The tradition of naming a new ship and wishing her safe passage is centuries old. In Viking’s ceremonies, the godmother gives the ship her name and offers good wishes for everyone who will sail aboard her.

For Carol, being chosen as godmother of the Viking Haki reflected the close relationship we’ve built with Viking over many years. It was an extraordinary honor and a proud moment for both of us.

On October 15, 2026, the day began aboard a Viking Longship in Amsterdam, where a professional hair and makeup team helped Carol prepare for the naming ceremony.

A Grand Entrance in Amsterdam

Viking positioned the Viking Rota and Viking Haki nose to nose, with a ceremonial stage between them.

One by one, the honored godparents made their entrance along the red carpet. Watching Carol walk toward the stage, I felt the significance of the occasion. After years of sharing our love of Viking river cruising with travelers, seeing her receive this honor was a moment I’ll always treasure.

Naming the Viking Haki

Onstage, Carol officially named the Viking Haki and offered a blessing for the ship and everyone who would sail aboard her. Watching her take part in this centuries-old tradition filled me with pride.

The ceremony also brought together the other godparents and members of Viking’s team. We were grateful for their warm welcome and for the kind messages from friends, clients, and colleagues who followed along.

An Honor We’ll Always Treasure

We returned home to Scottsdale with lasting memories of the celebration: Carol’s preparations, the procession, and the moment she welcomed the Viking Haki into Viking’s fleet.

We wish the Viking Haki, her crew, and all who sail aboard her many wonderful journeys ahead.

Planning Your Viking River Cruise With Expert Guidance

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There are 5 reasons you need your airline’s app on your smartphone before your next trip. From real-time flight updates and mobile boarding passes to tracking your luggage and rebooking canceled flights, these free apps can make traveling easier and far less stressful.

Here’s why we believe every traveler should download their airline’s app before leaving home.

We spend a great deal of time helping our clients plan wonderful travel experiences. And while choosing the right cruise, hotel, or destination is important, sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference when traveling.

Here’s one of our favorite travel tips: Before your next flight, download your airline’s official mobile app and make sure you’re signed in.

Whether you’re flying American, Delta, United, or another major airline, these free apps have become remarkably useful travel companions.

In fact, when flights are delayed, connections are tight, or plans suddenly change, having your airline’s app on your smartphone can make a significant difference.

Here are our top five reasons why we believe every traveler should have their airline’s app installed before leaving home.

1. Get Real-Time Flight Updates Before Everyone Else

Imagine sitting in an airport restaurant enjoying lunch when your departure gate suddenly changes to another terminal.

Without your airline’s app, you might not discover the change until you return to your original gate.

With the app, you can receive notifications directly on your phone about:

• Flight delays and cancellations
• Departure and arrival time changes
• Gate changes
• Boarding announcements
• Connecting flight information

Some airlines even provide updated boarding information directly on your phone’s lock screen.

Our Travel Tip: Make sure you allow push notifications when installing the app. Otherwise, you could miss one of its most valuable features.

2. Keep Your Boarding Pass Right on Your Phone

Remember the days of printing boarding passes at home or standing in line at an airport kiosk?

While paper boarding passes are still available, your airline’s app makes the process considerably easier.

Most airline apps allow you to check in, obtain your mobile boarding pass, and present it at airport security and your departure gate.

You can often save your boarding pass to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet for even easier access.

Another advantage? If your flight information changes, the boarding pass within your airline’s app can reflect updated information.

Our Travel Tip: We recommend saving your boarding pass to your phone’s wallet or taking a screenshot as a backup. That way, you have a copy available even if your internet connection becomes unreliable. Just remember to check the app for any subsequent gate or flight changes.

3. Rebook Your Flight When Travel Plans Go Wrong

This might be the single most important reason to have your airline’s app.

Imagine arriving at the airport only to discover that your flight has been canceled because of bad weather.

Suddenly, hundreds of passengers are rushing to the airline’s customer service counter, and the line seems endless.

Here’s where your airline’s app can be a lifesaver.

Many major airlines now allow passengers to review alternative flights and rebook directly through their mobile apps.

In some cases, you can secure a seat on another flight before you would even reach the front of the customer service line.

Airlines are continually improving these capabilities. Some apps can also provide information about the reason for a disruption and display eligible meal, hotel, or transportation assistance.

Our Travel Tip: If your flight is canceled, open your airline’s app immediately and review your options. You can also contact the airline while checking the app. Acting quickly may give you more choices before alternative flights fill up.

4. Track Your Checked Luggage

Few travel experiences are more frustrating than standing at the baggage carousel wondering whether your suitcase made the same journey you did.

Fortunately, several major airlines now offer baggage tracking through their mobile apps.

