect Getaway for 2026

With its stunning itineraries, luxurious accommodations, and the new Wave on the Horizon offer, Sea Cloud Cruises is setting the stage for an unforgettable 2026. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring hidden gems in the Mediterranean or soaking up the sun on a Caribbean beach, this promotion offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime voyage. With exclusive perks, luxurious upgrades, and a wide range of itineraries, this offer is set to redefine your idea of cruising.

Conclusion: An Opportunity Not to Be Missed

Sea Cloud’s “Wave on the Horizon” offer is a rare opportunity for travelers to experience world-class luxury cruising in 2026. With exclusive benefits, luxurious upgrades, and the freedom to choose from a variety of exciting itineraries, this offer is perfect for those seeking a high-end travel experience.

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AROYA Cruises Unveils Bold New 2026 Program with Expansive Itineraries, Sports-Themed Sailings and Deep Cultural Immersion to Attract Global Travelers

AROYA Cruises, Saudi Arabia’s pioneering homegrown cruise line, has celebrated a landmark first year since its launch in December 2024. As the Arab world’s first domestic cruise brand, AROYA has swiftly established itself as a transformative player in the region’s tourism landscape. By blending luxury cruising with culturally immersive experiences, the line has already welcomed over 140,000 guests from Saudi Arabia, the GCC, Europe, and Central Asia. With its impressive start, AROYA is set to further expand its offerings in 2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its journey.

Expanding Horizons: New Destinations and Themed Voyages

AROYA’s forward-looking 2026 program is set to introduce a range of fresh itineraries and exciting sailings, designed to enhance the cruise experience for guests both locally and internationally. Among the highlights of this new chapter is a sports-themed cruise planned for January 2026. In partnership with the Saudi Tourism Authority and Major Sports Cruises, this specially crafted voyage will coincide with the Spanish Super Cup semi-finals. The three-day cruise, running from January 8th to 11th, will operate between Jeddah and Yanbu, offering guests a unique combination of sports excitement, cultural immersion, and relaxation at sea. Football legends are expected to be onboard, further elevating the experience for sports enthusiasts.

Alongside this special sailing, AROYA will also mark its debut in the Arabian Gulf in February 2026. New itineraries departing from Dammam, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha will offer both five- and seven-night cruise options, catering to travelers looking for a luxurious and culturally enriched escape. These new voyages will be in addition to the cruise line’s established routes through the Red Sea and Mediterranean, which already feature stops in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and Greece. AROYA’s new Arabian Gulf sailings will bring the region’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes into focus, offering a distinctive travel experience.

Immersing Guests in Saudi Arabia’s Heritage

What truly sets AROYA Cruises apart is its commitment to providing culturally immersive experiences that reflect the rich heritage of Saudi Arabia. Each voyage is designed to offer more than just scenic destinations, providing passengers with an opportunity to engage with the Kingdom’s traditions and culture at every turn. In 2026, the cruise line will continue to emphasize cultural experiences, with a range of themed sailings aligned with significant national events, including Saudi Founding Day and Saudi National Day. These cruises will allow guests to explore the Kingdom’s history while enjoying world-class dining, entertainment, and relaxation onboard.

In addition to these special national celebrations, AROYA is introducing entertainment-led cruises aimed at appealing to both regional travelers and international guests. These sailings will incorporate elements of Saudi culture, including traditional music, local cuisine, and storytelling, offering an authentic cultural experience that guests can savor while exploring the region’s top destinations. The focus on cultural immersion is a key part of AROYA’s vision, helping to distinguish the cruise line from other offerings in the global market.

Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Position as a Global Cruise Hub

The growth of AROYA Cruises is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and position it as a global hub for tourism and leisure. By expanding its cruise offerings, AROYA is directly contributing to the Kingdom’s broader tourism goals, attracting more international visitors and bolstering the local economy. The cruise line’s growing popularity helps shine a spotlight on Saudi Arabia’s hidden gems, further elevating its appeal as a premier cruise destination.

