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    AdventureSmith Expands Sailing Routes for 2024

    AdventureSmith Explorations introduces a new sailing route in Indonesia, providing travelers with enhanced opportunities for immersive cultural experiences and wildlife encounters. Departing from Flores Island, the 9-day trip aboard traditional Indonesian sailing vessels offers a compact yet robust itinerary, featuring close encounters with Komodo dragons, whale sharks, and volcanic landscapes. A new sailing route in Indonesia offered by AdventureSmith Explorations, the leader in small-ship adventure cruising, is giving expedition travelers more opportunities to explore and immerse themselves in Indonesian culture and its distinct wildlife experiences. Aboard either the 24-guest Ombak Putih or 12-guest Katharina traditional Indonesian sailing vessels, the 9-day trip sets sail from and returns to Flores Island between April and August. The perfect introduction to Indonesia, the compact yet robust itinerary gets active travelers up close and personal with Komodo dragons, whale sharks and volcanic islands, while also connecting them with the people living and working in local villages.
    Featuring fewer full days at sea than other similar routes require, the new route allows for more time off the boat. That means more time in Komodo National Park, swimming along pristine coral reefs, exploring the site of a coral restoration teeming with fish and black-tip reef sharks, and experiencing volcanos, quiet coastal villages, bustling colorful markets, and more. The added flexibility of the itinerary and local knowledge of the ships’ experienced guides gets snorkelers in the water as much as possible to see the region’s iconic species like whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles.
    “This new route gives travelers the convenience of not being required to navigate hotels or traffic in Bali, or a long day at sea just to get to where the trip’s adventures truly begin,” said Todd Smith, AdventureSmith Explorations founder and president. “For those who have dreamed about exploring Indonesia’s rich islands in an active and immersive way, the options to do so are extensive and customizable.”
    Along the new sailing route, travelers will have unique experiences including the opportunity to snorkel at the north end of Sangeang Volcano over underwater geothermal fissures that release gas bubbles into the water. They’ll also meet local heroes working to protect whale shark and coral populations, and have opportunities to support local businesses and villagers while traveling by traditional sailing ship.
    Naturalist-led trips are also offered twice annually along this route that are suited for families with children ages 4+. Educational, immersive experiences on these themed trips give kids and adults with child-like curiosity fun, memorable ways to explore Indonesia together.ADVERTISEMENTAdventureSmith also offers a standout 10-day Ring of Fire trip aboard Ombak Putih, noted for its access to more remote villages and its stop at a dugong conservation project. Launched in 2023, this trip accesses islands off-the-beaten-path east of Komodo National Park. Here, people are still living life on their own terms and making textiles and fishing using traditional methods. Extensive exploration of volcanoes, with a new one to wake up to each day, an opportunity to see historic Portuguese forts used in the spice trade, plus a free bar tab and hotel nights en-route make this trip a memorable getaway from start to finish.
    Separately, another new offering for 2024 will feature a special 7-night sailing on the August 10, 2024 departure of the Aqua Blu Komodo National Park Cruise. Hosted by Chef Benjamin Cross, this trip aboard a dive-equipped 30-guest luxury yacht, will include a culinary adventure featuring his signature recipes inspired by East Indonesia’s spice routes. Chef Cross honed his craft under some of the top icons of Australian cuisine and his restaurants frequently rank among the top dining spots in Bali.
    Learn more about AdventureSmith’s Indonesia cruise options, or contact their team of experts to find the best Indonesian cruise that suits your interests at adventuresmithexplorations.com.

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    Sailaway Launches World’s First All-Electric Tender & Glass Bottom Boat on Great Barrier Reef