Depending on the airline, you may be able to see when your checked luggage has been:

• Accepted at the airport
• Loaded onto an aircraft
• Transferred between connecting flights
• Arrived at your destination

Some apps also provide baggage carousel information, saving you the trouble of searching airport monitors.

This feature can be particularly helpful when traveling internationally or connecting through busy airports.

We recently experienced this firsthand on our return flight from Amsterdam. Using the Delta Air Lines app, we could follow the progress of our checked luggage, including when our bags were checked in and loaded onto the aircraft. It’s reassuring to know that your luggage is making the same journey you are, particularly when connecting through another airport.

Our Travel Tip: Keep your baggage claim receipt until your suitcase has been returned to you. Airline baggage tracking is helpful, but it’s not infallible. We also like the added reassurance of placing an Apple AirTag or similar tracking device inside checked luggage.

5. Have Your Travel Information and Airport Assistance in One Place

Your airline’s app is much more than a digital boarding pass.

Think of it as a convenient travel information center that travels with you.

Depending on your airline, you may be able to:

• Review your flight itinerary and confirmation details
• Check or change seat assignments
• Access airport terminal maps
• Find connecting gates
• Review baggage allowances
• Access frequent flyer information
• Contact airline customer service
• Review travel document requirements
• Find airport lounges

Some airlines even offer interactive airport maps that can help you navigate unfamiliar terminals.

This is particularly valuable when connecting through large airports such as Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O’Hare, or London Heathrow.

And whenever you’re accessing travel information on airport Wi-Fi, it’s important to protect your personal information. Our guide to staying safe on public Wi-Fi offers practical tips every traveler should know.

Our Travel Tip: Don’t wait until you’re standing in a busy airport to learn how the app works. Spend a few minutes exploring its features at home before your departure.

Set Up Your Airline App Before You Travel

We recommend downloading your airline’s official app several days before your flight.

Once installed, sign in to your frequent flyer account or retrieve your reservation using your confirmation number.

Make certain your upcoming flights appear correctly and that notifications are enabled.

If you’re traveling with a spouse or companion, we recommend that each traveler have the app installed on their own phone.

And if your itinerary involves more than one airline, particularly on an international journey, consider installing the operating airline’s app as well.

Download Your Airline’s App: Before your next trip, visit the official app pages for American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, or United Airlines.

And if you’re traveling internationally, don’t overlook another helpful smartphone tool. We recently wrote about Global Entry’s new Trusted Traveler app, which can help eligible travelers simplify their arrival experience when returning to the United States.

Our Final Thoughts

Travel today involves more moving parts than ever before. Airports are busy, flights are full, and even the best-planned journeys can encounter unexpected disruptions.

While technology certainly can’t eliminate every travel inconvenience, it can give you better information and more control when something unexpected happens.

Your airline’s mobile app is free, generally easy to use, and may save you considerable time and frustration.

Our advice? Don’t leave home without it.

Smarter Travel Starts With Expert Guidance

The post 5 Reasons You Need Your Airline’s App appeared first on The Roaming Boomers.

For travelers who love the Mediterranean but want to avoid the summer heat and peak-season crowds, Oceania Allura winter Mediterranean cruises offer a compelling new option: the line’s first-ever full winter season in the region.

From November 2027 through March 2028, Oceania Allura will sail 17 Mediterranean voyages ranging from nine to 26 days. These itineraries connect beloved cities and less-familiar ports from Barcelona to Istanbul, giving guests an opportunity to experience Europe at a more relaxed pace.

To explore every Oceania Allura winter Mediterranean sailing, including dates, itineraries, and current availability, CLICK HERE.

Why Winter Changes the Mediterranean Experience

Summer has its advantages, of course, but it also brings peak-season crowds, very warm temperatures, and busy ports. Winter offers a different personality: cooler days, quieter museums, more room to stroll historic neighborhoods, and a better chance to settle into a destination’s everyday rhythm.

Picture an unhurried walk through Rome, Christmas markets in Spain and Italy, a warm café after exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town, or time to absorb Istanbul without the intensity of high season. This is not a beach-and-sun Mediterranean vacation. It is a cultural, culinary, and city-focused way to explore the region.

Oceania’s winter itineraries also include longer days in port and select overnight stays, giving guests more flexibility to enjoy a destination after daytime visitors have left.

Waffle from Oceania Creperie

The Right Type of Traveler for These Voyages

These winter Mediterranean cruises are especially attractive for travelers who value history, cuisine, architecture, museums, markets, and local life more than guaranteed beach weather. They also suit those who prefer a calmer shipboard experience and enjoy returning to a comfortable, intimate ship after a full day ashore.

Oceania Allura is well suited to this style of travel. As one of Oceania’s newest ships, she combines the line’s refined, residential feel with exceptional dining, thoughtful enrichment, and a guest capacity small enough to feel personal rather than overwhelming.

