holiday cruises for 2023

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TIS THE SEASON FOR ADVENTURE

Holiday cruises.

Fill the December holidays with tropical, action-packed days and unforgettable memories. Start a new tradition with the biggest holiday cruise celebration at sea.

This year, spend the holidays in a warm winter wonderland with your favorite holiday traditions — plus some epic new ones — onboard the world’s boldest ships. Bring everyone together for Thanksgiving memory-making that the whole family will be grateful for. Sailings in December keep magical Christmas celebrations dancing through your head. And it all culminates in the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea. So get onboard and deck the holidays with us.

EXPLORE AVAILABLE HOLIDAY CRUISES

Enjoy the ultimate holiday celebration with loved ones this festive season.

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MAXED OUT IN NEW TRADITIONS

A holiday at sea is filled with epic new traditions in the making. Onboard, have a blast hanging ten on the FlowRider®* or gasping in awe at a high-diving AquaTheater spectacular. And on shore, you’ll be glad you ditched the cold for extra bold experiences from ATV jungle treks to underwater snorkel discoveries and more.

tropical holiday fun

You don’t need snow for plenty of whoa this December. Choose an island-hopping getaway for winter fun under the sun. All of the best holiday cruises for families spend one glorious day at CocoCay.

DASH THROUGH THE WHOA

It’s the most thrilling time of the year — with exclusive adrenaline-pumping experiences you won’t find on any other cruise line. Try skydiving right on deck, take on The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides and more!

REVELRY AND RIVALRY

Holiday time is family time. Discover incredible ways to take togetherness — and competitive spirit— to new heights. Cheer each other on while scaling the signature Rock Climbing Wall, or see who’s brave enough to plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠.

PUTTING THE SEA in seasonal favorites

Holidays onboard are decked out with everything you love most about the season. Gather 'round for a sumptuous Thanksgiving dinner — without lifting a finger. Wander through a winter wonderland as the Royal Promenade comes alive with Christmas cheer. Ring in the New Year with a massive balloon drop plus sensational beats. And that’s just a taste of the celebrations in store. 

HOME STYLE HOLIDAYS

Pack your appetite — all your favorite flavors of the holiday season are onboard. Savor mouthwatering Thanksgiving staples like oven-roasted turkey and old-fashioned pecan pie. And  Christmas dinner classics, like honey baked ham and homemade sides.

LIGHTING UP THE SEA

Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hannukah, you’ll find your most treasured holiday traditions at sea — with festive tree and menorah lighting ceremonies on every sailing in December.

NEW WAYs TO NEW YEAR

Ring in the new year with an enchanting countdown to the massive balloon drop. Plus, score an invitation to the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea, where jam-worthy live music starts the year on just the right note.

STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY BLISS

Need a no-pressure family getaway? A romantic beach adventure for two? Whatever style you're looking to celebrate in, you'll cruise through this year's holiday season stress-free.

FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE

Make sure you stop at  Perfect Day at CocoCay  for an action-packed adventure that everyone will love. Kiddies can splash to their heart's content at Splashaway Bay or head to the swashbuckling Captain Jill's Cannon for the ultimate pirate experience. See who's brave enough to conquer all 13 waterslides at  Thrill Waterpark , or relax along the  Oasis Lagoon . Get the whole family together on a hot air balloon ride and make holiday memories to last a lifetime.

BABY, IT'S NOT COLD OUTSIDE!

All you want for Christmas is a tropical vacation? Get away from holiday pressure and expectations with a romantic December cruise to the Caribbean! Explore local traditions together, swim in secret waterfalls and unwind on powdery Caribbean sands. Romantic beach picnics are just the beginning of your holiday escape.

SPEND THE HOLIDAYS ON THE BOLDEST CRUISE SHIPS AT SEA

Incredible is on the itinerary when you set sail on one of our Oasis Class cruise ships. Get your adrenaline fix with two onboard water slides, a wave park and the only boomerang slide at sea. Dash through the seas and launch into the holiday spirit with themed parties and daily shows. 'Tis the season to indulge! Enjoy one of our specialty restaurants where you'll find traditional favorites and new holiday-themed dishes and delights.

