​The allure of cruising on the Great Lakes is gaining remarkable momentum, becoming one of the fastest-growing trends in cruise travel. Experienced travelers are looking for new experiences, closer-to-home travel (shorter flights are always welcome), and smaller ships.  Great Lakes cruising checks all of those boxes. Unlike traditional ocean cruises, Great Lakes cruises offer an intimate voyage through North America’s vast inland seas—the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth. These cruises combine the appeal of stunning natural beauty with visits to iconic cities brimming with culture, history, and vibrant culinary scenes. Travelers are drawn to the Great Lakes’ unspoiled landscapes, charming small towns, and fascinating urban centers, all accessible in one seamless experience.

​Seasonal Splendor: The Magic of Fall Foliage and More
One of the biggest draws of Great Lakes cruises is the spectacular fall foliage. From late September through October, the forests surrounding the lakes burst into fiery shades of red, orange, and gold, offering panoramic vistas unlike anywhere else. It is the perfect season for photography, nature walks, and shore excursions.
 
Spring and summer sailings are equally enchanting, with warmer weather encouraging outdoor adventures such as biking, kayaking, and exploring botanical gardens. Weather is typically mild with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s °F (15–25°C) in summer, cooling into crisp 40s & 50s °F (5–15°C) during fall. Most cruise lines operate April through October.

Majestic Scenery and Wildlife
The Great Lakes are the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—each with its own distinct character, stunning landscapes, and ecological importance. Let’s dive in:
Lake Superior: The largest, deepest, and coldest of the Great Lakes, known for its crystal clear waters, rugged cliffs, dense forests, and dramatic shorelines. It’s often called the “extreme lake” because of its size and sometimes wild weather, providing unforgettable scenic vistas.
 
Lake Michigan: The only Great Lake entirely within the U.S., featuring sandy dunes, charming beach towns, and bustling cities like Chicago. Its west shore is famed for picturesque lighthouses and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
 
Lake Huron: Home to pristine islands including the famous Mackinac Island, Lake Huron boasts turquoise waters, limestone formations, and peaceful bays, creating idyllic spots for boating and wildlife observation.
 
Lake Erie: The shallowest and warmest lake, known for vibrant sunsets and rich fishing grounds. The surrounding wetlands and islands provide critical habitats for migratory birds and aquatic species.
 
Lake Ontario: The easternmost lake, smaller and deeper, where urban sophistication meets natural beauty. Its shores include Toronto and historic sites related to early Canadian settlement and the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Wildlife & Ecological Importance
 The Great Lakes basin is one of the most diverse freshwater ecosystems on the planet:
 
Birds: More than 300 bird species visit or reside here, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, great blue herons, and migratory songbirds. Birdwatchers delight in spring and fall migrations along the lakeshore.
 
Aquatic Life: Home to an abundance of freshwater fish such as lake trout, walleye, and bass, the lakes are critical spawning grounds supporting local fishing industries and recreational anglers alike.
 
Mammals & Other Wildlife: Forested areas shelter deer, foxes, beavers, and occasional sightings of black bears and river otters. The intact natural habitats are essential for biodiversity conservation.
 
Conservation Efforts: Numerous national and state parks, wildlife refuges, and international agreements aim to protect these waters and shorelines, combating invasive species and pollution threats to preserve natural beauty for future generations.

Iconic Cities & Cultural Highlights
Great Lakes cruises dock in fascinating destinations, each with unique stories and experiences:

Chicago, Illinois: The architectural gem of the Midwest, featuring the renowned Art Institute, Millennium Park, museums, jazz & blues clubs, and worldclass dining.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Known for its brewing heritage, historic Third Ward arts district, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and picturesque lakefront.  Milwaukee’s warm, welcoming vibe combined with its walkable city center makes it ideal for self-guided explorations amid structured tours. 

Detroit, Michigan: The Motor City, rich with Motown history, automotive museums, and revitalized arts scenes like the historic Corktown District.  Detroit’s revitalization means many new and historic attractions are easily accessible on foot or by short transfers.