Onboard, guests can enjoy hands-on classes in the Culinary Center, art workshops in the Artist Loft, and photography and digital-learning sessions in the LYNC Digital Center. Those features make sea days and cooler-weather afternoons part of the experience rather than simply time between ports.

Highlighted Oceania Allura Winter Mediterranean Cruises

While all 17 sailings offer interesting routing, these three stand out to us:

• Trieste to Barcelona — 10 days, November 7, 2027: An excellent Adriatic-to-Western Mediterranean introduction, including Koper, Dubrovnik, Greek Isles, Athens, Catania, and Barcelona.
• Barcelona to Rome — 14 days, December 20, 2027: A holiday-season voyage through Spain, North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, including Tangier on Christmas Day and opportunities to enjoy festive markets along the way.
• Istanbul to Rome — 9 days, February 19, 2028: Begins with an overnight in Istanbul, followed by Greek ports, Olympia, and the Italian coast before arriving in Rome.

The Full 2027–28 Winter Collection

• Trieste to Barcelona — 10 days — November 7, 2027
• Barcelona to Rome — 9 days — November 17, 2027
• Rome to Athens — 12 days — November 26, 2027
• Athens to Barcelona — 12 days — December 8, 2027
• Athens to Rome — 26 days — December 8, 2027
• Barcelona to Rome — 14 days — December 20, 2027
• Rome to Barcelona — 14 days — January 3, 2028
• Barcelona to Rome — 14 days — January 17, 2028
• Rome to Rome — 9 days — January 31, 2028
• Rome to Istanbul — 10 days — February 9, 2028
• Istanbul to Rome — 9 days — February 19, 2028
• Istanbul to Barcelona — 18 days — February 19, 2028
• Rome to Barcelona — 9 days — February 28, 2028
• Barcelona to Athens — 10 days — March 8, 2028
• Athens to Rome — 9 days — March 18, 2028
• Athens to Barcelona — 18 days — March 18, 2028
• Rome to Barcelona — 9 days — March 27, 2028

To review all 17 voyages, dates, itineraries, and current availability aboard Oceania Allura, CLICK HERE.

Oceania Allura sailing in Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Our Thoughts

Carol and I have sailed Oceania Cruises several times, including aboard Allura, and we believe these voyages are a smart addition to Oceania’s deployment. The line’s intimate ships, exceptional cuisine, destination-rich itineraries, and relaxed service style fit the Mediterranean particularly well.

For the right traveler, winter may be the most rewarding time to go. Pack layers and go expecting a cultural journey rather than a sun-focused vacation. In return, you may find a more authentic, comfortable, and memorable side of Europe.

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Golf Around the World by Private Jet

Attention, golfers: here is an extraordinary opportunity to play 11 distinctive golf courses around the world while traveling aboard a luxury private jet.

TCS World Travel, in partnership with Kalos Golf, has created a 20-day journey visiting Japan, Thailand, Nepal, Kazakhstan, Sweden and Denmark.

And this is far more than a golf trip.

Between rounds, guests will explore ancient temples, colorful markets, UNESCO World Heritage sites and some of the world’s most fascinating cities. Meanwhile, a privately configured Airbus A321 makes the journey between destinations comfortable and remarkably easy.

The trip runs from May 28 through June 16, 2027, and space is limited to only 52 guests.

Eleven Golf Courses Across the World

The journey begins with an overnight gathering at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle. After a welcome dinner, guests board the private jet and begin their trip around the world.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo offers an intriguing mix of centuries-old traditions and modern city life.

Golfers will play:

• Saintnine Golf Club, one of Japan’s most exclusive new courses
• The West Course at Yokohama Country Club, ranked among Japan’s finest courses and host of the PGA Tour’s Baycurrent Classic

Guests will spend three nights at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The next stop is Chiang Mai, a beautiful region known for its mountains, temples, markets and traditional Thai culture.

Golfers will play:

• Chiang Mai Highlands Golf and Spa Resort
• Alpine Golf Resort, with its memorable island-green 15th hole

Accommodations are at the Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai.

Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu may be the most unexpected golf destination on the journey.

Golfers will play Gokarna Forest Golf Club, a David McLay Kidd-designed course set within a former royal hunting reserve.

Touring opportunities include Kathmandu’s temples, stupas, historic squares and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Guests will stay at The Dwarika’s Hotel.

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Set against the Tian Shan Mountains, Almaty introduces travelers to one of Central Asia’s most interesting cities.

Golfers will play:

• Zhailjau Golf Resort, designed by Arnold Palmer’s golf course design group
• Nurtau Golf Club, Kazakhstan’s first golf club

Guests will spend three nights at The Ritz-Carlton, Almaty.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm spreads across 14 islands, combining a beautifully preserved old town with striking architecture, museums and contemporary Scandinavian culture.

