Progress Continues on Carnival Luminosa Transformation
Carnival’s latest new-ship acquisition Luminosa officially has its throwback smokestack and new name emblazoned across the bow and stern.
The former Costa Cruises ship is currently in dry dock in Italy undergoing the transformation.
Work is also underway on the interior to incorporate the Alchemy Bar, Bonsai Sushi Express, and the adults-only Serenity sundeck.
The vessel begins sailing as a Carnival Cruise Line ship this November from Brisbane, Australia.
Viking Sea Breaks Free From Dock Due to High Winds
It was a close call for 800 guests on Viking Sea over the weekend.
The 47,000 gross ton ship broke away from its moorings in Ravenna, Italy on Saturday due to high winds. Crew quickly dropped anchor to keep the ship from drifting further — in total it moved nearly 200 feet from its berth.
The vessel was helped back into position by several tug boats, because its thrusters are useless in cross winds of over 35 knots.
No passengers were injured during the incident.
Port of Alaska Welcomes First Cruise Ship in Two Years
The Port of Alaska in Anchorage has welcomed its first cruise ship visit in two years.
Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam docked in the port last Thursday morning, and is the only cruise ship scheduled to visit the port this year as the Alaska sailing season winds down.
Most cruise itineraries that include Anchorage see the ship docking in Seward or Whittier instead of right in Anchorage at the Port of Alaska.
According to Visit Anchorage’s community engagement director Jack Bonney, tourism in the city is bouncing back from pandemic lows. He said “2022 is on track to be a really big year, and maybe even equal a couple of benchmarks.”
Next year, another Holland America ship — Noordam — is also scheduled to call on the port.