Cleveland, Ohio: Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and stunning lakefront parks.  Also visit West Side Market - Cleveland’s oldest public market featuring over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods and classic local treats. The Playhouse Square Theater District is the largest performing arts center outside of New York City and has beautifully restored historic theaters.  Cleveland’s compact downtown makes many attractions easily walkable.

Toronto, Ontario: Canada’s vibrant metropolis offers multicultural cuisine, the iconic CN Tower, waterfront strolls, and the Distillery History District – a beautifully preserved 19th-century industrial complex turned arts and entertainment district
.
Mackinac Island, Michigan: A time capsule town with horsedrawn carriages, fudge shops, and historic forts that is  inaccessible to cars. Stroll downtown Mackinac with picturesque streets and Victorian architecture, quant shops, art galleries and cafes.  Outside of town, 80% of the island is Mackinac Island State Park with hiking trails, picnic areas and serene spots to enjoy nature and wildlife.

​A Voyage Through History
The Great Lakes have played a pivotal role in shaping North America—from the fur trade era and Native American heritage to the industrial boom that powered the continent. Onboard historians and expert guides often enrich the experience with lectures and tours covering:

• The Erie Canal’s impact on trade and transportation
• The War of 1812 naval battles across the lakes
• The evolution of shipbuilding and shipping industries
• The cultural melting pot of immigrant communities that settled around the lakeshores

Cruise Lines Charting the Great Lakes
There are more ships cruising the Great Lakes in 2026 as cruise lines have expanded their presence in the region. 

Viking Cruises: Known for their elegant river vessels, Viking offers immersive Great Lakes journeys that emphasize culture, history, and regional cuisine.

American Cruise Lines: Featuring luxury coastalstyle ships, American Cruise Lines provide longer explorations with enriching shore excursions.

Lindblad Expeditions: For expeditionstyle travelers, Lindblad combines natural encounters with expertled explorations around the Great Lakes biome.

Victory Cruise Lines: Specializing in the Great Lakes and Inland waterways with boutiquestyle ships offering intimate sailing experiences.

Tauck:  

Ponant: 
 
Travelers can expect a varied voyages filled with educational lectures, local wine and culinary tastings, and enriching shore excursions crafted to create lifelong memories.
 
Whether you seek the vibrant cityscapes tinged with history, the tranquility of natural vistas, or the colorful canvas of autumn leaves dancing above the freshwater lakes, Great Lakes cruises offer an unparalleled holiday experience that will captivate your senses and touch your soul.

It’s a new era for Princess Cruises as they introduce their second Sphere-Class vessel, Star Princess.  These next-generation Love Boats include innovative design features, more dining venues, expanded accommodation options, and unique entertainment spaces. With the latest ship advances and MedallionClass technology, Princess aims to remain relevant and competitive in an increasingly demanding cruise market.  It appears they have hit the target.

The Dome Piazza
One of the most striking features you’ll notice first is the glass-domed Piazza.  It adds to the unique silhouette from the outside and it provides panoramic views and lots of light on the inside.  The Dome Piazza is the social hub for gathering and celebrating.  Perfect for dining, dancing, mingling and entertainment – including a Candlelight Concert Series, where live music and candles create an unforgettable ambiance beneath the stars.

Magical Entertainment
Speaking of entertainment, Spellbound by Magic Castle returns, bringing illusions inspired by legendary magician, The Great Cardini, in a glamorous speakeasy setting—an intimate, theatrical magic journey at sea.
Meridian & Illuminate is a brand new original production headline in the Princess Arena, featuring cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling. From a tale of love and mystery aboard the grand ship Celestial to a mesmerizing circus under a velvet tent, these shows promise wonder and emotional depth.

​Elevated Dining
Dining aboard Star Princess includes many elevated options.  Complimentary dining includes the Main Dining Room, The Eatery, Americana Diner, The Promenade, Coffee & Cones and everyone’s favorite, the International Café.
Casual Dining options include the expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub and the popular Alfredo’s Pizzeria.  Casual Dining will have a nominal fee unless you purchased the Princess Plus or Princess Premier fare bundle.
Princess is raising the culinary bar with celebrity chef collaborations and their Specialty Restaurants.  Elevated flavors will temp you at Crown Grill, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, Umai Teppanyaki, Makoto Ocean and Umai Hot Pot.  Plus, Love by Britto is a unique dining experience featuring world-renowned artist Romero Britto’s showcase.  You’ll enjoy his art against the backdrop of a boutique restaurant with a menu by chef Rudi Sodamin.  Specialty Restaurants come with a surcharge per meal unless you have purchased the Princess Premier fare bundle.

