Princess Cruises has quietly increased two key onboard fees, raising both its automatic service charge on purchases and the daily crew appreciation gratuities charged to passengers.
The changes took effect on 8th March 2026 and apply across the cruise line’s fleet.
The service charge added to many onboard purchases has risen from 18% to 20%, while the daily crew appreciation gratuity has also increased by $1 per person across all accommodation categories.
Together, the adjustments mean guests may notice slightly higher charges both for everyday onboard purchases and for the daily gratuity applied to their onboard account.
Service Charge On Drinks And Dining Now 20%
The updated service charge applies to a range of optional purchases including drinks, dining room orders, specialty restaurants, private group functions and other onboard products or services not included in the cruise fare.
According to the Princess Cruises website, the 20% fee is “automatically added to optional purchases of drinks, dining room and specialty dining, private group functions, and other elected products, services or amenities provided to guests that are not included in the cruise fare.”
The charge is limited to food and beverage related purchases and does not apply to retail items bought in onboard shops. It also remains unclear whether bottles of alcohol purchased onboard for collection at the end of a voyage are subject to the fee.
Passengers sailing recently have received onboard letters advising them of the change. The increase is being rolled out as ships complete their current voyages and begin new sailings, meaning the higher fee is not being applied mid-cruise for guests already at sea.
Travellers who have prepaid packages that include service charges will not be required to pay the difference following the increase.
“No additional amount will be added to your onboard account for the Crew Appreciation or for those Service Charges covered by such package,” the cruise line notes on its website.
Crew Appreciation Gratuities Also Increased
Alongside the service charge adjustment, Princess Cruises has also raised its daily crew appreciation gratuities for all stateroom categories.
From 8th March 2026, passengers staying in suites will now pay $20 per person, per day, up from the previous $19 rate.
Guests in Mini Suites, Cabanas and Club Class staterooms will now be charged $19 per person, per day, an increase from $18.
For all other stateroom categories, the daily gratuity has risen to $18 per person, per day, compared with the previous $17 charge.
Unlike the automatic service charge applied to purchases, crew appreciation gratuities can still be adjusted at a guest’s discretion through guest services onboard.
The fee increases come at the same time Princess Cruises has also raised the shipping cost for its Medallion wearable devices by $10 per address.
Part Of A Wider Trend Across Cruise Lines
Princess Cruises is not the only cruise line increasing onboard service fees. Its sister brand Carnival Cruise Line raised its own service charge from 18% to 20% in December 2025.
Both cruise lines are owned by Carnival Corporation & plc, which also operates several other brands in the global cruise market. Currently, Holland America Line continues to apply an 18% service charge on onboard purchases, while Cunard maintains a lower rate of 15%, though these figures can change at any time.
Elsewhere in the industry, cruise lines have introduced a variety of new or increased charges in recent months.
Norwegian Cruise Line has added a $45 per person fee for an exclusive show aboard the upcoming Norwegian Luna. Royal Caribbean has also begun charging $5 for a Coca-Cola Freestyle cup for guests with certain drink packages, although the cup remains included with the standard soda package.
While the percentage increase may appear small, the additional cost can quickly build across multiple drinks, meals and onboard purchases during a cruise holiday. Combined with gratuities and other optional extras, some travellers say the growing list of fees is making cruise costs less predictable.
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Explora Journeys celebrated triple milestones at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy today as three more luxury cruise ships moved to the next stage of construction.
Dry dock being flooded ahead of Explora IV’s float-out. Photo: Cruise Fever
It was a big day for Explora Journeys as their entire fleet of six ships is either in service or now under construction.
The day started with the first piece of steel being cut on Explora VI. Next up was the coin ceremony for Explora V where lucky coins were welded to the ship’s hull, a maritime tradition.
The big event for the day was the float-out of Explora IV. After a blessing and a bottle breaking across the hull, the dry dock began to get flooded so the ship can move to the final stage of construction, the outfitting.
