A Royal Caribbean cruise passenger has questioned the integrity of onboard art and memorabilia auctions after discovering that a signed Muhammad Ali boxing glove delivered to his home was not the same item he believed he had purchased while at sea.
Credit: A Current Affair
The issue was highlighted by Australian television programme A Current Affair, which reported on a Brisbane man and his wife who attended an art auction during their cruise.
The couple successfully bid AUD $5,000, approximately USD $3,500, for a signed Muhammad Ali glove, only to later find that the glove shipped to them differed from the one displayed onboard.
According to the report, the glove was not listed during the auction preview but appeared unexpectedly during the live sale. The couple, recalling a similar item they had passed on during a previous cruise years earlier, decided to bid. They intended the glove as a gift for their son, a keen fan of the former heavyweight champion.
As with standard cruise ship auction procedures, the couple were not allowed to take the glove with them at the end of the voyage. They were told the item would be shipped to their home after being re-framed.
Auction Operator And Contract Terms
The auction was run by Park West Gallery, which describes itself as the world’s largest art dealer and operates onboard auctions across more than 90 cruise ships. These include vessels from Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Celebrity Cruises.
Park West Gallery states that its onboard auctions are “specially curated for each and every cruise” and offer “something for everyone”. Memorabilia items, including signed sports and film collectibles, are often among the most popular lots.
In this case, the couple were told they would receive the exact glove shown during the auction. However, Park West Gallery later explained that items displayed onboard ships are often “display pieces” only. Its purchase contracts allow for similar substitute items to be supplied if the original piece is unavailable.
Discovery Of Differences After Delivery
Concerns arose when the glove arrived at the family’s home around 10 weeks after the cruise. While their son was initially delighted, the family noticed several discrepancies when comparing the delivered glove to photographs taken onboard.
The differences included an extra ink dot, subtle variations in the signature and a completely different serial number. These details confirmed that the glove delivered was not the same one displayed during the auction.
“It was just lucky enough that we took photos of the glove prior to leaving the ship,” the guest said.
The family said they had been assured they would receive the exact item they bid on, and described the situation as an error made during the auction process. The experience led them to question whether bidders are fully aware that substitute items may be supplied.
“Who would bid on an auction if they knew that?” the guest commented.
Wider Scrutiny Of Cruise Ship Auctions
Celebrity memorabilia has long been an area vulnerable to forgery, and while Park West Gallery provides a Certificate of Authenticity with every purchase, independent verification would typically require specialist forensic analysis.
Following the complaint, the gallery offered to rectify the issue by ensuring the couple received the exact glove from their cruise ship. It is unclear whether that offer was accepted.
The case is not isolated. In May 2025, a family sailing onboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas believed they had won an auction with a $650 bid, only to later discover the final cost was $2,700.
Although Park West Gallery operates independently from the cruise lines themselves, its prominent presence onboard has led consumer advocates to urge passengers to exercise caution. For cruise guests tempted by the excitement of onboard auctions, the principle of caveat emptor remains particularly relevant.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Two cruise ships operating in different parts of the Atlantic and Caribbean have been involved in medical evacuations this week, after a crew member and a passenger separately required urgent…
Nine men were arrested at PortMiami on Sunday after law enforcement officers said narcotics were discovered in their luggage as they attempted to board a large-scale Atlantis Events cruise. The…
A routine call to a private island in the Bahamas briefly turned dramatic on Thursday, 5th February 2026, when MSC Seaside broke free from several of her mooring lines while…
Alaskan Dream Cruises has ceased operations and will not operate any future sailings, according to a notice published on the company’s website, bringing an abrupt end to the US’s only…
Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed widespread technology issues across its fleet, leading to embarkation and debarkation delays for three ships on Monday morning, 9th February 2026. The disruption affected operations at multiple homeports, with guests asked to adjust their terminal arrival times as systems remain offline.
The impacted vessels are Carnival Breeze, Carnival Glory and Carnival Freedom, each scheduled to depart on short Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. While the delays are currently limited to port operations, the cruise line has acknowledged that several onboard systems have also been affected.
Embarkation Delays And Revised Arrival Times
Guests booked on the affected sailings were contacted directly by Carnival Cruise Line via email, text message and phone call on Monday morning, advising them to arrive later than originally planned.
