Turkey
Since the situation in Syria has cooled down a bit, Istanbul is slowly greeting Cruise Ships again. The access of ISIS fighters entering through Turkey caused many lines to cease landings in the country.

2020 will see Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn offering trips. Interest in travel to the Eastern Mediterranean will get back to its high level soon. Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are already scheduled for 12 calls in Istanbul this year and 20 next year.

Women’s Month news
Capt. Serena Melani, a trailblazer in maritime will be the master of Seven Seas Splendor, making her the first woman to Captain a new ocean liner at its launch.

She is not new to being in the bridge. With 30 years of experience, the 45-year old was Regent’s first woman captain and has been in charge of three other Seven Seas ships.

Read about another woman first

Norwegian Cruise Line’s new app
NCL announced that smartphone users can download a new app to make their experience even better. All of thei16 ships in their fleet offer access for a fee. The Norwegian app can be used both before you cruise and while you’re onboard.

Among the features offered are: Online check-in, E-Doc access, driving directions, show reservations and dining reservations. Also, chat and voice to other passengers for a one-time fee of $9.95 per person. How about this…call any country for 79 cents a minute …. that’s often cheaper than wifi on most lines!

See you next week with even more current events in the cruise industry.  Drop us a line if you’d like to learn how to get free trips by speaking.