Golfers will play:

• Ullna Golf Club, set along the shores of Lake Ullna
• Bro Hof Slott Stadium Course, widely regarded as one of Sweden’s finest golf courses

Accommodations are at the historic Grand Hôtel.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The final extended stop is Copenhagen, where Renaissance architecture, royal history and contemporary Danish design come together.

Golfers will play:

• Scandinavian Golf Club’s Old Course
• Scandinavian Golf Club’s New Course

Both Robert Trent Jones Jr. courses regularly rank among the best in Denmark.

Guests will stay at Hotel d’Angleterre before flying aboard the private jet to Washington, D.C., where the journey concludes.

The Private Jet Experience

One of the greatest advantages of this journey is the ability to visit several far-flung destinations without dealing with the usual complications of commercial air travel.

The Airbus A321neo-LR is custom configured for only 52 guests and features Italian leather flatbed seats with 6.5 feet of personal reclining space.

The onboard experience also includes:

• A private chef preparing meals during the flights
• Wi-Fi and curated entertainment
• Onboard destination experts
• A dedicated physician traveling with the group
• Hospital-grade cabin air filtration
• A guest-to-crew ratio of approximately 6.5 to 1

Golf clubs and luggage are handled throughout the journey, allowing guests to enjoy each destination without repeatedly packing, checking bags and navigating large commercial airports.

Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai

What Is Included?

This is designed as a highly inclusive luxury journey.

The package includes:

• Private jet transportation between destinations
• Luxury hotel accommodations
• Scheduled golf experiences
• Ground transportation
• All meals and beverages, including select wine, beer and spirits
• Guided sightseeing and cultural activities
• Special events and private access
• Local guides and traveling experts
• An accompanying trip physician
• Luggage and golf club handling
• Gratuities

Non-golfers are also welcome. A touring program provides cultural and sightseeing experiences while golfers are on the courses.

Special Pricing for the 2027 Journey

The featured offer lists the following pricing:

• Golf and touring: $161,000 per person, double occupancy
• Touring only: $154,000 per person, double occupancy
• Solo supplement: $15,900

Link for more information: Explore Golf Around the World by Private Jet, a 20-day 2027 journey featuring 11 courses, seven destinations and luxury Airbus A321 travel.

Pricing, availability, and offer terms are subject to change.

Is This Remarkable Golf Journey Right for You?

We think this journey will appeal to well-traveled golfers who want something far beyond a conventional golf vacation.

The chance to play 11 courses across several continents is impressive. However, combining those rounds with luxury hotels, privately arranged cultural experiences, and travel aboard a 52-seat private jet takes the experience to an entirely different level.

It’s also an excellent option for couples when one person loves golf, and the other prefers cultural touring. Both travelers share the journey and accommodations while enjoying experiences tailored to their interests.

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CLICK FOR THE 2027 LUXE REPORT

Top 10 Biggest Travel Trends for 2027

Wondering about the top 10 biggest travel trends for 2027?

Virtuoso’s newly released 2027 Luxe Report offers a revealing look at the experiences shaping travel plans for the year ahead. Based on insights from more than 3,100 travel advisors in over 50 countries, the report reflects what affluent travelers want now.

The big takeaway: travelers are investing in experiences that bring people together, feel more meaningful, and create lasting memories. Here are the top 10 biggest travel trends for 2027, according to Virtuoso advisors worldwide.

Virtuoso’s Top 10 Biggest Travel Trends for 2027

1. Multigenerational Family Travel

Travel that brings grandparents, parents, children, and sometimes even grandchildren together is Virtuoso’s number one trend for 2027. These trips are often built around milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or simply the desire to share precious time while everyone is healthy and able to travel.

For many families, a river cruise, small-ship cruise, private villa, or guided land journey can be an ideal way to accommodate different ages and interests without putting all the planning pressure on one family member.

2. Family Travel With the Immediate Family

Not every family vacation needs to include the entire extended family. Parents are also prioritizing meaningful travel with their own children, particularly as busy schedules make uninterrupted time together harder to find.

These trips might mean exploring Europe by river, taking a family safari, enjoying an Alaska adventure, or choosing a carefully planned beach escape where everyone can truly relax.

3. Expedition Cruising

Expedition cruising continues to capture the imagination of travelers who want to see the world’s most remarkable places in an immersive way. Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galapagos, Alaska, and remote regions of the South Pacific all offer that rare combination of adventure, learning, and extraordinary natural beauty.

These are not simply cruises with a different itinerary. The best expedition experiences include expert naturalists, enriching onboard programming, Zodiac landings and access to places that would be difficult to experience any other way.

4. Active and Adventure Trips

Travelers increasingly want more than a beautiful view from a tour bus. They want to hike, bike, kayak, snorkel, ski or otherwise experience a destination more directly.

The good news is that “active” does not have to mean extreme. Wonderful options exist for travelers who want a gentle bike ride through the countryside, a guided walk through a historic city, or a more ambitious day of hiking with the right support in place.