“We are managing a system-related matter that is impacting our debarkation and embarkation operations and your check-in time is being pushed back,” the notification stated.
“Please arrive two hours later than your pre-selected Terminal Arrival Appointment (for example, 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM appointment will become 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM).”
Despite the delays, all guests were still asked to be onboard by 4:30 pm to allow the ships to prepare for departure.
The three affected sailings are:
Carnival Breeze on a five-night Western Caribbean cruise from Galveston, visiting Cozumel and Progreso
Carnival Glory on a four-night Bahamas sailing from Port Canaveral to Nassau and Celebration Key
Carnival Freedom on a five-night Bahamas itinerary from Port Canaveral to Celebration Key, Nassau and Half Moon Cay
At this stage, there are no changes to ports of call. Carnival has advised guests to opt in to text alerts in case further updates are required.
The latest disruption follows similar issues on Carnival Liberty on Sunday, 8th February, when a system outage caused a two-hour embarkation delay in New Orleans.
Debarkation Slowed As Sail And Sign Cards Collected
The technology failure has also complicated debarkation procedures. With scanning systems unavailable, crew members have been required to conduct manual guest counts, significantly slowing the process of leaving the ship.
As part of this workaround, Sail and Sign cards are being collected from guests rather than scanned and returned. For some passengers, this has been a disappointment, as the cards are often kept as personal souvenirs showing details such as the ship name, sailing date, dining time and muster station.
Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, confirmed that the cards cannot be returned or reissued.
“I know many of you keep these as a souvenir,” Heald said. “I wish there was a way that we could give you those keys back, but we can’t. And we can’t reprint them for security reasons as well, so all I can do is hope that that won’t be the only memory you have of your cruise.”
Safety Systems Prioritised As IT Teams Work On Fix
Beyond embarkation challenges, the outage has raised broader concerns among guests after confirmation that critical systems were affected.
“It affected the navigation and safety systems,” Heald confirmed.
Carnival has stressed that resolving these safety and navigation issues is the top priority, with technology teams working to ensure all systems are fully functional before any ship departs its homeport.
Guests across the fleet have also reported ongoing problems with the Carnival Hub app, including frequent glitches and disconnections.
As a temporary alternative, paper copies of the daily Fun Times schedule are being distributed onboard. While this limits app-based features such as dining check-ins and messaging, it allows guests to stay informed about activities and entertainment.
Carnival has reiterated that, aside from the technology-related disruptions, most onboard experiences including dining, shows and activities are continuing as normal while repairs are completed.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
A Royal Caribbean cruise passenger has questioned the integrity of onboard art and memorabilia auctions after discovering that a signed Muhammad Ali boxing glove delivered to his home was not…
Two cruise ships operating in different parts of the Atlantic and Caribbean have been involved in medical evacuations this week, after a crew member and a passenger separately required urgent…
Nine men were arrested at PortMiami on Sunday after law enforcement officers said narcotics were discovered in their luggage as they attempted to board a large-scale Atlantis Events cruise. The…
A routine call to a private island in the Bahamas briefly turned dramatic on Thursday, 5th February 2026, when MSC Seaside broke free from several of her mooring lines while…
Disney Cruise Line’s special offers this week now extend into mid-September 2026 — with 79 different sail dates available from a variety of departure ports, including Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Honolulu, 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, dropping 3 dates to 38 sailing, while the Disney Treasure jumped to the second spot, adding 2 to 19 dates. Followed by the Disney Magic, which added 1 to 18 sailings, with the Disney Dream holding at 17 and the Disney Fantasy dropping 3 to 16 dates. Finally, the Disney Wonder added 1, bringing the total to 14 dates.
The Florida Resident rate is down 1 to 24 sail dates, the US Military Personnel offer dropped 3 to 34 cruises, and the Canadian Resident offer increased 27 to 64 sail dates. 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
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • 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 • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway 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 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
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 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
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
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
Disney Wonder
10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Honolulu ending in Vancouver Honolulu, Hawai’i • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i • Kahului (Maui), Hawai’i • Hilo, Hawai’i • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
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
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver ending in San Diego Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • 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
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • 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 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
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
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
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 Dream
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • 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 • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • 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 • 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
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • 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
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.
