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Leith-Edinburgh cruise port

Ireland - uk - british isles.

• Coordinates 55.985, -3.179
• LOCODE GBLEI
• Local Time 2024-08-22 13:31

Leith-Edinburgh cruise ship schedule

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Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

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Make sure you pack your walking shoes for Edinburgh. Stroll along the medieval Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse to see the abbey and Queen Mary's chambers. Savour the old town's marvellous Georgian and Victorian architecture. Marvel at the impressive Edinburgh Castle, high on its volcanic crag with a fabulous view. Visit St. Giles' Cathedral where John Knox once preached. Leave enough time to rest your legs at one of Edinburgh's seaside restaurants to enjoy fresh salmon, scallops, lamb and prime Angus beef.

Edinburgh (Newhaven) Cruise Image Gallery

• Historic Royal Mile
• St. Giles Cathedral
• Holyrood Palace
• Glamis Castle
• St. Andrews Cathedral
• Canongate Church
• Parliament Square
• Falkirk Wheel
• Stunning Castles in Scotland

Edinburgh (Newhaven)

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Featured Edinburgh (Newhaven) CRUISE ITINERARIES

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Edinburgh Leith Port Information

Address: Cruise Line Terminal, 100 Ocean Dr, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ

Located just three miles from Edinburgh City Centre, Scotland’s capital city offers an unrivalled cruise package with cruise ships able to berth in the Port of Leith giving passengers direct access to the heart of the city and the surrounding area. The Leith team are experienced at handling high class cruise liners offering all the services expected of a cruise terminal.

Getting there

From Queen’s Street, Edinburgh City Centre:  Continue onto York Place Continue onto Leith Walk.  Continue onto Haddington Place. Continue into Albert Place Continue onto Leith Walk.  At the end of the road, turn left onto Great Junction Street (A901) Continue over the bridge onto N Junction Street At the end of the road, turn right onto Ocean Drive At the Roundabout, take the first exit onto Melrose Drive Continue ahead The Cruise Terminal will be on your right. 

Parking is available at the main terminal building.

The nearest railway station is Edinburgh Waverley Station, which is served by Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, LNER & Scotrail train companies. It is approximately three miles from the port.  Haymarket Station is five miles from the port & is served by Avanti West Coast, Cross Country & ScotRail.

Edinburgh Airport is approximately eleven miles from the port & there is a taxi rank located outside the terminal. The airport is also well connected to the city centre by the city’s tram network.

Capital Cars – 0131 777 7777

City Cabs – 0131 228 1211

Central Taxis – 0131 229 2468

Pick Up/Drop Off 

Pick up/drop off is located directly outside the main terminal building. This is a small area. To avoid congestion, please only arrive at your designated embarkation time & only arrange pick up for your disembarkation time.

Copyright 2024 Ambassador Cruise Line is a trading name of Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited.

Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited is a company registered in England and Wales. Registered number: 13299365

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• Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

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• Things To Do

Get ready for a thrilling adventure when you take a Carnival cruise to the high-spirited Scottish capital of Edinburgh. Home to award-winning restaurants, well-known festivals, stunning castles, dormant volcanoes and scenic beauty, Edinburgh’s list of reasons to visit goes on and on. You can wander the cobbled alleyways, sip on the local whiskey drink known as “dram” in a local tavern, or uncover my deep-rooted history in medieval Old Town. Do as the locals do!

• Hear tales of kings, queens and friendly ghosts at Edinburgh Castle.
• Walk the Royal Mile to the sublime Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• Hike through nature up Arthur’s Seat volcano for scenic views over Edinburgh.
• Shop for soft cashmere sweaters and thick tartan kilts on your Edinburgh cruise.

