Five years ago, AIDA Cruises, through its AIDA Cruise & Help initiative, opened its first school in Cebu City, Philippines, fully funded by donations from the program. Since then, 60 schools have been constructed in twelve different countries. One of these schools is the Namibia Okanguati Primary School. The focus of this project is on the home countries of the crew and regions visited by AIDA cruise ships. Last year, AIDA Cruises introduced a project where each ship is paired with a specific school project, funded through activities like raffles and auctions.

Do you love traveling but would like the lowest possible rates on your next cruise vacation?

Well, now one cruise line is offering guests the opportunity to participate in a Work & Travel program, giving them the chance to work part-time aboard the ships while at the same time enjoying all guest benefits. Guests aboard Aida Cruises ships can work 4 hours a day and be rewarded with a discounted cruise rate.

The program

Costa Cruises recently celebrated the "National Day of Made in Italy," an event established by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy to promote Italian creativity and excellence on Leonardo da Vinci's birth anniversary. The celebration took place onboard the Costa Smeralda, the flagship of Italian taste, design, and craftsmanship.

The German shipyard Meyer Turku unveiled its concept for the first climate-neutral cruise ship, named "Avatar". This concept was introduced at the Seatrade Cruise Global cruise trade fair in Miami in early April 2024. The "Avatar" concept is part of a larger research and development project funded by Business Finland, known as NEcOLEAP.

Today, August 14, the world's only operational ocean liner, Queen Mary 2, celebrates 20 years in service. The QM2 arrived this morning at the port of Hamburg, Germany where celebrations are already in full swing.

This morning, a reception on board featured invited guests, live music, and ongoing festivities. If weather permits, the ship will join the harbor barges for a mini harbor tour in the evening, traveling from Steinwerder to the Elbphilharmonie.

Carnival Cruise Line is launching a massive recruitment drive to hire thousands of new crew members for its expanding fleet, including the three new cruise ships. In a move to enhance its workforce, the company is offering scholarships to Filipinos who wish to join their team. The scholarships and expanded curriculum at PMMA are expected to significantly improve the career prospects for Filipino seafarers.

When it comes to mind-blowing entertainment at sea, Royal Caribbean International is in a league of its own! Their cruise ships aren’t just floating hotels; they’re stages for the world’s top performers and athletes. We’re talking about Red Bull Cliff Diving legend like Michal Navratil, who’ve wowed crowds with jaw-dropping high dives. 

Cunard honored two outstanding crew members for their exceptional contributions with Stars of the Year for 2023 award. The programme, known for recognizing excellence in service and adherence to Cunard’s Culture Essentials, continues to highlight the dedication and commitment of those working aboard Cunard ships.

On September 5, 2024, the cruise ship AIDAprima operated by AIDA Cruises made history by refueling with 100% renewable biofuel (BMF100) at the Port of Rotterdam. This refueling marked the first time the ship has used a biofuel entirely from advanced waste and residue streams. VARO Energy, the provider of the biofuel, estimates that this innovative energy source will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 85% when compared to conventional fossil fuels.