This will open up the dry dock for Explora V and the blocks of the ship can begin to come together.
This is the third triple ceremony held by Explora Journeys in the last 18 months. The luxury cruise line currently has two ships in service and four under construction by Fincantieri in Genoa. Explora III will enter service this summer and is currently in the final stage of construction.
Each ship is an emblem of Italian shipbuilding, introducing design innovations and technological improvements that push the boundaries of excellence at sea while generating significant economic and employment benefits for the country.
Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, gave the following statement:
“For the first time, all six ships in our fleet are either in service or under construction — a defining moment as we bring the ‘Ocean State of Mind’ to life on an even greater scale.
“These ships realize the Aponte-Vago family’s vision of an experience where the ocean itself becomes the destination — inviting wellbeing, discovery and a deeper connection with the ocean. As our fleet grows, we are introducing more discerning guests to a new expression of luxury ocean travel — one that stands in a category of its own and challenges the idea that luxury must always be anchored to land, instead finding its home on the horizon.”
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Disney Cruise Line’s special offers this week now extend into mid-September 2026 — with 63 different sail dates available from a variety of departure ports, including Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Port Canaveral, San Diego, and Vancouver. Additional special offers are also available across the fleet for these sailings.
The Disney Wish remains the fleet leader with 26 sailings (down 6 from last week’s 32). The Disney Magic added 2 dates bring the total to 22 sailings. The Disney Wonder is now at 13 sailings (down 2 from last week’s 15). The Disney Treasure rebounded to 15 sailings (up 2 from last week’s 13). The Disney Fantasy held at 11 sailings. The Disney Dream declined to 4 sailings (down 3 from last week’s 7). This leaves the Wish slightly ahead at 26, followed by the Magic (23), then the Treasure (15), Wonder (13), Fantasy (11), and Dream (4) trailing.
The Florida Resident rate dropped 2 to 12 sailings, the US Military Personnel offer held at 31 sailings, and the Canadian Resident offer dropped 4 to 49 sailings. The special bonus US Military offer for $250 onboard credit, announced in November, for select sailings in 2026 remains available.
Finally, the extra savings for those with placeholder reservations where the standard 10% is applicable for some concierge levels on select sailings and a bump in the discount up to 25% off on select sailings remain active.
The special offers listed below are available to book today while inventory lasts.
Special Offers for U.S. Military Personnel
Special Rates for U.S. Military Personnel (MTO) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid for new bookings only.
Disney Dream
14-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ending in Barcelona Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • Cádiz, Spain • Málaga, Spain • Cartagena, Spain • At Sea
9-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Barcelona ending in Civitavecchia Barcelona, Spain • At Sea • Messina (Sicily), Italy • At Sea • Piraeus (Athens), Greece • Santorini, Greece • Mykonos, Greece • Chania, Greece • At Sea
9-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Civitavecchia Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy • At Sea • Chania, Greece • Mykonos, Greece • At Sea • Dubrovnik, Croatia • Corfu, Greece • Valletta, Malta • Valletta, Malta
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Special military rates are available to retired and active US military personnel (and their spouses), including US Coast Guard, US National Guard and US Military Reserves. Members of the US National Guard or the US Military Reserves (or their spouses) must show active-duty orders dated January 1st of the previous year to qualify. Third and fourth Guest prices valid with 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom. Rates may vary by sail date and category. Other restrictions may apply. Other categories and sail dates may be available. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Active and retired members (or spouse) of the US military must provide valid identification at time of check-in. Valid for new bookings only.
Special Offers for Florida Residents
Special Rates for Florida Residents (FLR) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Dream
14-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ending in Barcelona Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • Cádiz, Spain • Málaga, Spain • Cartagena, Spain • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
To take advantage of Florida residency cruise rates, proof of Florida Residency for at least one adult in each stateroom must be presented at time of check-in. Guests unable to show proper proof of Florida residency at check-in will have their cruise re-priced and the balance must be paid before being allowed to sail.
