Victoria Cruises, the cruise company sailing China’s Yangtze River, will refurbish the Victoria Empress this winter as the company announced. The ship is expected to resume sailing in March 2008.

Over 600,000 cruise travelers are about to be the target of a new cruise conversion program in Barbados.

Carnival Corp. reversed its policy to retroactively charge passengers a fuel surcharge on bookings they had already paid for in Canada.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will offer a variety of pre- and post-cruise land programs in combination with its 2008 and 2009 worldwide itineraries. Regent’s land programs are highlighted by unusual transportation modes. Travelers who enjoy riding the rails can go fast from Tokyo to Osaka aboard Japan’s Shinkanse, or bullet train, or aboard China’s Magalev from Shanghai.

Mediterranean cruising beat out traditional choices such as London; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and several Mexican locations to take the fifth spot among international destinations in Carlson Wagonlit Travel Associates’ 2008 Travel Trends Survey.

Crystal Cruises expanded its golf theme cruises for 2008. During three 11- and 12-day golf cruises, guests can tee off in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands, and the maritime coast of Canada and New England. In addition to championship golf ashore and onboard events, golfers can compete in hole-in-one competitions for a chance to win a free Crystal cruise.