Queen Mary 2, the only ocean liner in the world, passed through the new locks of the Panama Canal for the first time this weekend.
Queen Mary 2 completed her transit through the new locks of the Panama Canal for the first time this weekend.
Queen Mary 2 is currently its 2026 World Voyage, a 108-night cruise around the world.
Guests traveling aboard the 108-night cruise were treated to a rare moment as the ship began her historic passage through the canal’s new set of locks on Saturday, January 24.
Following an overnight stay at the Cocoli Mooring Station, Queen Mary 2 continued her transit and passed under the remarkable Bridge of Americas on Sunday, January 25.
After an overnight stay in Manzanillo, Mexico, the ship will head Los Angeles where it will arrive on February 2. It will be the first time in 17 years that Queen Mary 2 has visited Southern California.
The ship will also celebrate a reunion with her legendary namesake, The Queen Mary, for the first time in 20 years. The Queen Mary now serves as a hotel in Long Beach, California.
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, gave the following statement:
“As the world’s only ocean liner, Queen Mary 2’s maiden transit through the Panama Canal marks another extraordinary milestone for Cunard.
“Our world-famous voyages truly deliver enriching, meaningful and unique experiences for our guests, and the transit through the Panama Canal forms an iconic element of this magnificent Queen’s 108-night World Voyage, where guests will also visit memorable destinations like Los Angeles, Sydney, Cape Town, Hong Kong and Singapore, before returning to Southampton.”
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Norwegian Cruise Line has made an important change for cruise passengers who book flights through them for their upcoming cruise.
Starting today, everyone who books a flight through Norwegian Cruise Line will have to fly in a day before their embarkation date. The cruise line stated that the reason for this change was due to guests missing the cruise due to flight delays and cancellations.
While cruisers will be required to fly in a day early, they will be responsible for their own hotel costs. This change only applies to guests who book their airfare through NCL and not on their own.
The cruise line sent out the following message regarding this change:
“Beginning today, January 26, 2026, all guests booking air travel through all NCL Air programs will be required to arrive at their embarkation port at least one day prior to sailing. This enhancement applies to all new air-inclusive reservations made on or after January 26, 2026, as well as existing reservations that are repriced on or after January 26, 2026.
“We know that flight delays (particularly day-of-sailing arrivals) have, in some cases, resulted in guests missing embarkation for their cruise and having to downline to embark at a later port of call. This update reflects our shared goal of protecting your vacations by allowing more time for unexpected travel disruptions such as flight delays or weather interruptions, ensuring a smoother, more relaxed start to your cruise journey.
“Important Note: To help set clear expectations, please note that as air booked through NCL will arrive one day prior to sailing, guests will be responsible for their own pre-cruise hotel accommodations.
As a reminder, guests may choose to book their pre-cruise hotel through NCL’s Hotel or Hotel Plus programs, launched this past September, offering a convenient option for securing accommodations.”
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A luxury expedition cruise ship operating in Antarctica required assistance from a United States Coast Guard icebreaker after becoming slowed by dense pack ice in the Ross Sea earlier this month.
Scenic Eclipse II encountered challenging ice conditions while sailing around eight nautical miles from the McMurdo area.
With progress significantly reduced by the thickness of the surrounding ice, the ship’s captain requested support from the US Coast Guard heavy icebreaker Polar Star to help clear a navigable path.
Footage from the operation shows Polar Star pushing deep into the ice field, repeatedly manoeuvring around the expedition vessel to fracture and loosen the surrounding ice.
The icebreaker carried out multiple close approaches and tight circular movements, gradually creating enough space for Scenic Eclipse II to regain mobility.
After successfully freeing the ship, Polar Star escorted it for approximately four nautical miles until it reached open water, where it was able to continue its voyage without further difficulty.
Coordinated Assistance, Not An Emergency
Scenic Group later addressed the incident in a statement, stressing that the situation was not a rescue and that the ship was never in distress.
According to the company, on 17th January 2026 changing pack ice conditions in the Ross Sea slowed the vessel’s progress.
The decision was made to request assistance from Polar Star to work together in clearing the area and to avoid an extended period of slow navigation through heavy ice.
Scenic said that by the following day the natural movement of the ice had eased conditions and normal sailing resumed.
Captain James Griffiths, General Manager of Ocean Operations for Scenic Group, said Scenic Eclipse II “was never in need of rescue services” and commended the professionalism of the Polar Star crew.
He described the operation as a clear example of how polar navigation depends on cooperation, experience, and shared responsibility between vessels operating in extreme environments.
Scenic also noted that many guests viewed the operation as a memorable experience, with champagne served on the Observation Deck as passengers watched the two ships working together amid the Antarctic ice.
Polar Star is the most powerful icebreaker in the US Coast Guard fleet and routinely operates in Antarctic waters as part of Operation Deep Freeze, a long-running mission that supports scientific research and logistics on the continent.
While the cruise line framed the event as a precautionary measure, the imagery from the scene highlighted the realities of polar cruising.
Scenic Eclipse II was unable to break free on its own, and the presence of a purpose-built icebreaker was essential to clearing a safe route.
In Antarctica, conditions can change rapidly.
Ice shifts quickly, plans adapt just as fast, and when navigation tightens, assistance from specialised vessels is often a necessary part of operating safely in one of the world’s most demanding maritime regions.
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This week’s special offers from Disney Cruise Line include sail dates from this week into June 2026. There are 65 different sail dates, available with special offers available across the fleet for sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Honolulu, Port Canaveral, San Diego, Sydney, and Vancouver.
