Once again, it’s the time of the year to refresh, take a step back and prepare for it all again. For me, it feels, quite literally, that it has been a click of the fingers and, like that, another year disappears into the rear view mirror.

My expectations upon entering 2022 were optimistic, if tinged with a hint of pessimism. However, sitting back and analysing everything as a whole, I’d say the industry can be pretty chuffed with what has occurred. And now, we enter 2023, which we we are delighted say for us start with the annual Ultimate Destination Guide.

Spanning the globe, this publication puts the power in your hands, giving you need-to-know information on a range of destinations, as well as ideal pre and post-cruise ideas you can discuss with clients.

There is also a run-down of the new ocean ships launching in 2023 – and no doubt, there are some exciting ones that are sure to attract, regular and hopefully, new-to-cruise clients.

We also speak to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines account manager Kerry Eades, who discusses the line’s new experiences. As Eades explains, this is all about bringing the destination closer and enabling guests to create deeper connections. In addition, 2023 is set to be another busy one for Fred Olsen, as in January Balmoral will set sail on an exploration of South America, and will offer scenic sailing of Antarctica for the first time.