Things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Cruise Ship Schedule For 2024

• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 16:00
• Star Legend 312 passengers 22 Aug 2024 - 18:00
• Viking Venus 930 passengers 23 Aug 2024 - 00:00
• Oceania Nautica 803 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 15:00
• Oceania Sirena 803 passengers 25 Aug 2024 - 17:00
• Spirit of Adventure 1.000 passengers 27 Aug 2024 - 20:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 28 Aug 2024 - 19:00
• Oceania Marina 1.447 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 19:00
• Amadea 624 passengers 31 Aug 2024 - 20:00
• Queen Mary 2 3.271 passengers 01 Sep 2024 - 00:00
• Costa Favolosa 3.617 passengers 02 Sep 2024 - 21:00
• AIDAluna 2.500 passengers 04 Sep 2024 - 20:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 05 Sep 2024 - 17:00
• Viking Neptune 930 passengers 08 Sep 2024 - 00:00
• Caribbean Princess 3.766 passengers 08 Sep 2024 - 19:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 09 Sep 2024 - 19:00
• Viking Venus 930 passengers 12 Sep 2024 - 00:00
• Seven Seas Splendor 829 passengers 17 Sep 2024 - 21:00
• Seabourn Sojourn 540 passengers 18 Sep 2024 - 21:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 19 Sep 2024 - 17:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 21 Sep 2024 - 19:00
• Seven Seas Splendor 829 passengers 25 Sep 2024 - 19:00
• Norwegian Star 2.813 passengers 27 Sep 2024 - 18:00
• Norwegian Star 2.813 passengers 01 Oct 2024 - 18:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 03 Oct 2024 - 19:00
• Oceania Sirena 803 passengers 25 Oct 2024 - 18:00
• Viking Vela 998 passengers 02 Apr 2025 - 00:00
• Viking Vela 998 passengers 10 Apr 2025 - 00:00
• AIDAsol 2.686 passengers 15 Apr 2025 - 18:00
• AIDAsol 2.686 passengers 22 Apr 2025 - 18:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 26 Apr 2025 - 19:00
• Viking Vela 998 passengers 30 Apr 2025 - 00:00
• AIDAluna 2.500 passengers 04 May 2025 - 20:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 06 May 2025 - 17:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 06 May 2025 - 19:00
• ms Volendam 1.718 passengers 07 May 2025 - 18:00
• AIDAluna 2.500 passengers 09 May 2025 - 20:00
• Deutschland 636 passengers 09 May 2025 - 20:00
• Norwegian Star 2.813 passengers 10 May 2025 - 18:00
• Viking Sky 930 passengers 15 May 2025 - 00:00
• Viking Sky 930 passengers 17 May 2025 - 00:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 18 May 2025 - 19:00
• Norwegian Star 2.813 passengers 19 May 2025 - 19:00
• Queen Anne 3.353 passengers 20 May 2025 - 00:00
• Costa Favolosa 3.617 passengers 20 May 2025 - 18:00
• Regal Princess 4.272 passengers 20 May 2025 - 20:00
• Viking Jupiter 930 passengers 22 May 2025 - 00:00
• Oceania Vista 1.200 passengers 25 May 2025 - 19:00
• Amera 835 passengers 25 May 2025 - 20:00
• ms Nieuw Statendam 3.218 passengers 29 May 2025 - 23:00

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Norwegian Fjords cruise from Edinburgh

Embarking on a British Isles and Northern European cruise from the picturesque city of Edinburgh is an extraordinary experience. From the city's fascinating history to its vibrant cultural scene, Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern excitement. Discover the breathtaking landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities that await you on your cruise journey, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Set sail from Edinburgh and embark on a remarkable exploration of the British Isles and beyond.

The Norwegian Fjords present a kaleidoscope of stunning vistas and exciting ports of call. From the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord , with its stunning waterfalls and verdant cliffs, to the charming village of Flåm nestled amidst towering mountains, every destination has its own unique appeal. Journey past vibrant ports such as Bergen , known as the gateway to the fjords, or the historic town of Ålesund with its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture. Cruising through these waterways, you'll find the natural environment unfolds like a perfectly executed symphony, where dramatic cliffs plunge into the tranquil blue water below.

