Norwegian Cancels Most of Spirit’s Sailings for 2024 and 2025

After announcing the cancellation of the ship’s 2024 summer program, Norwegian Cruise Line is cancelling more scheduled sailings onboard the Norwegian Spirit.

According to different statements sent to booked guests, all of the 2025 departures were cancelled, as well as additional dates in 2024.

Essentially leaving the 1999-built ship with no schedule beyond next April, the new cancellations are the result of redeployment moves, Norwegian Cruise Line said in one of the letters.

“As a company, we are committed to providing exceptional vacation experiences, both aboard our ships and by taking our guests to some of the most sought-out destinations around the world. As a result of a fleet redeployment, Norwegian Spirit’s sailings from February 8, 2025, through and including November 23, 2025, have been cancelled,” the company explained.

“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience this may cause,” Norwegian added.

In 2024, the sailings not long going ahead include cruises previously scheduled to depart between May through early June, in addition to itineraries scheduled to sail between September and December.

The Norwegian Spirit was scheduled to sail in the Pacific during the period, offering itineraries across Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, Hawaii and Tahiti.

While no cruises had originally been planned for January and early February 2025, and the ship’s 2024 summer program had already been cancelled back in May, the new cancellations leave the Spirit with no schedule after the 2023-2024 winter season.

Impacted passengers will receive several compensations, including full refunds and discounts for rebooking on different dates.

Originally built for Star Cruises in 1999, the Norwegian Spirit is currently one of the oldest in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet.

With a capacity for 2,000 guests, it went through a $100-million refurbishment in early 2020. The major modernization project saw the addition of 14 new venues to the ship’s public areas, in addition to cabin updates and technical upgrades.

Sir Bob Geldof Makes Appearance on Queen Mary 2

Sir Bob Geldof made a guest appearance aboard the Queen Mary 2 while cruising from Fremantle, Australia to Cape Town, South Africa, treating guests to an exclusive question and answer session.

 Geldof spoke at the ship’s Royal Court Theatre on Wednesday, sharing stories with guests from his music career as well as his connection with Cunard.

Angus Struthers, senior vice president at Cunard, said: “As one of the world’s most iconic musicians and humanitarian figures, we were delighted to welcome Sir Bob aboard Queen Mary 2 for a unique Q&A.

 “It was an incredible opportunity for our guests to hear from a true trailblazer who has had a profound impact on music and the world at large. We were honoured to have him on board, and it was a truly unforgettable experience for our guests.”

Geldof’s father worked as a chef onboard the Cunard fleet, and Geldof revealed he treasures an original menu card as a memento. He embarked on the ship on April 3 in Durban and the Q&A was titled An Audience With Sir Bob Geldof.

 Sir Bob Geldof said: “It was a pleasure to join guests onboard Queen Mary 2 and share some interesting tales from my time in music and politics. I’ve a personal connection with Cunard, so it was wonderful to rekindle that family tie and experience the delights that make Cunard so unique.”

Azamara Unveils 155-Night World Voyage for 2025

Azamara has announced its 2025 World Voyage aboard the Azamara Onward.

The 155-night cruise will take place aboard the ship, departing from San Diego, California.

The vessel will visit 37 countries before ending the cruise in Southampton, United Kingdom.

The announcement comes following the success of Azamara’s 2024 World Voyage which was sold out with a waitlist.

“We are thrilled to have our second world cruise aboard Azamara Onward. With 60% of ports on this sailing being different from those on our 2024 world voyage, this itinerary was carefully curated to give even the most well-travelled guests a new perspective on the world,” said Carol Cabezas, president of Azamara.

“Our 2025 world cruise invites travellers to not only see the world but also take their time in each destination and make memories that will last long after the journey has ended,” Cabezas concluded.

The Azamara Onward’s itinerary will include 15 overnights and 31 late stays in ports, allowing guests to explore each destination. The 2025 World Voyage will also include 13 complimentary land events starting with a gala in San Diego.

Highlighted destinations of Azamara Onward’s itinerary include Honolulu, Hawaii, Samoa and Tonga, Sydney, Australia, Stewart Island, New Zealand, Benoa, Bali, Bangkok, Thailand, and Semarang, Indonesia.

Azamara’s 2025 World Voyage will also offer $25,000 in exclusive amenities including $4,000 in onboard credit, a premium beverage package for two, weekly laundry service, and $3,000 for shore excursions, among other amenities.

Bookings for Azamara’s 2025 World Voyage are currently open to trade partners, loyalty guests, and past-world travellers only.