So Much To Do Onboard
There is much to do aboard the Star Princess.  Enjoy the line’s largest-ever casino with Vegas-caliber gaming.  Your favorite table games, roulette and slot machines are waiting.  Relax in the two story Lotus Spa, energize with fitness classes, or play on the Sky Deck’s new sports court for pickleball and basketball. Jogging tracks, splash pads, and shaded lounges complete the outdoor experience, all with stunning ocean views.

Sanctuary Collection & New Cabana Mini-Suites
The Princess Sanctuary Collection is available on the Star Princess and Sun Princess in all Suites and a limited number of Mini-Suites and Balcony staterooms.  The Sanctuary Collection includes an exclusive Sanctuary Collection Restaurant, the Signature Suite Lounge, and a spa-like Sanctuary Club deck with pool and special amenities.  In addition to these exclusive Sanctuary spaces, Sanctuary Collection guests automatically receive the Princess Premier amenity bundle with upgraded wine & spirits, Specialty Restaurants meals and other upgraded amenities and services.  Sanctuary Collection accommodations are popular and need to be booked early.
​ 
Princess has also introduced the new Cabana Mini-Suite exclusively on the Star Princess and Sun Princess.  The sophisticated Mini-Suite has a cabana-style private patio, furnished with lounge seating and ottomans.  Cabana Mini-Suite guests also have exclusive access to the Cabana Deck lounge area on Deck 9.  

Iconic itineraries that are close to home 
The Star Princess will winter in the warm Caribbean waters rotating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.  They can also be booked back-to-back for an incredible 14-night cruise. 

She will reposition from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle through the Panama Canal in April 2026 and spend May through September exploring Alaska.  There will be a special opportunity on September 27, 2026 to join the Star as she travels on a 7-night Wine Country Magic Castle Conjurer’s Cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles with two days in San Francisco.  Travel of America has exclusive inventory and special cruise fares with Princess Plus bundled amenities included.  Learn more about this offer here.  
  
She will continue her journey October 4, 2026 on a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale before returning to the 7-night Eastern/Western Caribbean winter rotation through Spring 2027.

Celebrity Godparents Matthew & Camila McConaughey
The Star Princess was christened by godparents Matthew and Camila McConaughey on November 6, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. Across the fleet, Princess serves signature cocktails featuring Pantalones Organic Tequila, founded by the pair. Their tequila is also part of Princess’ Love Line Premium Liquors collection, which includes a selection of wines and spirits, offering both spirited and non-alcoholic creations.

Discover more about the remarkably elegant new Star Princess and her upcoming voyages and make memories that shine as brightly as her name.  Learn more about the Star Princess here.

​Step back in time on an extraordinary luxury cruise that celebrates the iconic era of Pan Am’s Flying Clipper Boats – a true hallmark of the Golden Age of Travel. Holland America and Pan American Airlines are uniting to celebrate innovation, heritage, and the art of leisurely travel. Together, they have created an exclusive 28-day Caribbean Legendary Voyage aboard Zuiderdam, carefully crafted to retrace the historic routes of Pan Am’s famous Clipper planes across the Caribbean and Mexico. 

​Pan Am’s Clippers carved aerial highways that encircled the entire Caribbean. This revolutionary network connected isolated islands to major cities and transformed remote ports into international gateways. What were once vast ocean distances shrunk to mere hours of flight time. The Clipper route became the blueprint for modern Caribbean aviation, establishing Miami as the region’s aviation hub and forever changing how the world accessed the tropics.