    Advanced Eco Tourism and Climate Action tourism operator, Sailaway Port Douglas, this week launched the world’s first all-electric tender and glass bottom boat providing a “whisper quiet” sustainable experience for guests heading to the picturesque Low Isles on the Great Barrier Reef.The 22 passenger ‘eTender’ EV Discovery is 100% electric and is designed to operate as both a transfer tender and a glass bottom boat for coral viewing of the Reef’s rich underwater biosphere.
    Using the latest technology from Torqueedo (the global leader in electric marine power), the EV Discovery pairs 48v lithium-ion batteries with solar power to drive the vessel’s 12R outboards. Direct sun alone is sufficient to propel the vessel for glass bottom boat tours, offering a minimally intrusive experience for wildlife interpretation and marine life viewing. The vessel is a prototype for further e-vessel development.
    Developing the sea-worthy vessel with the highest eco credentials was a no-brainer for Reef operator and owner Steve Edmondson whose corporate philosophy is, “Its all about the environment.”
    “Low Isles was the first place for coral research in 1928. So the fact that we are operating the world’s first eTender glass bottom boat to this carbon neutral island is a nice addition to that record,” said Steve.
    “I like to think Sailaway is an inspiration for increasing awareness and appreciation of our fragile, yet beautiful natural environment. Successful Eco Tourism has the privilege to connect people together from around the world to natural attractions at a time when we all must strive to be kinder to our planet Earth of eight billion population.” ADVERTISEMENTHailed as one of the first Advanced Eco Tourism Operators and Climate Action Leaders in Australia, Sailaway Port Douglas has been offsetting carbon through contributions to local tree planting project Eco Shamba Tree Farm since 2013. Further to running a small fleet of luxury sailing vessels that focus on wind power, the company is now constructing another larger 30 seat AMSA NSCV vessel for Sailaway’s Outer Reef destination.
    Steve believes his developments are paving the way for future fully “off-grid” sustainable power boating to pristine environments including islands, environmentally threatened sites, small passenger transfers, dive and snorkel tender, birds and wildlife spotting, education and eco-tourism resorts.
    Sailaway’s 100% electric tender was designed by Sailaway’s Steve Edmondson and built by Ocean Blue Boats in Cairns and the expertise of Pasma Electrics. The eTender harnesses the latest technology from Torqeedo, the global leader in electric marine power. The fully electric Cruise 12R outboards and paired 48v lithium-ion batteries are perfect fit to operate in iconic natural locations.

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    Digitrips unveils ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter to help travellers make informed decisions

    Digitrips, owner of leading French B2B multi-product travel platforms MisterFly and HResa, has enriched its flight booking engine with a new ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter.The new functionality, now available to B2B2C partners as part of Digitrips’ hotel and dynamic package booking engines, empowers travellers to make informed choices and encourages responsible tourism practices.
    The feature already enables customers to narrow their search to eco-certified accommodation options in nearly 1,500 destinations worldwide, based on a variety of sustainable tourism labels recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council.
    Digitrips data shows accommodation options labelled as ‘eco-certified’ have seen a 9% surge in bookings on average since the label was introduced.
    Although so far only around 1% of Digitrips’ 1.2 million properties boast the new ‘eco-certified’ label, the tool has quickly become one of the most widely used filtering options across all Digitrips-powered search platforms.
    Emilie Dumont, Managing Director of Digitrips, said: “The launch of our new eco-certified accommodation filter is the latest milestone in our ongoing efforts to help travellers make informed decisions about their travel and accommodation options.ADVERTISEMENT“The new feature extends far beyond the realms of green marketing. It is a practical tool for our B2B2C partners and their customers alike, enhancing transparency and providing useful information during the booking process. Over the coming months, users can expect to see the new label appearing on more and more properties across our vast directory of accommodation options.”
    The new filter follows other sustainability-focused enhancements from Digitrips, including the addition of estimated CO2 consumption figures to its flight booking engine, as well as the integration of a unique direct flight calendar into its search platforms last month.
    Digitrips’ ‘eco-certified accommodation’ filter encompasses a variety of labels validated by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. This includes GSTC-recognised sustainable tourism standards owned by certification bodies, specialised tourism organisations, large tourism businesses, as well as municipal, provincial, and national tourism authorities.

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    SeaWorld Unveils 60th Anniversary Celebration Plans for 2024

