Cruise News Today — June 8, 2022 [VIDEO]

Several Norwegian Escape Cruises Canceled For Dry Dock

Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled a number of fall sailings on Norwegian Escape, citing a required dry dock.

In a letter to booked guests, the line said that voyages from September 8 through October 2 are now canceled. The reason for the dry dock was not given, but Escape is the ship that ran aground in the Dominican Republic in March and required hull repairs.

Affected guests will receive a full refund, as well as a 10 percent future cruise credit to be used by June 13 of next year.

The voyages that have been canceled are nine and 10-night Greek Isles sailings.

STORY: Several Norwegian Escape Cruises Canceled For Dry Dock

Barcelona, Spain Announces New Cruise Passenger Tax

The city of Barcelona, Spain has announced a new tax on cruise ship visitors.

Currently, tourists are charged €3 for a 12+ hour stay, and €1 for a shorter visit. The government in the region has not yet announced exactly how much the new tax will cost travelers.

Barcelona is Europe’s busiest cruise port. In 2019, around 3 million cruise passengers disembarked in the city.

Explora Journeys Appoints Female Captain For First Ship

MSC Group’s new luxury cruise line has appointed a female captain for its first ship.

Explora Journeys announced that Captain Serena Melani will be master of Explora I. Melani began her maritime career on cargo ships, and recently served as a bridge officer and then captain for Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Explora I is scheduled to visit 132 ports in 40 countries during its first year at sea. It is set to debut in May 2023.

STORY: Explora Journeys Appoints Female Captain For First Cruise Ship

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