What's Hot for 2026

As eclipse-chasing and cool-cation destinations remain top of mind, and American travelers demand shorter journeys, Scott Dunn’s portfolio sees a boom in new cruise itineraries. August 2026 will mark the launch of Quark Expedition’s Iceland to Greenland Total Solar Eclipse and in 2027, Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot luxury icebreaker embarks on a 12-night expedition to the Geographic North Pole. In total contrast for travelers with more time on their hands, Seabourn launches its first-ever Pole to Pole Grand Voyage in 2027, taking guests on an epic 94-day, once-in-a-lifetime excursion.

As Scott Dunn deepens its commitment to thoughtful travel initiatives, new impact-driven experiences in Hawaii are designed to connect travelers with the native culture and directly support community initiatives. On the Big Island, proceeds from private cultural cooking experiences fund Men of PA‘A, an organization creating cultural tourism employment opportunities, while Kauai’s island-to-table dining preserves native Polynesian agricultural techniques. Oahu visitors setting sail will support local schoolchildren learning their rich island heritage, and on Maui, visitors can volunteer on a community farm feeding Lahaina fire victims before dining on a chef-prepared meal.

Scott Dunn guests are discovering Germany beyond the typical tourist trail, with three new curated itineraries launching before year-end that showcase the country's remarkable diversity. Offering behind-the-scenes access to factories of iconic German car brands like Porsche and BMW paired with fairytale castle tours and in-depth World War II historical journeys, these itineraries reveal the country’s compelling contrasts, from high-performance engineering to medieval romance. Other highlights include private access to Neuschwanstein Castle, thrilling drives through the Black Forest and Bavarian Alps, and expert-led tours of Berlin's memorial landscape.

Italy’s allure continues to endure as a place you can return to time and again, always discovering something new with each visit. In 2026, the country’s ancient cities and mountain villages are set to benefit from huge luxury hospitality investment with a whole host of exciting new hotel openings to come. Not forgetting the 2026 Cortina-Milano Winter Olympics taking place in February which will shine a spotlight on the beautiful Dolomites for ski fanatics and alpine hikers.

In response to the ever-extending summer season in Europe, United Airlines’ newly-launched seasonal direct service between Newark and Palma de Mallorca has added a full month until October 24th and increased frequency from three to four flights per week. Earlier this year, Delta and United Airlines launched new direct routes from New York to Catania and Palermo, meeting the continued demand for Sicily. Delta continues to expand its routes in 2026 with new nonstop flights from JFK to Malta, as well as Olbia and Cagliari in Sardinia, keeping the European islands booming for American travelers.

Taking advantage of Emirates’ recent increase in flights from Dubai via the Seychelles, Madagascar is becoming more accessible than ever for luxury travelers. With a rising interest from guests in conservation-focused experiences, Scott Dunn will be connecting travelers to local biodiversity and nature conservation efforts on the island such as Time + Tide Foundation.

Beyond the iconic palaces and colorful cities of Rajasthan, there is so much more of India to be explored. The newly opened and impeccably restored Oberoi Rajgarh Palace in Madhya Pradesh pairs heritage and wildlife experiences for those seeking uncrowded tiger safaris in Panna National Park and visits to the UNESCO-listed Khajuraho temples. For the most intrepid travelers, an exclusive new expedition will be launching in 2026 along the India-Nepal border, tracking rare red pandas and tigers.