With new ships in 2022, cruise industry shows recovery after pandemic

MIAMI – The cruise industry is recovering after the pandemic, rolling out a few dozen new ships this yr.

Chuck McKay from DeLand, Florida, sailed to the Greek Islands along with his spouse and associates aboard Celebrity Beyond.

The new ship launched in the spring, engaging vacationers with a two-story sundeck, expanded rooftop backyard and French chef Daniel Boulud’s first restaurant at sea.

“I am very excited to be on here because we’re able to see all the new stuff that’s just been added to the ship,” McKay stated.

This week, Celebrity and different strains loosened their COVID protocols, not requiring vaccinated passengers to check earlier than most cruises and permitting unvaccinated passengers, who should take a look at earlier than boarding. 

The president and CEO of Celebrity, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, says, “It’s time to transition into the next phase and that’s what the world is doing and that’s what we’re finally doing.”

Cruise firms hemorrhaged tens of billions of {dollars} through the pandemic and now industry commerce teams see the tides shifting. 

Cruise Lines International Association predicts passenger numbers will exceed pre-pandemic ranges subsequent yr. “Future is bright, industry is growing, guests are coming back, so we’re all very happy,” says Lutoff-Perlo.

Disney Cruise Lines added its fifth and largest ship, Disney Wish, to the fleet this summer time and the most important ship in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas started crusing in March.

“They continue to innovate and with that they shape different experience for different travelers,” says journey advisor Rob Clabbers of Q Cruise + Travel.

Another new choice is the Seashore from MSC Cruises, a line that is higher recognized in Europe than the U.S. Hotel Director Yannis Kazalis says, “We have 140,000 square feet of outdoor space. 

This is enormous and I think it’s one of the biggest at sea.” CBS News Correspondent Wendy Gillette obtained a decreased charge to sail aboard Beyond and Seashore, which boasts a water slide, infinity pool, and specialty eating places. 

MSC Cruises will launch two extra ships later this yr because it steams forward. The family-owned firm additionally runs the biggest container transport line in the world. MSC is the third greatest cruise line.