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Cruise News Digest–February 2, 2025

Welcome to the weekly Cruise News Digest. Here you can catch up on the past week’s cruise news and all things La Lido Loca

Let’s dive in!

Celebrity Cruises is looking for “Xcel Dream Makers” to decide on the things they want to see and enjoy on board Celebrity Xcel. Travelers will be able to choose key elements of Celebrity Xcel through online polls and “one-of-a-kind experiential in-person events.” Elements include the ship’s design as well as its culinary and entertainment offerings.

MSC Cruises will bring its fourth World-Class ship to Port Canaveral for the Winter 2027-2028 season. In the meantime, travelers can enjoy a wide choice of vacations aboard seven MSC ships from the cruise line’s four U.S. homeports–Port Canaveral, PortMiami, Galveston and New York City.

Celebrity Cruises announced it will launch Celebrity River Cruises in the near future. The cruise line has signed an order for 10 transformative ships that will launch in Europe along some of the world’s most iconic rivers. More information will be forthcoming regarding itineraries, bookings and more. 

Recently, Tony was invited by Norwegian Cruise Line to a behind-the-scenes look at the NCL creative studio in Tampa, Florida. He was able to interface with leadership and creative team. He watched previews of Norwegian’s revamped “Elements” show and a rehearsal performance of Patty’s Wilcox’s newest production “Revolution”. It’s another reason you should head on over to the La Lido Loca YouTube Channel and subscribe with the notification bell on so you don’t miss out on anything. You can also join the channel to get access to perks, or if you would like extra exclusive live cruising content and more, become a patreon member of Loca Extra. 

MSC Cruises’ MSC World America will showcase the first-at-sea “Dirty Dancing in Concert” when she debuts in April 2025. Additionally, she will deliver a diverse entertainment lineup with new and exciting concepts and productions.

Holland America Line has announced bookings are open for 5 new Legendary Voyages. The voyages all sail roundtrip from the United States and range from 27 to 45 days. Sailings will allow guests to explore some of the most interesting ports in the Mediterranean, the South Pacific, the Pacific Northwest, Alaska and Hawaii.

Port NOLA announced a record-breaking 2024. The port surpassed more than 1.2 million cruise passengers for the year. It’s two cruise terminals, Erato Street and Julia Street, welcome both ocean-going and river cruising right into the heart of the city which is within walking distance of the French Quarter and all the city’s unique culture.

There you have it–this week’s Cruise News Digest. 

Did you see Tony rebranded the La Lido Loca Podcast to The Cruise Talk Network? There is a newly released episode this week. 

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