Cruise Rebrand: Ambassador Cruise Line’s French partner Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) is now rebranded as Ambassador Croisières after a merger, keeping its “distinctly French” onboard experience while continuing winter Caribbean fly-cruises from Guadeloupe for the international market. Regional Diplomacy & Travel Links: PM Browne and the new French ambassador discussed climate action, visa-free travel concerns, and deeper cooperation across the Caribbean, including closer ties with Guadeloupe and Martinique in transport, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. EU Outer Regions Strategy: The European Commission adopted a new strategy for EU outermost regions including Guadeloupe, aiming to adapt rules to local realities and boost resilience, support, and fairer opportunities. More Southern Caribbean Cruising: Cruise lines are expanding itineraries across 2026–2027, making Southern Caribbean “bucket list” ports like Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao easier to reach without long repositioning sailings. Sargassum Update: Seaweed “superbloom” conditions are again hitting Caribbean coasts, smothering marine life and disrupting tourism and fishing—an ongoing concern for island visitors and operators. Caribbean Ship Season: Explora Journeys announced its 2026–27 Caribbean season across two ships, with stops including Guadeloupe and other Eastern Caribbean highlights from late 2026 into early 2027.