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
Florida Driver’s License
Florida Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following—dated within the past 2 months—verifying a Florida residential address and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates are also available to Guests ages 3 through 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Canadian Resident Rates
Special Rates for Canadian Residents with savings on prevailing rates as quoted on Disneycruise.com for non-concierge Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside Staterooms on select cruises. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Proof of residency is required an you must mention the special offer code CAN when booking. NOTE: Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested when calling in. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits.
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver ending in San Diego Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
The Canadian Resident rate excludes suites and categories with restrictions (VGT, OGT, and IGT). Proof of Canada residency will be required at time of check-in. Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses are not included. If booking through Disney Cruise Line’s Contact Center, you must mention code CAN. Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested by caller. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits. Offer valid for new and existing reservations.
Please note, the offers listed are not to be taken as official quotes. Prices and availability can change at any time without notice. More importantly, the deals listed above are a snapshot in time based on DCL’s online cruise search tool.
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to invite you to consider joining us on an upcoming DCL Blog Group Cruise! This summer, we are heading to Fort Lauderdale to sail to the Western Caribbean on the all new Disney Destiny. Click here to learn more out this group opportunity. We look forward to seeing you aboard.
Cruises are designed to be fun, relaxing vacations for the entire family—but accidents involving children can and do happen at sea. In this live stream, we’re joined by maritime attorney Tom Scolaro to discuss what parents need to know about injuries to children during a cruise.
Injuries to Children
From waterslides and pools to kids’ clubs and shore excursions, cruise ships offer countless activities for young travelers. But when something goes wrong, many parents are surprised to learn that cruise ship injury cases are very different from typical land-based accidents. Maritime law, cruise ticket contracts, and strict filing deadlines can all impact a family’s rights.
During this conversation, we’ll cover:
Unique Legal Issues for Minor Passengers ·
Staffing, Training, and Supervision Requirements
Lifeguards vs. “Swim at Your Own Risk” Policies
Sexual Assault and Rape Risks Onboard
The most common ways children are injured on cruise ships
Safety risks parents should watch for onboard
What to do immediately if a child is injured during a cruise
How cruise lines handle injury claims involving minors
Important legal deadlines most passengers don’t know about
Maritime law, cruise ticket contracts, and strict filing deadlines can all impact a family’s rights. Important legal deadlines most passengers don’t know about. Whether you’re planning your first family cruise or you’re a seasoned cruiser, this discussion will provide valuable insights to help keep your family safe at sea. Join us live and bring your questions as we break down an important topic every cruising parent should understand.
Set your clocks and tune in today at 1:00 PM ET — we’ll see you live! – Watch Live Stream. If you miss us live, please watch the recorded version at your convenience.
Guests planning to sail on Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Luna, may be surprised to discover that one of the vessel’s headline entertainment experiences carries an additional fee.
The cruise line’s new adults-only production, LunaTique: Pop Circus, is priced at $44.99 per person according to the Norwegian Cruise Line mobile app used by passengers to manage reservations and activities ahead of their sailing.
Entertainment is typically one of the major draws of cruise holidays, with most stage shows, comedy performances and live music included within the overall cruise fare.
However, LunaTique appears to break from that tradition by introducing a ticketed experience on the new ship.
Norwegian Cruise Line describes the show as “an interactive, character-driven experience where our vibrant troupe of circus performers take center stage.”
The pricing is not currently listed on the cruise line’s website but is visible within the NCL app, where guests can browse activities, book shows and preview dining options before their cruise.
One passenger scheduled to sail aboard Norwegian Luna in late May shared the fee online after spotting it in the app.
“I was really annoyed to see that LunaTique has a $45 fee!” the guest noted. “I don’t understand why the fee for LunaTique… I guess everyone’s sick of the family friendly entertainment and they feel it’s going to be popular?”
