Sailing & Heritage: Richmond SailFest brought three tall ships up the James River, including the Oosterschelde—now a restored passenger vessel that recently completed the Darwin200 expedition—adding a big, living-history moment for maritime fans. Cruise Disruptions: Holland America’s Zaandam finally departed Vancouver after urgent propulsion repairs, forcing a revised Alaska itinerary that cut most original ports and kept only Skagway on the last day. Public Health & Emergency Response: The US approved $750,000 to charter a private yacht to evacuate one American from Pitcairn Island after a hantavirus outbreak linked to the Dutch MV Hondius, highlighting strain on emergency funding. Tahiti Sailing Spotlight: Samoan Olympian Vaimo’oi’a Ripley returned to Tahiti and won top female honours at the 2026 Oceania Championships, with the Yacht Club de Tahiti hosting races in Baie de Matavai. Bora Bora Hospitality: Bloody Mary’s is expanding into a new Bloody Mary’s Hotel opening in September, adding lagoon dining and a Tiki Tide Bar while keeping the legendary restaurant at the core. South Pacific Travel Plans: Norwegian Cruise Line extended South Pacific sailings on Norwegian Spirit through 2027, including selected June and September 2027 cruises from Papeete with calls at Raiatea, Moorea, and Rarotonga. Arts & Film: Doc Edge Festival 2026 announced award finalists and international guests, with 87 films and immersive projects across Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and a Doc Edge Virtual Cinema run. Sustainable Luxury: Vripack’s Project Zero, a 230-foot all-electric superyacht nearing launch, aims for renewable-powered autonomy at sea using wind, solar, thermal energy, and hydrogeneration.