Momentum is a powerful thing. It drives innovation, forward thinking and public perception. For cruise, it’s momentum has steadily built this year, with new ship launches, fresh orders and destinations opening up.

Such a situation is of course welcome news all round, but it does pose the question of – with so much going on – how can cruise lines keep agents in the loop and prepared for what is to come? This leads us to the investigation in this issue, as we analyse the current state of travel agent training and debate how it will evolve.

Speaking of new ships, we take a deep dive into the on-board areas on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima, the first in a new class for the line, which was christened in late August in the Icelandic capital Reykjavik.

Our main interview this time is with P&O Cruises director of sales Ruth Venn, as the line prepares for the launch of Arvia in December, and we look at the story of Travel 1st and its growth since launching during the height of the pandemic.

New for this issue is a column dedicated to all things travel technology, with expert opinion from Traveltek. As the company’s chief commercial officer Cressida Sergeant explains, “technology is the most unsexy part of the industry”, nevertheless its importance is growing, and now is the time to get on board.

Inside, you’ll also find the shortlist for the Wave Awards 2022, as we approach the awards ceremony on 16 November, as well as the latest thoughts from Princess Cruises vice-president UK and Europe Eithne Williamson.

Happy reading.