Update: Carnival Cruise Line sent the following update message to guests who are booked on the February 7, 2026 sailing on Carnival Sunshine:
“Carnival Sunshine 02/07/2026 (now departing 02/08/2026): Carnival Sunshine is expected to arrive in Norfolk tomorrow morning, Sunday, February 8. See your email for full details and revised embarkation plans.
“Follow your original Terminal Arrival Appointment for check in. You must be at the cruise terminal no later than 3:00 PM. We appreciate your patience and understanding. See you soon!”
Original Article: A Carnival cruise ship was unable to return to its homeport today due to the port being closed because of weather.
Carnival Sunshine was scheduled to arrive back in Norfolk, Virginia this morning after a six-night cruise to The Bahamas.
Due to weather, the port has been closed and the ship will not be able to return until tomorrow. The eight-night February 7, 2026 sailing will be shortened by one day.
Carnival Cruise Line is asking guests who are booked on today’s sailing to not arrive at the cruise terminal until they receive a revised embarkation timeline from the cruise line.
The latest Carnival Cruise Line update on the sailing is as follows:
“Due to unfavorable weather, the Port of Norfolk will be closed Saturday, February 7, and the ship will be delayed returning from the current voyage. We are now expecting to arrive Sunday, February 8, shortening your sailing.
“Please do not proceed to the cruise terminal until you have received our final operational update with revised embarkation timelines.
“We will be back in touch by 3:00 PM (ET), Saturday, February 7. Please see your email for more details. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”
Carnival Sunshine in Nassau, Bahamas
Guests who are on the cruise can sign up for text updates by texting CCL5 to 278473 (CRUISE). They should also receive email updates straight from Carnival.
Carnival said that they expect to provide the next update by 3:00 pm this afternoon.
The original eight-day February 7 sailing was scheduled to stop at Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk and Amber Cove, to go along with four sea days.
Cruise Fever will have all updates on today’s sailing on Carnival Sunshine when they are provided by Carnival Cruise Line.
Get the latest cruise news, tips, and deals sent straight to your inbox with our free newsletter: Sign Up Now
Choosing between sun-soaked sea days and the glow of late-night lounges often shapes how your cruise feels from start to finish. Life on the water is all about balance, knowing when to slow down in quiet corners of the ship and when to lean into the buzz of evening entertainment. The real art of cruising is learning how to pace yourself so every part of the day feels rewarding.
Whether you thrive under bright skies or come alive after dark, the shift from morning calm to nighttime energy is one of the most memorable parts of a cruise. As the hours pass, the ship subtly changes character, offering two distinct atmospheres that suit different moods.
From peaceful early moments spent watching the horizon to packed theaters filled with applause, your time at sea becomes a flexible experience shaped entirely by your choices.
Seize the Morning Light on Deck
Seeing the ocean stretch endlessly ahead in the early light is often the moment that reminds you why a cruise feels so special. At 8:00 AM, the ship feels refreshed. The air is cooler, the decks are spotless and everything seems unhurried.
Many guests drift toward the upper decks to claim a lounger near the wake, letting the rhythm of the water set the tone for the day. For those who prefer movement, the jogging track offers sweeping views that make exercise genuinely enjoyable.
Daytime cruising is about freedom. Within minutes, you can move from a lively poolside game to a quiet reading nook. Small activities, such as a casual trivia contest or a deckside challenge, often become unexpected highlights. Winning is secondary to the shared laughter and relaxed competition that naturally bring people together under the open sky.
Finding Your Rhythm Between the Waves
As the afternoon heat sets in, many guests shift to slower-paced activities. This is the ideal time to explore quieter spaces onboard.
You might settle into a corner of the atrium or enjoy a long coffee in a specialty café. While others take naps, some guests use onboard Wi-Fi to stay entertained. During these calm stretches, checking sports markets or enjoying a few games on Betway online can add a personal spark to an otherwise laid-back afternoon.
Having digital entertainment available means the fun does not stop when the poolside music fades. Platforms like Betway online offer a private moment of excitement that fits naturally between daytime relaxation and evening plans. It acts as a smooth transition, keeping you engaged without disrupting the easy pace of the afternoon.