    SeaWorld is turning 60 this year, and the parks have revealed big plans to celebrate all year long. The party officially gets started on March 21st – 60 years to the day that SeaWorld first opened its gates in 1964 – and will be in full swing through the weekend and continue throughout the year. The parks are teasing what’s to come as the 60th celebrations get underway, including all-new themed rides and attractions coming this spring, exciting new presentations and shows this summer and more exclusive, collectible merchandise dropping throughout the rest of the year.
    To get the celebration started, the parks will be hosting a special 60th Anniversary launch party March 21-24 that will feature:
    The return of fan-favorite live costumed characters, including Shamu, Coral, and Puck, plus confetti ribbon cannons and a cake-cutting ceremony with specially crafted celebratory cupcakes for guests, while supplies last.New and returning fan favorite food and beverage items, including special snacks, desserts and drinks.New and exclusive vintage merchandise, including reusable water bottles, plush animals, snow globes, backpacks, notebooks, blankets, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, a custom Precious Moments collectible, and more.A variety of special entertainment, including dancers and high-energy atmospheric acts.Commemorative in-park screens sharing memorable moments in the parks from guests and ambassadors. Guests are invited to share their own images and videos of their favorite SeaWorld memories using #SeaWorld60.All-new historical exhibits in all three parks: Pass Member Lounge in SeaWorld Orlando, Explorers Hub in SeaWorld San Diego and Chill Bar in SeaWorld Antonio. These exhibits invite guests to embark on a trip down memory lane through SeaWorld’s 60-year history.“We are thrilled to celebrate 60 years of creating enriching, animal care experiences, exhilarating rides and all-around fun for everyone with our family – the exceptional guests, ambassadors and partners that have made SeaWorld the special place it is today,” said Marc Swanson, Chief Executive Officer of United Parks & Resorts Inc. “As we look to the next 60 years and beyond, we are excited about the future and the one-of-a-kind experiences that will continue to inspire the next generation of guests.”
    There’s “So Much More to Sea” at SeaWorld this year as the 60th Anniversary celebrations continue, with more new ways to enjoy all the parks have to offer coming this year, including:
    All-New Thrilling Rides and Attractions: SeaWorld San Antonio just opened the world’s first launched flume coaster, “Catapult Falls,” to kick off Spring Break, and there’s more to come! SeaWorld Orlando’s highly anticipated “Penguin Trek” will open this spring, and SeaWorld San Diego is getting ready to soon open “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience,” one of the largest jelly cylinders in the country.All-New Presentations & Shows: New exciting Cirque-style shows at SeaWorld Orlando and SeaWorld San Antonio and a live performance character show: Shamu and Crew – ‘Together Again’ at SeaWorld San Diego, will bring guests more exciting experiences.All-New Character Parades: Making its debut this summer, guests of all ages will enjoy a new 60th Anniversary celebration parade featuring fan favorite live costumed characters.All-New 60th Anniversary Food & Beverage, Merchandise and Collectibles: Guests will be able to celebrate SeaWorld’s milestone 60th Anniversary with special limited-edition food and beverage offerings, collectables and exclusive memorabilia throughout the year.The best way to take in the 60th Anniversary Celebrations and everything happening at SeaWorld parks this year is with an Annual Pass. Annual Passholders enjoy 12 months of visits with special benefits like exclusive access to new events and attractions, FREE parking, FREE guest tickets, access to special VIP events, savings on merchandise and more! Guests are invited to check out the park’s local webpages for special offers on tickets and passes – SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio and SeaWorld San Diego.ADVERTISEMENTSince opening for the first time in 1964, SeaWorld has provided meaningful experiences that educate and inspire guests of all ages to care about marine life. The “So Much More to Sea” 60th anniversary campaign continues to deliver on this commitment and promises to provide guests with enriching experience for years to come.

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    Southern Oregon’s Lake County Outback Named World’s Largest Dark Sky Sanctuary

