Panama Canal's 100th season underway in advance of delayed centennial party

If you've never seen it, the first thing you should know about the Panama Canal is that it's not a canal. Not in the sense of a perfectly sculpted channel that cuts the Isthmus of Panama in two neat halves, through which large ships pass. It's more of a series of waterways — canals, yes,… Continue reading Panama Canal's 100th season underway in advance of delayed centennial party

Impact of government shutdown possible glitch for cruise passengers this month

While you may already be weary of reading and hearing about the U.S. government shutdown, don't turn a blind eye or deaf ear to it if you're on a cruise ships in the next few weeks. It could — repeat, could — have an impact on your shore excursion should it happen to include a… Continue reading Impact of government shutdown possible glitch for cruise passengers this month

With the Saga of Venice Continuing, Stakes are the Future of Cruise Ships

Giovanni Dall'Orto photo Much is written and spoken about the controversy of cruise ships in Venice. In case you're wondering why it's such a big deal, there are three ports at the heart of European cruising and one of them is Venice…the others would be Southampton and Barcelona. Many Mediterranean cruises touch two of the… Continue reading With the Saga of Venice Continuing, Stakes are the Future of Cruise Ships

Gambling on Ship Casinos in Bermuda Getting Another Look from Legislators

In an era when compromise seems to be a four-letter word, the government of Bermuda took a stab at it this month. A bill that would allow cruise passengers to gamble at their ship's casino while in port was tabled in the House of Assembly. There is no gambling in Bermuda. To continue prohibiting it… Continue reading Gambling on Ship Casinos in Bermuda Getting Another Look from Legislators

Breast Cancer Survivors Make 'Pink' Headlines Again with Holland America

  Almost exactly a year ago, we wrote a blog about Holland America and breast cancer. About how breast cancer survivors were invited on board when the Oosterdam was in port in Seattle, where Holland America's head office is located. About how this cruise line has raised millions to help those who think pink in… Continue reading Breast Cancer Survivors Make 'Pink' Headlines Again with Holland America