With Betway online, you can stay connected to familiar games while still enjoying the serenity that only the open ocean provides.
The Transformation of the Evening Horizon
Once dinner approaches, the atmosphere shifts. Casual daytime wear gives way to polished outfits and the ship itself feels more refined.
Theater doors open to reveal impressive productions, from acrobatic performances to powerful vocal shows. Walking through the promenade in the evening feels like moving through a lively city district, where each venue offers its own sound and personality, from intimate piano bars to dance floors pulsing with energy.
The excitement is contagious. Even a simple stroll can turn into an event, starting with a cocktail and ending somewhere unexpected. Nightlife onboard is not only about scheduled shows.
It is also shaped by spontaneous moments, whether that means joining a dance in the lobby or sharing stories with crew members from around the world. These unplanned experiences often become the most memorable parts of the trip.
High Stakes and Neon Lights
For many guests, the casino becomes the focal point of the night. The mix of flashing lights, quiet concentration at card tables and the steady hum of slot machines creates an unmistakable energy.
Playing while the ship gently sways adds an extra layer of excitement, making every spin or deal feel more intense. It is a social space where the thrill of chance brings people together.
When the casino floor feels crowded, the experience need not end. Retreating to your balcony to log in to Betway online while watching moonlight ripple across the water offers a calmer yet equally engaging option. Whether you enjoy traditional tables or prefer the convenience of digital play, the cruise setting enhances both.
The ability to switch between environments ensures your evening stays perfectly matched to your mood.
Designing Your Perfect Day at Sea
The beauty of cruising lies in flexibility. You do not need to choose between being an early riser or a night owl. One day, you might dominate a morning deck game and still find yourself dancing well past midnight. With no fixed schedule, the shift from daytime calm to nighttime energy becomes part of the overall experience.
Morning Priorities: Secure a quiet spot in an adults-only area for uninterrupted relaxation. Join a galley tour to see how meals are prepared on a massive scale. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while watching the next destination approach.
Nighttime Essentials: Catch a late comedy show for something a little edgier. Visit the stargazing deck to enjoy clear views away from city lights. Finish the night with a slice from the always-open pizzeria.
However you choose to spend your time, the ship is designed to support every pace. From the thrill of placing a sports wager on Betway online to the calm satisfaction of watching the sun sink into the sea, each moment is yours to shape. Bring curiosity, energy and an open mind and the ocean will deliver unforgettable experiences from morning through midnight.
This marks the first time Carnival will homeport two ships from Baltimore, underscoring the cruise line’s continued commitment to the region. Beginning fall 2027, Carnival Miracle- Opens in new window will join her sister ship Carnival Pride- Opens in new window in Baltimore- Opens in new window to offer guests a greater variety of Caribbean itineraries- Opens in new window throughout the season. The Spirit-class ship will operate seven-, eight- and nine-day sailings to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean, along with extended 12- and 14-day Carnival Journeys voyages to sought-after destinations, such as Dominica, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten, and many others. Carnival Miracle will arrive in Baltimore on Nov. 20, 2027, following a 15-day transatlantic voyage from Civitavecchia, Italy.
“Baltimore has been an important homeport for Carnival for more than two decades, and we’re excited to continue building on our year-round operations with the addition of Carnival Miracle,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “By giving our guests more variety in itineraries and ships, we’re giving them more reasons to take a Carnival Cruise vacation.”
Carnival Miracle offers guests a wide range of onboard experiences including diverse dining options from Guy’s Burger Joint- Opens in new window to its popular Steakhouse, along with entertainment and amenities designed for longer, destination-rich cruises from WaterWorks fun and Playlist Production shows to Alchemy Bar and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
This comes on the heels of Carnival’s recent announcement that Carnival Pride will continue to offer year-round cruises from Baltimore. Guests can look forward to seven-day Bahamas sailings, seven-day Bermuda cruises and extended nine-, 12-, and 14-day Carnival Journeys voyages to destinations including Aruba, Curaçao, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Antigua, Tortola and Martinique. To view all sailings from Baltimore for the 2027/28 season, click here- Opens in new window.