The exact price could potentially vary by sailing date, particularly as the cruise line gauges demand during the ship’s early voyages.
Adults-Only Show Includes Drinks
Unlike the main theatre productions typically included in the cruise fare, LunaTique: Pop Circus is designed specifically for adult audiences. Guests must be aged 21 or older to attend.
The show promises a more immersive style of entertainment compared with traditional cruise productions, combining circus-style performances with mature humour and themes.
The description in the NCL app reads:
“Vintage circus glamour collides with pop decadence in a bold, cheeky good time designed purely for grown-up fun. Expect big laughs, playful mischief, and just a little ‘Ooo la la!’”
The ticket price does include extras. Guests attending the show will receive four specialty cocktails as part of the experience, along with a souvenir glass to take home. Standard gratuities are also included in the fee.
Passengers who prefer non-alcoholic drinks can request mocktails instead, although the price remains the same regardless of beverage choice.
Guests who reserve the show but fail to attend could also face a penalty. Norwegian Cruise Line has implemented a $10 no-show charge if reservations are not cancelled at least two hours before the performance.
Other Entertainment Still Included
Despite the additional charge for LunaTique, the majority of entertainment aboard Norwegian Luna will remain included within the cruise fare.
Another production, “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder,” blends acrobatics with cutting-edge multimedia visuals and choreography to create a high-tech theatre experience.
Passengers will also find a variety of traditional cruise activities on board, including trivia competitions, lectures, demonstrations and themed parties such as the ship’s Norwegian Luna Eclipse Party.
New Ship Set To Begin Service
Norwegian Luna has recently been delivered ahead of her maiden voyage. The ship is scheduled to depart Civitavecchia (Rome) on 10th March for a 13-night transatlantic sailing to Miami.
After arriving in Florida, the ship will operate week-long Caribbean itineraries from Miami through March 2027.
Ports on those sailings include Costa Maya, Cozumel, Harvest Caye, Roatan, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas and Great Stirrup Cay.
As the fourth vessel in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Class, Norwegian Luna can accommodate 3,565 guests at double occupancy and carries a crew of around 1,600.
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While some shudder at the thought of even leaving the house without a phone full of apps for every whim and fancy, one cruiser decided to try taking a cruise without using the cruise line’s app.
Every major cruise line has an app. Who doesn’t nowadays? And it’s typically recommended that you download the app before the cruise.
The app will allow you to do everything from booking a reservation to seeing what’s happening all around the ship, on top of a hundred other things.
But in an age where technology and screens rule our every waking minute, some travelers prefer to truly get away from it all when on vacation. There’s a growing trend of desiring to set sail on a cruise without having to rely on a smartphone to have a good experience.
But is it possible? Can you even function on a ship without using the ship’s app? One cruiser decided to try it out.
They then shared expected and unexpected issues that came up on the 5-night sailing.
Health Questionnaire
For many, the app is needed even weeks before boarding with digital check-ins and health questionnaires.
One Redditor decided to bypass the phone entirely when sailing on a Royal Caribbean cruise on Enchantment of the Seas.
By using a desktop computer to check in and printing out physical luggage tags and boarding passes, they said the process was a “total non-issue” in the social media post.
Even the mandatory health questionnaire, which many assume is tied to the app, was a breeze.
“The questionnaire took maybe 10 seconds with our check-in attendant,” the cruiser noted.
Interestingly, they observed that even those who completed it on the app were often asked the same questions by staff anyway, making the app on this point somewhat redundant.
The Return of the Paper Compass
Many cruise lines have discontinued the use of those paper daily schedules and refer passengers to their app. But you can still request them from guest services.
This cruiser relied on the paper version of Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Compass to see what was going on.
The Reddit user said that the physical copy actually enhanced their vacation vibe.
“It became a cute little routine,” they shared. “We would pick up a paper copy at guest services while we grabbed coffee, go to breakfast together, and each use colored pens to star the activities we wanted to do.”
