During a cruise to Japan, the author visited the historic ship Hikawa Maru, launched in 1929. The ship has an intriguing history, serving as a passenger liner, hospital ship, and now a museum, capturing significant past events.… Read More Ship Visit: Japanese Ocean Liner Hikawa Maru in Yokohama
In September 2025, I cruised around Japan from South Korea with two friends on the Norwegian Spirit. Our journey included overnight stays in Kobe and Yokohama, allowing us to explore cities like Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Nagoya. Despite travel challenges, we experienced Japan’s culture, food, and sights extensively for a reasonable cost.… Read More My Cruise around South Korea & Japan on Norwegian Spirit
Several cruise ships face uncertain futures. Notable examples include the Radisson Diamond, Queen of the Oceans, and others experiencing various statuses, from being laid up and for sale to potential scrapping, highlighting the industry’s ongoing challenges.… Read More 2026’s Laid Up Cruise Ships
My recent two-week cruise on the Norwegian Spirit, highlighting the ship’s history, size, and amenities. Despite being the oldest in the fleet, extensive renovations in 2020 modernized the experience. He praises the dining options, comfortable cabins, and bars, enjoying the intimate atmosphere and excellent service. … Read More My Norwegian Spirit Cruise : Ship Review
In the 1990s, Cunard, part of Trafalgar House, evolved within the cruise industry amidst financial challenges. The decade saw the introduction of river cruising and acquisitions, including Royal Viking Line. However, bad luck, poor management and an aging fleet led to losses, culminating in Carnival Corporation’s acquisition by 1998, which reshaped Cunard’s future direction.… Read More Cunard in the 1990s
Residential cruise ships are gaining popularity, increasing from one to potentially six in the coming years. Initially launched in 2002, The World has set the standard, featuring kitchens and onboard amenities. New ventures like Crescent Seas aim for a five-ship fleet. Prices for ocean residences start at $650,000 USD.… Read More Residential Cruise Ships – An idea whos time has come?
Liverpool Cruise Port is set for a prosperous 2025, featuring significant docking events like Cunard’s Queen Anne & Queen Mary 2, Disney Fantasy and more!… Read More Liverpool Cruise Schedule Highlights 2025
As of 2025, 14 notable cruise ships are out of service worldwide. Many, like Aegean Majesty and Astoria, face uncertain futures, with some potentially scrapped. Innovative ideas, such as repurposing Funchal or the new Brilliant Lady, highlight the industry’s challenges and evolving landscape in the aftermath of the pandemic.… Read More 2025’s Laid-Up Cruise Ships
This weekend, I enjoyed a festive event aboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambience in Tilbury. The ship has a rich history, previously serving Princess Cruises and P&O Australia before becoming Ambience in 2022. The experience featured excellent food, friendly staff, and well-decorated spaces, making it a comfortable cruise option.… Read More Overnight Stay on Ambience
I recently embarked on a three-night cruise on Club Med 2, a unique French sailing yacht. Despite initial concerns, I found the onboard experience delightful and the ship’s design captivating.… Read More My Club Med 2 Cruise
CruiseOctopus.com 