Norwegian Fjords out of Edinburgh Cruise Schedule 2024

Exploring the Norwegian Fjords isn't limited to viewing from the ship; there are plenty of opportunities for off-board adventure. From thrilling RIB-boat tours that skim across the fjord's waters, to picturesque hiking trails that crisscross the stunning landscape, adventure awaits at every turn. Biking along the scenic Flåm railway, or kayaking in the tranquil waters of the fjords, presents another perspective of these geological wonders. Embark on a fjord safari to get up close to the magnificent waterfalls or try your hand at fishing in the rich marine life-filled waters.

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Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Join Us On Playbill's FringeShip

Experience the 2024 edinburgh festival fringe aboard playbill's fringeship.

Ambassador's Ambition

Playbill's official 'fringeship' and floating hotel at the edinburgh festival fringe, august 8-15, 2024.

Playbill is thrilled to charter Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition ,  a sustainable and modern cruise ship ,  as our inaugural Playbill FringeShip and floating hotel for the 2024 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The ship will be docked at Leith from August 8-15, 2024. Carrying up to 1,300 guests in cabins and suites, the beautiful and recently renovated Ambition features an array of cabin sizes and luxury amenities for all on board. The breathtaking Palladium Theatre for larger-scale special events will offer performances exclusively for guests staying on the ship. Featuring a line-up of specialty acts, concerts and more, the FringeShip will be a center for theatre and fun throughout the festival. Make your stay easy and comfortable in the city of Edinburgh during the Fringe – join us on the Playbill FringeShip August 8-15, 2024!

Learn about Edinburgh Festival Fringe , Edinburgh, & Scotland

Explore Edinburgh, Scotland’s beautiful capital. For three weeks each August, the city welcomes an explosion of creative energy from around the globe at The Edinburgh Festival Fringe , one of the greatest celebrations of arts and culture on the planet. Renowned for its heritage, culture, pubs and museums, the city with its World Heritage Sites and sweeping landscapes is a perfect setting for theatre and sightseeing.

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The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2025 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2025. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Additionally, kids ages 12 and under eat for half off in specialty restaurants or for free from a dedicated kids menu. Reduced children's rates for shore excursions are also available.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line often lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries. During other promotions, the cruise line will let the third through eighth passengers sail free. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including Bermuda , the Caribbean and Canada .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. Typically, the deal applies to sailings of four nights or longer. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children 17 and younger cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts a variety of exclusive Lego experiences, including Lego-themed parades and a Lego Family Game Show. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by a variety of dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruises for Teens
• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
• Do You Need a Passport to Cruise?
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

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I've sailed on 50 cruises. Here are 4 I'd book again as someone without kids.

• I've been on over 50 cruises with eight different lines and almost always travel without kids .
• I love Virgin Voyages since the line is dedicated to its adults-only ships.
• Celebrity Cruises is also a great adult-centric cruise with elevated dining and entertainment.

I've been cruising for over a decade and in that time, I've sailed on more than 50 ocean ships across eight different cruise lines .

Since I don't have kids and rarely travel with children, I've learned that some cruise lines cater to adults better than others.

Here are my top four cruises to book for an adults-only vacation .

I love Virgin Voyages for its clear adults-only policy.

Virgin Voyages is one of the few major ocean cruise lines that does not allow children under 18, which I enjoy.

The Richard Branson-owned brand is known for its beautiful Lady Ships, which have ample outdoor space and nightclubs and party spots inside.

Unlike other cruise lines, Virgin Voyages' dining concept is truly unique.

You won't find massive rooms or long buffet lines. Instead, the ships have specialty restaurants, including an Italian eatery and a stunning steak house, which are all included in the cruise fare.

I love the line's fast-casual pizza spot, but my favorite place to eat on a Virgin Voyages cruise is Gunbae. The Korean barbecue-inspired restaurant has shared tables with grills in the center and delicious food.