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GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The ship's crew is there to make sure you have the best holiday cruise. At the start of your voyage, take part in the time-honored tradition of lighting the massive ship's tree. Join Santa's hardest working elves for the ultimate Christmas celebration and a surprise Christmas giveaway. Get up on deck for a festive walk in support of World Wildlife Fund's Arctic programs, presented by Coca-Cola. Decorate your own gingerbread cookies and unleash your creativity with DIY ornament classes.

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Holiday Cruises

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Bring your family and friends closer together for an unforgettable celebration with holiday offers. With festive holiday sailings, you'll find a journey that gives you everything you love about the holidays with none of the hassle.  

The sights, the sounds, the foods, and the traditions can all be enjoyed on board. Take part in a special holiday dinner, a holiday show in the Main Theatre, hear a choir singing Christmas carols, and, of course, get a visit from Santa with gifts for children and teens.

New Year’s Eve

A New Year’s Eve party and countdown is made fun and festive with holiday favors and a complimentary champagne toast. The next day, you’ll catch all your favorite College Bowl championship football games showing in many areas of the ship.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with a beautiful menorah lighting ceremony, Hanukkah services, fun crafts for the kids, and traditional foods such as latkes and toppings prepared by our chefs.  

Go on an Easter egg hunt with the Easter Bunny and indulge in an Easter Brunch in the Oceanview Café. Festive spring decorations abound, and Easter services are offered on board.

Thanksgiving

What’s Thanksgiving without a traditional turkey dinner among family and friends? We’ve got it covered. Afterwards, settle in and watch a few football games that are broadcast in many areas of the ship.

Valentine’s Day

Sweethearts have a special place in our hearts. We celebrate all things love with a complimentary rose for all women, a Love & Marriage Game Show, and a special Valentine’s cocktail. Spa treatments and specialty dining are available for purchase on board.

Spooky decorations and carved pumpkins set the tone for trick or treating for families, a Halloween party for adults, pumpkin-flavored beers and Halloween cocktails. Yes, be sure to pack your Halloween costumes for a fun-filled contest.

Enjoy a traditional Seder service and a variety of Passover foods during our onboard celebration to commemorate the story of the Exodus.

St. Patrick’s Day

Everybody’s Irish for St. Patty’s Day! Celebrate the luck of the Irish with a big St. Patrick’s Day party complete with plenty of green beer, live Irish music and a sea of green decorations everywhere.

Mother's Day

Moms get special treatment including complimentary roses. The kids and dad can record a short “Message to Mom” to be aired during a special celebration. All her favorite gifts are available for purchase, from handbags to the spa indulgences she loves.

Father's Day

Treat Dad like a king on a Father’s Day Sailing. Get him dinner in a specialty restaurant, a whiskey tasting, or a single malt cocktail special. The kids and mom can record a short “Message to Dad” to be aired at a joyful celebration of dads on board.

5 Reasons to Celebrate the Holidays With Celebrity

Celebrate the Holidays on a luxury vacation.

• Everything's ready: Enjoy traditional holiday meals and decorating with no prep or clean up to worry about.
• Entertainment: Festive holiday shows and carolers will get everyone in the spirit.
• Togetherness: Everyone gets to enjoy downtime during the holidays to spend with those who matter most.
• Traditions: Santa brings gifts to all the kids and the halls will be decked to perfection. Corks pop on New Year's Eve.
• Award-winning dining: Sumptuous, complete holiday meals created by a Michelin-starred chef.

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Holiday Flash Sale

Reserve your 2023 holiday cruise today with our lowest fares yet, plus bring the kids for only $99! Leave the party planning to us while you relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with family and friends. Set sail on close-to-home Caribbean getaways, tropical Hawaiian escapes, or discover Mexican wonders and beyond! 

"Best Cruise Itineraries: Alaska | Mexican Riviera | Panama Canal" 

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Fares are based on Promo(s) QJ. Featured fares are per person based on double occupancy, cruise or cruisetours only. Taxes, Fees & Port Expenses are not included. All savings amounts are included in fares shown. Subject to availability. Offers are applicable on select 2023 departures and available for 1st/2nd guests on new bookings only. Fares and deposits are non-refundable and final payment is due at time of booking. Savings amounts per stateroom are based on a discount on applicable Early Advantage fares on a space-available basis at the time of booking on select sailings only. Guests ages 5–18 (“children”) are eligible to travel for $99 per person when booked as a 3rd and/or 4th guest on select cruises. Limit up to two free children per eligible booking.

