Vietnam and Cambodia Shuffle Itinerary for Norwegian Sun Cruise Amid Cargo Disruptions

The Norwegian Sun, one of the most renowned cruise ships from Norwegian Cruise Line, was set to visit Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, on March 5, 2026, but unforeseen circumstances led to an itinerary change. Due to an unexpected cargo congestion in Phu My, the port serving as the gateway to Ho Chi Minh City, the ship had no option but to skip the scheduled stop. Instead, it ventured to Sihanoukville, Cambodia, a destination that wasn’t initially on the voyage plan.

This last-minute change, while inconvenient for some, allowed passengers to enjoy the breathtaking beaches, religious temples, and natural beauty of Cambodia. Despite the shift, the Norwegian Sun’s two-week voyage, taking passengers from Taiwan to Singapore, still includes visits to six diverse countries.

Unexpected But Interesting: Sihanoukville Steals the Spotlight

Sihanoukville, Cambodia’s coastal gem, quickly replaced the bustling Ho Chi Minh City stop on the Norwegian Sun’s March 2026 cruise. The cargo congestion that plagued Phu My, the crucial port for the Vietnamese destination, prompted a reassessment of the cruise’s scheduled route. This was an unusual but exciting detour for cruise guests who would have originally explored Vietnam’s vibrant culture and history.

Sihanoukville’s charm lies in its serene, lesser-explored beaches and historical landmarks, making it an intriguing alternative. Located on the Gulf of Thailand, opposite Ho Chi Minh City, it offers a quieter experience compared to the hustle of Vietnam’s largest city. Visitors had the opportunity to explore a different side of Southeast Asia, one with more tranquil surroundings and the opportunity to delve into Cambodia’s rich heritage.

The Impact on Norwegian Sun’s Guests

Norwegian Sun passengers received a letter informing them of the change. The ship’s staff explained that their scheduled berth in Phu My was no longer available due to the congestion, but they reassured travelers that the addition of Sihanoukville would still allow them to enjoy six different countries.

For those who had already booked excursions to Ho Chi Minh City, the cruise line automatically refunded the tours. Although Ho Chi Minh City’s cancellation was unfortunate, the inclusion of Sihanoukville gave guests a chance to experience the stunning coastal beauty and serene cultural atmosphere of Cambodia.

A Glimpse Into the Ship’s Itinerary and Future

The two-week cruise from Keelung (Taipei) started on February 24, 2026, and has already taken the Norwegian Sun to several exciting destinations. Passengers have already enjoyed ports in Hong Kong, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei. After the new stop in Sihanoukville, the ship will continue its journey with calls at Bangkok and Ko Samui in Thailand before arriving in Singapore on March 10.

Despite this detour, guests can still expect a diverse and exciting vacation. Norwegian Sun, a 78,309-gross-ton vessel, can accommodate nearly 2,000 guests, and the ship is home to over 900 international crew members, all working to ensure passengers have a seamless cruise experience.

The Legacy of Norwegian Sun: A Farewell to the Norwegian Fleet

This year marks an important chapter for the Norwegian Sun as it embarks on its final journey with Norwegian Cruise Line. Set to leave the fleet in late 2027, the ship will offer an array of diverse itineraries and departure points. From Singapore to South Africa, Greece to New York, the vessel will continue to serve cruisers in search of adventure in new and exciting ports.

As one of the oldest ships in the Norwegian fleet, the Sun’s departure will be bittersweet. But before it leaves, the vessel will embark on a variety of itineraries, including a remarkable 21-night journey from Athens to Dubai. Passengers who book future cruises on the Norwegian Sun can still look forward to an unforgettable voyage, with stops in places such as Greece, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia.

Future Plans and the Norwegian Sun’s Transition

In late 2027, Norwegian Sun will undergo significant refurbishment to transition into a new service under Cordelia Cruises, an India-based cruise line. Guests who have already booked a voyage with Norwegian Cruise Line on the Sun need not worry, as the ship will complete its scheduled itineraries through late 2027. Following that, it will undergo renovation before starting a new chapter with Cordelia Cruises.

This rebranding marks a new era for the Sun, allowing it to explore more exotic destinations, but it also leaves behind a legacy of fantastic voyages with Norwegian Cruise Line. Fans of the Sun will surely miss its luxury offerings, but with Cordelia Cruises’ exciting new ventures, the ship will continue to offer outstanding experiences to future passengers.

A Memorable Voyage Despite the Change

While the cargo congestion in Vietnam was an unexpected setback for passengers aboard the Norwegian Sun, the change allowed for a refreshing look at Cambodia. Guests on this two-week cruise from Taiwan to Singapore are still experiencing a rich diversity of Southeast Asian destinations, including stops in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Brunei.

As the Norwegian Sun finishes its final years with Norwegian Cruise Line, it continues to offer travelers unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s the beauty of Sihanoukville or the bustling streets of Bangkok, passengers aboard this iconic ship are still getting a taste of the world’s most captivating destinations.

The post Vietnam and Cambodia Shuffle Itinerary for Norwegian Sun Cruise Amid Cargo Disruptions appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Alaska And Asia Get Ready For The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Exclusive 2027 Summer Sailings

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection announced that its superyacht Luminara will return to service for the Summer 2027 season. The new itineraries will operate between April and October 2027 through Alaska and Asia providing exceptional luxury and exploration experiences to their selective travelers.

