Calling all agents: who wants to be in with the chance of winning a weekend in Amsterdam? If, as we expect, that’s a resounding yes then turn to page 11, as we launch an exclusive competition with Holland America Line to give four of our readers the chance to sample the onboard delights of the elegant Nieuw Statendam. A member of the Cruise Trade News team will be on board too to cover your trip, so you can read all about it on social media, as well as in a print edition of the magazine. In this issue we introduce our new eight-page section dedicated to all things destination and we kick off with a round-up of the hottest places to visit by sea right now, plus cruise-specific features on Dubai and Seville.

Inside the February issue we also shine a spotlight on how ship design is changing. We speak to a host of experts, including those at the forefront of this evolution, to discover how land-based trends are shaping the ships of today and tomorrow – you’ll find full details on page 26.

Our in-depth interview slot sees us in conversation with Paul Gauguin Cruises discussing French Polynesian itineraries, while Elaine Gillard, senior sales and marketing manager at Crystal Cruises, tells us why winning a Cruise Stars Award is a landmark achievement in her career to date.

Meanwhile, our intrepid reporter, Josh Stephenson, reveals how he was bowled over by Cruise and Maritime Voyages’ flagship Columbus on a cricket-themed voyage to three European cities. And, as ever, our river and destination focus pages give you the need-to-know tips on how to sell some of cruising’s most popular ports of call.

Elsewhere we round up six of the best special occasion cruises and take a peek inside Viking’s newest addition to its fleet (page 32).
All in all, another bumper edition to help you keep your finger on the pulse of the cruise holiday market. Enjoy reading it and see you again next month.