This 28-night Legendary Voyage departs October 30, 2027 and calls on 19 ports and 13 countries.  Holland America Line and Pan Am will host special onboard experiences to evoke the Golden Age of Travel together while calling on historic ports of call inspired by aviation’s finest era. Travel of America holds exclusive inventory and reduced cruise fares with generous early booking bonuses.  Learn more here.

​Paws Up Montana is an authentic, world-class western wilderness experience like no other.  Situated on a sprawling historic working cattle ranch just 40 minutes from Missoula, Paws Up covers 37,000 acres including 10 miles along the Blackfoot River.   This luxury ranch stay is perfect for solo travelers, couples and families.
 
Activities & Experiences
The size and scope of the property and variety of activities and experiences enables each person’s stay to be unique.  Some of the 70 activities to choose from in summer include fly fishing, mountain biking, a cattle drive, go karts, horseback riding, archery, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, and horseback riding.  Winter activities include ice fishing, dogsledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and more.  There are also activities geared toward children and families.

Adventures in Wellness
Discretely nestled on the edge of a meadow, in the shade of towering pine trees, sits Spa Town®, a sanctuary of renewal at the heart of the resort’s wellness offerings. Here, guests can enjoy spa treatments such as massages and facials; wellness treatments including yoga and sound baths; and our newly renovated fitness center. This peaceful haven of rejuvenation gives new meaning to the term “getting lost” in the woods.
 
Lodging
Paws Up offers 76 unique private lodging options from high- design Green O hauses for two people, one to three-bedroom timber homes,  or glamping-style furnished canvas tents. Enjoy a wilderness view along the river, or from a hilltop, near a meadow or in the forest. All styles of the lodging are designed to bring the wild to your door while you enjoy luxurious comforts.

Dining
Guests can indulge in cuisine crafted by James Beard nominated chefs coupled with service provided by a dedicated team of hospitality experts, all adding up to an immersive travel experience not found anywhere else.

Pomp
The cuisine at Pomp might be described as Eclectic Americana. Grounded in the fundamentals of classic cooking, our chef uses his background and his imagination to create culinary innovations. Local ingredients are featured, so offerings change just like the seasons.

Tank and Trough
Trough offers meals with a bit more western flair. Home-cooked flavors mingle with traditional offerings for a rustic, yet refined taste palette. Here, you may find hand-cut meats combined with simply prepared local vegetables. Satisfaction guaranteed. Tank is a full-service bar offering the finest drink selections, and a casual environment complete with flat-screen TVs, music, and spectacular views.

Shed
Shed® started as a food truck on the edge of the forest here at Paws Up—a wood-fired pizza joint, gastro eatery and roadside smoke trailer all in one. This pop-up for live-fire cuisine became such a popular gathering place near the Wilderness Outpost that we decided to make it a permanent fixture. And what a fixture it is, designed by cutting-edge architect Kristen Becker of Seattle’s Mutuus Studio.

Every aspect of the unique space invites guests to gather, relax and share tales of their latest Paws Up adventure—from the stunning rustic architecture and its soaring whalebone-like structures to a 250-gallon smoker and a flame that mesmerizes from a six-foot stone hearth. But of course, the star of the show is the exceptional cuisine. You’ll find quesadillas, chili, garlic bread and more. On the grill, the chefs prepare sandwiches, elote (grilled corn) and seasonal veggies. In the smoker, cauliflower burnt ends, wings and sausages with cornbread await foodies. A variety of fresh salads and sides are also available as is a plethora of yummy desserts.
Shed hits the spot, on the spot, for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
 
Social Haus
Exclusive to guests staying in Green O haus accommodations.
The dining experience at Social Haus is a singular culinary journey featuring an 8-course dinner tasting menu that changes nightly. Soaring windows open to the outdoors, allowing the mingling of cooking aromas with the fresh, pine-scented air. Inside, you’ll encounter the inner circle bar, an intimate lounge, a dining area and an open kitchen. Take in the sights and smells as you watch chefs prepare exquisite meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What's Included
Your stay at Paws Up Montana includes accommodations; gourmet meals & snacks; a selection of beer, wine, liquor and soft drinks; airport transfers; full access to the property; Wi-Fi; daily housekeeping services; dedicated concierge services; gratuities; and much more.  Most activities and spa treatments have an additional fee.  For more information contact Travel of America or click here.  