Offers have limited space and may be modified or withdrawn. Departure dates may be substituted without prior notice. Subject to availability. Other restrictions may apply. It is the responsibility of guests to ensure they have a full passport valid at least 6 months beyond the date on which travel is to commence. For full terms & conditions, please visit HollandAmerica.com. Ships’ Registry: The Netherlands. 

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2023 Holiday Cruises: Enjoy Your Vacation Away

Are you considering going on a vacation for the winter holidays? People often think about cruises in the summertime, but winter is one of the best times to take a cruise. Norwegian offers some options overlapping with important holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and Hanukkah. Our 2023 holiday cruise options range from closer-to-home possibilities such as the Bahamas or The Caribbean, or you can fly to Europe to visit some of the best European cities without summer crowds. While the holidays may not be the first thing on your mind this time of year, the best way to plan the holiday vacation of your dreams is to book and plan ahead so you can simply embark and enjoy when the time comes.

If you need a little inspiration, here are some destinations you can visit on a Norwegian 2023 holiday cruise.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on August 17, 2022. It has been updated to show related itineraries.

Ready to start planning? Explore all 2023 Holiday cruises .

1. Mexican Riviera Holiday Cruises

Celebrate a Christmas cruise in the Mexican Riviera . This cruise is an excellent itinerary for people on the West Coast, as Mexican Riviera cruises typically depart from Los Angeles. Mexican Riviera cruises can include stops in Cabo San Lucas , Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Ensenada.

The Pacific Ocean side of Mexico is renowned for its deep sea fishing, party atmosphere, and more. Book a deep sea fishing adventure in Cabo or Mazatlan . Explore 26 miles of beaches in Puerto Vallarta and visit the famous blowhole La Bufadora in Ensenada .

2. Panama Canal Holiday Cruises

Enjoy a Thanksgiving cruise without preparing any meals by booking a Panama Canal full transit cruise departing from Los Angeles and disembarking from Miami. Norwegian offers several different Panama Canal cruise options in addition to cruising during Thanksgiving. Potential cruise ports include popular Mexican Riviera destinations such as Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. Other ports of call on a Panama Canal cruise include Central American countries such as Costa Rica and Guatemala and Caribbean destinations like Cartagena .

This cruise offers a wide variety of adventurous excursions. Go deep sea fishing in Mexico, explore the rainforest in Costa Rica, and walk along historical pirate hangouts in Colombia. Of course, the highlight of this cruise is a daylight transit through the Panama Canal.

3. Australia & New Zealand Holiday Cruises

If you are looking for a Christmas and New Year's cruise, consider a cruise to Australia & New Zealand . Spend your holidays below the equator where it's summer, and explore some of the best natural attractions and landmarks. Visit the iconic Opera House in Sydney , devour amazing eats in Melbourne's Chinatown, explore New Zealand's only castle in Dunedin , and find various filming locations for the "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" series.

If you hope to see some wildlife and stunning natural landscapes, Australia and New Zealand won't disappoint. Catch a glimpse of penguins, platypuses, koalas, wallabies, and more. This itinerary also includes cruising through iconic fjords and sounds, such as Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Milford Sound.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise from Los Angeles 15-Day Panama Canal Cruise from Los Angeles 12-Day Australia & New Zealand Cruise from Sydney 7-Day Hawaii Cruise from Honolulu

4. Holidays in Hawaii

With weekly departures from Honolulu , you can book a cruise during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, or Hanukkah and celebrate in beautiful Hawaii. Norwegian offers the only Hawaiian cruise sailing to four islands year-round.

Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the active Kilauea Volcano, and learn about World War II history at Pearl Harbor. Go golfing in Maui , take a surf lesson in Kona, climb to the top of Diamond Head in Honolulu, attend a luau in Kaua'i , and more.

5. The Caribbean Holiday Cruises

Norwegian offers a wide selection of cruises to The Caribbean, including Western, Southern, and Eastern Caribbean itineraries. Choosing the best Caribbean itinerary depends on which islands you want to visit. On a Western Caribbean cruise that stops in Mexico , Belize , and Roatan , you can explore Maya sites and rainforests. Scuba divers can spend their days under the sea at some of the best dive sites in the world on a Southern Caribbean cruise that visits Aruba , Bonaire , and Curaçao .

