Iglu Cruise News - January 2026
It’s safe to say 2026 has kicked off with a bang, and the cruise industry is abuzz with interesting news and exciting announcements. With January coming to a close, and hopefully some warmer weather on the way, it’s time for another edition of Iglu Cruise News. From new cruise ship announcements and updates to world-first events and more, you’ll find some of the cruise industry’s hottest news from the last month below. And, we’re following that up with what the Iglu Cruise creative team has been up to this month, so there’s plenty of travel inspiration to look forward to, too!
So, keep reading for January 2026’s Iglu Cruise News and all the most exciting announcements from the cruise industry this last month.
A monthly round-up of the biggest cruise news
Norwegian Cruise Line reveals Norwegian Aura, their largest ship yet
Norwegian Cruise Line has started this year with some very exciting news, unveiling Norwegian Aura, their largest cruise ship to date and a Prima-class vessel you’ll want to make sure you’re sailing on come 2027. Roughly 10% larger than other Prima-class cruise ships, Norwegian Aura boasts almost 2,000 staterooms and suites, new dining experiences and returning Norwegian Cruise Line favourites, exciting new family-friendly entertainment areas, and unmissable attractions that promise to elevate the onboard experience.
Scheduled to start a small season of European cruises in early 2027, before departing from Miami late May, details about what you can expect to see on Norwegian Aura are light right now. However, several exciting features have been confirmed, with new exciting details to follow in the coming months.
One thing we know you can look forward to on Norwegian Aura is Ocean Heights, a sensational activity zone spanning decks 18 to 21, featuring several twisting water slides, the Aura Ropes Course, a 25-foot rock-climbing wall, and more. You’ll also find Aura Midway here, an area dedicated to family fun with carnival-style games and an unmissable nine-hole mini golf course – perfect for some light competition between loved ones while sailing.
Vibe Beach Club, Aura Ropes Course, and Ocean Heights
Norwegian Aura will also benefit from enjoying the fleet’s largest pool deck to date, and several exciting areas already popular on other Prima-class cruise ships; these include Ocean Boulevard, an outdoor promenade offering guests plenty of places to unwind with stunning ocean views and dedicated activity areas for children of all ages, and Vibe Beach Club, an exclusive adults-only escape where breathtaking views and attentive personalised service create the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle found elsewhere. The Haven will also be featured on Norwegian Aura, an exclusive experience available only to those staying in The Haven suites.
While you’re waiting for more information on Norwegian Aura, you can find the latest Norwegian Aura cruise deals right here. A sensational cruise ship sailing to vibrant islands in the Caribbean Sea and thrilling destinations in Central America, you won’t want to miss these opportunities.
Oceania Cruises to debut new cruise ship class with Oceania Sonata
Oceania Cruises’ next crescendo is coming, and there’s a lot to be excited about. Oceania Sonata, a sensational cruise ship set to introduce a completely new class of cruise ship to Oceania Cruises’ fleet, is set to debut with exciting cruises around Southern Europe and the Mediterranean in August 2027. Boasting timelessly elegant interiors and suite-level accommodation that elevates Oceania Cruises’ already excellent onboard experience to new heights, Oceania Sonata features a range of impressive dining options, exploring regional cuisines and international favourites, giving you the chance to indulge in some of the finest food at sea. These include: Toscana, offering authentic Italian cuisine; Red Ginger, serving contemporary Asian dishes; and Nikkei Kitchen, showcasing vibrant Peruvian-Japanese fusion food.
Much like the other ships in Oceania Cruises’ fleet, Oceania Sonata is also set to feature world-class entertainment in both lounge and theatre spaces, a Monte Carlo-style casino for late-night gaming experiences, and an impressive iteration of the Aquamar Spa. This is the perfect place to unwind with a relaxing treatment or soak up the sunshine on the exclusive spa terrace. You’ll also find things like the Library, Artists Loft, and a boutique shopping space on Oceania Sonata, ensuring you’re still going to enjoy everything excellent about Oceania Cruises’ onboard experience when you embark on this brand new ship.
Starting with a season spent visiting the sunny shores of southern Europe and the Mediterranean, Oceania Sonata will offer Caribbean cruises from Miami from November 2027. The first Sonata-class cruise ship, Oceania Sonata, promises to set a new precedent for luxury cruising with Oceania Cruises, and you can find the latest Oceania Sonata cruise deals right here.
MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay is getting some major updates ahead of 2027
Recently, MSC Cruises confirmed its exciting plans to further improve Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s sensational private island destination in The Bahamas. Scheduled for completion in 2027, the planned improvements include several new dining spots, upgrades to both family-friendly and adults-only areas on the island, and the introduction of a second pier to accommodate two cruise ships visiting simultaneously. With this already one of the best cruise line private islands, these updates are very exciting.
Regarding the new dining options, MSC Cruises has confirmed that one new signature speciality restaurant will be introduced to Ocean Cay alongside numerous new buffet and food market options; this will double the number of dining options currently available, giving guests a sensational range of restaurants and casual dining spots to choose from when they visit from 2027 onwards.
