It would be an understatement to say the global coronavirus pandemic is morphing the entire travel and cruise industry landscape at the moment. The business downturn continues to exacerbate as tens of thousands of travel and tourism jobs are paused in an effort to ride out this storm.

Carnival Australia President Sture Myrmell has jumped to the defence of cruise ships in Australia after an “intense focus” on the sector as the country continues to “grapple with the impact of COVID-19 and fights to slow the spread of illness”.

Seabourn has paused global operations of its five cruise ships for 30 days, effective 14 March. The decision is a voluntary response to the unpredictable circumstances evolving from the global spread of COVID-19.

Seabourn is reiterating its commitment to travel advisors with its third annual ‘Global Partner Appreciation Event’. Set to run longer than ever – from 2 March to April 30 2020 – the two-month event demonstrates Seabourn’s gratitude to dedicated travel advisors around the world.

Cruisers are seeking far-flung, pristine destinations in 2020, driven by a desire for immersion in each location, according to global luxury travel network Virtuoso. The network recently unveiled its cruise trends for the year in time for ‘wave season,’ occurring January through March, when savvy travellers book voyages to benefit from special incentives.

Seabourn’s upcoming ultra-luxury expedition ships will feature a forward-facing viewing lounge on Deck 9, providing 270-degree views.

Seabourn has unveiled an enhancement on the cruise line’s Afternoon Tea Service across its entire fleet. Steeped in the tradition of proper English tea service, the cruise line’s new daily tea service is the latest innovation designed to ensure that every detail of the Seabourn experience is constantly evolving and delighting guests near and far.

Marshall Lancaster has been appointed as Chief Information Officer for the professional services division supporting Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia. In the role, Marshall will oversee the entire information technology portfolio for the four cruise brands.

The latest space to be unveiled by Seabourn for its first ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Venture, has been unveiled. The Bow Lounge is positioned on Deck 6, at the forwardmost part of the vessel, and will provide direct access to the outdoors.

Seabourn has sharpened its keen focus on guest loyalty, expanding rewards for repeat guests who experience the award-winning Seabourn fleet. “The loyalty of our guests is something that we celebrate, as their repeat business and referrals to friends and family contribute greatly to our success,” said Richard Meadows, president of Seabourn.

Seabourn has released a rendering of another dining venue that will feature on its new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Venture. The Colonnade is a venue where guests will find a variety of meal options for breakfast, lunch or dinner. It is part of the eight dining experiences that expedition travellers will enjoy on board the forthcoming expedition ship and its yet-to-be-named sister.

Seabourn continues to progress toward the launch of two new ultra-luxury purpose-built expedition ships, launching in June 2021 and May 2022, respectively. Travellers on Seabourn Venture and her yet-to-be-named sister ship will find a wealth of masterfully crafted onboard spaces, including Seabourn Square, already found on all five Seabourn ships.