Disney Cruise Line is perfect for adults looking for some childhood nostalgia.

I love going to Disney theme parks , so it's no surprise that I also love Disney Cruise Line.

The brand definitely leans more into family travel, but there are plenty of dedicated adults-only areas on each of the line's ships.

One of my favorite places to hang out on the Dream or Fantasy ships is Meridian, an adults-only bar nestled between Palo and Remy, the two adults-only dining options.

This space has great views of the ocean and incredible bartenders who can shake or stir up just about anything.

After the sun goes down, the party really gets started at the nightclubs on the Disney ships . On a recent sailing on the Magic, I watched game shows, sang karaoke, and played trivia.

Celebrity Cruises is a great option for luxury sailing.

I recently tried out Celebrity Cruises for the first time, and it was a luxurious step up from its family-friendly sister company, Royal Caribbean . The cruise line is known for its beautifully decorated ships, intimate spaces, and over-the-top entertainment.

While sailing on the Ascent ship, I spent a lot of time at the Sunset Bar, which features Mediterranean-style drinks , incredible views, and live music in the evenings.

I also loved watching live shows in the theater every night. They combined acrobatics, magic tricks, dancing, and singing into spectacular events that left my jaw on the floor.

Norwegian Cruise Line is perfect for younger adults looking for a fun time.

I've sailed with Norwegian Cruise Line a few times, and I think it's the perfect brand for young adults. The ships are easy to navigate and feature some of the best staterooms at sea, with plenty of storage.

The top decks of the line's newer ships, like Prima and Viva, feature epic water slides, a go-kart track , and infinity pools overlooking the ocean.

It's certainly geared toward the young at heart, but I think the spaces are ideal for anyone looking for a good mix of fun and relaxation.

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The funniest joke at Edinburgh Fringe has been named

Gag about a sailing ship and a bottle won over a 2,000-strong panel, article bookmarked.

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A one-liner joke about a sailing ship has been named the funniest at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival .

Comedian Mark Simmons, who got into comedy more than a decade ago after his friend convinced him to do an open mic night, was chosen as the winner of the annual competition hosted by television channel U&Dave.

In his winning gag, Simmons said: “I was going to sail around the globe in the world’s smallest ship, but I bottled it.”

Each year, the U&Dave’s Funniest Joke of the Fringe is chosen by 2,000 members of the public from a shortlist drawn up by a judging panel made up of comedy critics.

Simmons’ joke, taken from his PHB’s Free Fringe show at the Liquid Room Annexe, was ranked the best by 40 per cent of those surveyed.

Simmons said of his victory: “I’m really chuffed to win U&Dave’s Funniest Joke of the Fringe.

“I needed some good news as I was just fired from my job marking exam papers, can’t understand it, I always gave 110 per cent.”

A previous gag told by the comedian was voted the second best joke at the festival in 2022 and he has also placed sixth and ninth in the contest.

The comedian joins other winners Tim Vine, Stewart Francis and Zoe Lyons, who have been recipients of the award, which is now in its 15th year.

Last year, Lorna Rose Treen took home the prize with her gag about an unfaithful zookeeper, which was ranked one of the best by 44 per cent of those surveyed. She said: “I started dating a zookeeper, but it turned out he was a cheetah.”

Find out this year’s best jokes, below...

Top 15 jokes of Edinburgh Fringe 2024

1. “I was going to sail around the globe in the world’s smallest ship but I bottled it.” – Mark Simmons

2. “I’ve been taking salsa lessons for months, but I just don’t feel like I’m progressing. It’s just one step forward... two steps back.” – Alec Snook

3. “Ate horse at a restaurant once – wasn’t great. Starter was all right but the mane was dreadful.” – Alex Kitson

4. “I sailed through my driving test. That’s why I failed it.” – Arthur Smith

5. “I love the Olympics. My friend and I invented a new type of relay baton: well, he came up with the idea, I ran with it.” – Mark Simmons

