cruises

Writer Deborah Peters was one of the first to set sail on Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship, and discovered endless extravagant eating and entertainment options to explore

Imagine you’re on your dream holiday – how many bars and restaurants would be too many? How many different spaces can you explore in a short space of time? To answer these questions, we were lucky enough to join the maiden voyage of the Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship for 2026.

The latest in the Edge Series of ships, the Xcel will have you spoilt for choice; there’s so much on offer that it’s hard to decide what to do first. Luckily, inside your cabin you’re provided with daily planners, and there’s a handy app with information on what’s happening where.

Everything on board the Xcel is sparkly and brand new, you’re surrounded by so much art you won’t know where to look first, and the Magic Carpet platform, suspended above the sea, is seriously impressive. Setting sail from Fort Lauderdale, there was certainly a celebratory atmosphere as we started our Caribbean cruise to Bimini in the Bahamas and Cozumel in Mexico.

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What’s on board the Celebrity Xcel?

The Grand Plaza is the main hub of the ship. Set over three open and airy decks, it’s overlooked by a breathtaking chandelier hanging above the martini bar, where the flamboyant bar staff put on a skilled juggling performance in front of an eye-catching golden horse sculpture. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing, with different entertainment each night and brilliant people- watching opportunities at all times (especially during the silent disco!).

One new area on the Xcel is The Bazaar on deck five. It’s approached through a tunnel of changing lights, and is inspired by the cultures, flavours and sights of the destinations you’re visiting on your cruise. Every time we passed through there was a different delicious smell, and it’s full of interesting little stalls from local artisans. Festivals take place here on sea days where you can experience themed sips and snacks, and crafting activities are also dotted around.

The food on board the Celebrity Xcel

There are so many different dining experiences on board the Xcel, and the food standard is excellent. The four complimentary restaurants – Cosmopolitan, Normandie, Cyprus and Tuscan – are all designed differently and have their own signature dishes.

The Oceanview café is a relaxed space with great views and great food. The choice is huge and as well as the main buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner, there’s a pizza and pasta bar, an ice-cream parlour, late night snacks… it goes on and on and on.

There are also seven speciality dining restaurants, bookable for an extra charge. We were massively impressed by Mosaic, an open kitchen concept with a spin on your destination’s signature dishes, all presented beautifully. Bora, meanwhile, is a new outdoor restaurant at the top of the ship, serving extravagant brunches and sunset dinners – perfect for date nights.

What can you do on the Celebrity Xcel?

With all that food and drink, you might fancy some light activity. A walking/running track winds its way around the top decks with views of the pool. For the more active, the state-of-the- art gym looking out to sea is fantastic; we’d never had such a great view from a treadmill.

There’s also a gorgeous spa with its own private sundeck called Vitamin D, and a huge choice of saunas, steam rooms and treatments. It’s so relaxing and quiet, it’s hard to remember that you’re at sea at all.

The Celebrity Pool Club is overlooked by a giant mirrored monkey sculpture that provides the perfect spot for selfies. Poolside valets keep you refreshed all day and there’s a programme of volleyball, poolside trivia and aquafun dance classes. After hours the pool club transforms to host the Shine the Night party with DJs. There are so many entertainment areas on board, there’s something for everyone – a casino, a theatre, The Club with activities, retro video games and game shows, an art gallery, and more bars than you can keep track of.

And of course, there are loads of excursions to choose from when you get off at your destinations too; the shark snorkelling at Bimini in particular was a fantastic experience.

One last thing…

Something worth investigating is the whispered rumours of a secret speakeasy bar on board. You won’t find any information about it online (it’s only referred to as ‘IYKYK’ on the website) and staff will deny all knowledge when questioned, but we happened upon it on our last night. It’s all very hush hush with no photos allowed, but if you can find it, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. All we’ll say is look out for the photo booth…

How much does it cost?

Celebrity Cruises’ 7-nights Bahamas, Mexico & Cayman Cruise on board the Celebrity Xcel, sailing from 1-8 March 2026, costs from £879.50 per person based on two adults sharing an Inside Stateroom. This price includes food, with drinks packages, flights and WiFi at extra costs.

For additional options for Caribbean cruises, have a browse of TUI’s and MSC’s offerings.

Travel expert Megan duBois has spent more than 15 years sailing the seas on different cruise lines – and she says there are some things she will ‘never buy’ as they aren’t worth the price

A seasoned cruiser who has embarked on more than 50 voyages has revealed the items she would “never buy” whilst aboard a ship. Travel guru Megan duBois has clocked up over 15 years exploring the oceans on various cruise lines.