5. Cultural Immersion

Luxury travelers want a deeper connection to the places they visit. They want to understand local history, meet the people, enjoy regional food and wine, and come home with stories that go beyond checking famous sights off a list.

That might mean a private after-hours museum visit, cooking with a local chef, learning about an artisan’s craft, or spending more time in fewer destinations. The goal is a trip that feels personal, not packaged.

6. Authenticity

Authentic experiences go hand in hand with cultural immersion, but they also mean avoiding the feeling that a trip was designed for everyone. Travelers want access to the real character of a destination, whether that is a small family-run vineyard in Italy, a local market in Japan or a private guide who brings a city to life.

7. Beach Resort Stays

There will always be a place for a beautiful beach, and travelers are choosing resort stays that make it easy to truly unwind. The appeal is not simply sun and sand. It is exceptional service, thoughtful dining, beautiful accommodations and the freedom to do as much—or as little—as you please.

For couples, families and multigenerational groups alike, the right resort can be a perfect balance between easy relaxation and optional activities.

8. Food, Wine and High-End Spirits Travel

For many travelers, food and drink have become a central reason to go. Wine-country stays, culinary cruises, private tastings, local cooking classes, and destination-focused dining are all part of this growing interest.

We see this especially on European river cruises and small-ship voyages, where regional cuisine and wine are often woven naturally into the itinerary. It is one of the most enjoyable ways to get to know a destination.

9. Ocean Cruising

Ocean cruising remains one of the most popular ways to explore the world comfortably, especially when travelers choose ships and itineraries that match their personal travel style. From the Mediterranean and Northern Europe to Japan, Alaska and the South Pacific, today’s luxury and premium cruise options offer a remarkable range of experiences.

For many of our clients, the appeal is clear: unpack once, enjoy excellent service and see multiple destinations without the hassle of constantly changing hotels.

10. River Cruising

River cruising rounds out Virtuoso’s top 10 trends for 2027, and we certainly understand why. It is a relaxed, highly enjoyable way to experience the heart of Europe, Egypt, Southeast Asia and beyond.

With smaller ships, centrally located ports, included excursions, and a more intimate atmosphere, river cruising remains one of our favorite ways for travelers to combine comfort, culture, and convenience.

Our Thoughts

What stands out most to us is that luxury travel in 2027 is not just about going farther or spending more. It is about traveling with intention—celebrating a milestone, sharing time with family, discovering a destination in a more meaningful way, or simply making room to rest and reconnect.

Virtuoso advisors are entering 2027 with their most confident outlook in three years. Fifty-three percent expect leisure travel demand to rise slightly, while another 22 percent anticipate a significant increase. Travelers also expect to invest more in quality, access, and experiences that matter to them.

If one of these trends has you thinking about your next adventure, now is a great time to start the conversation. The most desirable ships, suites, guides, and family-friendly accommodations tend to go first.

Planning Your 2027 Travels With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

The post Top 10 Biggest Travel Trends for 2027 appeared first on The Roaming Boomers.

Viking’s Popular Your Choice Sale makes this an especially appealing time to plan a river, ocean, or expedition voyage.

For a limited time, Viking is offering valuable savings, a reduced $25 per-person deposit on featured itineraries, and a choice of added onboard benefits. The offer expires October 31, 2026.

More Ways to Add Value

Choose the Benefit That Fits Your Trip

With Viking’s Your Choice Sale, you may select one of two added-value options on qualifying itineraries:

• Shipboard credit: Up to $1,000 per couple, based on cruise length.
• OR
• Complimentary beverage package and included gratuities: A wonderful option for travelers who prefer to have more of their onboard spending handled in advance.

Shipboard credit is based on the length of your voyage:

• Up to 8 days: $500 per couple
• 9 to 12 days: $750 per couple
• 13 days or longer: $1,000 per couple

The beverage-package option is not available on Egypt sailings, and this promotion excludes World Cruise itineraries.

Special Airfare and Cruise Savings

The sale also includes noteworthy offers on select departures. Viking is offering free roundtrip international airfare on select sailings of the Grand European Tour, Pharaohs & Pyramids, and the expedition voyages Antarctic Explorer and Niagara & the Great Lakes.

Select Mississippi River departures, including Mississippi Delta Explorer and Mississippi & Ohio River Explorer, also include free roundtrip airfare.

For ocean travelers, select departures and categories on Alaska & the Inside Passage offer savings of up to $5,000 per couple.

Why We Like Viking for So Many Travelers

Viking continues to offer one of the most consistently thoughtful travel experiences: destination-focused itineraries, comfortable ships, excellent included dining and excursions, and an adult-oriented atmosphere without casinos, children, or the distractions of a large resort-style ship.