AROYA Cruises plays a vital role within the larger Cruise Saudi initiative, which is part of the country’s broader efforts to develop a thriving cruise industry. As the brand grows, it supports Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a key player in the global tourism sector, offering travelers new ways to explore the Kingdom while highlighting its diverse culture and rich history. With the cruise line’s continued growth, AROYA is helping to bring the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 to life, positioning Saudi Arabia as a destination that offers something unique to travelers.

A Luxurious Cruise Experience

AROYA Cruises operates with a one-ship fleet, currently featuring the luxurious Aroya (formerly known as World Dream). This state-of-the-art vessel is packed with amenities designed to cater to every type of traveler. Passengers can enjoy 14 diverse dining options, eight lounges and cafés—many serving traditional shisha—along with various entertainment and wellness facilities, making each voyage a relaxing and enriching experience. The ship’s family-friendly facilities, combined with its sophisticated offerings, ensure there is something for everyone onboard.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Future

As AROYA Cruises moves into its second year of operation, the brand is poised for even greater success. The expanded 2026 program is set to bring new destinations, culturally immersive experiences, and exclusive themed sailings to passengers. AROYA is not only providing a means of travel but also offering an immersive cultural experience that blends luxury, leisure, and Saudi heritage.

The success of AROYA Cruises is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a major player in the global tourism and cruise industry. With its expanding itineraries and dedication to cultural authenticity, AROYA is helping shape the future of cruise tourism in the region. As Saudi Arabia continues its push to diversify its economy and become a top tourist destination, AROYA Cruises will remain at the forefront of this exciting transformation.

With its bold plans for 2026 and beyond, AROYA Cruises is set to continue making waves, attracting travelers from across the globe to experience Saudi Arabia’s unique charm, culture, and landscapes like never before.

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The seven-night Evrima sailing departs from Barbados and visits Grenada, St. Lucia, Martinique, and the Grenadines in ultra-luxury style.

© <p>Edgardo Contreras/The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection</p>

“We are a company that’s never satisfied,” said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, during a question-and-answer panel on Celebrity Xcel. 

Nowhere is that sentiment clearer than on the new 3,276-passenger vessel. As the fifth in the line’s Edge Class, it offers several new additions – concepts that line president Laura Hodges Bethge said are the result of feedback from passengers who have sailed on the first four iterations. 

From first-in-fleet restaurant concepts to phenomenal entertainment offerings, there’s a lot on Celebrity Xcel that will feel both familiar and refreshed. Here’s what you should be sure to check out if you sail and what needs a bit of work.

Don’t Miss These New Additions

Fans of the Eden dining, lounge and entertainment space on other Excel Class ships will likely appreciate the line’s fresh take via The Bazaar. As they approach the venue, passengers will pass through Market at The Bazaar, which sells jewelry, bath products and clothing that’s made by artisans local to the places the ship visits.

The Bazaar itself is laid out similarly to Eden, but with performances featuring costuming and dance inspired by traditions in the Caribbean and other regions where the vessel sails.

Instead of Eden Restaurant and Eden Cafe, cruisers can dine for a fee at Mosaic, a restaurant with a menu that switches from Caribbean-inspired to European as the ship relocates, and the complimentary Spice Cafe. 

The latter is a don’t-miss eatery that serves items like deli sandwiches, build-your-own bowls and rotating local specials like quesadillas, tostones and more. There’s plenty of seating, as well as a drink station and a specialty coffee bar. It’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or snack.

Shows in the Theater and The Club

Celebrity has long been a forerunner in the cruise industry when it comes to entertainment. It was firmly the leader in that area until Virgin Voyages came along, but with the new shows on Celebrity Xcel, it might have just reclaimed its title. 

You simply must see “Chapters,” one of three new shows in Celebrity Xcel’s main theater. With a mix of goosebump-inducing vocals, pop-and-lock dance moves, aerial acrobatics, smoke, lasers, and even parkour set in front of a high-tech digital backdrop, it’s perhaps one of the most sophisticated productions you’ll find anywhere at sea. 