However, Megan insists there are certain “experiences and extras” she simply refuses to pay for, as she believes they “aren’t worth the price”. From lavish spa treatments to basic keepsakes, Megan reckons there are numerous ways to pocket some savings during your getaway.

One expense Megan says she won’t fork out for is a drinks package. Most leading cruise operators provide drinks packages with costs typically ranging from approximately £50 to £75 per person daily.

Additionally, many cruise companies mandate that all passengers sharing a cabin must purchase the same package, according to Megan. As somebody who rarely drinks alcohol, Megan maintains the package simply doesn’t justify the expense.

Writing in BusinessInsider, she explained: “I stick to ordering my beverages à la carte. It saves me money and makes me really think about what I’m ordering.”

Whilst numerous cruise-goers might be tempted to indulge in pampering aboard their vessel, Megan reveals she bypasses the salon and arranges her preferred beauty treatments before boarding day. She notes that ships frequently charge “premium, much higher” rates compared to those on land.

She also relishes the sensation of stepping onto the ship “looking and feeling great”. The experienced voyager now steers clear of room service as well, unless it comes complimentary, naturally.

In recent times, she’s observed a surge in the number of trips that charge for food delivery. As a result, Megan now prefers to venture out to the buffet or dining halls.

She elaborates: “If I really want to eat in my cabin because I need some downtime or want to watch a movie, I ask the staff if there are any take-out options available.”

Another money-saving trick Megan employs is bypassing the souvenir lanyard. Many cruisers often find themselves shelling out for a lanyard to keep their crucial room key within easy reach.

These typically also serve as your ID and payment card on board the ship. However, instead of buying one, Megan has taken to storing her key card in her phone case so it’s always at hand.

Lastly, Megan reveals she steers clear of booking excursions through her cruise line. She does concede that booking via the cruise line ensures the ship will usually wait if you’re running behind schedule.

This implies that if you’re considering booking your excursions through a third-party, then you need to ensure you return with ample time to spare.

Megan said: “I like to explore the ports on my own or with a third-party excursion company. These excursions are typically more affordable and offer comparable experiences, and I always read a lot of reviews before booking.

CRUISING has had the glow-up of the decade.

If you’ve never set foot on a ship, you might wonder whether it’s really worth trying one for your next getaway.

But with picks like these, you’ll be struggling to choose which cruise you want to give a go first.

Cruising is one of the easiest ways to hit bucket-list spots, enjoy the sun, and sink a few Aperol Spritzes along the way.

From refined dinners and West End shows onboard, to child-free party boats with nightclubs – there really is a cruise for every kind of holidaymaker.

So we asked The Sun’s travel team to reveal the cruises they still rave about.

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Celestyal Cruises

Until a few years ago, I had never considered taking a cruise for a holiday.

But then during one sunny May, I hopped onboard a Celestyal ship that sailed around the Greek Islands, and I maintain to this day that it is still one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I saw Santorini, Patmos, Mykonos, Kusadasi and Crete over one week stopping at them for a day of exploration, seeing beautiful white-washed villages, calderas and historical ruins. 

The ship itself is smaller than most so that it’s able to dock at the island harbours – or get as close to them as possible. It’s not as big as the likes of Royal Caribbean or Virgin Cruises so don’t expect waterparks or go-kart tracks. 

That’s not to say there isn’t enough to keep you busy onboard, there are still swimming pools, a gym, spa, multiple restaurants and entertainment areas with brilliant evening shows.

But let’s face it, it’s all about the destinations and I’ve never been happier than sitting on a hilltop bar in Santorini clutching an enormous Aperol Spritz.

Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

Virgin Voyages

If you love the idea of a cruise but not the screaming children then you might want to check out Virgin Voyages.

These adult-only cruises are like the ultimate playground for grown ups and include night clubs, sprawling pools and hilarious shows.

I headed off on a cruise from Southampton, so it didn’t involve flying which was ideal and stopped off at Amsterdam and Bruges.

My ship was the Resilient Lady and boy was she impressive. 

The main hub of the ship can be found on Deck 15 – at one end there is The Galley which is full of different cuisines for people to try and then at the other end is an open deck, with a pool and several hot tubs. 

The spa on board is still one of the best I’ve been to, to date – and that includes ones on dry land.