​​After six years and $550 million dollars, the San Diego icon has undergone an extensive restoration and revitalization to honor its rich heritage.  Here are some of the highlights.

​Victorian Neighborhood Revitalized: Every detail from the 

​Guest Rooms Reimagined: The Victorian rooms blend classic charm with contemporary comfort. Each room is unique, 

Veranda:  An al fresco dining spot inspired by the hotel’s original wraparound veranda, with ocean views and a menu rooted in fresh, local flavors.

​Nobu Del Coronado:  World-renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s acclaimed fusion of Japanese culinary artistry with local California influences, featuring oceanfront dining, sushi bar, and exclusive cocktails.

​Serea Coastal Cuisine:  Newly launched, the ocean-friendly menu by Chef Jojo Ruiz features fresh-catch cooking with sustainable practices.  Combined with seasonal local ingredients, Serea is simple and elegant.

​Beautiful Garden Courtyard Restored: The Victorian-era garden has been lovingly returned to its original glory, complete with beautiful walkways, pergolas, and the iconic Naiad Queen Fountain, surrounded by the hotels collection of botanicals.

a refreshed Beach Village featuring oceanfront cottages. Guests also enjoy a reimagined Spa & Salon, an ​expanded Fitness Center, a new Ice House Museum, enhanced meeting spaces, and an updated retail area at The Shops at The Del.

​When it comes to breathtaking landscapes, few places rival Alaska’s stunning glaciers.  Here is a closer look at Alaska’s most iconic glaciers, from North to South, and the wildlife to watch for along the way.

​Glaciers of Prince William Sound – Ice and Wildlife Abound 
Just east of Whittier, Prince William Sound hosts dozens of glaciers pouring into sea inlets, providing a diverse glacial experience. In the northwestern part of Princess William Sound is College Fjord – often listed on cruise itineraries – which is home to picturesque Harvard and Yale Glaciers. College Fjord offers dramatic vistas and is renowned for its calm waters perfect for serene glacier viewing.  Keep watch for mountain goats and Dall sheep on the fjord’s rugged cliffs.

​Hubbard Glacier – The Giant That Keeps Growing
Hubbard Glacier is the largest tidewater glacier in North America, stretching an impressive 76 miles long and up to 7 miles wide at its terminus. Unlike many glaciers worldwide that are retreating, Hubbard is actually advancing, slowly pushing forward about 80 feet per day!  For travelers, encounters with Hubbard means witnessing a powerful force of nature with towering ice cliffs often calving massive icebergs into the ocean.

Hubbard Glacier is best viewed from a cruise ship since they can navigate right in to Disenchantment Bay.  You’ll see Bald Eagles and a large variety of seabirds.  Brown bears and Sitka Black-tailed deer are often spotted along the shoreline and common marine life includes humpback whales, harbor seals, sea lions and sea otters.  

​The Glaciers of Glacier Bay National Park
Glacier Bay National Park, a UNESACO World Heritage site, is a 3.3 million-acre wilderness with over a dozen tidewater glaciers actively sculpting the land.  Margerie Glacier is renowned for its striking blue ice cliffs that soar up to 250 feet,

Glacier National Park is a living laboratory of climate and geological activity. Some glaciers here are retreating, while others advance, creating evolving landscapes.  Cruise ships generally spend a full day cruising through Glacier National Park allowing ample time stop and admire the many tidewater glaciers flowing into the Bay.

​Mendenhall Glacier – America’s Backyard Ice Marvel
Situated just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is a favorite stop for travelers seeking close-up views. This 13-mile-long, massive glacier flows from the Juneau Icefield and offers scenic hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. 
Mendenhall Glacier is retreating.  It ends in growing Mendenhall Lake – a lake of its own creation over the past 100 years as the glacier melted. It is absolutely worthwhile to see Mendenhall soon and witness the changing landscape.
​
If travelling by cruise ship, Mendenhall Glacier is accessible during your port of call at Juneau.  Take a tour or taxi to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitors Center, an informative and a good place to view the glacier.  Watch for mountain goats and black bears in the surrounding Tongass National Forest.

