The News section of The Cruise News Middle East delivers fast, verified reporting on global cruise developments with direct relevance to the GCC and wider MENA region. From fleet expansions to deployment shifts and commercial updates, we focus on what matters for travel professionals and informed cruisers.
Princess Cruises will return to the Rose Parade in January 2027 with a destination-inspired floral float celebrating Alaska, Japan, Australia and Europe while reflecting the Tournament of Roses theme, “Welcome”, through travel, culture and connection.
Royal Caribbean has expanded its 2027-28 Asia-Pacific programme with Ovation of the Seas from Brisbane, Voyager of the Seas across Australia and Asia, and a Singapore deployment for Navigator of the Seas through October 2027.
Celebrity Cruises has unveiled its 2028-29 deployment, led by four Edge Series ships in Europe, renewed Celebrity Beyond, overnight calls in Alexandria, new Japan and Alaska programmes, and an extended South America season including Antarctica.
Aurora Expeditions has opened its 2028 Northern Hemisphere season, adding seven new Cultural Expeditions alongside Polar and Discovery voyages, with 29 departures across 20 countries and territories aboard Douglas Mawson and Sylvia Earle during 2028.
Oceania Cruises has opened bookings for its 2028 and 2029 Collection of Voyages, featuring more than 230 itineraries, over 60 overnight stays, inaugural Oceania Aurelia World Cruises and expanded regional programmes.
Viking Yi Dun has begun Viking China’s 2026 European ocean season, carrying Chinese guests on Mediterranean itineraries from August to December, with eight routes planned and the line’s 2027 Europe programme already on sale now.
AmaWaterways has revealed AmaNubia ahead of its November 2026 Nile debut and updated AmaDahlia, with optional land extensions to Alexandria, Dubai and Jordan available alongside its Secrets of Egypt & the Nile programme for guests.
Fourteen Saudi university students have joined the third AROYA Cruises Ambassador Program cohort for two months of onboard training in cruise hotel operations and management during the cruise line’s current Mediterranean season with Cruise Saudi.
Antarctica21 will introduce Leica binoculars, spotting scopes and selected imaging products aboard Magellan Explorer and Magellan Discoverer and at Explorers House in Punta Arenas from the beginning of its 2026-27 Antarctic season for guests.
AROYA Cruises has renewed its sponsorship agreement with Al Nassr FC for the 2026-27 season, retaining its logo on the club’s official jersey sleeve while planning new fan experiences, campaigns and digital content.