6. “My dad used to say to me, ‘Pints, gallons, litres’ – which, I think, speaks volumes.” – Olaf Falafel

7. “British etiquette is confusing. Why is it highbrow to look at boobs in an art gallery but lowbrow when I get them out in Spoons?” – Chelsea Birkby

8. “I wanted to know which came first the chicken or the egg so I bought a chicken and then I bought an egg and I think I’ve cracked it.” – Masai Graham

9. “My partner told me that she’d never seen the film Gaslight . I told her that she definitely had.” – Zoë Coombs Marr

10. “The conspiracy theory about the moon being made of cheese was started by the hallouminati.” – Olaf Falafel

11. “I’m an extremely emotionally needy non-binary person: my pronouns are ‘there there’.” – Sarah Keyworth

12. “I’ve got a girlfriend who never stops whining. I wish I’d never bought her that vineyard.” – Roger Swift

13. “Gay people are very bad at maths. We don’t naturally multiply.” – Lou Wall

14. “Keir Starmer looks like an AI-generated image of a substitute teacher.” – Sophie Duker

15. “Growing up rich is a hereditary condition. It affects one per cent of people.” – Olga Koch

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7 Best Cruise Stocks to Buy Now

Many cruise stocks have yet to bounce back to their pre-pandemic prices, but the industry is seeing positive demand and revenue growth.

Cruise Stocks to Buy Now

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Cruise stocks can continue their run as long as travel demand stays strong.

After a gloomy performance during the pandemic, many cruise stocks have delivered gains for long-term investors. The cruise industry is poised to benefit from a multiyear boom, however, as Grand View Research projects that it will maintain a compound annual growth rate of 11.5% from now until 2030.

While growth was easy to find as the industry recovered from the pandemic, some cruise stocks have posted double-digit returns year to date. Many of these same companies have rising revenue and profit margins. But despite positive sentiment, many cruise stocks still have not returned to their pre-pandemic prices.

Cruise Stock Risks to Keep in Mind

With the pandemic largely in the rear-view mirror, the travel sector carries some risks. Some stocks are riskier than others, but John Engle, president of Almington Capital, says some risks specifically apply to cruise stocks.

"The biggest risk for cruise stocks is sustainable profitability," says Engle. "Many cruise operators are carrying an awful lot of debt, and it is not clear whether they will be able to service it over the long run. Thin profit margins and high debt should always be a cause for concern for investors looking at cyclical industries. Even a mild recession could be enough to devastate cruise operators' bottom lines."

An economic slowdown may be on the way. The latest U.S. jobs report, released earlier this month, revealed lower job growth than expected in July and a rising unemployment rate. Furthermore, some of the job growth numbers in previous months have been revised downward, meaning they were lower than the U.S. Labor Department initially reported.

Cruise stocks can continue their run as long as travel demand stays strong. However, any slowdowns can hurt cruise companies that carry significant debt. Cruise stock investors should carefully monitor travel demand to gauge the risk of their investments.

Investors seeking exposure to heightened travel demand may want to consider these seven top cruise stocks:

Carnival Corp. ( CCL )

Carnival's revenue and net income have continued to trend upward ever since the demand for travel returned. The company's second-quarter results revealed that sales increased by 17.7% year over year as total customer deposits reached a record $8.3 billion. That's more than $1.1 billion higher than the previous record.

Carnival also reported a record $560 million in operating income. That's nearly five times 2023 levels, and it accompanied a record $5.8 billion in second-quarter revenue.

The company raised its guidance for fiscal 2024, and its successes in 2024 should carry over into 2025, which can benefit long-term investors .

"We are very pleased with the continued acceleration of demand for 2025 and beyond, which builds upon the fantastic achievements in 2024 thus far," CEO Josh Weinstein said in Carnival's second-quarter earnings news release.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. ( RCL )

Royal Caribbean Cruises has returned to profitability with net profit margins above 20%. The cruise holding company raised full-year guidance after reporting solid results in the second quarter. Net income came in at $854 million compared to $459 million in the same quarter last year. That's an 86% year-over-year increase.