Whether you are picturing Europe’s great rivers, Alaska’s Inside Passage, the Mississippi, Antarctica, Egypt, or a favorite ocean destination, this sale can be an excellent opportunity to secure an exceptional Viking experience with meaningful added value.

Because applicable fares, airfare offers, savings, and availability vary by itinerary, sailing date, stateroom category, and gateway city, please contact us before booking. We will help you compare the choices and determine which combination creates the best value for your trip.

Call us to learn whether Viking’s Popular Your Choice Sale applies to the voyage you have in mind.

Links:

• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Viking River Cruises
• Viking Expedition Cruises

Planning Your Trip With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

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Click for the 2027 Luxe Report

Want to know the top 10 2027 cruise itineraries?

Virtuoso’s newly released 2027 Luxe Report offers an early look at the destinations generating the most interest.

Based on insights from more than 3,100 Virtuoso travel advisors in more than 50 countries, the report identifies the world’s 10 most popular cruise itineraries for the year ahead.

The list combines classic favorites, extraordinary expedition voyages, and river journeys that continue to appeal to travelers who want to explore without constantly changing hotels.

The Top 10 2027 Cruise Itineraries

1. Mediterranean

The Mediterranean remains the leading choice for 2027. Its appeal is easy to understand: Italian ports, the French Riviera, Spain, the Adriatic, historic cities, beautiful islands, and remarkable food – often all within one trip. There are wonderful options for every style of traveler, from intimate yacht-style and small luxury ships to larger ocean ships with more amenities.

2. Alaska

Alaska continues to be one of the most compelling cruise destinations for American travelers, especially families traveling together. Glaciers, whales, bears, scenic rail journeys, and time in port make Alaska much more than simply watching scenery pass by from a ship. Choosing the right itinerary and cruise line matters enormously for travelers who want a meaningful Alaska experience.

3. Greek Isles

The Greek Isles stand on their own, separate from the broader Mediterranean category. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and lesser-known islands offer beautiful water, ancient history, memorable food, and a relaxed pace. This is a destination where small ships can be especially appealing, allowing travelers to visit more intimate ports and spend less time navigating large crowds.

4. Antarctica

Antarctica remains one of the world’s great bucket-list expeditions. Travelers are drawn by the breathtaking scale of the landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and the rare privilege of visiting somewhere so remote and unspoiled. Expedition cruising is also one of Virtuoso’s leading overall travel trends for 2027, making Antarctica’s high ranking no surprise.

5. Danube River

The Danube is Europe’s grand river journey. Depending on the itinerary, guests may visit Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, Melk, Dürnstein, Regensburg, and Nuremberg. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want culture, history, food, wine, and beautiful scenery – without the inconvenience of changing hotels every few days.

6. Caribbean

The Caribbean remains a favorite, but luxury travelers are looking beyond the standard port lineup. Smaller ships, yacht-style cruising, private-island experiences, and less-visited islands can make a Caribbean cruise feel fresh and highly personal. It is also a terrific option for multigenerational families, couples seeking winter warmth, and travelers who want an easy, restorative getaway.

7. Northern Europe

Northern Europe provides a striking contrast to the Mediterranean. Itineraries may include the Norwegian fjords, Baltic capitals, Iceland, Scotland, the British Isles, or the North Cape. Travelers are drawn to dramatic scenery, rich history, charming cities, and a part of Europe that feels distinctly different from the sun-and-sea atmosphere farther south.

8. Japan

Japan is one of the most exciting cruise destinations for 2027. A well-designed itinerary can combine Tokyo, Kyoto-area ports, Hiroshima, smaller coastal towns, and sometimes South Korea or Taiwan. Japan offers an exceptional combination of ancient tradition, extraordinary food, serene landscapes, and modern energy – making it especially rewarding for culturally curious travelers.

9. Rhine River

The Rhine is a classic European river cruise for very good reason. Castles rise above vineyard-covered hills, storybook towns line the riverbanks, and many itineraries connect Amsterdam, Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Strasbourg, and Basel. It is an especially strong choice for first-time river cruisers and travelers who want a concentrated taste of several European countries.

10. Nile River

The Nile is one of the world’s most historically rich cruise experiences. A thoughtfully planned journey combines the pyramids and museums of Cairo with a relaxing cruise between Luxor and Aswan, bringing temples, tombs, villages, and ancient landscapes into view. For travelers fascinated by history, Egypt can be truly unforgettable.

What This Means for 2027 Cruise Planning

These top 10 2027 cruise itineraries show that travelers still want the iconic destinations they have dreamed about for years – but they want those experiences to be more personal, immersive, and meaningful.

It is also notable that three river itineraries – the Danube, Rhine, and Nile – made the top 10. River cruising continues to appeal to travelers who value destination-focused days, smaller ships, fewer crowds, included experiences, and the pleasure of waking up close to a new city or region.