The Himalayan Salt Room was a favourite spot of mine, and left with skin that felt like a baby’s bum. 

The entertainment really did steal the show though – think camp and colourful. It was a bag of laughs – especially when a half-naked man gave a elderly passenger a lap dance.

Virgin Voyages have cruises that you can either fly to or head off from the UK so there is truly something for everyone.

Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

Oceania Allura

A cruise was once one of the most glamorous ways a person could travel. Chandelier-lit dinners were formal, the food was excellent and cabins were extremely tasteful.

Oceania is a brand that has managed to maintain much of this glamour and its newest ship, Allura, is no exception.

If, like me, you consider yourself a foodie, this is certainly the ship for you.

Allura lays claim to the largest galley at sea and chefs work tirelessly around the clock, baking fresh loaves every morning (something few other ships do).

Allura welcomed back a fan-favourite restaurant, Jacques, on board – and I’m so grateful for that decision, as it was here that I devoured one of the best cheese soufflés of my life.

The foodie fun doesn’t end with the restaurants, though.

Passengers can pick up basic and advanced culinary skills at the on-board cookery school, whipping up feasts and cocktails in a specially-designed kitchen, under the instruction of one of the ship’s top chefs.

With capacity for just under 1,500 passengers, the vessel doesn’t feel overwhelming, like some of the larger cruise ships often can, and it’s easy to navigate.

There’s everything you’d expect from a lavish ship including a serene spa, high-end entertainment, a casino and enough bars to keep even the fussiest drinker content.

Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Sun Princess

When planning a girly holiday, I had no idea a Princess cruise would be so perfect.

Hopping on their European excursion, we racked up the cities we visited along the way.

This meant morning Aperol Spritzs in Palermo, delicious tapas in Barcelona and beautiful tours of the Parthenon temple, to name a few.

But the fun didn’t stop even when we were onboard.

We were often found at the private Sanctuary Club onboard, open to guests staying in sanctuary-level rooms, where we rang bells for free prosecco chased by a dip in the pool.

There were West End shows onboard – something which after many failed attempts at us trying to decide what to see in London, it helped having just one choice per night.

Otherwise days were spent tanning by the ship pool, flitting between the many bars and restaurants.

One of our favourites being the very magical Spellbound speakeasy – I won’t say too much else to keep the magic…

And with flights and cabins included in the packages, it even meant we didn’t have to fight it out on what hotel we wanted to stay at.

Our highlight every night? Heading to the 24-hour snack bar in our dressing gowns to grab chocolate chip cookies before watching Clueless back in our room…

Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Celebrity Xcel

For relaxed, upscale cruising for adults, Celebrity is hard to beat.

And the fifth ship in their game-changing Edge series has yet again rewritten the rule book.

Setting sail just a month ago from the Floridian port of Fort Lauderdale, this sparkling new ship is perfectly formed for its 3,276 guests.

The Edge class brought us the Magic Carpet, a bar and restaurant terrace that glides up outside the decks of the ship, but Celebrity Xcel has some extra special treats up her sleeve.

Seven different reimagined spaces make it very different from its siblings. The cruise line enlisted the help of its guests – dubbed Dreammakers – to have the final say on the new ship.

More than 650,000 votes were cast to decide on key elements of the ship’s design, culinary experiences and entertainment.

Among the new spots I loved were the Bazaar – formerly Eden on other Edge ships – now transformed into a buzzing venue both day and night celebrating the ports of call the ship sails to.

For this winter this means a host of festivals, local cuisine and entertainment from the Caribbean and from next summer, this will offer an immersive dive into the ports of the Mediterranean.

New dining venues include Bora – up on the rooftop garden – brings the flavours of the Mediterranean but my fave was the addition of a build-your-own over the top Bloody Mary bar.

The spa has also had a makeover with the addition of Celebrity’s first-ever hydra-room, a therapeutic pool in the Thermal Suite as well as a new outdoor Vitamin D deck.

For those wanting to make their mani or pedi a little more boujee, there’s a new Bubbles bar with complimentary fizz as you get your nails done.

I also loved the new Attic at The Club. The ship’s nightclub has an atrium open 24/7 with a host of retro arcade games, pool tables, darts and more.

It also offers a fantastic viewing point for the new club nights including the slick Shoot Up Saloon country music night and amazing 254 West show featuring 80s classics.

Even the pool deck has had a makeover, with a stunning Monkey sculpture presiding over the generous pool with plenty of loungers and poolside valets offering sunscreen, chilled towels and more.