The total customer deposit balance reached $6.2 billion at the end of the second quarter. Furthermore, Royal Caribbean Cruises recently reinstated its dividend. Investors will receive a quarterly dividend of 40 cents per share. Heightened adjusted EPS guidance of $11.35 to $11.45 per share suggests a 68% year-over-year improvement.

Commentary from company President and CEO Jason Liberty suggests that business is booming.

"We have seen strength for all key products and are already taking more bookings for 2025 sailings than 2024," he states.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. ( NCLH )

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is yet another cruise operator raising its guidance, projecting full-year adjusted EBITDA of $2.35 billion, up from $2.3 billion. Norwegian also raised its full-year adjusted net income guidance from $730 million to $790 million, marking a $60 million increase.

The cruise company reported second-quarter revenue of $2.4 billion, which was 8% higher than the same quarter last year. GAAP net income came in at $163.4 million, which was a 90% year-over-year improvement.

Norwegian is on pace to achieve a double-digit adjusted return on invested capital by the end of the year. Adjusted EPS is expected to grow by approximately 120% compared to 2023.

Mark A. Kempa, executive vice president and chief financial officer, mentioned that the company has strong momentum and sees "robust demand" as it enters the second half of 2024.

Lindblad Expeditions Holdings Inc. ( LIND )

Lindblad Expeditions is a smaller cruise stock with a $425 million market capitalization. The company reported 7% year-over-year sales growth in the first quarter. Demand continues to grow, as bookings for 2024 are 4% ahead of bookings for 2023. Available guest nights increased by 3% year over year, allowing Lindblad to accommodate more visitors.

The company's cash position increased from $187.3 million on Dec. 31 to $224.2 million as of March 31. That's a 19.7% increase. Lindblad is also in the middle of a stock buyback program. As of April 29, the company had used $23 million of the $35 million it authorized for share repurchases.

Agilysys Inc. ( AGYS )

Agilysys provides software for the hospitality industry, giving it some exposure to cruise lines. The company serves various sectors, such as hotels, resorts, stadiums and higher education.

Shares are off to a good start year to date, rising about 20% as of Aug. 5, and have more than quadrupled over the past five years.

The company delivered 13.3% year-over-year revenue growth in the first quarter of fiscal 2025. That marks its 10th consecutive record-revenue quarter. Subscription revenue, which now makes up more than half of total recurring revenue, increased by 32% year over year. As subscription revenue consists of a larger portion of the total business, Agilysys' revenue growth should accelerate. Net income attributable to shareholders soared from $1.1 million to $14.1 million year over year.

Agilysys anticipates generating $275 million to $280 million in revenue throughout fiscal 2025. Adjustable EBITDA is expected to be 16% of revenue.

OneSpaWorld Holdings Ltd. ( OSW )

OneSpaWorld Holdings provides spas, wellness and treatments on cruises and on land. Shares are up by 7.2% year to date and come with a dividend yield just above 1%. Revenue increased by 12% year over year in the second quarter, prompting the company to raise its fiscal year guidance.

The company operates health and wellness centers on 197 ships, compared to 183 ships in the same quarter last year. Net income reached $15.8 million, compared to a $3.2 million net loss in Q2 2023. OneSpaWorld Holdings anticipates 2024 revenue will range from $870 million to $890 million. The midpoint implies 10.8% year-over-year revenue growth compared to the $794 million generated in 2023.

"We remain confident in our ability to deliver strong operating and financial performance, both near term and long term, and increase value to our shareholders," CEO Leonard Fluxman said in OneSpaWorld's second-quarter earnings release.