And apparently, this traveler was not alone in this thought. A few other comments to the post stated that they agreed that the paper version is often more useful.
Another traveler pointed out that when walking around the ship, they didn’t “have to worry about damage or loss like I would with a phone/wallet.”
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Reservations
When it came to managing daily things like dining and spending, the digital “requirement” proved to be more of a suggestion.
“We just visited the host stand if we needed to make a change or request something,” the cruise passenger explained, stating that they never encountered a problem with manual reservations.
Muster Drill
The user forgot to bring this up in the original post but responded to a question about it in the comments. For digital muster drills the crew member at your muster station just scans your phone and you’re pretty much good to go.
In this case, the Redditor said that they “chatted with the onboard person at our station and watched the briefing on the TV in the room. Pretty easy.”
Navigating a Few Issues
Of course, going low-tech isn’t without its “kerfuffles” as the passenger stated. The primary issue for this cruiser was internet access. While you don’t technically need the app to use the ship’s Wi-Fi, the initial setup can be tricky.
In this case, the cruiser relied on a friend’s app to access a pin code for the connection. So, this wasn’t entirely app-free from that standpoint.
When asked why the user even used the internet if they wanted to disconnect, they responded that the roommate purchased it and offered to add it to the other phone as a secondary device.
Why Bother?
Some comments pointed out a problem with the attempt to avoid use of the app.
One stated that ignoring the app is simply “making your life and vacation more difficult.” Others pointed out that the app is the first place to see real-time schedule changes or cancelations.
However, the app-free traveler explained that the goal wasn’t just convenience. It was really all about a mental break.
“In my normal life I use my smartphone a lot… I wanted to leave my phone in my room most of the time, have a more low-tech experience.”
So, Is the App Really Necessary?
The consensus from this 5-night experiment on Enchantment of the Seas?
Sure, you can absolutely function without the app, provided you’re willing do a few other things manually or in person.
While some users called the experiment “ridiculous,” others found it refreshing: “I haven’t sailed in many years and have been wondering how much I can get away with just leaving my phone in the room,” one user stated.
The choice to disconnect still exists. It just requires more work.
Bottom Line
The Reddit post racked up over 60 comments and there was quite a bit of pushback from regular cruisers who said the app was more about convenience and that it didn’t make sense to avoid it altogether.
One comment even stated, “Um… okay. Cool. I see you like making things hard on yourself for no reason. Not really something I’d brag about but you do you, boo.”
Cruise lines really are trying to make your vacation a better and more relaxing experience, and for some, the app is the only way to go.
But the cruiser pointed out a great thought in a comment that I wanted to reiterate here:
“For some people, that [cruising without the app] may be more stressful. That’s okay! Everyone vacations differently!”
That’s what I love about cruising the most. Everyone on board can have a unique experience and yet still have an amazing vacation.
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A cruise line is switching to a new pricing structure for U.S. cruisers that will take effect on March 9, 2026.
Scenic Group, owner of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises & Tours, is introducing a simplified four-tier fare structure that they say will bring transparency, flexibility and strategic value.
The four fare options will be Full Fare, Select Fare, Preferred Fare, and Preferred+ Fare. Here is a look at each of these fares that will start on March 9, 2026.
Full Fare
Full fare is designed for cruisers who value flexibility. This fare will also be available and includes stand brand inclusions and standard payment timelines.
Select Fare
The Select Fare incentivizes early planning and will be available up until 120 days prior to departure. It will include standard brand inclusions and up to a 15% savings on cruises. It will also have an adjusted payment timeline.
Preferred Fare
Like Select Fare, Preferred Fare will also only be available up until 120 days prior to departure. This fare emphasizes enhanced value and includes everything that Select Fare also but will many extras.
The extras include free or reduced airfare for river cruises, air credit to book air through Scenic Group for yacht sailings, and an accelerated payment timeline.