    A 2.5-million-acre area of southeastern Oregon was certified as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary today by DarkSky International, making it the world’s largest Dark Sky Sanctuary to date. The Sanctuary, which is approximately one-half the size of New Jersey and is located within an area commonly referred to as the Oregon Outback, has committed to protect its starry night skies for the benefit of visitors, residents, and wildlife.A Dark Sky Sanctuary is a certification given by the DarkSky International to public or private land that has an exceptional or distinguished quality of starry nights and a nocturnal environment that is protected for its scientific, natural, or educational value, its cultural heritage, and/or public enjoyment. To qualify as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, the area must meet strict criteria for sky quality, commit to protecting the night sky through responsible lighting practices, and provide public outreach. These sanctuaries provide opportunities for stargazing, astrophotography, and other nighttime activities that benefit from minimal light pollution.
    The Outback is located within the largest, contiguous, pristine dark sky zone in the lower 48 states, and this certification helps to protect a large portion of the designated zone. Within the Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary (OOIDSS) are the unincorporated communities of Adel, Plush, and Summer Lake, the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, a portion of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, nearly 1.7 million acres of land managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Summer Lake Wildlife Area, nearly 80,000 acres of state-owned rangeland, and the Oregon Outback Scenic Byway.
    The intentions behind pursuing a large-scale sanctuary are to protect much of the unique, pristine, dark sky zone, to keep any additional dark sky recreation dispersed (as it is now), to allow a number of incorporated gateway communities to economically benefit from the same project, and to more effectively and efficiently manage a certification within a remote area.
    “As the population of Oregon and the trend of light pollution continue to rise, the unparalleled scale and quality of the Outback’s dark skies will long serve as a starry refuge to people and wildlife alike,” said DarkSky Delegate Dawn Nilson, the environmental consultant who managed and authored the application. “Adherence to the Lighting Management Plan (LMP)  will allow this large expanse of land to serve as a demonstration site of sustainable lighting principles not only within southeastern Oregon but possibly the Pacific Northwest Region.”
    “This four-year collaboration brings together so many of the elements we try to achieve in regenerative tourism,” said Bob Hackett, Executive Director of Travel Southern Oregon. “It not only elevates the destination experience for visitors to Lake County and opens up opportunities for local businesses, but it also helps agencies and residents steward their lands in ways that celebrate a legacy of starry night skies for generations to come.”ADVERTISEMENTThe OOIDSS is situated in the northern extent of the Basin and Range Province of the Western United States. It’s sparsely populated, very remote, and primarily comprised of public lands. It’s a high desert area characterized by sage scrub and abrupt changes in topography that alternates between narrow faulted mountain chains and flat, arid valleys and basins. Within this unique geography of geological wonders is priority habitat for an array of wildlife, including American pronghorn, bighorn sheep, sage grouse, white-tailed jack rabbit, and migratory birds navigating the Pacific Flyway. The region is also culturally significant and is home to a 13,000-year-old human occupation site. Dispersed within the OOIDSS are hot springs, wild horses, private rangelands, ranches, and cattle.
    During the nomination process, stakeholders also participated in night sky monitoring, lighting inventories, lighting improvements (i.e., decommissioned 14 lights and retrofitted 60 lights on public and private land). Education and outreach efforts included: Stargazing & Natural Night Skies Webinar Series, screenings of the film Saving the Dark, tri-county library access to Night Sky Adventure Kits, dark sky gatherings, local dark sky videos, educational exhibit tables coinciding with popular local events, dark sky presentations and workshops, and library programs as well as partnering with the neighboring Idaho Dark Sky Alliance to cohost educational events.
    About the International Dark Sky Places Program: Founded in 2001, the International Dark Sky Places Program is a non-regulatory and voluntary program to encourage communities, parks, and protected areas around the world to preserve and protect dark sites through effective lighting policies, environmentally responsible outdoor lighting, and public education. When used indiscriminately, artificial light can disrupt ecosystems, impact human health, waste money and energy, contribute to climate change, and block our view and connection to the universe. The Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary now joins more than 210 Places that have demonstrated robust community support for dark sky advocacy and strive to protect the night from light pollution.” Learn more by visiting www.darksky.org/conservation/idsp.

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    Introducing The Luxury Chalet Company

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    Introducing The Luxury Chalet Company

