Iglu Cruise News - May 2024
What’s been happening in the world of cruise? In this edition of Iglu Cruise news, we’ll take you through the latest launches and other exciting updates that happened in May 2024! Keep reading to find out more information!
A Monthly Roundup of the Latest Cruise News
Virgin’s Brilliant Lady 2025 Debut
This month, we received exciting news that Virgin Voyages have announced that their latest ship, Brilliant Lady, will have its inaugural sailing in September 2025. The fourth ship in the adults-only fleet, this modern vessel will feature the same laid back vibe, extraordinary itineraries and a variety of amenities that are popular with Virgin Voyages’ enthusiasts (such as the signature red balcony hammocks).
These spectacular inaugural cruises will visit an array of destinations throughout North America, from the vibrant city of New York to sun-kissed Miami, glamorous Los Angeles and breathtaking Seattle. There’s even sailings that will visit the awe-inspiring state of Alaska, the Caribbean and other tempting destinations!
See these remarkable Brilliant Lady inaugural sailings here.
Queen Anne Sets Sail on Maiden Voyage
The first Cunard ship for 14 years, Queen Anne set sail on its maiden voyage on May 3rd on a 7-night sailing to Lisbon.
With thousands of spectators gathering to see it sail from the Port Of Southampton, it was the start of a new era for Cunard, with a ship filled with contemporary amenities and the beloved White Star Service. Carrying just under 3,000 guests, this extraordinary vessel is full to the brim with elegance and panache.
Katie McAlister, the President of Cunard commented:
“Queen Anne’s maiden voyage signals the dawning of a new era in luxury ocean travel and her historic sailaway from Southampton was a very special moment for everyone connected with Cunard…with Queen Anne joining our fleet, she marks not just a new icon but the completion of a perfect quartet alongside Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria.”
This extraordinary launch will also be marked by a naming ceremony on June 3rd with the iconic Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli giving an exclusive performance.
See our Ultimate Cunard 2024 guide here.
Celebrity Apex to Sail From Southampton
Celebrity Cruises announced that Celebrity Apex will be sailing from Southampton for a full season starting in May 2024. Replacing Celebrity Silhouette, this Edge Class ship will offer an array of exciting itineraries throughout the Mediterranean, northern Europe and beyond.
Setting sail for its debut season from Southampton on May 15th to the Norwegian Fjords, this is bound to get cruise enthusiasts and first time cruisers alike excited to book upcoming Celebrity Apex getaways. And, it’s clear that more and more people are seeking no-fly cruises, with an increase of 31% in searches for ‘cruises from Southampton’ between the 6th May 2023-6th May 2024 according to Google Trends data.
Starfish Lagoon Announced at Carnival’s Celebration Key
Set to open in July 2025, Carnival’s Celebration Key is guaranteed to be a hit with families, combining a myriad of fun family-friendly activities with areas inspired by Bahamian cuisine and culture. Located in Grand Bahama, little ones, teens and adults alike will have things to see and do across the resort.
Spanning 65 acres, there’s 5 different portals to discover, with the latest, Starfish Lagoon being announced. Specifically designed for families, this portal has several standout features, from the Flash Flamingo water slide to the Game Pavillion and Guppy Grotto, a water play area themed with coral reefs. There’s also dining venues, bars and more available to enjoy throughout.
Find out more about this incredible private island resort on our blog - Best Cruise Line Private Islands.
A Quick Queen Anne Staff Review
Iglu Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer, Dave Mills, was lucky enough to stay onboard Queen Anne ahead of its maiden voyage. During his overnight stay, Dave stayed in a Britannia Balcony stateroom and got the chance to explore Queen Anne, savouring some of the food onboard, experiencing some of the live entertainment and discovering all that this extraordinary new ship has to offer.
Dave said the following about his Queen Anne experience:
“This is a stunning looking ship, incredibly well designed, so you feel like you’re on a ‘Cunarder’ at all times. Queen Anne raises the bar for the Cunard brand, adding some really lovely signature areas like the Bright Lights Society to Cunard favourites such as the Queen’s Room and Grand Lobby spaces.”
“The Golden Lion is once again a must-visit, genuinely feeling like a classic English pub, where live music, quizzes and a proper pub ambience meets a new Michel Roux inspired pub menu. I think what Queen Anne achieves well is elevating the design aspect of a Cunard ship, by adding some lovely touches (the Tom Ford/Miller Harris fragrance shop gives some example of where the brand is positioning) - but also catering for the discerning taste of regular Cunard guests (who will be delighted by many familiar highlights such as Afternoon Tea Service in the Queen’s Room).”
Iglu Cruise’s Top Blogs in May
This month we’ve been busy writing a variety of blog posts. With a wide selection of content for you to enjoy all in one place, our blog is a one-stop-shop for cruise tips, tricks and more!
Our top blogs for this month include:
💸Top Budget Friendly Cruises 💸
On the hunt for a wallet-friendly getaway this year? This blog not only gives you some useful travel inspiration and tips, but it includes a variety of affordable cruises to choose from, visiting some of the most breathtaking corners of the world!
❓10 Common Cruise Myths Debunked ❓
Think that cruising is only for the older generation or for those with tons of money? That’s just one of the myths that people believe. In this blog, we’ve rounded up the top 10 common cruise myths and have debunked each one! Discover why cruising is not only a multigenerational, flexible and affordable experience but why it really is a fantastic way to explore the world!
🌎Top Underrated Cruise Destinations🌎
Searching for a cruise getaway that visits unique destinations, and not just the stereotypical ones? In this blog we’ve rounded up the top underrated cruise destinations, from historic escapes to Montenegro to the icy realms of Alaska.
Other blogs you should check out:
Ok, so we couldn’t just choose three. Here’s a few more that shouldn’t be missed!
- Best Cruise Destinations for Walking and Hiking Enthusiasts
- Top MSC Cruises’ Suites
- Top 5 Accessible Mediterranean Cruise Ports
Book Your Iglu Cruise Getaway Today
If you’re looking for your next cruise getaway, look no further than Iglu Cruises’ selection of spectacular cruise deals. With a variety of cruises on offer from mini cruises to world cruises, our selection is bound to impress. Book your dream cruise escape with Iglu Cruise today and get ready for a holiday of a lifetime.