6. Holiday Cruises to The Bahamas

If you want a quick holiday cruise somewhere warm, consider one of Norwegian's 3-day Bahamas cruises . All Norwegian cruises to the Bahamas, including longer Caribbean itineraries, stop at Great Stirrup Cay . This is Norwegian's private island reserved exclusively for Norwegian cruise passengers. Spend your day here snorkeling, relaxing, zip-lining, and more. For a more exclusive experience, consider renting a cabana or private villa. Guests who rent a Silver Cove villa also have access to the upscale Silver Cove buffet.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Caribbean Cruise from New Orleans 3-Day Bahamas Cruise from Miami 14-Day Europe Cruise from Venice 16-Day Antarctica & South America Cruise from Argentina

7. Holidays in the Mediterranean

Skip the crowds and spend the holidays in Europe. With November and December departures from the Mediterranean , you can spend any winter holidays abroad on a Norwegian cruise. Depending on the itinerary you choose, visit iconic destinations such as Naples , Rome , Dubrovnik , Cannes , Barcelona , and more.

Explore the well-preserved 13th-century walls in Dubrovnik, Baroque architecture in Valletta, the Colosseum in Rome , the Duomo in Florence , and Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Walk the promenade in Cannes, tour one of the largest cathedrals in the world in Seville , eat pizza at some of Naples' famous pizzerias, and learn about Slovenian wine in Koper .

8. Antarctica Holiday Cruises

Book an Antarctica and South America itinerary for the ultimate winter holiday cruises. If you've been dreaming about checking off one of the least visited continents in the world, this is the cruise for you. Norwegian's South America cruises take you to some of the world's most beautiful natural landscapes, including Tierra del Fuego National Park and Uruguay's Punta del Este , called the Saint-Tropez of Latin America.

Norwegian's Antarctica cruises doesn't stop in Antarctica, but you'll have two days cruising by Paradise Bay, Elephant Island, and Cape Lookout. You'll see stunning sheets of ice, rugged mountains, and plenty of penguins and seals. Elephant Island gets its name from all the elephant seals that hang out here as well as the shape of the island.

While you decide which cruise is right for your 2023 holiday plans, don't forget to sign up for Norwegian's cruise deals . This way, you won't miss out on any upcoming discounts and special offers.

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Holiday Cruises with Royal Caribbean

This Christmas season, "Deck the Holidays" with Royal Caribbean. Santa and his hardest working elves have made Royal Caribbean your one-stop shop for holiday entertainment, feasts, activities and much more when you take a Christmas or holiday cruise. Why deal with the stress of putting on all of the holiday festivities yourself when all of your favorite traditions and experiences can be found right on board at the tips of your fingers? When you book your holiday sailing or Christmas cruise with The Cruise Web, you are just one call away from the holiday vacation of a lifetime!

Christmas Cruises with Royal Caribbean

"Come Seek" top-notch Christmas holiday activities, experiences, entertainment and cuisine on a Christmas cruise with Royal Caribbean.

Christmas Activities aboard Royal Caribbean

• Walk for polar bears and join the crew on deck for a walk in support of the World Wildlife Fund's arctic programs.
• Sing along to your favorite timeless holiday tunes Christmas Eve caroling.
• Create your own ugly Christmas sweater at an ugly sweater crafting session. Afterward, rock your creation at the Ugly Sweater Party featuring a live DJ and competition for the ugliest sweater.
• Learn how to decorate like a pro in one of Royal Caribbean's Christmas ornament or gingerbread cookie decorating classes!
• Put your holiday know-how to the test with onboard holiday games and trivia.
• Attend a pajamas movie night featuring your favorite Christmas movies!

Christmas Experiences with Royal Caribbean

• Elves on deck! Be on the lookout for Santa's elves spreading Christmas cheer from bow to stern. And who knows... Saint Nick might be making his own special appearance as well!
• Marvel at the glowing Christmas trees and other holiday decor on display throughout the ship!
• A priest will be onboard for those who wish to attend mass on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, or both!
• Holiday story time will be hosted by Santa's elves.

