Cruise Lines Companies Continue to Sell Ships

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CRUISE NEWS 

It's not  entirely unusual for the various cruise lines to sell off older ships to other cruise lines.  Usually to a variety of small European lines.  

It was unusual to hear that Royal Caribbean International has elected to sell one of their brands under their umbrella.  The brand being Azamara Cruises.  Azamara Cruises offer upscale/luxury cruises on small ships that can navigate into smaller ports and into some rivers.  IE:  Able to navigate the Seine to be able to park in the middle of Paris by the Eiffel Tower.  Azamara Cruises three ships were sold for cash to buyer that was not disclosed at the time the notice was issued.

Princess Cruises has elected to sell the Pacific Princess ship.  It was one of the smallest ships in their fleet.  Again, being able to navigate to places that their larger ships could not access.   Many Princess Cruise fans who favor small ships are going to miss this little gem.  Many of my clients who have sailed on her have said they enjoyed her the most.   They enjoyed the "cozy" and intimate yet elegant ambiance that this ship had to offer. 

The argument for the sale of the older and smaller ships is efficiency and being more eco-friendly.   Opting for cleaner options for better air quality and functionality.

The sale of the ships is NOT due to the financial strife that the cruise lines have been enduring due to the suspensions and cancellations because of COVID-19.   This has been a standard practice as new larger and more energy efficient ships are being built and added to their fleets. 

For people who enjoy sailing on small ships it is quickly becoming necessary to go with one of the higher priced luxury cruise lines that are in the industry.   Keep in mind that the higher price tags also has more inclusions in the price, but will quickly become one of the only ways to get to and visit some smaller remote ports of call.

 

Sources:  Emails, and Facebook posts by cruise line executives