    The Luxury Chalet Company is a portfolio of some of the most super luxe ski properties available to rent across Europe, offering a money can buy experience to those who have the cash to splash.Launched in 2022 by Cameron Temple, The Luxury Chalet Company’s passion for premium alpine properties began on the slopes. As avid skiers and snowboarders, the team has spent many decades in Europe’s most popular ski resorts witnessing a shift in the accommodation available. Where there were once rather standard holiday homes, gradually more and more exquisite slopeside properties have begun to emerge across Europe. Today, the continent’s luxury ski chalets are some of the world’s most opulent, and with the amenities to match. From outdoor pools overlooking the snow capped mountains to temperature-controlled cellars filled with some of the rarest French wines around.
    With the team’s expert resort knowledge and extensive connections to the top private chefs, leading ski instructors, wellness and fitness practitioners and show stopping event planners, The Luxury Chalet Company pride themselves on delivering an unparalleled winter holiday, where every need, no matter how niche (think flying in specific washing up soap – yes, really), has been listened to and every detail taken care of.
    Whether you want to reach the slopes via helicopter and be first on the fresh snow with ‘first tracks’ access, attend exclusive apres-ski parties or looking for the best family-friendly spots with ski schools, childcare and premium all-day dining options, The Luxury Chalet Company promises a true VIP experience for every eventuality.
    Each handpicked chalet in the current collection of over 600 properties falls into three categories:
    Ultimate – typically valued at over €100,000 for a seven-night stay. These are the ultimate chalets, resorts and exclusive hotels which include multiple members of staff, spas, swimming pools, saunas, hammams, cinema rooms, 24hr chauffeur service and an in-house gourmet chef.ADVERTISEMENTLuxury – typically valued at €15,000 – €100,000 for a seven-night stay. These are five- star luxury chalets, exclusive hotels and penthouses which include staff, leisure amenities and various fine dining catering options.
    4* Lux – typically valued at €5,000 – €15,000 for a seven- night stay. These include apartments, penthouses and chalets and may include shared leisure amenities or a single private leisure amenity. The majority of these properties are self-catered but some B&B options are available.
    With such an expansive portfolio, The Luxury Chalet Company has a wide range of availability, from Christmas and New Year, right through to early Spring.
    To view The Luxury Chalet Company portfolio and check availability, please visit their website.  https://www.luxurychaletco.com/

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    Experience The Algarve’s Local Traditions Through their Festivals in 2024

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    Experience The Algarve’s Local Traditions Through their Festivals in 2024

    From medieval re-enactments, creative workshops and events highlighting the Algarve’s nature and extraordinary culinary scene, visitors can discover traditional and modern festivals and events in this stunning region of Portugal all year round. Attending a traditional festival is a great way for visitors to the Algarve to absorb Portuguese history, culture, and local life, and many are completely free of charge.Here are the best festivals of 2024 to attend in the region:
    Creative Loulé Festival- 2nd – 28th MarchOver the course of the month, a series of creative workshops are held in in the city of Loulé, a lively and historic market town. The project aims to contribute to the revitalization and promotion of arts and crafts, and invites visitors to the region to experience a wide array of workshops. These include tile painting experiences, decorative tapestry workshops, and plenty of experiences for kids of all ages.Prices vary depending on what experience is selected.https://eventos.visitalgarve.pt/en/15666/loule-criativo
    Walking Festival – 26th – 29th April
    Held in Ameixial, in the municipality of Loulé, visitors will be able to take part in dozens of walks, which reveal the natural and cultural richness of this territory. There are several walking paths participants can take from very easy routes spanning 1 hour and 30 minutes to more moderate ones lasting 4 hours. Throughout each walk, hikers will be able to see instillations from local artists such as illuminated letters made from iron and reused fishing nets. Throughout the three days there are also a series of events happening throughout Loulé such as yoga workshops, esparto classes (a coarse grass with tough narrow leaves, used to make ropes, wickerwork, and baskets etc.), sports massages, and music and dances.The event fee is €10 / £8.50. Children (age 12 and under) are free of charge with a paying adult but they need to register.https://wfameixial.qrer.pt/en/
    Sardine Festival – 1st – 6th AugustADVERTISEMENTSardines are synonymous with the Algarve and the long history and traditions of these salty morsels is celebrated each year with the Sardine Festival Portimão in the historic city. This year, the landmark event will be held along the riverside area of the River Arade. For five nights, the streets will be lined with craft stalls and grilled sardines. There are also concerts and historical reenactments of the unloading of the sardine and a ‘sardinhada’ – a classic charcoal grilled sardine – for all visitors.Admission to this event is free.https://www.visitportugal.com/en/content/sardine-festival-portim%C3%A3o
    Silves Medieval Fair – First 2 weeks in August.
    The Silves Medieval Fair promises to take visitors back in time to discover the town’s Moorish heritage and experience a full historical recreation of the medieval period of this former capital of the Kingdom of Algarve. The narrow-cobbled streets leading up to the castle are lined with people in medieval garments, musicians play for the crowds as whole pigs are roasted over open fires, and entertainers and dancers flow around the city. Medieval taverns and Berber camps with merchants selling exotic products also line the streets. The Fair is one of the most popular of the summer festivals that take place across the Algarve, and is an event for the whole family, where they can even hire out medieval costumes to fully immerse themselves into the fun.Daily ticket €2.00/£1.70, Free ticket for children up to 130 cm or 9 years old (inclusive) for online sale. Shows start from €5/£4.30 per person.https://feiramedievaldesilves.pt/
    Medieval Days of Castro Marim festival – Last 2 weeks in August.
    The 25th edition of this festival is taking place this year, and promises to be “an unforgettable journey through time”. For five lively days and five mysterious nights, Castro Marim, located approximately 60 kilometres east of Faro and close to the border of Spain, it is one of the Algarve’s most popular festivals – offering an unforgettable journey back into the life in one of Portugal’s most important garrison towns. Visitors will be able to get a real sense of what life would have been like in Portugal during the Middle Ages with street entertainers, pageantry, music, dancers, parades, livestock, arts and crafts.
    The ticket offices for Medieval Days in Castro Marim open at 3 pm, while the activities and entertainment starts at 6 pm and close at 12 am.