Also beginning in fall 2027, Carnival Firenze will call Port Canaveral- Opens in new window home, offering a diverse mix of four-to-14-day Caribbean itineraries. Sailings will range from short Bahamas getaways featuring Celebration Key – Carnival’s exclusive destination on Grand Bahama – to longer voyages exploring the Eastern Caribbean and several Carnival Journeys sailings visiting many beautiful Southern Caribbean destinations.
In addition to the recently announced sailings from Miami through mid‑May 2027, Carnival Firenze’s 2027/28 deployment now includes a special 11‑day Carnival Journeys Southern Caribbean sailing departing from Miami on May 16, 2027, before the ship repositions to its new seasonal homeport in New York City- Opens in new window. This one‑time voyage will visit Celebration Key, Aruba; Curaçao; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
Carnival Firenze will then operate seasonal summer 2028 sailings from New York, giving Northeast guests convenient access to Caribbean vacations before the ship returns to Port Canaveral. To view all sailings aboard Carnival Firenze, click here- Opens in new window.
Carnival Cruise Line today announced a new wave of 2027/2028 sailings for Carnival Sunshine, introducing itineraries that include the cruise line’s first-ever visits to African ports, several new European destinations, the return of longtime guest favorites, and a special sailing positioned for optimal viewing of a rare solar eclipse.
From the end of May 2027 through Oct. 2027, Carnival Sunshine will operate a series of Mediterranean and North African cruises, offering a mix of week-long and longer sailings departing from Barcelona, Spain and Civitavecchia, Italy, designed to support back-to-back vacation opportunities. The program features calls across Italy, Spain, France, Turkey, Montenegro, Tunisia and Morocco.
The deployment includes Carnival’s first-ever visits to Africa, with calls in La Goulette (Tunis), Tunisia, and Tangier, Morocco, along with new European ports such as Bari, Italy; Bar, Montenegro; and Ajaccio (Corsica), France. In addition to new destinations, Carnival Sunshine will return to several ports not visited by the cruise line in many years, giving guests the chance to rediscover classic favorites such as Genoa, Salerno, Palermo and Catania in Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Izmir, Turkey.
A highlight of the season is a special solar eclipse cruise departing July 25, 2027, from Barcelona, Spain, positioning Carnival Sunshine along the path of maximum visibility for the celestial event on Aug. 2, 2027. The itinerary includes visits to Marseilles, France; Genoa, Salerno, and Catania, Italy; Valletta, Malta; and La Goulette, Tunisia, and will feature themed programming and onboard activities celebrating the eclipse. A similar experience will be offered aboard Carnival Miracle on an 11-day Carnival Journeys cruise departing Dover, England, on July 29, 2027. The ship will feature a dedicated day at sea on Aug. 2, 2027 for solar eclipse viewing and will visit Guernsey; Lisbon and Leixões, Portugal; La Coruña, Spain; Le Havre, France; and Zeebrugge, Belgium.
To support its upcoming Europe program, Carnival Sunshine will depart Norfolk, VA, on May 15, 2027, for a 15-day transatlantic sailing to Dover. Beginning May 30, 2027, the ship will sail from Dover to Barcelona, featuring calls across Western Europe. At the end of the season, Carnival Sunshine will depart Barcelona for Miami, giving guests a second opportunity to enjoy an extended ocean crossing with visits to Alicante and Malaga, Spain; and Tangier, Morocco.
In addition to these sailings, Carnival Sunshine will offer a diverse lineup of 15 Europe sailings throughout the season. The program includes one sailing from Dover, four departures from Civitavecchia (Rome), and ten sailings from Barcelona, showcasing marquee destinations across the Mediterranean and Western Europe.
Following its return to the United States, the ship will launch a new series of 10-day and 4-day cruises from Galveston, Texas, starting Nov. 17, 2027, joining Carnival Breeze, Carnival Horizon and Carnival Jubilee in the homeport.
“We’re excited to bring Carnival Sunshine to an expanded lineup of destinations that offer our guests even more ways to explore Europe and beyond,” said President Christine Duffy. “With our first-ever African ports, new European calls and once-in-a-lifetime eclipse sailing, this deployment delivers variety, adventure and memorable experiences our guests look forward to when sailing on Carnival.”
Guests can enjoy a range of dining and entertainment options aboard Carnival Sunshine, including casual favorites such as Guy’s Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina, as well as specialty restaurants like Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi. The ship also features a variety of family-fun entertainment and amenities from WaterWorks and SportSquare to Playlist Production shows and Cloud9 spa. To view all new sailings, click here.