Preferred+ Fare
Scenic’s new Preferred+ Fare offers the greatest value out of all four tiers. It includes everything that the Preferred Fare offers plus an additional $500 in savings.
Full payment is due at booking and this non-refundable fare is available up until 120 days prior to departure.
The cruise line said that this updated U.S. pricing model allows them to simplify promotional messaging around extensions and add-ons and focus on value perception and generous inclusions.
Ken Muskat, President, Scenic Group USA & LATAM, gave the following statement:
“This pricing evolution reflects the next chapter of Scenic Group’s growth in the United States. We are strengthening clarity in our pricing while maintaining the generous inclusions and elevated experiences that define our brands.
“This structure gives our travel advisor partners greater confidence and provides our guests with transparent, flexible options tailored to their travel planning style.”
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Cruise lines are in the habit of pushing the boundaries of technology and bringing the latest and greatest to their ships. MSC Cruises is no exception and is doing a first in the cruise industry: bringing robot dogs onto ships.
MSC Cruises just introduced a fleet of AI-powered robot dogs and humanoid assistants as part of an entertainment unveil for 2026.
Right now, these four-legged robots are being tested on MSC Bellissima as it sails in Asia out of ports like Tokyo, Shanghai, and Keelung.
Developed by Unitree Robotics, the robots are designed to be part of the ship’s daily life. Instead of staying behind glass, they are out in public spaces, meeting guests and even performing in parades along the ship’s promenade.
One of the most popular parts of the program involves the youngest travelers. MSC is hosting interactive workshops for kids aged seven and up. In these sessions, children can actually learn the basics of how robotics and future tech work.
Passengers will also be able to catch the robot dogs showing off their moves on the dance floor during the “Doremix Family Disco.”
While the robots are currently only in Asia, the plan is to bring them to other ships in the fleet soon. MSC plans to expand the program to MSC Magnifica later this year, just in time for its 2026 World Cruise out of the Mediterranean.
MSC is really expanding their partnerships as they are also still working with LEGO for the LEGO Parades and launching new “digital-first” game shows.
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Norwegian Cruise Line has officially welcomed its newest ship, Norwegian Luna, into the fleet, with the vessel now preparing to begin service in the Caribbean later this month.
The 156,000 gross ton ship was handed over at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard near Venice, becoming the 21st vessel in the line’s fleet. Norwegian Luna is the second ship in the expanded Prima Plus Class, a larger evolution of the Prima Class concept first introduced earlier in the decade.
At 1,053 feet in length, the ship accommodates 3,565 guests at double occupancy across 1,809 staterooms. She’s around 10 per cent larger than her Prima Class predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, placing her among the largest ships currently sailing for the brand.
“We are proud to deliver Norwegian Luna, a ship that truly reflects our ability to interpret and anticipate the evolution of the global cruise industry,
“The Prima Plus Class sets a new benchmark for the industry, thanks to cutting-edge design solutions and a level of construction excellence showcased by our Marghera shipyard,”
Luigi Matarazzo, general manager Merchant Ships division, Fincantieri.
Around 3,000 workers were involved in the construction and outfitting of the ship, according to the Italian shipbuilder.
Marc Kazlauskas, president of NCL, said the company is ready to introduce the vessel to guests.
“As our newest ship, Norwegian Luna is a powerful reflection of NCL’s ‘It’s Different Out Here’ brand ethos. She delivers freedom, flexibility, and thoughtfully curated experiences, allowing guests to enjoy their vacation exactly how they want, with ease.
“We are thrilled to welcome Norwegian Luna to our fleet and to welcome our first guests aboard next week,”
The ceremony was attended by senior executives from both companies, including Biagio Mazzotta, chairman of Fincantieri, Patrik Dahlgren, executive vice president and chief vessel operations and newbuild officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., and Daniel S. Farkas, executive vice president and general counsel at NCLH.
Norwegian Luna’s captain, Robert Lundberg, formally took command of the vessel as she departed the yard.