Holiday Cuisine aboard Royal Caribbean

• Why spend your Christmas in the kitchen when you can enjoy decadent holiday cuisine stress-free with Royal Caribbean?
• Get your fill of all your favorite holiday dishes at 150 Central Park, Giovanni's Table and Chops Grille when you take a Christmas cruise with Royal Caribbean.
• Royal Caribbean also offers a special holiday-themed version of their traditional Bottomless Galley Brunch where you can eat as much as your ho-ho-heart desires!

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Thanksgiving Cruises with Royal Caribbean

Enjoy stress free turkey-time when you celebrate Thanksgiving with Royal Caribbean! Take part in all your favorite Thanksgiving traditions minus the planning and production hassles.

Thanksgiving Activities & Experiences with Royal Caribbean

• Participate in Thanksgiving-themed arts and crafts with the whole family.
• Watch first hand as the Captain of the ship performs a Turkey Pardon.
• Not a fan of the jam packed shopping malls on Black Friday? Instead, take part in Royal Caribbean's countdown to the holidays shopping events. Holiday specials are available at all onboard shops, including gift packages.

Thanksgiving Cuisine aboard Royal Caribbean

• Get in the Thanksgiving "spirit" with Holiday-themed cocktails.
• And of course, a traditional Thanksgiving dinner will be served in the main restaurant featuring all your Thanksgiving favorites!

View 2024 Thanksgiving Cruises

View 2025 Thanksgiving Cruises

View 2026 Thanksgiving Cruises

New Year's Eve Cruises with Royal Caribbean

Ring in the New Year with Royal Caribbean!

• Begin your year with a bang! Experience a stunning ship-wide party complete with champagne and party favors.
• Enjoy New Year's themed cocktails and exceptional holiday-inspired menus created by Royal Caribbean's expert chefs on New Year's Eve.

View 2024 New Year's Cruises

View 2025 New Year's Cruises

View 2026 New Year's Cruises

Ready for Your Holiday Cruise with Royal Caribbean?

For more information on holiday cruising with Royal Caribbean and to book your stress-free holiday vacation, call The Cruise Web's expert consultants today at 1-800-377-9383!

* Onboard amenities, experiences, features and prices are subject to change without notice. Activities and availability vary by season and sail date. Information accurate at time of publication, but subject to change. Call 1-800-377-9383 to confirm current holiday experiences, pricing and availability.

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Just Released: New Fall 2023 Ports and Itineraries

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• It List 2024 Overview: It List 2024
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• It List 2024 The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year The Best New U.S. Resorts of 2023 The Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels of 2023 The Best New International Resorts of 2023 The Best New Cruise Ships of 2023 The Best New City Hotels of 2023 The Most Luxurious New Hotels of 2023 CLOSE Part of It List 2024

Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

First Look at Disney Cruise Line's 2023 Holiday Entertainment

Disney Cruise Line has shared a first look at the 2023 holiday entertainment guests can expect on Very Merrytime Cruises!

It’s Halfway to the Holidays, and Disney has been celebrating with special announcements and exciting treats on the Disney Cruise Line and in the Disney Parks. And today, Disney Cruise Line shared a first look at the 2023 holiday entertainment guests can expect when they sail on the upcoming Very Merrytime cruises!

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Disney Cruise Line 2023 Holiday Entertainment

Photo Courtesy of Disney

Very Merrytime cruises are a wonderful way to spend the holidays in a tropical paradise. The fleet is decked out in festive decorations, with Disney characters dressed for the holidays. Each year, these special sailings also include fun activities and entertainment to enjoy. And Disney just shared a first look at the entertainment guests can expect onboard Very Merrytime cruises this year — including some new additions!

This year, on the first night of all Very Merrytime sailings, guests can gather around the massive three-deck-tall tree in the atrium for a tree lighting ceremony. The event will include appearances from Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy, who will invite guests to sing along with classic holiday tunes as you count down to the lighting of the tree. Santa will even make an appearance as the guest of honor!

Another new addition this year will be Mickey and Minnie’s Holiday Party, where guests will be invited to the upper decks for a high-energy party thrown by Mickey and Minnie. The event will include music and appearances from your favorite Disney characters.

Disney Cruise Line 2024 Holiday Itineraries

Photo Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Earlier this week, Disney Cruise Line shared that Very Merrytime sailings will return in 2024, with select cruises available from mid-November to December 2024. Guests will be able to take these special sailings from the two home ports in Florida, along with a selection of cruises sailing out of Galveston, Texas.

