As lines extend their itineraries, it is vital they maintain the versatility and reliability of their supply chains. Throw in tightened security standards and a demanding customer base, and supply chain management becomes a key area for investment. Giorgio Zagami from MSC Cruises and Alvin Dennis of Norwegian Cruise Line discuss their companies’ approaches, and the vital role that technology has to play in driving future efficiency gains.

The renovation of Carnival Destiny into Carnival Sunshine marks the cruise industry’s most ambitious refurbishment project. World Cruise Industry Review profiles the project and asks whether revitalisation programmes on this scale are an indication of things to come.

Two cruise line industry organisations reacted swiftly following January’s sinking of Costa Concordia. Phil Davies talks to David Dingle, executive member of the European Cruise Council, and Bud Darr, Cruise Lines International Association, about their collaboration to introduce new voluntary safety measures ahead of any enforced legislation.

To understand what our readers view as the most important business issues for 2012-2013, worldcruise-network.com is launching a major new global business survey.