​Sawyer Glacier at Tracy Arm – Twin Ice Giants 
Continuing south from Juneau is Holkham Bay, the entrance to Tracy Arm fjord.  Cruise ships will navigate the narrow 27-mile long fjord, passing through tall granite cliffs and waterfalls.  Spend the day spotting wildlife along the banks given the ships close proximity to shore.  Watch for black bears fishing for salmon, mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, harbor seals, eagles and more.  Get out your binoculars!

​Dawes Glacier at Endicott Arm – A Fjord Experience 
Holkham Bay is also the entrance to Endicott Arm but heads south (Tracy Arm heads north).  A day of cruising the 30-mile

​spectacular vertical ice face, cascading blue ice, and often quieter, more intimate viewing than more crowded sites. This glacier climbs down steep slopes into a narrow fjord, a perfect setting to see seals basking on ice floes and harbor porpoises darting through the water.
​
Weather conditions occasionally require cruise lines to substitute one arm for the other.  Fortunately, the experience will be equally good so you won’t miss out.

​Living Monuments
Alaska’s glaciers are not just frozen ice—they are living monuments to Earth’s climate history and natural artistry. Whether you seek adventure, inspiration, or tranquility, these glaciers provide unforgettable encounters with raw nature and abundant wildlife.

By Belinda Zuhlke, Senior Travel Advisor, VTA, MCC

with an inviting atmosphere, great public spaces and welcoming staff.  It’s centrally located and the hotel offers an excellent Scandinavian breakfast that I would describe as Continental style with more variety.  We splurged a bit and booked a suite which we felt was worth it since European hotel rooms tend to run a bit smaller than in the U.S.  We arrived to the hotel around 9am, and they waived the early check-in fee (can’t remember the cost) because I’m a BW Member! I have zero status with BW by the way. Just around the corner from the hotel, we tried Smagsloget Sandwichbar.  They offer delicious gourmet sandwiches for a great value.  Keep in mind 25% VAT that can be a bit of a sticker shock.  Overall, I would highly recommend this place for an easy casual bite to eat. I was told by our guide that Smagsloget translates to ‘tasty onion’, here’s a link to their website for your next trip to Copenhagen:  https://smagsloeget.wixsite.com/website-1.

changing of the guard!  Kronsborg Castle was fun.  It was chosen by William Shakespeare as the setting for his play, Hamlet, and during high season you can see quick re-enactments in some parts of the castle.  Kronsborg Castle is situated on the narrow sound between Denmark and Sweden, and yes, we could clearly see Sweden from the edge of the castle. 

Scotland Intensive Voyage on Azamara
Now on to Azamara and our “Scotland Intensive” voyage.  This is a cruise line that aligns with guests looking for immersive, enriching voyages, with authentic cultural connections, and overall, they delivered well on this promise. The focus of our itinerary was Scotland, including the Shetland and Orkney Islands. We had a highly informative Destination Guest Speaker, who was very creative narrating the long and rich history of the area. Most intriguing for me was learning about the Picts, or as the Romans described them in their writings the “painted ones”, referring to their tattoos and body paint.  It is said they were fierce warriors and feared by the Romans but not too much is known about the Picts.  Intricate carved stones have been found from the Picts providing some insight into their culture, religion and history.

The Cultural Event & Azamazing Evening
The Cultural Event onboard our cruise was a presentation showcasing Highland dancers, Bag Pipers and a wonderful Singer celebrating Scottish tradition and culture.  It was really good.  Our AzAmazing Evening was filled with bag-rock and high energy taking place at Aberdeen’s historic Music Hall, presented as Bagpipes with Attitude with the Red Hot Chilli Pipers. I had lots of fun at this show and I would say most of the audience shared my enthusiasm.  The group is from Aberdeen and apparently very popular in Europe.  Some of their members are World Champion pipers.