World Kinect Corp. ( WKC )

World Kinect Corp., formerly known as World Fuel Services Corp., is an energy, commodities and services company. It has delivered over 18 billion gallons of fuel to more than 150,000 customers, including cruise lines. World Kinect's revenue was flat in the second quarter, but shares are up by 15% year to date. Diluted earnings per share soared by 277% year over year to reach $1.81.

Chairman and CEO Michael Kasbar noted that the company is facing short-term headwinds in its Land segment, but its Aviation business continues to soar. Gross profits for the aviation segment are up by 3% year over year and make up almost half of the the company's total gross profits. CFO Ira Birns said in the company's earnings release that World Kinect is focused on expense control and working capital management.

Should You Get On Board With Cruise Stocks?

Many cruise stocks have delivered rising revenue and profit margins and have raised their guidance for the rest of the year. Significant travel growth has helped cruise lines hit revenue records and achieve profitability.

However, cruise stocks have their risks. An economic slowdown can hamper their business model and make it more difficult to achieve double-digit year-over-year revenue growth.

Investors should also monitor how cruise lines cover their long-term debt and track whether the demand for travel remains elevated.

Tags: investing , stock market , Carnival Corp. , Norwegian Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Breaking news, hack the med: how to savor the last drops of summer the smart way.

This summer in the Med, hotel rates were as high as the mercury — they still are.

In Italy, where a five-star crashpad in May 2019 cost on average $516.62 per night, according to CoStar data. That same room this year? An average of $923.22 — a price hike of almost 80%. And it isn’t just in hot spots like Sardinia where you’re likely to suffer sticker shock: France’s average rate hike over the same period was 67%.  

Getting there’s no less of a wallet-emptier, either: over the last year, the Consumer Price Index for airline tickets increased 25%, the largest leap since the Fed started tracking it in 1989. 

It all makes an indulgent trip in the Med seem out of reach to any but the wealthiest one-percenters — but fret not, as we’ve got some savvy strategies to sidestep that price-gouging and still book a luxe getaway.

Up for sail

If you want to score an affordable high-end vacation, keep an eye on cruise lines, which are offering impressive deals on some of their fanciest ships. Veranda cabins on small ship specialist Azamara start at $250 per person per day in the Med for August sailings, lower than the same voyages five years ago pre-pandemic. On those trips, you can hit ports like the holy island of Patmos or Mykonos, so much harder for larger ships to reach thanks to the winds. 

Atlas Ocean Voyages is best known for its Antarctica expertise, but has repositioned two of its ships, World Voyager and World Traveller, to the Med for the summer after testing the idea last year with the latter ship. They’re also boutique-sized — 198 guests max — and offer a bargain high-end option: a nine-day trip starting in Malta and taking in the likes of Capri and Nice, for example, starts at $3,449 per person, or around $383 per night. Of course, that rate doesn’t just cover room and board — it’s all-inclusive, save for the usual upsells of ultra-premium drinks and spa services.

There’s no smarter option, however, than Explora Journeys , the new high-end offshoot from MSC. It’s proud to tout that it has wide availability at affordable rates for summer. 

“We’re not shy in saying we’ve only been operating for ten months, so we have space and availability across all categories,” says North America president Chris Austin, “We’re building momentum.” 

It’ll cost around $4,000 per person all-inclusive for a seven-night sail on Explora, which translates to $600 or so per night. Meanwhile, a five-star hotel in Cannes or Capri will charge $2,000 for a double room for a single night. 

“And there’s not a glass of bubbles in sight. We welcome guests with chilled French champagne,” Austin adds, “We’re a resort that moves to multiple locations, so you won’t be paying for the air ticket between Istanbul and Athens. It doesn’t matter how affluent you are, why not make your dollar stretch a little further?” 

Remember, too, that a cruise can offer cut-price long-haul flights, too. Most lines offer discounted air packages as add-ons for any booking, as they often wrangle major deals on every class of service due to the volume of seats they can fill. Royal Caribbean ’s so confident in its Air2Sea prices, for example, that if you find a verified lower fare than it offers, you’ll receive 110% of the difference in shipboard credit.