Building on the success of its inaugural season in Alaska, Luminara will expand its offerings, with 21 new sailings, including the highly anticipated Northern Japan itinerary. With these new voyages, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection reinforces its reputation for delivering ultra-luxury travel experiences that blend immersive cultural exploration with world-class service.

Alaska Voyages: A Journey Through Nature’s Majestic Beauty

The Summer 2027 season will see Luminara making its return to Alaska, offering 15 sailings between Vancouver, British Columbia and Whittier, Alaska. Among the highlights of the new itineraries are additional calls to Juneau and the scenic Inside Passage. Notably, nearly every voyage of eight nights or longer will feature a glacier day, giving guests the opportunity to experience Alaska’s iconic glaciers up close. A highlight of these voyages will be scenic cruising through the awe-inspiring Tracy Arm Fjord.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Alaska sailings is the intimate size of Luminara. This allows the yacht to visit smaller, more secluded ports and harbours, offering a more relaxed, less crowded experience. Ports such as Wrangell and Klawock offer unique opportunities to explore unhurried landscapes and wildlife. The Wrangell calls, in particular, will offer rare wildlife viewing opportunities during bear season and the salmon run, a truly unforgettable experience.

Exclusive Shore Excursions and Culinary Delights

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection continues to prioritise immersive shore experiences with its Summer 2027 itineraries. Guests will have the chance to embark on privately chartered glacier flights, wilderness landings, and intimate small-group Zodiac outings, directly from the yacht. These excursions provide a close-up view of majestic fjords, glaciers, and Alaska’s abundant wildlife.

A central theme throughout these voyages is the yacht’s ocean-to-table dining philosophy. Guests will experience Alaska’s bountiful produce with hands-on workshops, tastings, and expert-led culinary experiences. Highlights include a cured Alaskan salmon masterclass, sourdough baking workshops, and Alaskan craft beer tastings. Wellness is also a key component of the Ritz-Carlton experience, with regionally inspired spa treatments, such as Glacier Contrast Therapy Rituals and Glacier Stone Massages, drawing from the natural environment.

Asia Voyages: A Gateway to South Korea and Japan

In addition to its Alaskan adventures, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will debut new Asia itineraries in Summer 2027, showcasing a combination of exciting new ports and regions. Seoul, South Korea, is set to become a new turnaround port, offering a gateway to the country’s coastal beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant culinary traditions. This addition opens the door for guests to explore some of South Korea’s most celebrated destinations.

Tianjin, a new port of call, will serve as the gateway to Beijing, offering easy access to the famed Great Wall and other iconic landmarks. Northern Japan will also debut for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, with inaugural calls in Otaru and Akita. These charming towns are known for their scenic beauty, local cuisine, and rich cultural experiences. The Otaru call will include an overnight stay, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the local culture, enjoying regional seafood, artisan glassware, and historic canal walks.

Enrichment and Immersive Experiences on Board and Ashore

One of the signature aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s voyages is its focus on cultural enrichment and discovery. Each voyage will feature two renowned guest speakers, including leading naturalists, conservation specialists, historians, photographers, and writers. These experts will offer fascinating talks and lead on-deck wildlife viewings, providing guests with a deeper understanding of the ecosystems and cultures they are encountering.

The yacht’s onboard programming will further enrich guests’ understanding of the regions they are visiting, with activities that include casual discussions and more formal lectures, as well as intimate wildlife viewings. Guests can also enjoy a selection of enrichment activities designed to connect them with the destinations they are exploring, from local history to sustainable practices.

A Strong Focus on Ultra-Luxury Service

Throughout the 2027 Summer season, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection continues to ensure that every guest enjoys a truly luxurious experience. Ernesto Fara, President and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, noted that the company’s focus on expanding its Alaskan offerings, alongside new ports of call in Asia, reflects its commitment to providing immersive exploration by sea, while maintaining the ultra-luxury accommodations and exceptional service that the brand is known for.

Luminara, which was launched in July 2025, is part of a growing fleet of superyachts that offer a combination of luxury, comfort, and personalised service. As the newest addition to the fleet, Luminara provides a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that sets the stage for an unforgettable journey, whether navigating the icy waters of Alaska or the tranquil seas of Asia.

Looking Ahead: More to Come from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The upcoming 2027 season represents just one chapter in The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s ongoing mission to redefine luxury cruising. As the collection continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to offering a truly unparalleled travel experience, combining exploration, discovery, and luxury. With new destinations, expanded itineraries, and an ever-growing focus on sustainable and immersive travel, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is set to remain at the forefront of ultra-luxury cruises for the discerning traveller.

The upcoming season of Luminara will begin its second season in Alaska while visiting new areas throughout Asia which will provide its viewers with an exceptional traveling experience that enables them to discover some of the most beautiful and isolated destinations in the world while receiving The Ritz-Carlton’s top-notch hospitality and luxury services.

The post Alaska And Asia Get Ready For The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Exclusive 2027 Summer Sailings appeared first on Travel And Tour World.