The Independence, a 57-year-old ocean liner purchased by Norwegian Cruise Line in April 2003 for a reported $4 million, left its berth in San Francisco on Feb. 8 and headed to a scrap yard in Asia.

Silversea Cruises is offering a collection of 13 Elegant Explorations for 2009, aimed at giving guests the opportunity to see the world at a “slower pace.”

Regent Seven Seas Cruises launched an online magazine called Voyages to Explore Online. The publication features articles, destination videos, slideshows, special offers and cruise information.

Silversea Cruises has created 13 new “Elegant Explorations,” which are extended voyages of 24 to 92 days in 2009. These voyages combine visits to must-see traditional ports with exotic destinations that are off the beaten path.

The Nickelodeon brand of kids’ entertainment has extended its growing influence in the travel industry to include family cruising.

MSC Cruises will be bringing two state-of-the-art ships - including its newest - to Fort Lauderdale for an exciting 2008-09 Caribbean season that features seven itineraries, 16 enchanting ports, the line’s first call in Bermuda and several special theme cruises. [MSC Orchestra]