Thursday July 31

Who could have missed the big announcement yesterday by Princess Cruises who aside from being on ITV each week at the moment also announced yesterday a new 'Royal-class' ship for their fleet to be launching in 2017.  At 143,000 she will carry 3,560 guests at and be built at a cost of €600 million: read more here.

On the refurbishment front there was the announcement this week that celebrity Eclipse is heading off to be refurbished in April 2015 - the work includes the creation of 'Gastrobar' and revamped pool area.  Read more here.

Earlier in the week Fred Olsen launched its 'Poison, Murder & Mystery' cruise at a glittering event in London - and here they talk of possible future such themed events: read more here.

Over at Norwegioan Cruise Line, with the two new ships now in active service - Getaway and Breakaway - the company recorded yet more great financial results just this week: read more here

It was great to see Louis Cruises making the trade press this week.  The Med specialist are hoping to build relationships back up with the travel trade over the coming weeks and months: read more here.

We love talking chocolate - so we were delighted that Princess announced this week a partnership with master chocolatier Norman Love to create 'Chocolate Journeys' - with special desserts, chocolate and wine pairings and choclate bites.  Read more here.

Finally - if you are a CLIA member travel agent interested in growing your sales for Premium and Luxury cruising - then do not miss the August CLIA Cruise Expo in Dover featuring 3 ship visits, business sessions and networking, plus a sumptuous dinner!  Book via cruiseexperts.org

Until next week!