Caribbean Deployment And US Debut
Following delivery, Norwegian Luna is scheduled to depart Civitavecchia on 10th March for a transatlantic crossing. She is due to arrive in Miami on 23rd March 2026, ahead of her official christening ceremony at PortMiami on 27th March 2026.
During her inaugural year, the ship will operate a combination of short Bahamas sailings and longer Caribbean cruises. Three and four night voyages to the Bahamas will be offered alongside seven night Caribbean itineraries.
Between 11th April and 7th November 2026, Norwegian Luna will focus on Eastern Caribbean cruises, with calls including Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island destination in the Bahamas.
Great Stirrup Cay is currently undergoing a series of enhancements, including the construction of a new pier, an expanded pool area and the addition of the Great Tides Waterpark, which is expected to open in summer 2026.
From November 2026, the ship will reposition to Western Caribbean routes, visiting Roatan in Honduras, Cozumel in Mexico and Harvest Caye, Norwegian’s private resort destination off the coast of Belize.
In April 2027, Norwegian Luna will begin seasonal sailings from New York City, offering four to seven night Bermuda cruises that include overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard.
On board, guests will find 17 dining venues and 18 bars and lounges, along with a range of attractions including the Aqua Slidecoaster, described as a hybrid rollercoaster style waterslide.
Further Fleet Expansion On The Horizon
Norwegian Luna follows Norwegian Aqua, which entered service in 2025 as the first ship in the Prima Plus Class. The delivery continues a long standing partnership between Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. and Fincantieri.
The two companies recently signed an agreement covering three additional next generation cruise ships, scheduled for delivery between 2030 and 2037. The order underlines NCLH’s long term fleet growth strategy as it looks to introduce larger, more feature rich vessels across its brands in the coming decade.
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Royal Caribbean was the big winner in this year’s 2026 Member Choice Awards by Cruiseline.com, the 11th year the awards have been recognized.
Utopia of the Seas. Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Cruiseline.com has the world’s largest database of verified cruise reviews. Since their parent company, World Travel Holdings, owns several of the largest online travel agencies, their reviews are by community members who they know have sailed on the ship they are reviewing.
Royal Caribbean was the big winner this year by being named the Best Mainstream Cruise Line, Best Cruise Line for Service, and the Best Cruise Line for Activities and Entertainment.
In addition, the top seven, and eight out of 10, Best Overall Cruise Ships were all from Royal Caribbean. They were:
Utopia of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Star of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas
Mariner of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
Icon of the Seas
Star of the Seas was named the Best New Cruise Ship of 2026 with Utopia of the Seas being named Best Cruise Ship for Food and Dining, Best Cruise Ship for Staterooms, and Best Cruise Ship for Service. Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, earned the title of Best Cruise Ship for Activities and Entertainment.
Recognition is based on reviews submitted to Cruiseline.com by community members who sailed and reviewed cruises between January and December 2025.
These honors provide valuable insights into the performance of cruise lines and ships, while also recognizing the contributions of community members who shared their reviews over the past year.
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas
Cruiseline.com’s verified reviews are genuine reviews by real people. They cover every aspect of the cruise from dining to ports to entertainment.
It is done through a partnership with major cruise agencies. Cruiseline.com then gathers the real reviews from actual cruisers who have sailed on the ships they are reviewing, and uses the data to determine the best cruise lines and ships of the year.
Jamie Cash, Chief Operating Officer of Cruiseline.com, gave the following statement about these awards:
“We congratulate all the cruise lines, ships, and ports recognized in the 2026 Cruiseline.com Member Choice Awards. These awards would not be possible without the support of our community members who took the time to share their cruise experiences and insights with us over the past year.
“A special congratulations to Royal Caribbean, Viking Ocean Cruises, Crystal, and AmaWaterways for their remarkable performance in this year’s rankings, as well as to the other top cruise lines, ships, and destinations for earning exceptional recognitions from our members.”
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