These will include a selection of three- and four-night Bahamian Very Merrytime cruises on the Disney Wish from Port Canaveral, and four- and five-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale on the Disney Dream. The Disney Fantasy will also offer a variety of four-night Very Merrytime sailings to the Bahamas in 2024, along with longer six- and seven-night itinerary options. Select voyages on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy will even include a stop at Disney’s newest private island destination, Lighthouse Point !

Meanwhile, the Disney Magic will offer select Very Merrytime sailings from four to six nights out of Galveston, Texas, sailing you and your group through the Caribbean.

Book Your 2023 or 2024 Disney Cruise With Destinations to Travel

Looking to book your 2024 or 2024 Disney Cruise Line sailing? We recommend Destinations to Travel when booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation! All you need to do is fill out this quick form, and a licensed Destinations to Travel agent will respond within 24 hours! Remember, quotes are FREE — don’t be afraid to ask.

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The post First Look at Disney Cruise Line’s 2023 Holiday Entertainment appeared first on WDW Magazine .

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Kremlin responds to US shift on military aid; deadliest strike in weeks claims more victims

Follow our Ukraine war live page for all the latest developments and analysis of the conflict. Listen to a Daily podcast episode on the notion of the UK putting troops on the ground in Ukraine as you scroll.

Thursday 18 April 2024 16:59, UK

• Deadliest strike in weeks claims more victims
• Kremlin responds to US shift on aid to Ukraine

Two arrested in Germany on Russian spy charges

• Ukraine launches attack on Russian airfield in Crimea
• Mark Stone: Ukraine funding vote is a curious twist in America's political chaos
• The big picture: What's happening with the war this week?
• Your questions answered: How long will it take for any aid to turn the tide militarily?
• Live reporting by Guy Birchall

That's it from our live coverage of the war in Ukraine for today. 

We'll be back again with more updates, but here's a round up of a day that saw the death toll from the worst Russian strike in weeks rise to 18.

Another 78 were wounded when three missiles slammed into the northern city of Chernihiv, causing a building to collapse.

The strike redoubled Volodymyr Zelenskyy's calls for further air defence munitions, and forced that issue high up the agenda of a meeting of G7 foreign ministers in Italy.

It even seemed to spark some progress in Washington, where funding for Ukraine has been tangled up in political squabbles for more than 40 months.

Two men were arrested in Germany for allegedly plotting sabotage attacks, including on American military facilities, in an effort to undermine support for Ukraine, according toGerman prosecutors.

Authorities searched the homes and workplaces of the two suspects, both German-Russian nationals, who are accused of working for a foreign secret service.

Berlin's foreign ministry later summoned the Russian ambassador following the arrests.

Other key facts from the day include:

• Ukraine launches attack on Russian airfield in Crimea;
• Kremlin claims US aid won't help Ukraine;
• Russia claims Ukraine strike the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Ukraine needs $42bn (£34bn) in budgetary support this year as it continues to fight the Russian invasion, the head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said.

IMF managing director Kristalina Georgieva said Russia's war against Ukraine needed to end, calling it both a human tragedy and a drag on growth prospects for the global economy. 

She added that she saw global support for Ukraine remaining firm. 

G7 members are considering using nearly $300bn (£240bn) in frozen Russian assets as collateral to provide loans to Ukraine.

European Commission executive vice president Valdis Dombrovskis made the revelation at a meeting of the group's foreign ministers in Italy.

He added that different options were also under consideration, and the discussions were ongoing. 

Mr Dombrovskis said he hoped the EU - where the bulk of the frozen assets are held - would approve a separate EU measure in coming months to use the profits or interest earned on the assets to help Ukraine. 

NATO is working to send more air defence systems to Ukraine, secretary general Jens Stoltenberg has said.

Speaking at a meeting of foreign ministers of the G7, he said: "We have compiled data about the different air defence systems we have in NATO and focused on the Patriot systems. 

"And we are working with allies to ensure that they redeploy some of their systems to Ukraine.

"I am encouraged by the commitment and the determination by NATO allies to stand up for Ukraine." 