In addition to other new shows – “Between Takes” and “Mainstage” – that promise to deliver equally jawdropping effects in the theater, be sure to head to The Club, the ship’s nightclub venue, for the excellent new spectacles there. 

“Saddle Up Saloon” features a team of singers, dancers and acrobats who perform country hits, and “254 West” offers a Studio 54 vibe punctuated by both classic dance favorites and contemporary tunes.

Bora

Although we were skeptical at first, thanks to the sharing-plate style at this alfresco Mediterranean restaurant, we were pleasantly surprised – in fact, blown away – by the excellent cuisine and Greek vibes, featuring live music. 

This for-fee outpost, located in the ship’s Rooftop Garden, features delicious items like eggs, French toast and avocado toast for brunch and haloumi, hummus, salted sea bass, and herbed chicken for dinner. There are also multiple seafood options – including shrimp so huge they could be lobster – for both meals. Want a cocktail with your food? Check out the bloody mary cart during brunch; it turns into a spritzer cart for dinner.

Photo Booth

If a bit of mystery is what you’re craving on Celebrity Xcel, seek out the photo booth inside The Club, just to the right of the bar. Put your name on the list to have your photo taken, and you and up to three of your friends are sure to end up with more than just some fun snapshots. 

For good reason, it’s an exceptionally popular venue, so be sure to get there early, and set aside at least an hour once you’re inside. 

Celebrity Flagship

As an ode to Celebrity Cruises’ history, the new ship houses the line’s first onboard mini-museum, Celebrity Flagship. The space holds a giant model of Celebrity Xcel (with a Magic Carpet that actually goes up and down) and several display cases filled with memorabilia dating back to when the line was owned by the Chandris family of Greek shipping fame.

When you’re done exploring, head to the adjoining shop, which sells all sorts of branded merchandise and logowear bearing Celebrity’s well-known “X” symbol. For an additional fee, items can also be personalized with engraving or embroidery.

The Attic

The top floor of Celebrity Xcel’s two-deck The Club nightclub has been transformed into an adult gaming area with a handful of classic arcade games, digital darts, pool tables and foosball, among other diversions. All of the games are free to play, but you’ll pay extra for vending machine items that include an impressive array of both drinks and snacks. 

A ledge with counter seating offers views onto the dance floor and performance space below, which is where the ship’s spectacular “254 West” and “Saddle Up Saloon” take place.

Spa Expansion

If you’re up for a day of added-fee relaxation, you can purchase a thermal suite pass. Celebrity Xcel has more dedicated spa space than its Edge Class counterparts. Cruisers will find a brand-new hydrotherapy pool in a dedicated room that will help them to melt their cares away. 

Outside, the new Vitamain D Deck sun deck, located at the very front of the vessel, offers a serene space that’s a sunbather’s paradise.  

What Needs Tweaking

Bora Shade

As we mentioned above, Bora offers a fantastic overall dining experience. The only drawback is that there’s very little shade, so wear sunscreen and prepare to sweat when the weather is warm. The space could do with a fully covered awning and some adjustable shades to block out the rays, particularly in the morning as the sun comes up and in the afternoon when it’s directly overhead.

Pickleball Court

The good news: In a first for the line, Celebrity Xcel has its own dedicated pickleball court. The bad news: It’s in a terrible location. 

Found in the top-deck Rooftop Garden, peaceful seating areas and lush vegetation surround the court – not exactly an ideal spot for the sound of pickleballs hitting paddles and passengers grunting as they work up a sweat. Plus, it can also be a pain for players. One rogue serve, and the ball will end up in the bushes. 

Digital Elevator Buttons

Although digital elevator buttons aren’t a new concept, we noticed that the ones on Celebrity Xcel were particularly problematic. If you don’t hit the button for your floor exactly in the right spot, you risk activating a different floor instead. Lean up against the wall absentmindedly when the elevator car is crowded, and you’ll be inadvertently pressing all of the buttons, meaning you’ll stop on every single floor. Be mindful of this if you’re not taking the stairs.