​Azamara Journey
The ship is designed to balance luxury with a relaxed ambiance, and it does feel that way throughout all its public spaces. Our Club Veranda Plus stateroom (category P1) was comfortable with a queen bed, love-seat sofa, writing desk and chair, all wrapped up in sophisticated neutral tones.  The bathroom was… efficient. When it comes to Azamara’s culinary offerings they do a particularly nice job with their specialty buffet events such as the one offered on “White Night”.

Scotland
Where Azamara really excels is in their destination-focused itineraries and their ability to help you fully experience it. I found the Shetland Islands landscape incredibly captivating.  I’ve never been to a place that was so green, with rolling hills, but with no trees! To learn more check out this website https://www.shetland.org/geopark/heritage/landscape. 

Edinburgh
The biggest highlight was finally seeing The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo! This year they celebrated the 75th Anniversary with the theme ‘The Heroes who made us’.  One of the most special moments was when they gave homage to their local heroes, who were nominated by the locals, and included teachers, first responders, and many others who enriched the community in special ways.

We ended up booking our Tattoo tickets 10 months in advance, and independent of Azamara.  Because of the transportation logistics after the show, we decided it was best to stay within walking distance of the show and take a transfer to the ship the next day. While in Edinburgh we decided to stay at

‘Original’ dining room.  The dining experience is well worth it – even if you’re not staying there.  Such atmosphere is hard to replicate anywhere else, and the dishes we tried were delicious. Making dining reservations well in advance is a must, especially for high season.  For more information check out their website http://www.thewitchery.com.

This incredible trip to Scotland was aboard the August 13, 2025, 12-night Scotland Intensive cruise aboard Azamara Journey.  We embarked in Copenhagen, and called at Leith (for Edinburgh), Aberdeen, Invergordon, Lewick/Shetland Islands, Kirkwall, Stornoway, Oban, Greenock, Douglas/Isles of Man, and disembarked in Dublin. Azamara's "immersive" itineraries are unique because they explore a region in more depth than the typical cruise itinerary. Even though I'm home, the warmth of Scotland will be with me forever.

landmark that would preserve and better centralize Egypt's priceless antiquities.  After many delays and a successful partial opening, they're ready to roll out access to all galleries with the full opening scheduled for November 4, 2025.

Located on the outskirts of Cairo, near the iconic Giza Pyramids, GEM offers visitors a breathtaking view that marries Egypt’s past with its present. The museum’s architectural design is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a vast, contemporary façade that reflects the golden hues of the desert, symbolizing the brilliance of Egyptian heritage.

Inside, the museum houses an extraordinary collection of over 100,000 artifacts, many never before exhibited to the public. Among its most prized exhibits is the complete collection of King Tutankhamun’s treasures—a dazzling array of golden relics, jewelry, statues, and even his famously intricate funerary mask, known for it's unparalleled craftsmanship and historic significance.

Beyond its vast collections, GEM incorporates the latest technology to create an immersive visitor experience. Interactive displays, virtual reality journeys, and multimedia presentations bring the stories of Ancient Egypt to life, engaging guests of all ages and backgrounds in a way traditional museums rarely achieve.

Improvements have also been made to the infrastructure surrounding the Giza Plateau. New visitor centers, improved access roads, electric shuttle buses and pedestrian pathways create easier access between the Grand Egyptian Museum and the pyramid complex.  The design allows for visiting the entire historic site in one day. Local amenities have also seen upgrades, including cafes and shaded rest areas. 

The museum promises not just a cultural excursion but a transformative journey into one of the world’s most mesmerizing civilizations.  See the Grand Egyptian Museum together with a Nile cruise by calling Travel of America today!

​With an emphasis on outdoor space, destination-led dining and spacious staterooms, these ships intend to bring the Celebrity ocean experience to the Rhine and Danube Rivers starting in August 2027.
 
Sleek & Innovative Exterior Design
The Celebrity River ships will look different.  Painted midnight blue with white stripes coming together into the Celebrity “X” logo, a Celebrity River ship will be immediately recognizable.  Striking orange up-tilted umbrella-like structures will add to the unique silhouette. These sort-of-umbrellas will recess hydraulically and passengers will be able to stay on the top deck while traveling under bridges.  Other design features include a hybrid propulsion system, light hull, and other advanced technologies to reduced noise and vibration.  Celebrity anticipates having fewer itinerary disruptions due to an improved ability to manage low water levels.
 