For popular journeys such as Alaska, Antarctica, the Greek Isles, Japan, and Europe’s major rivers, the best ships, suite categories, and preferred dates tend to go first. Planning early is not about rushing into a decision. It is about having the widest possible choices and enough time to create a trip that truly fits how you want to travel.

Planning Your 2027 Cruise With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

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Viking river cruise ship sailing the Danube in Durnstein, Austria

European River Cruise Low Water: Best Time to Go?

European river cruise low water is an important consideration when planning a journey on the Danube, Rhine and other European rivers. So, when is the best time to go if you want to reduce the risk?

We generally recommend April through June.

Most European river cruises begin operating in March. By April, winter snowmelt and spring rainfall generally provide good river conditions, making prolonged low-water problems less likely.

Spring isn’t risk-free. Heavy snowmelt and spring rains can occasionally produce high water, which can also disrupt navigation. But when choosing our own river cruises, we’re generally more concerned about the potential for low water later in the summer.

When Does Low Water Become a Concern?

July and August are generally the months when we pay closer attention to low-water conditions on the Danube and Rhine. Prolonged summer heat and insufficient rainfall can cause river levels to fall, sometimes to the point where ships can’t safely navigate certain sections.

And that’s an important point: the entire river doesn’t have to be low. A single shallow section can force a cruise line to modify an itinerary, change docking locations, use motorcoaches or transfer guests between ships.

In particularly dry years, low-water problems can continue into September. Europe experienced significant low-water conditions in 2022, with notable low-water conditions returning again in 2026.

That doesn’t make July, August or September bad months for a river cruise. Many cruises operate normally. It simply means the risk can be greater than it is in spring.

River conditions can also change quickly. Rainfall upstream can improve conditions, while several weeks of hot, dry weather can do the opposite. No one can reliably predict river levels six months or a year before your cruise.

Protect Your River Cruise Investment

For clients booking a Danube or Rhine river cruise in July or August — or September when significant low-water conditions persist — we strongly recommend travel protection with a meaningful Cancel For Any Reason option (CFAR).

We’re not necessarily talking about typical third-party CFAR policies, which we generally don’t recommend to our clients. Some river cruise companies offer their own travel protection programs with valuable cancellation provisions.

Viking is a good example. Viking’s Travel Protection Plan includes a Cancel For Any Reason Waiver. Subject to the plan’s terms and conditions, guests canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by the insurance portion of the plan can receive the nonrefundable portion of their Viking trip cost in Viking travel vouchers.

That can be extremely valuable if significant low-water conditions develop before your departure and you’re concerned that your itinerary may be substantially affected.

Every cruise line’s program is different, and terms and benefits can change. We’ll help our clients understand the applicable protection options when they book.

Carol enjoying a morning coffee on a Rhine River cruise in April

When Do Carol and I Take River Cruises?

Carol and I have taken 14 European river cruises over the past 12 years, and when we’re choosing dates for ourselves, we generally look first at April or very early May.

Water levels are part of the reason. In our experience, we’ve had little concern about low water during this period.

There are other advantages, too. The large summer crowds haven’t arrived, temperatures are generally cooler, and exploring Europe’s cities and riverside towns can be much more pleasant. July and August, by comparison, can be very hot.

So while April through June is our general recommendation for travelers who want to minimize low-water risk, our personal preference is April or very early May.

The Bottom Line

There is no completely risk-free time to take a European river cruise. But if you have flexibility, April through June is our preferred window for the Danube and Rhine.

If you choose July or August, or September during a particularly dry year, understand that low-water risk can be higher and make sure your travel investment is appropriately protected.

Understand the risk. Have an exit strategy. And protect your river cruise investment.

Planning a European River Cruise With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

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Tauck’s new 2027 journeys, cruises, and family travel experiences bring exciting new ways to explore the world—while also expanding the choices in two destinations our clients continue to ask about: Japan and Portugal.

From small-ship cruising and immersive land journeys to intimate family voyages, Tauck’s newest collection is designed for travelers who value exceptional experiences with every detail handled beautifully.

Japan by Small Ship

Japan remains one of the most sought-after destinations in travel, and Tauck’s Sakura Seas: Japan & South Korea offers an exceptional way to experience it. This small-ship cruise combines Japan’s extraordinary contrasts—ancient traditions, serene gardens, lively cities, and remarkable cuisine—with time in South Korea. For travelers who want the convenience of unpacking once while experiencing a meaningful cross-section of the region, it is a particularly appealing choice. And for a land journey in Japan, consider Tauck’s Essence of Japan.

Portugal and Spain

Portugal is another destination that continues to capture travelers’ imaginations. Tauck’s Spain and Portugal journey combines two wonderfully distinct countries, bringing together

Portugal’s colorful cities, rich food and wine traditions, and historic character with the energy and artistry of Spain. It is a terrific option for those seeking a deeper European journey beyond the most familiar routes.