For additional information on Carnival Cruise Line and to book a cruise vacation, call 1-800-CARNIVAL, visit www.carnival.com, or contact your favorite travel advisor or online travel site.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Croatia emerges as one of Europe’s most compelling destinations for romance-driven travel, unveiling a new wave of five-star hotels, refined spa experiences, and Michelin-starred dining designed for couples seeking privacy, beauty, and meaningful moments together. From secluded Adriatic islands to historic coastal towns and elegant inland retreats, Croatia’s luxury landscape is evolving to meet the desires of modern romantics.
Luxury Hideaways Made for Two
Croatia’s newest and upcoming luxury hotels are crafted for intimacy—where heritage, design, and location create a natural sense of escape:
Molum Hotel & Residences (Zadar, 5*) – A contemporary seaside retreat with direct access to the Adriatic, perfect for couples seeking privacy with effortless coastal living.
San Tomasini Heritage Hotel (Višnjan, 5*) – An intimate countryside hideaway in Istria, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, ideal for couples drawn to authenticity, quiet luxury, and a strong sense of place.
Wellness as an Intimate Experience
Wellness is central to Croatia’s romantic appeal, shaped by nature, calm, and a slower rhythm of life. Luxury hotels increasingly feature spa experiences designed for couples, including private treatment rooms, thermal circuits, and sea-view relaxation areas. In regions such as Kvarner, Zagorje and Međimurje centuries-old traditions of thermal and mineral waters elevate wellness into a shared ritual where soaking, restoring, and unwinding together becomes an essential part of the romantic journey.
Michelin-Starred Dining for Unforgettable Evenings
Source: CNTB Photo by Maja Danica Pecanic
Romance in Croatia often continues at the table, where fine dining is shaped as much by setting as by cuisine. In Šibenik, couples can dine at Pelegrini, set beside the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James. In the Kvarner region, Michelin-starred restaurants such as Nebo in Rijeka complement romantic stays with modern, ingredient-driven menus, allowing couples to enjoy exceptional cuisine without leaving the flow of their getaway.
A Year-Round Destination for Romance
Aligned with Croatia’s focus on sustainable, year-round tourism, these romantic experiences extend well beyond Valentine’s Day. Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and enhanced air connectivity make Croatia an increasingly attractive destination for couples seeking a refined European escape at any time of year.
Whether celebrating Valentine’s Day, a honeymoon, or a meaningful milestone, Croatia offers couples a setting where luxury feels personal, romance feels effortless, and every moment invites connection.
When Holland America Line’s Veendam II sailed from New York in February 1926, it charted a course that would help define Caribbean cruising, making the company among the first to offer regularly scheduled vacations to the region for guests seeking a warm-weather getaway. A century later, Holland America Line is commemorating 100 years of Caribbean cruising with a limited time promotion that includes a $100 onboard credit for a party of two.
From Feb. 3–9, 2026, guests can escape the cold by booking select Caribbean sailings departing now through April 30 to receive up to 50% off fares and a $50 per guest onboard credit with Free Fares for Kids (18 and under on select sailings). Travelers can enjoy a refreshingly free style of Caribbean cruising — no oversized ships, amusement parks at sea, or overcrowded beaches and decks. Instead, guests are able to unwind, enjoy quiet moments and truly savor time together while indulging in fresh, globally inspired cuisine and exploring ports at a comfortable pace — creating a more relaxed, spacious and genuinely rejuvenating way to experience the Caribbean.
“Our first Caribbean voyage in 1926 marked a defining moment for Holland America Line and for the evolution of modern cruise travel,” said Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line. “As we celebrate 100 years, we wanted to offer something both meaningful and memorable — $100 for 100 years, with added ways for guests to save. It’s our way of honoring the milestone while inviting travelers to experience what sets us apart in the Caribbean: perfectly sized ships designed for guests to relax and connect, a premium onboard experience and time ashore at our private island RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.”
Eligible departures include a variety of Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida, including:
A pioneer in the industry for more than 150 years, Holland America Line has a history of firsts in the Caribbean that continue to set the standard for cruise travel:
1926: First Caribbean (then “West Indies”) cruise by Veendam II.