Mr Stoltenberg added that he was seeing encouraging signs that the US Congress might soon pass an aid package for Ukraine.

Here are the latest pictures from the front and from behind the lines as the war in Ukraine rages on.

Ukrainian strikes in Russia

A couple stand near a house damaged by a Ukrainian drone attack in Voronezh, Russia.

Several structures were destroyed in the strike.

G7 foreign ministers meet in Italy

Ukraine's air defences is a key issue for ministers gathered on the Italian island of Capri, following a German appeal on Wednesday to the European Union and NATO to do more to help Kyiv. 

German president inspects troops

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Bundeswher troops training in Munster, Germany.

Much of the tank training Ukrainian troops have undergone has taken place near the western German city.

Prague protest

Protesters carry wooden crosses in the colours of the Ukrainian flag and place them in front of the US embassy in Prague in protest at the lives lost due to "American hesitancy" during a rally called "Defend Ukrainian skies" in the Czech capital.

G7 foreign ministers have warned that Ukraine risks being defeated by Russia unless it receives more air defences.

More than two years into Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv is facing an ammunition shortage, with vital American funding still tied up in political wrangling on Capitol Hill and the EU failing to deliver sufficient munitions promptly.

The ministers began a second day of talks on the Italian island of Capri by discussing the Middle East crisis and were expected to turn to Ukraine in the afternoon, when they were due to be joined by the head of NATO and Ukraine's foreign minister.

The EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell, who attends G7 gatherings alongside his American Italian, German, French, British, Japanese and Canadian counterparts, urged EU nations to hand over air defence systems to help Ukraine protect its cities from Russia, which is targeting key infrastructure.

"Otherwise, the electricity system of Ukraine will be destroyed. And no country can fight without having electricity at home, in the factories, online, for everything," he told reporters.

Russian air defences shot down what they described as five Ukrainian balloons overnight, according to the Kremlin's defence ministry.

Neither Moscow nor Kyiv have provided details about the balloons, which Russian authorities reported appearing on the battlefield in recent weeks.

According to Russian news reports, the Ukrainian balloons are equipped with a GPS module and carry explosives.

They are allegedly are harder to detect and could carry larger payloads than conventional, smaller drones.

It is not clear if the balloons are lifted by helium, hot air or something else entirely.

They aren't controllable once in the air, with the GPS module likely being used to co-ordinate the release of explosives if the balloon floats over a specific area.

Three Ukrainian balloons and one drone were downed over the Voronezh region, which borders the occupied Luhansk region of Ukraine.

Two others were intercepted in the Belgorod region of Russia next to Ukraine, according to the Russian defence ministry.

As well as the balloons, Russia claimed it intercepted two Ukrainian tactical missiles, 19 rockets and 16 drones during the night.

A Russian missile attack on Dnipropetrovsk region this morning damaged an infrastructure facility and a business, a local official said. 

Two people were injured and taken to hospital, according to the regional governor, who added that the attack caused fires at two sites. 

Ukraine's air force issued a warning of a ballistic missile threat ahead of the strike.

Moscow has stepped up combined missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine's power grid in recent weeks, resulting in significant damage. 

The Kremlin has also increased its use of harder-to-intercept ballistic missiles. 

The Kremlin claims that any new American military aid for Ukraine (see 9.36 post) won't change the situation at the front, which it described as "unfavourable" for Kyiv's forces.

Spokesman Dmitry Peskov then said US aid, would, however, help the US defence industry and leave Ukraine in debt. 

Assuming a bill in the House of Representatives passes, Ukraine will be the recipient of more than $60bn (£48bn) of lethal aid from Washington. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been calling on Ukraine's allies to provide more support, particularly air defence weapons, in light of increased missile bombardment by Russia.

Berlin's foreign ministry has summoned the Russian ambassador following the arrest of two German-Russian nationals on suspicion of plotting sabotage attacks, including on US military facilities, in Germany Bild reports.

Germany has become one of Kyiv's biggest suppliers of military aid since the war began and is a major target for Russian spying operations, according to authorities in Berlin.

"Our security authorities have prevented possible explosive attacks that were intended to target and undermine our military assistance to Ukraine," Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said earlier. 

"It is a particularly serious case of alleged spy activity for Putin's criminal regime." 

The Kremlin earlier denied knowledge of the arrests.

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