New for 2027

Among Tauck’s new 2027 additions, Cruising the Baltic Sea introduces a fresh small-ship route through Northern Europe, including elegant Scandinavian capitals and the medieval charm of Tallinn. A Week In… Champagne & Alsace offers a shorter, highly immersive French escape filled with vineyards, cuisine, and storybook villages.

Families can look forward to Croatian Coast: Family Voyage, a Tauck Bridges adventure aboard the intimate Lupus Mare. With just 15 cabins and room for up to 34 guests, it offers a very personal way for families to discover Croatia’s islands, history, and beautiful Adriatic coastline together.

And closer to home, Bryce & Zion: Sculpted by Time brings Tauck’s thoughtful approach to two of the American Southwest’s most dramatic national parks, including glass-domed accommodations near Bryce Canyon and guided stargazing under famously clear desert skies.

As one of Tauck’s top five travel advisors worldwide, we would be delighted to help you determine which of these journeys is the best fit for you, your family, or the friends you would love to travel with. The most desirable departures can fill early, so now is a wonderful time to start looking ahead.

LINK: Explore Tauck’s New 2027 Journeys, Cruises & Family Travel

Planning Your Trip With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

Roaming Boomers Travel Services is proud to be one of the top five Tauck booking travel advisors in the world and a team of Tauck Certified Advisors. We know the product, the destinations, and the important choices that can turn a very good itinerary into the journey that is right for you.

For clients new to Tauck, booking through us includes an especially valuable benefit: a complimentary one-night pre- or post-journey hotel stay on your first Tauck trip. We will also help you evaluate the best itinerary, departure date, accommodations, air arrangements, and any available savings or travel perks.

For more information or to begin planning your next journey, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request CLICK HERE, and we’ll be in touch.

If you enjoyed this article, sign up for our travel newsletter to stay informed on our latest travel insights, firsthand cruise reviews, exclusive offers, and special opportunities.

This article was written with the aid of ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40

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Human travel advisors still bring something AI cannot: informed judgment grounded in experience and a clear understanding of what matters most to each traveler.

Artificial intelligence can help us research travel faster than ever. It can suggest destinations, compare hotels, summarize reviews, and generate a sample itinerary in seconds. Those are useful tools.

But when it comes time to make meaningful travel decisions, many travelers still want a knowledgeable human involved.

That is not because technology has failed. It is because travel is personal, expensive, and often full of choices that do not have one obvious right answer.

A recent Skift State of Travel 2026 report found that travelers were far less comfortable booking through AI or chatbots than through a travel advisor, packaged tour, or direct supplier. The same report noted that 63% of cruise travelers used a travel advisor to book a trip within the past year.

The message is clear: travelers may use AI to begin the conversation, but they still value a trusted person to help them make the final decisions.

AI Is Helpful, but It Does Not Know You

AI can provide an impressive amount of information. The challenge is that more information is not always more helpful.

A traveler considering a cruise may quickly receive dozens of recommendations, all of which sound appealing. But which itinerary fits the pace they enjoy? Which ship offers the atmosphere, dining, accommodations, and excursions that truly match their expectations? Is the savings on one departure worth giving up a preferred cabin, a better itinerary, or more convenient travel dates?

Those are judgment calls. They benefit from experience, context, and a real understanding of what matters most to the traveler.

At Roaming Boomers Travel Services, we believe the best advice is not simply a longer list of options. It is helping clients sort through the noise and focus on the choices that are most likely to lead to a memorable trip.

The Right Trip Is More Than a Good Price

Online tools are very good at identifying a lower fare. They are not always as good at explaining what is different about the experience.

Two cruises may visit similar ports, for example, yet offer very different ships, shore experiences, levels of service, dining, cabin options, and onboard atmosphere. The same is true with river cruises, expedition journeys, small-ship yachts, and small-group land tours.

For many travelers, the goal is not to find the least expensive option. It is to make a smart decision about where their travel dollars will have the greatest impact.

Skift’s report found that even higher-income travelers are paying close attention to value. But rather than simply trading down, they are more likely to optimize””adjusting travel dates or looking carefully at what is included while protecting the destination and experience they truly want.

That is where an experienced advisor can be especially helpful.

The Best Approach Uses Both

We do not see AI as something travelers should avoid. Used wisely, it can be a helpful research tool. It can spark ideas, answer basic questions, and introduce places or travel styles a traveler may not have considered.

But it cannot replace personal experience, trusted relationships, or thoughtful advice tailored to the individual traveler.

Carol and I believe the best travel planning starts with a conversation. What kind of trip are you hoping to have? What has worked well in the past? What is worth spending a little more for, and what is not important to you?

Technology can help make travel planning more efficient. A human travel advisor helps make it more meaningful.

Planning Your Trip With Roaming Boomers Travel Services

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