Outdoor Spaces & New Places
On the top deck, you will find a restaurant and bar, and a new

Suites & Staterooms
There are five room types the new ships.  All have king beds with premium bedding, roomy bathrooms, in-room filtered water, stocked mini-bar and concierge service. 

Here is a run-down of the key elements of each room type:

 
Dining
Six dining options will be available including the main dining room, an outdoor top-deck restaurant, fresh pastries at Cafe al Bacio, casual buffet-style dining, spa options and in-room ​dining.  Celebrity is still fine-tuning the details on the dining experiences but the focus will be on fresh, locally-sourced and regionally-inspired cuisine.

 
Included in the Cruise Fare
Beverages
Celebrity's Classic Beverage Package with wine, beer & spirits is included for stateroom guests with the option to upgrade to the Premium Beverage Package.  The Premium Beverage Package is included for Suite guests with a greater variety of beverages.

Shore excursions
Celebrity will offer a variety of shore excursions to choose from beyond the standard orientation tour. They will include one shore excursion per day, per person, regardless of the number of places visited that day (river cruises sometimes visit two in one day).  Additional excursions will be available for purchase.

Wi-Fi
Included.
 
Destinations & Ship Roll-Out
The Celebrity Compass launches on the Danube River August through December 2027 and feature Christmas Markets from late November through December.  Her New Year’s 2027 sailing will reposition to the Rhine and end in Amsterdam.    
The Celebrity Seeker will join the Compass October 21, 2027 on the Danube, also featuring Christmas Markets from late November through December.  The Seeker will cruise the Main and Rhine rivers from Nuremberg to Basel on a unique Christmas itinerary, followed by a Northbound Rhine cruise to Amsterdam for their New Year’s cruise.
Five additional new Celebrity river ships will roll-out in 2028 bringing their total to seven.  The original order was for 10 ships – so at least three more will follow.  They are definitely gearing up for the future and investing heavily in the success of river cruising.  With an existing loyal Customer base from their ocean ships, Celebrity is well-positioned to fill their new river ships.  Early sales for August-December 2027 sailings indicate strong demand.  While nearly sold out, there is still some inventory available as of this writing (October 2025).  

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Mark your calendars for August 12, 2026, when the skies will darken in a cosmic wonder—a total solar eclipse. This rare astronomical event promises to captivate millions as the Moon perfectly aligns between the Earth and the Sun, casting a shadow across parts of Europe, the Arctic, and northern Africa.

Why is this eclipse so significant? Total solar eclipses don’t happen often in any given location—on average, one occurs every 375 years per spot. The 2026 event is especially thrilling because the path of totality, where the full eclipse is visible, will sweep across some of the most culturally rich and scenically stunning regions including Spain, Iceland, and Greenland.

Duration & Timing
The entire event—from the first partial shading to the return of full daylight—can stretch over 2.5 hours.  The eclipse's phase of totality will last up to 1 minute and 40 seconds at the peak point along its path. Precise timing will depend on your location along the eclipse corridor, so planning your vantage point is key.

Best Viewing Locations
Southern Spain offers excellent views with typically clear summer skies. Iceland’s rugged landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop, though weather can be cooler. Greenland and parts of northern Canada also lie along the eclipse path but present more challenging travel conditions.

Viewing from a Cruise Ship
One of the most exhilarating ways to experience the 2026 eclipse is aboard a cruise ship sailing along the path of totality. Being at sea allows you to position yourself perfectly for the best viewing window, clear of urban light pollution and horizons unbroken by buildings. Many cruise ships in position for the eclipse are already sold out as of this writing (October 2025), but there is still some limited inventory available.

​Weather Considerations
Clear skies are crucial for eclipse viewing. Historical weather data suggests southern Europe, especially Spain, generally has favorable sunny conditions in August. However, northern locations like Iceland and Greenland carry greater risks of cloud cover, so flexibility in your itinerary is beneficial. Cruises can adjust routes to chase clear skies, making them a strategic choice for eclipse enthusiasts.