Startup Stage: Opally targets hotel communication overload with AI receptionist platform
The startup’s AI platform manages hotel guest inquiries across channels, aiming to reduce repetitive communication work for front-desk staff.
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Galveston’s Newest Cruise Terminal Earns LEED Silver Certification
Galveston’s 165,000-square-foot Cruise Terminal 16 has earned **LEED Silver certification**, recognizing its environmentally sustainable design, construction, and operations. Opened in 2025 and homeporting MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, the terminal advances the Port of Galveston’s broader Green Marine and LEED commitments alongside the more advanced certifications already held by Cruise Terminal 10.
Celebrity Upgrading Reflection with 13 New Venues
Celebrity Cruises is giving the 2012-built Celebrity Reflection a major modernization in dry dock ahead of her March 2027 Caribbean season, adding 13 new venues and extensive upgrades to outdoor spaces, dining, bars, and entertainment. The refit brings Solstice-class hardware closer to the Edge-class experience, with new specialty restaurants, reimagined nightlife, refreshed accommodations, and expanded top-deck amenities aimed at multi-generational guests.
Concordia Damen to Build Two Methanol-Ready Ships for TUI River Cruises
TUI River Cruises has ordered two CDS River Cruise 135 vessels from Dutch shipyard Concordia Damen, each with 94 cabins for 188 guests and delivery scheduled in 2028. The methanol-ready ships are designed specifically for the UK market and will operate across key European waterways, supporting TUI’s planned fleet growth from six to ten vessels by 2028.