But my absolute favourite destination on the ship is a new, hidden speakeasy bar.

The Gatsby-inspired glitzy den is hidden behind a special photo opportunity – and with phones banned it will be the intrepid bar crawlers who will discover its delights.

Head of Travel, Lisa Minot

THE UK is home to some breath-takingly beautiful seaside towns.

So its no surprise that each summer, hoards of holidaymakers flock to the coasts to make the most of the sun.

However, visiting these seaside towns in winter can actually be a much better time to go.

Visiting in winter gives you all the time, peace and quiet to enjoy the beauty of these towns – sometimes practically all to yourself.

So whether you’re looking for a big family day out with amusements and plenty to do, or a quaint and scenic spot to enjoy some fish and chips – we’ve rounded up some of the best seaside towns to visit this winter.

Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

The dramatic cliffs of Robin Hood’s Bay, a small village in North Yorkshire, feel even more magical during the winter.

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Weathered rock faces, continuously battered by a moody sea, and views of windswept countryside create an ambience that would fit in well with an Emily Brontë novel.

Don’t expect stereotypical seaside beauty here.

Instead it’s the ruggedness of the place that makes it special, with asymmetrical houses lining the hilly streets and pokey shops where huge bay windows showcase books and little souvenirs.

Wrap up warm for a ramble along the Cleveland Way coastal path to the neighbouring shores of Whitby before holing up in one of the cosy pubs in front of a roaring fire.

For cracking homemade pub grub, head to the 17th century Smuggler’s Inn, so named because of the region’s history as a smuggling cove, where spirits, tea and tobacco were snuck through cavernous tunnels.

– Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

Broadstairs, Kent

Having made the move from London to Kent nearly four years ago, it’s fair to say I’ve explored my fair share of seaside towns.

But one that I always love visiting even in winter is Broadstairs.

The magic of the town comes alive when the crowds have gone, where you can head to The Mermaid for some fish and chips before going to the Charles Dickens for a pint.

It’s even great in the winter if you need to do some early Christmas shopping.

I’ve already half finished my list of presents thanks to the independent stores. Kope + Loko does beautiful clothing behind its coffee shop while Hope by SP is the best for interiors and knick knacks.

Make time for the award-winning,cosy Bar Ingo for some small plates, where even now I don’t understand how a simple fish of mushrooms and butter beans can be one of the best things I’ve eaten.

The fresh glass of Portuguese wine might have perhaps been one of the reasons…

If you don’t want to get the last train, book a stay at the newly-opened Smiths Townhouse, a a trendy yet intimate space that makes you feel like you are staying at your cool mate’s house.

– Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

Southwold, Sussex

Southwold always holds a special place in my heart because of the sheer amount of weekends I’ve had there with my family over the years, especially during blustery winter.

The beach is great, but let’s face it when it gets cold, you’re just wanting to go inside

Despite this, it is worth going for a quick stroll to see the multi-coloured beach huts, as well as the traditional amusement arcades.

The town has great shops as well as an Adnams brewery – you can go and experience tastings and tours too.

There are plenty of fish and chip shops throughout the town, but for the best ones head to the Sole Bay Fish Company which is out of the town towards the harbour.

– Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

Dartmouth, Devon

Whilst not strictly a ‘seaside’ town, Dartmouth does sit on the coastline in Devon and features pretty beaches.

The waterfront town is full of charm, with cobblestones, streets and wonky buildings.

All centred around a harbour, it is the ideal place for a day trip with everything close together.

Tucked away from the more popular seaside towns of Torquay and Paignton, Dartmouth is a top coastal retreat.

It sits on the banks of the River Dart and its estuary position is ideal for boat trips and cruises that venture from the town to the sea. 

And at Castle Cove, there is a small shingle beach only accessible when the tide is low.

For those who don’t like the crowded beaches and arcades found in seaside towns across the country, Dartmouth is a great alternative.

– Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

Seahouses, Northumberland

The vast swathes of sweeping beaches on the Northumbrian coast from Seahouses up to Bamburgh are beautiful at any time of year.

But winter means less crowds and the chance to explore the dramatic coastline on wonderful windswept walks.

This pretty fishing village has a bustling Victorian harbour – enjoy some of the freshest fish and chips at Neptune’s Fish Restaurant.

Seahouses is also a great base for joining boat trips over to the Farne Islands, home to one of the UK’s largest colonies of Atlantic grey seals.

Serenity Farne Island Boat Tours has special grey seal cruises with pups born from October to December.

