Thursday July 10th

Lots of new technology announcements this week from cruise lines - we start with MSC Cruises who have announced that they are to offer the first pediatric telemedicine service at sea with a 24-hour link to specialists: read here.

Talking of new technology Royal Caribbean have adopted great new technology for travel agents that enables them to view the facilities on Quantum and Anthem of the Seas. Read here.  "Wearable technology" reaches the cruise industry!

Also this week Royal Caribbean has launched Google technology offering Google Maps Business Views on the tour of Allure of the Seas.  Read more here and take that virtual tour here!

David Dingle of Carnival UK talks about a completely different kind of technology in Travel Weekly when he covers the topic of Sulphur Emissions - arguing that the maritime industry needs more time to comply with new environmental legislation.  Mr Dingle argues that the industry needs more time to fit the revolutionary technology to cruise ships before the change in legislation is due to come into being.  Read more here.

Of course the industry is committed to the highest possible environmental standards, and here Jo Rzymowska, Chair of CLIA UK & Ireland, speaks about the importance of making cruising greener: read here.

In alternative environmental news this week, Carnival Cruise Lines announced the ban of smoking on balconies (as of Oct 9th) whilst over on the rivers, with flood threats on the Mississippi the American Queen is to amend its itinerary - read here

Staying with rivers for the moment - should Europe enjoy a great summer - then have no fear - here is the Telegraph's Guide to staying cool on a European river cruise.  I fear we may not need a UK version!  Read here.

Of course there will only be one big cruise story at the weekend - and that is the ITV documentary The Cruise Ship - where Princess Cruises takes cruising to Prime Time TV: read more.

By the way - do not forget that registration is now open for this Autumn's events including the Premium & Luxury Cruise Expo weekend in Dover, the River Cruise Convention in Amsterdam, and the 5 city Kick Start your Cruise Sales events.  All at www.cruiseexperts.org