    Sagres Birdwatching and Nature Activities Festival – 3rd – 6th October
    Portugal’s largest nature event, and one of the most important in the world’s birdwatching calendar is the Sagres Birdwatching Festival.  The 15th edition of the event this year will be held on the Beliche Fortress in Cape St. Vincent, Sagres. The event is jam-packed with more than 160 activities from birdwatching tours on land and sea, short courses, field trips to see birds, bird ringing to hikes along scenic trails.Most activities are free to participate in.https://www.birdwatchingsagres.com/
    Walk & Art Fest – 4th – 6th November
    The village of Barão de São João, in the municipality of Lagos, will host a festival that combines hiking with art. The sixth edition of the festival will be held this year, and as in past editions, the event will also feature a collective art exhibition of 17 pieces by 16 local artists, which will be dotted along a 3.5 km route, starting at the Barão de São João Cultural Centre, which runs along paths between the forest perimeter and the village streets. As well as themed walks such as geology, botany, bird watching, history, drawing, tourists can partake in mountain biking, wellness, workshops and activities for children and families.
    Entrance to the festival is free.https://www.walkartfest.pt/en/
    Sweet Potato Festival – Last weekend in November
    The town of Aljezur is once again this year hosting its much-anticipated Sweet Potato Festival. The unique event dedicated to celebrate and highlight the local ‘Lyra’ variety which makes the borough’s sweet potatoes such a sought-after product. There are a host of activities to take part in that showcase the local sweet potato – from cooking demonstrations to sweet competitions, as well as stalls selling regional products, and musical entertainment.
    There will be various restaurants and eateries at the event, serving the most typical dishes and some new culinary proposals, always featuring this sweet potato with its unique and unrivalled taste. Confectionery will also be an important feature of the festival.Admission to this festival is free.https://eventos.visitalgarve.pt/en/16443/aljezur-sweet-potato-festival

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    Abu Dhabi, Dubai, regional maritime tourism authorities form ‘Cruise Arabia’ alliance

    The maritime and tourism authorities of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain and Oman have formalised the Cruise Arabia alliance. This regional partnership will promote the Arabian Gulf as a global cruise ship destination.Dubai Department for Economy and Tourism (DET) announced on Friday that an official Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by the stakeholders at the Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB Berlin) travel trade convention.
    According to DET, the key objectives of the Cruise Arabia alliance include collaboration to enhance the cruise experience for passengers, attract more cruise liners to the region, improve port infrastructure, and drive economic growth in the regional cruise tourism sector.
    Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, “The growth of our cruise tourism has been largely shaped by the continuous support of our stakeholders and partners. This alliance will result in more cruise operators seeking to anchor in Dubai, capitalising on its strategic location and promoting the city’s diverse offerings, world-class infrastructure and superior air and sea connectivity.”

    Dubai is home to two world-class cruise ports, Mina Rashid (Port Rashid) and Dubai Harbour, which simultaneously accommodate nine mega-cruise vessels. Dubai’s 2023-2024 winter cruise season was launched on October 28, 2023, with the arrival of the luxury liner Mein Schiff 2, which docked at the Hamdan bin Mohammed Cruise Terminal at Mina Rashid.ADVERTISEMENTSource: https://gulfnews.com/
    Meanwhile, Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal welcomed 300,000 passengers in the 2022-2023 cruise season, roughly four times the number from its debut season, with a 40 per cent increase in ship calls.

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