Ocean Cay’s exciting Seakers Cove Family Beach is also undergoing several major updates, including the introduction of a brand new kids’ playground, a splashpad for escaping the heat, and a ropes course with numerous water elements. Seakers Cove will also feature activities such as ping-pong and foosball, alongside a robust programme of interactive events the whole family can enjoy.
For those who would rather avoid the hustle and bustle of Seakers Cove, Paradise Sands is also being introduced as part of the planned improvements. This stylish beach experience is an exclusive adults-only retreat where guests will have the chance to unwind and soak up the sunshine; it’s also going to be a great place to enjoy a colourful cocktail as the sun sets, the perfect way to end your day at Ocean Cay.
With all of these incredible improvements accompanied by the introduction of a greater variety of cabanas and a new, immersive Marine Conservation Experience, it’s safe to say that there’s a lot to look forward to when it comes to Ocean Cay cruises. You can find out more about upcoming MSC Cruises to Ocean Cay right here.
Huge upgrades coming to Celebrity Solstice as ship enters 45-day drydock
Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice is undergoing numerous major improvements this month, with the 2008-built Solstice-class cruise ship entering an extensive 45-day drydock in Singapore. Part of an extensive $250 million programme that will see all Solstice-class cruise ships receive significant upgrades over the next few years, Celebrity Solstice will see the introduction of several new cabins alongside updates to all existing staterooms and suites. This dry dock will also introduce several new restaurants and entertainment spaces, and see The Retreat undergo a major facelift. Sailing with Celebrity Solstice is always exciting, but these updates are going to elevate upcoming Celebrity Solstice cruises to new heights.
Among the general modernisation and improvements being made to Celebrity Solstice’s staterooms and suites, the most significant updates will be made to this ship’s AquaClass accommodation; more spa-inspired elements will be introduced, making cruising in an AquaClass cabin even more rewarding. This cruise ship will also see Celebrity Cruises’ popular Italian restaurant, Trattoria Rose, replace Qsine at Silk Harvest, alongside the introduction of the refined Fine Cut Steakhouse. Boutique beer bar Craft Social will also be joining Celebrity Solstice, adding another casual dining experience – and somewhere you can enjoy some sensational beers.
The Retreat, an exclusive area for specific suite-level guests, is also being reimagined during this extensive drydock period. Set to feature a refreshed sun deck with refined designs and an improved private lounge space, The Retreat will continue being a fantastic escape from the hustle and bustle of Celebrity Solstice’s busier social spaces and an idyllic area to unwind while sailing to your next exciting destination.
If that wasn’t enough, the Boulevard Lounge and Bar, a stylish social space with room for a variety of engaging entertainment events, and Sunset Park, an outdoor area boasting lawn games and open-air concerts, are also debuting on Celebrity Solstice during this drydock. Offering upcoming guests plenty of new places to socialise with friends and family, while enjoying even more world-class entertainment from Celebrity Cruises, these incredible improvements are certain to make upcoming adventures aboard Celebrity Solstice even more enjoyable.
Marella Cruises to celebrate 30 years with star-studded sailings
This year, Marella Cruises is turning 30; to celebrate three decades of whisking travellers away on exciting adventures to sensational destinations around the world, this cruise line has five very special celebratory sailings planned – and these are cruises you definitely won’t want to miss. Throughout May 2026, every ship in Marella Cruises’ fleet is going to embark on one exciting event cruise in the Mediterranean, featuring special celebrity guests and one-off events that promise to make these already-excellent itineraries into unforgettable adventures.
Departing from Palma, Majorca, Marella Discovery 2 will be joined by the multi-talented Fleur East for an exclusive onboard performance and feature a special Q&A session with Eddie the Eagle – one of Britain’s most iconic sporting heroes. Meanwhile, the queen of live vocals herself, La Voix, will be joining Marella Voyager from Corfu for a special performance that promises to leave audiences utterly spellbound. Supergroup Boyzlife, which features Boyzone’s Keith Duffy and Westlife’s Brian McFadden, will light up the stage with a sensational show aboard Marella Explorer; also departing from Palma, Majorca, Eddie the Eagle will also be onboard, hosting another interesting Q&A session.
On Marella Discovery, you’ll be joined by the influential Anthea Turner, who will be hosting an insightful Q&A session while you sail from Cyprus. A former presenter, author, business founder, and influencer, this will certainly be a fascinating conversation. Meanwhile, Marella Explorer 2 is inviting holidaymakers to enjoy the sun-drenched shores of Italy, Slovenia, and Montenegro on a sensational seven-night sailing from Dubrovnik.
Eddie the Eagle, Fleur East, La Voix, Boyzlife, and Anthea Turner
Beyond this incredible selection of sensational celebrity events, Marella Cruises’ birthday sailings will boast an extravagant Birthday Gala evening alongside 1996-themed parties, engaging 90s trivia games, and vibrant quayside celebrations in specific destinations that promise to highlight local cuisines and cultures in new and exciting ways.