The cruises also offer an insight into the heroism of Grace Darling, the lighthouse keeper’s daughter who rescued survivors of the SS Forfarshire paddle steamer in 1838.

For a cosy end to a blustery beach walk, enjoy a pint at the Olde Ship Inn that has been serving the community since 1812.

– Lisa Minot, Head of Travel

Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk

I was born and raised in this North Norfolk seaside town which surges in popularity in summer – and I can understand why we draw in the crowds!

But in the winter, you can enjoy all the beauty of the town without the chaos that comes with the summer holidays.

Next door to royal favourite Holkham, Wells-next-the-Sea has everything you could want for a day at the seaside.

This includes a fishing boat-dotted quay to go crabbing, a high street with independent shops, traditional arcades, a sweeping golden beach, and some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever eat. (Tip from a local – French’s beats Plattens for me!)

I grew up quay jumping with my friends and causing mischief at the annual carnival, which takes over the town with unique music acts, foods, crafts and events.

But one of my favourite and lesser-known parts about my hometown is that you can go alpaca trekking across the marshes.

Book an alpaca trek and bring some apples in your bag, and suddenly you’re having the most unique day out at the seaside!

Plus, the grand Albatross boat that sits on the quayside once used to serve Dutch pancakes – now it’s opening up as a quirky four-room boat B&B.

For me, Wells-next-the-Sea is the best seaside town in Norfolk, with its perfect blend of seaside tradition and quirky character.

– Jenna Stevens, Travel Writer

St Mawes, Cornwall

St Mawes is a bit of a unicorn in terms of Cornish seaside towns – it’s beautiful with great pubs and restaurants, but is hardly ever busy because the windy roads into the centre make it virtually impossible for coaches to get there. 

As a result, the town is a wonderfully peaceful coastal destination, where children can play on the sand while their parents sip their pint in the nearby pub. 

While I love St Mawes in the summer, which is also when I usually visit, it’s also a fantastic winter break thanks to all the places to eat and drink. 

The Rising Sun is great for a lunchtime drink if the sun’s shining, as it beams right down on the front courtyard. 

But the St Mawes Hotel is my favourite pub, with excellent food served too. Bagsie one of the squidgy leather sofas and play a boardgame with views of sea from the balcony and a pint of Cornish cider. 

Plus the kids can catch a movie in the hotel’s own private cinema. 

If you fancy a bracing walk, the Place Ferry takes you over to the SW Coastal Path along the Roseland Peninsula. 

Or alternatively, check out the St Mawes Castle that was built by Henry VIII – which is even more fun on a blustery day.

– Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel – Digital

Blackpool, Lancashire

When it comes to the British seaside, Blackpool has a bit of everything.

Sea swimming and sunbathing are off the agenda in winter (for me, anyway) but between September and December is the best time to visit.

The Blackpool illuminations have been running for 140 years and are a staple winter attraction along the seafront.

The streets are decorated with light installations, illuminated trails and even the classic Blackpool trams are kitted out with hundreds of fairy lights. 

The seaside town’s unique attractions are just as fun in the winter months.

You can visit the iconic Blackpool Tower year-round and Blackpool Pleasure Beach is open until the end of November with special Winter Weekends on selected days until March.

You can also ice skate for free on the beach at the Christmas by the Sea village in front of Blackpool Tower. 

However, nothing beats a good fish and chip tea, sitting on a bench on the promenade. It’s what England does best, whatever the weather.

– Helen Wright, Travel Writer

The holiday season is Hallmark’s Super Bowl.

This year alone, Hallmark has 80 hours of original holiday-themed programming, including two unscripted series, two scripted series, a holiday special and 24 movies with titles such as “The Snow Must Go On” and “Christmas at the Catnip Cafe” that run from mid-October to Christmas.

The company also has branched out into the experiences business with a Hallmark Christmas Cruise and the Hallmark Christmas Experience festival in Kansas City, Mo., where the company is based.

“I think that’s one of the most brilliant business decisions they’ve made, and they’re expanding there because they have to,” Anjali Bal, associate professor of marketing at Babson College, said of Hallmark’s experiences business. “It allows a connection between the consumer and the brand on a direct level in a way a movie can’t provide.”

It may seem like a far cry from Hallmark’s roots as a greeting card purveyor, but company executives say the holiday feelings evoked by its cards, ornaments and gift wrap translate into the type of content they produce.

