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during overnight stays—but also provide guests with a number of opportunities to join a multi-day, overland adventure to more authentically connect with a specific destination. Guests on this itinerary can choose to venture onto a Galapagos Islands overland tour, taking in pristine scenery and unparalleled wildlife like iconic giant tortoises, as well as blue- footed boobies, Sally Lightfoot crabs, marine iguanas, frigate birds and more. Or they can also opt to spend 3–4 days in Cusco—the former capital of the mighty Inca Empire and gate- way to Machu Picchu. This provides a convenient look into local markets, Spanish colonial architecture, and of course the Incas' impressive technical prowess in this 600-year-old archae- ological site. Guests can also take advantage of Holland America Line's Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. Mariner Society loyalty members can enjoy up to $400 onboard credit per stateroom when these cruises open for sale. Guests must book these cruises by March 31, 2025, to receive the Exclusive Mariner Society Early Booking Bonus. For more information about Holland America Line, plan- ners should call 1-877-SAIL HAL (877-724-5425) or visit hol- landamerica.com. CUNARD REPORTS RECORD- BREAKING BOOKINGS IN 2024 Cunard has reported record-breaking bookings in 2024, fol- lowing an exceptional year and the launch of its highly antici- pated ship, Queen Anne. From January 1 to October 31 last year, Cunard recorded an impressive 73,000 additional guest reservations compared to the same period in 2023, represent- ing a 23% year-on-year increase. This performance marks the highest number of guests booked between January 1 and October 31 than in any equiv- alent period on record. Both the UK and North American mar- kets contributed significantly to this success, with a 24% increase in guests booking from the UK and 29% more from North America compared to 2023. The arrival of Cunard's newest ship, Queen Anne, in May has been a key factor in this growth, alongside the launch of three new cruise programs in 2024. Winter 2026 and summer 2026 itineraries were introduced in March, followed by the win- ter 2027 program in October, further driving demand. As an iconic British brand, Cunard's global appeal continues to grow, with more than half of bookings between January 1 and October 31 now originating from outside the UK. International markets have shown particularly strong interest, with targeted marketing campaigns in these regions driving a 22% increase in international guest bookings over the past year. In addition to international growth, Cunard continues to attract both new and returning travelers. From January 1 to October 31, 2024, the brand saw a 49% rise in first-time guests choosing to sail with Cunard compared to the same period in 2023. Katie McAlister President of Cunard, said: "As we look ahead to 2025, we are proud to report record-breaking book- ings that demonstrate the continued strength of Cunard's com- mercial performance. As an iconic British brand with growing international appeal, Cunard continues to attract travelers from across the globe who are drawn to the timeless elegance and modern luxury we provide. The launch of Queen Anne has been a key driver of this success, increasing our capacity and capturing the imagination of both loyal and first-time guests. These results are a testament to the hard work of our teams and partners worldwide, who ensure Cunard remains at the forefront of luxury travel." For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage, planners should call Cunard at 1-800-728-6273, or visit www.cunard.com. B M & T ••• March/April 2025 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 47 SS Rotterdam and Rotterdam cruise liner in background in port This performance marks the highest number of guests For more information about Cunard or to book a voyage,