1927: First calls at Willemstad, Curaçao and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
1938: First dedicated cruise call to Cristóbal/Colón, Panama.
1959: First calls at Aruba once larger docks were developed.
1964: First calls at St. Maarten as the island became a growing tourism destination.
1997: Opening of Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s award‑winning private island in the Bahamas, with Ryndam III making the first call.
Holland America Line’s maiden Caribbean cruise was a ground-breaking 26-day itinerary that departed New York Feb. 18, 1926, and visited Havana, Cuba; Kingston, Jamaica; Colon/Cristóbal, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Bermuda before returning to New York.
The cruise line’s Caribbean voyages were introduced during the North Atlantic off-season and quickly gained popularity throughout the 1920s and 1930s. As demand grew, the company expanded its Caribbean presence with multiple ships, including Veendam, Statendam and Volendam, bringing warm-weather cruising to more guests.
In the years leading up to World War II, the line’s flagship vessels, including Nieuw Amsterdam II, joined Caribbean itineraries, further strengthening Holland America Line’s leadership in the region. Following the war, winter Caribbean cruises resumed and expanded, ushering in a new era that reflected the evolving tastes of travelers.
By the 1970s, the rise of commercial air travel reshaped Caribbean cruising, allowing Florida — particularly Fort Lauderdale — to emerge as Holland America Line’s primary gateway to the region. One hundred years after its first Caribbean sailing, the company continues to build on this legacy, honoring more than a century of innovation.
This marks the first time Carnival will homeport two ships from Baltimore, underscoring the cruise line’s continued commitment to the region. Beginning fall 2027, Carnival Miracle- Opens in new window will join her sister ship Carnival Pride- Opens in new window in Baltimore- Opens in new window to offer guests a greater variety of Caribbean itineraries- Opens in new window throughout the season. The Spirit-class ship will operate seven-, eight- and nine-day sailings to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean, along with extended 12- and 14-day Carnival Journeys voyages to sought-after destinations, such as Dominica, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten, and many others. Carnival Miracle will arrive in Baltimore on Nov. 20, 2027, following a 15-day transatlantic voyage from Civitavecchia, Italy.
“Baltimore has been an important homeport for Carnival for more than two decades, and we’re excited to continue building on our year-round operations with the addition of Carnival Miracle,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line. “By giving our guests more variety in itineraries and ships, we’re giving them more reasons to take a Carnival Cruise vacation.”
Carnival Miracle offers guests a wide range of onboard experiences including diverse dining options from Guy’s Burger Joint- Opens in new window to its popular Steakhouse, along with entertainment and amenities designed for longer, destination-rich cruises from WaterWorks fun and Playlist Production shows to Alchemy Bar and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
This comes on the heels of Carnival’s recent announcement that Carnival Pride will continue to offer year-round cruises from Baltimore. Guests can look forward to seven-day Bahamas sailings, seven-day Bermuda cruises and extended nine-, 12-, and 14-day Carnival Journeys voyages to destinations including Aruba, Curaçao, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Antigua, Tortola and Martinique. To view all sailings from Baltimore for the 2027/28 season, click here- Opens in new window.
Also beginning in fall 2027, Carnival Firenze will call Port Canaveral- Opens in new window home, offering a diverse mix of four-to-14-day Caribbean itineraries. Sailings will range from short Bahamas getaways featuring Celebration Key – Carnival’s exclusive destination on Grand Bahama – to longer voyages exploring the Eastern Caribbean and several Carnival Journeys sailings visiting many beautiful Southern Caribbean destinations.
In addition to the recently announced sailings from Miami through mid‑May 2027, Carnival Firenze’s 2027/28 deployment now includes a special 11‑day Carnival Journeys Southern Caribbean sailing departing from Miami on May 16, 2027, before the ship repositions to its new seasonal homeport in New York City- Opens in new window. This one‑time voyage will visit Celebration Key, Aruba; Curaçao; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.
Carnival Firenze will then operate seasonal summer 2028 sailings from New York, giving Northeast guests convenient access to Caribbean vacations before the ship returns to Port Canaveral. To view all sailings aboard Carnival Firenze, click here- Opens in new window.