And that plethora of content has turned Hallmark into a Christmas juggernaut, fueling competitors such as Lifetime and Netflix, which also produce holiday romantic comedies in the vein of Hallmark movies.

But Darren Abbott, Hallmark’s chief brand officer, doesn’t seem overly concerned.

“There’s a reason everyone else is trying to do this, and it’s because consumers are looking for this,” he said.

Hallmark’s legacy is rooted in celebrating holidays and Christmas, he said, “and no other business or brand has that.”

Countdown to Christmas

Founded in 1910 by an 18-year-old entrepreneur hawking postcards, Hallmark built its brand over the years through cards, holiday ornaments and retail stores.

The family-owned business ventured into entertainment in 1951 with the television presentation Hallmark Hall of Fame. Today, Studio City-based Hallmark Media operates three cable networks, including the Hallmark Channel, which debuted in 2001, as well as a subscription streaming service.

Though Hallmark had aired holiday movies practically since the inception of its cable channel, the company doubled down on the season in 2009, rolling out “Countdown to Christmas,” a 24-hour-a-day programming block focused solely on holiday content, a tradition that has lasted for 16 years.

Hallmark produces about 100 movies a year, both holiday and non-holiday films.

As a privately-held company, Hallmark did not disclose its finances, though executives acknowledge the holiday season is a key driver of entertainment revenue.

The expansion into entertainment is a way for Hallmark to stay in the zeitgeist over multiple generations and to diversify its business beyond just cards and retail products, analysts said.

“Their television stations and experiences business allows them to stay culturally relevant while staying true to their origin,” said Bal, the marketing professor.

Holiday programming — and the breezy, romantic fare Hallmark has become known for — has become increasingly popular with audiences.

Holiday features, both old movies and new, typically make up more than a third of total movie viewing time in December, according to U.S. television data from Nielsen. That percentage has remained fairly consistent for the last three years, though it reached 42% in December 2021.

Hallmark’s television viewership also edges up in the months leading into the holidays. In October, Hallmark commanded 1% of total viewership across linear TV and streaming, ticking up to 1.2% in November, according to Nielsen data. During that same time, competitor A&E, which owns Lifetime, remained constant at 0.9%.

Hallmark’s feel-good movies typically resonate with audiences across the country. They invariably conclude with happy endings (and at least one kiss), where romantic misunderstandings, financial difficulties and family drama all get resolved. After years of criticism, the movies’ casts and plot lines are diversifying, though experts say there is still room for improvement.

“These films are designed to be highly appealing to broad audiences,” said Kit Hughes, associate professor of film and media studies at Colorado State University, who watched every single Hallmark film released in 2022 for research on the portrayal of small business owners. “They’re good consensus movies.”

To grow its audience and the types of stories it tells, Hallmark has increasingly turned to brand partnerships, including with the NFL.

Last year, the company released a movie centered around a Kansas City Chiefs romance; this year, it released one about Buffalo Bills fans. Hallmark also has a partnership with Walt Disney Co. to release a holiday movie next year set at Walt Disney World. The film stars Lacey Chabert, who Abbott describes as Hallmark’s “Queen of Christmas.”

Meeting Hallmark stars on cruise ships

Hallmark’s foray into the cruise business might seem odd, but it follows a long tradition of entertainment companies
creating real-world experiences with their fans, whether that’s on a ship, in a theme park or on a stage. As part of its massive tourism business, Disney operates its own line of cruise ships that promote the company’s classic characters.

Hallmark launched its first “Hallmark Christmas Cruise” last year on Norwegian Cruise Lines. The inaugural cruise from Miami to the Bahamas sold out even before a planned TV marketing campaign. After racking up a wait list of 70,000 people, Hallmark had to add a second cruise, Abbott said.

For this year’s cruise, from Miami to Cozumel, Mexico, Hallmark had to book a bigger ship to accommodate demand. During the November cruise, attendees participated in various Christmas festivities, such as ornament-making workshops and cookie-decorating, and mingled with Hallmark stars in various on-stage games.

The cruises even spawned an unscripted Hallmark show focused on the experiences of several attendees and their interactions with Hallmark actors.

Many are not exactly household names, but they’ve starred in dozens of Hallmark holiday movies over the years and have loyal fan bases.

Abbott joined the cruise last year, and while he’s not a “cruise person,” he said he was fascinated to see how guests interacted with the stars.

“We’re a bit of a respite from what’s going on in the world right now,” he said, “and these experiences sort of hit on that at the right time and the right place.”