Several noteworthy cruise developments were announced over the past 24 hours. Today's headlines include a major expansion of Holland America Line's European deployment, operational changes affecting some European river cruises due to low water levels, and progress on a new cruise terminal that will expand capacity at Port Tampa Bay.
Holland America Expands Its 2028 Europe Cruise Season
Holland America Line has opened bookings for its largest European deployment in years, with five ships scheduled to operate throughout the region during the 2028 season. The expanded program stretches from January through December and includes cruises throughout the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Norway, the Canary Islands and the British Isles.
The deployment also marks the return of Nieuw Amsterdam to Europe for the first time in more than a decade. According to the cruise line, the season includes its highest number of visits to Ireland, the Netherlands and Norway in many years, giving travelers considerably more itinerary choices than previous seasons.
For travelers planning well in advance, the announcement provides access to a much broader selection of European sailings and departure dates than Holland America has previously offered.
Low Water Levels Affect Some European River Cruises
Phoenix Reisen has introduced flexible rebooking options for guests scheduled to sail on portions of the Danube, Rhine and Moselle rivers after unusually dry conditions lowered water levels across parts of Europe.
The company said passengers booked on affected departures through August 14 may change to another eligible sailing without paying a rebooking fee. Cruises have not been broadly canceled, and the line emphasized that itineraries will continue operating unless guests are contacted directly. Depending on river conditions, some sailings may require modified routes or transfers between ships.
River cruise travelers sailing over the next few weeks should continue watching for updates, as water levels can change quickly during extended periods of dry weather.
Port Tampa Bay Begins Work on Fourth Cruise Terminal
Port Tampa Bay has begun site preparation for a fourth cruise terminal, the port's first new cruise facility in more than 25 years.
Current work includes filling a former marine slip and preparing more than five acres for future construction. Additional infrastructure work is expected over the next several years, with the terminal currently projected to open in 2029.
Although the project will not affect current cruise operations, it represents a significant long-term expansion that will allow the port to accommodate additional cruise ships and support future growth.