Talk Turkey

If you’d rather keep your feet on terra firma, consider making Turkey your focus. The country in the eastern Med is a bargain compared with its neighbors, thanks both to its newer high-end infrastructure and a currency that’s at record lows – hitting more than 33 liras per dollar for the first time ever (compare that to June 2015, when it was at 2.73). There, most international hotels are priced in euros, but they’re still competitive: per CoStar, they cost an average $394.79 in May, or almost 60% less than in Italy.

“When people ask me for Greece, I sell them Turkey, because that’s everything they’re expecting Greece to be,” says luxury travel specialist Jonathan Alder, of Jonathan’s Travels. “It’s a magical country, with the stories, the mythology and even wine country — the reds there are fantastic up near Gallipoli.” 

Head for the Çesme peninsula, Alder continues, which is the local answer to the Hamptons, and stay at the 25-room Alavya , or party in Bodrum, the scenier spot with superb nightlife, where he recommends the Edition outpost. 

Note, too, that Turkey’s a cinch to reach from many cities across the country, as its national airline has an enormous direct, non-stop network. “It’s a thousand times easier to get to than the Amalfi Coast or Nice,” he says.

Moor is more

Elsewhere in the Med, don’t overlook Morocco’s coast. There’s the sexy city of Tangier, kept cool in summer by ample breezes and with beaches along its waterfront; the recently rehabbed Fairmont Tazi Palace there has double rooms on the last weekend in August for just $460. 

Or you can head to Casablanca, on the Atlantic-facing western coast, which is great for surfers, of course. The Corniche there is lined with beach clubs and surf schools, and there’s a splashy new hotel in the form of the Royal Mansour , which sits in a high-rise in the center of town.

Dupe it out

Jonathan Alder champions another Atlantic Ocean dupe for the Med: Madeira. 

The 309-square-mile Portuguese island sits directly to Casablanca’s east in the middle of the sea. It has long been popular with Brits, and so English is widely spoken, while the national carrier, TAP, is a bargain alternative to the likes of BA or Air France, offering extensive stateside service connecting via Lisbon. 

“The water in Madeira is far warmer than the Med — it’s a deep ocean, but it’s about 75 degrees in summer,” Alder promises, warning that there are few conventional beaches. 

Most water access is instead from rocky outcrops, as with the diving board directly into the ocean from five-star property Reid’s Palace . That Belmond-operated gem isn’t cheap — expect to pay around $900 per double room at least — but it’s just a third of the price of sister hotels from the same chain, like the Caruso in Ravello. 

Come to the island for a two-in-one experience, Alder adds. The local microclimate, via the volcano that sits at its heart, makes one half dry and desert-like, sunbaked and ideal for pool lounging. The volcano’s other flank, though, is lush and rainy. 

“Go over there and you can hike through beautiful towns with no tourists, and there’s a wine scene that’s fabulous, grown on those volcanic hillsides,” he says. “A bottle of good wine is 9 euros.”

Flight of fancy

Still, if the single biggest hurdle for a trip to Europe this summer is flight prices, consider your fifth freedom options. Put simply, these are routes operated by an airline between two cities, neither of which is in its home territory (these are granted on a case by case basis, usually to allow a carrier to reposition an aircraft in between two other routes without flying empty). 

They’re not widely known, and any money the airline makes is gravy so they’re usually less busy and much cheaper than other transatlantic flights. 

From the US to Europe, current fifth freedom flights include Emirates service between JFK and Milan, as well as connecting Newark and Athens. Air Tahiti Nui flies from both Seattle and Los Angeles to Paris, and Singapore Airlines links JFK and Frankfurt. Once you’re on the continent, of course, you can hop a dirt-cheap low-cost connection from Easyjet, Ryanair or similar to any nearby spot.

The only thing we can’t hack: the weather, so pack plenty of sunscreen and hats. 

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