An unmissable selection of sailings, be sure to check out Marella Cruises’ upcoming sailings right here. It’s worth noting that both Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Discovery will continue to be adults-only cruise ships, so you won’t need to worry about dodging children poolside if you’re planning on embarking on one of these two ships.
MSC Cruises hosts Alpine F1 team in world-first event in Barcelona
Earlier this month, the worlds of Formula One and cruising came together in an exciting way for an exclusive, history-making event. Ahead of the Australian Grand Prix in March and the start of the 2026 Formula One season, BWT Alpine Formula One Team joined MSC Cruises’ MSC World Europa in Barcelona to unveil its new 2026 F1 car, giving Formula One fans their first look at Alpine’s new 2026 spec machine and fresh blue-and-pink livery.
This thrilling event, hosted by British TV and radio presenter Clara Amfo, saw MSC Cruises’ executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago join Alpine’s de facto Team Principal Flavio Briatore, and drivers Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto, in MSC World Europa’s Panorama Lounge to discuss the new car and the season ahead. This is the first time a Formula One car has been launched on a cruise ship, setting an exciting precedent for future seasons.
During the event, both Briatore and Gasly praised MSC Cruises’ partnership, highlighting their shared commitment to teamwork and innovation, and noting MSC World Europa as a sensational venue for their reveal. This was echoed by Vago, who also highlighted MSC Cruises’ innovation while wishing Alpine well on their upcoming campaign. Following the event, MSC World Europa set sail on an exciting week-long Mediterranean cruise; you can find the latest MSC World Europa cruise deals right here.
MSC Cruises has been involved in Formula One sponsorships for years, becoming a premium partner of the BWT Alpine Formula One Group in February 2025. With this event clearly a success, we could very well see many more Formula One events hosted on MSC Cruises’ impressive ships in the coming years. However, only time will tell.
If you’re looking for more news, here are a few other highlights from a busy January:
- Holland America Line’s Westerdam recently returned to service from an extensive drydock period, which saw 11 new staterooms introduced alongside a Merabella Fine Jewellery boutique shopping experience and an expanded Casino area
- Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 marked a major milestone on its sensational 2026 World Voyage this January, travelling through the Panama Canal with an overnight stay at Cocoli Mooring Station
- Los Angeles has unveiled plans for a new Outer Harbor cruise terminal, which will be shore power ready and feature two berths for visiting cruise ships; with a unique circular shape and plenty of green space, this is certain to be a highlight on upcoming North American cruises, although no completion date has been confirmed yet
- Regent Seven Seas is introducing a new evening service at the Pool Grill venue across its fleet, bringing a new casual dining experience to guests onboard; with a new pizzeria menu, grilled meats like rosemary roasted chicken and vegetable kebabs, and more, there’s a lot to look forward to
- Legendary DJ Pete Tong is bringing the party to a sensational sailing on P&O Cruises’ Arvia this summer, performing a 90-minute set in the ship’s SkyDome while it’s docked in Ibiza; for more details, check out Western Mediterranean from Southampton with DJ Pete Tong in Ibiza right here
Our top blog posts in January
The start of the new year has been busy for the Iglu Cruise creative team, and you’ll find a fantastic selection of fresh travel blogs available on our blog. Covering everything from this year’s most underrated travel destinations and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands you can visit via cruise to the rising popularity of ocean-inspired baby names and more, these fascinating blogs are sure to inspire your next adventure (and maybe even the name of any adorable newborns on the way!)
Below, for when you’re not browsing the latest 2026 cruise deals and looking for any upcoming last-minute escapes somewhere sunny, you’ll find the highlights of Iglu Cruise’s blog posts throughout January:
- 2026 Travel: Top 5 underrated destinations
- Gen Z at sea: Why cruises appeal to younger travellers
- Are you a fan of The Traitors? Why not visit these beautiful areas of the Scottish Highlands
- Beyond the waves: How ocean-inspired names are increasing in popularity
- 10 celebrities you didn’t know were ship godmothers
If you’re planning a little further ahead, but you’re not sure where in the world you want to travel this year, be sure to check out our brand-new 2026 travel itinerary right here. An insightful month-by-month guide to the best destinations to visit via cruise each month, this is the perfect place to find some travel inspiration ahead of booking your next adventure abroad.
Book your next sensational adventure with Iglu Cruise today
It’s time to prepare for your next cruise getaway with Iglu Cruise! From unmissable luxury cruises around the world and indulgent all-inclusive escapes to deals on family cruises, solo adventures, adults-only cruises, and more, there’s an abundance of incredible itineraries for you to explore. With so much variety, you’re certain to find the right sailing for you among the cruise deals available with Iglu Cruise.
If, though, you’re looking for some more travel inspiration and information before you make a decision, you’ll find a few more blogs you may have missed from the Iglu Cruise creative team below: