Royal Caribbean International announced plans to deploy Independence of the Seas -the third in its new Freedom class of ships- in the United Kingdom, when she debuts in May 2008.

Carnival will resume its calls to the Costa Rican port of Limon on its March 8 voyage after deciding to temporarily stop calling there following a February 21 incident in which an assailant was killed by a passenger.

Holland America Line offers 30 canal sailings in 2008 including new full-transit cruises though the Panama Canal, exotic new 13- to 26-day Inca Discovery sailings, and new spring and fall departures from Tampa to highlight its 2008 canal itineraries.

Silversea, the worlds leading ultra-luxury cruise line, has announced details of the itinerary and special activities planned for the six-star rated Silver Whisper’s presence at the 32nd America’s Cup regatta.

Aruba was a hit on the high seas in 2006 as the island exceeded expectations and welcomed an eye-opening 314 cruise ships with a total of 591,474 ocean-loving trippers. The notable seven-percent increase of cruise calls over 2005 represents a noteworthy 38,655 additional visitors.

The Walt Disney Company has announced plans to expand its cruise business by adding two new ocean liners. Scheduled to launch in 2011 and 2012, the ships will more than double the company’s passenger capacity.