Aviareps expands Cruise Division with key hire
Aviareps has appointed Tom Fecke as Global Head of Cruise to lead the expansion of its cruise division. With over 25 years in the travel and cruise industry, Fecke brings extensive experience from leadership roles at RCL Cruises, Sabre, Travelport, Avis, and as Secretary General of CLIA Europe. He will oversee global cruise services, including market research, trade development, PR, and sales support. The global cruise industry, valued at $8.9 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $18.4 billion by 2030, with 37 new ships on order. Under Fecke’s leadership, Aviareps aims to support cruise operators in strengthening brand presence, increasing passenger numbers, and entering new markets. From trade shows and agent training to call centre operations, the company combines strategic global coordination with local expertise across its network. Emirates expands CLIA partnership Emirates has extended its Diamond Elite executive partnership with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). With CLIA representing more than 90 per cent of the global ocean cruise fleet, including over 55 prominent cruise lines, this enhanced partnership allows Emirates to deepen its engagement with influential leaders in the cruise industry. Moreover, it significantly boosts the airline’s visibility in key cruise markets worldwide, aligning perfectly with the airline’s broader strategy to establish Dubai as a leading global cruise hub. The collaboration with CLIA is more than just an industry partnership–it offers Emirates privileged access to the highest levels of the cruise sector’s leadership. Through this extended partnership, Emirates gains access to exclusive events where critical discussions and decisions shape the future of cruise travel. Four Seasons secures funding for second yacht Luxury yachting company Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator of Four Seasons Yachts, has secured financing for the construction of a second ultra-luxury vessel, Four Seasons II, valued at over €400 million (Dh1.68 billion). The ship will be built by Fincantieri at its Ancona, Italy shipyard, with delivery slated for 2027 and its inaugural sailing planned for 2028. The first vessel, Four Seasons I, is currently under construction by Fincantieri and will debut on January 25, 2026. Explora Journeys’ culinary head honoured Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, recently announced that Franck Garanger, Head of Culinary, has been appointed Chevalier (Knight) of the Ordre du Mérite Agricole by the French Ministry of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty. This prestigious national honour recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to agriculture and the promotion of French culinary heritage. With decades of experience as a master chef, Garanger has championed sustainability, craftsmanship, and innovation. His dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients and elevating gastronomy has made a lasting impact–both ashore and at sea. “We are incredibly proud of Franck’s achievement. This distinction reflects not only his personal dedication to the culinary arts but also Explora Journeys' commitment to excellence, authenticity, and the highest standards in gastronomy,” said Alban Gjoka, Vice President, Food & Beverage Explora Journeys.