Although dropping 3 dates, the Disney Wish is the remains the fleet leader with 35 sailings, the Disney Dream is down 10 to 22 while the Fantasy is down 2 to 17, the Disney Magic dropped 1 to 16 followed closely by the Disney Treasure which dropped 2 to 13 dates while the Disney Wonder added 1 bringing the total to 11 dates.
The Florida Resident rate is down 4 to 29 sail dates, the US Military Personnel offer increased 1 to 45 cruises, and the Canadian Resident offer dropped 14 to 40 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 remains 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 • At Sea • Castaway Cay
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 • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • 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
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 • Castaway Cay • Lookout 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
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
15-Night South Pacific Cruise from Sydney ending in Honolulu Sydney, Australia • At Sea • At Sea • Nouméa, New Caledonia • At Sea • Suva, Fiji • International Date Line (Repeat Day) • Pago Pago, American Samoa • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
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 • At Sea • Castaway Cay
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 • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • 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
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 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
Disney Treasure
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 • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
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
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.
Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas has been forced to slow its return to Sydney following a technical issue, resulting in a significant delay to debarkation and the cancellation of the ship’s subsequent sailing.
The Quantum-class cruise ship departed on 19th January 2026 for a South Pacific itinerary calling at destinations in New Caledonia and Vanuatu.
The voyage was originally scheduled to conclude with a morning arrival into Sydney on Tuesday, 27th January, but the ship is now expected to arrive at approximately 4 pm that afternoon.
Delayed Arrival And Guest Support Measures
Satellite tracking data shows Anthem of the Seas travelling at around 14 knots, well below its normal maximum speed of 22 knots. The reduced speed has been attributed to an unspecified technical problem, which has directly impacted the vessel’s ability to maintain its planned schedule.
Guests onboard were informed of the situation via a letter from the ship’s captain, which stated: “As previously announced by our Captain, we experienced a technical issue that has impacted our speed. As a result, our arrival into Sydney will be delayed and we’ll now arrive at approximately 4:00 PM on the 27th.”
With the original arrival time set for no later than 6:30 am, the delay is expected to disrupt onward travel plans for many of the more than 4,000 guests onboard.
In response, Royal Caribbean has implemented several measures to assist passengers, including free phone calls from Guest Services and a complimentary 120-minute internet voucher per stateroom for those without an existing internet package.
All drink and internet packages have also been automatically extended until debarkation at no additional cost. Once the ship arrives and clearance is granted, guests have been advised to follow their assigned departure groups and keep travel documents readily available to support an efficient disembarkation process.
Guests who booked flights through Royal Caribbean will have their air arrangements automatically adjusted, with confirmation emails sent once changes are finalised. Those who arranged flights independently have been advised not to rebook flights before 8:00 pm on 27th January.
The cruise line is offering reimbursement for flight change fees of up to $200 per person for domestic flights and up to $400 per person for international flights. If an overnight stay is required, up to $250 per stateroom is available for one hotel night. Receipts must be submitted to Royal Caribbean’s Guest Relations team for consideration.
Next Sailing Cancelled As Ship Returns For Repairs
Royal Caribbean has also confirmed that Anthem of the Seas’ next cruise, a 10-night New Zealand itinerary scheduled to depart on 27th January, has been completely cancelled due to the ongoing technical issue.
In a notification sent to affected guests, the cruise line said: “Anthem of the Seas experienced a technical issue on its last sailing, and we’re returning to begin required maintenance. Unfortunately, we will not be able to complete the needed repairs in time for our 27 January sailing. As a result, we are canceling our Anthem of the Seas cruise.”
All guests booked on the cancelled voyage will receive a full refund covering cruise fare, taxes, fees, prepaid packages, gratuities, and shore excursions purchased through Royal Caribbean. Refunds will be returned to the original form of payment within 14 business days, subject to individual banking processes.
In addition, passengers will receive a 25% future cruise credit, valid on a Royal Caribbean sailing departing within the next 12 months. These credits are expected to be available by 9th February 2026.
Further compensation includes reimbursement of up to $200 for domestic flight changes, $400 for international flight changes, up to $250 for two nights of hotel accommodation, and $100 per person, per day for incidental expenses. Receipts must be emailed to the cruise line for review.
While the exact nature of the technical issue has not been disclosed, it is believed to be related to the ship’s propulsion system.
Anthem of the Seas operates using diesel-electric Azipod engines, and any failure within this system would significantly limit speed and range, making longer itineraries such as voyages to New Zealand unworkable without full repairs. At this stage, it remains unclear whether the ship will require dry dock to complete the necessary maintenance.
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The Port of Los Angeles has taken a major step towards expanding its cruise infrastructure, confirming plans to develop a new, purpose-built cruise terminal as passenger demand continues to rise and the city prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics.
The project will see the port’s Outer Harbor transformed into a modern cruise complex designed to accommodate the world’s largest ships, while also supporting long-term sustainability and economic growth for the region.
The development will be delivered by Pacific Cruise Terminals, a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, which will also operate the facility once it opens.
“Carrix is one of North America’s leading cruise terminal operators with a great track record developing large-scale infrastructure projects,” said Gene Seroka, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director.
Although no completion date has yet been confirmed, the facility will be known as the Harbor Cruise Terminal and Park once operational. The port first signalled its intention to modernise and expand its cruise infrastructure in the summer of 2024, when it issued a formal request for proposals.
Growth Drives Need For Expansion
Cruise activity at the Los Angeles waterfront has surged in recent years. In 2024, the San Pedro-based port recorded its busiest cruise year on record, with the World Cruise Center handling 1.6 million passengers across 241 ship calls. That volume translated into an estimated $1.3 million in economic benefit for the local area.
Major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line have all maintained a strong presence at the port, and further growth is expected as newer, larger vessels enter service on the West Coast.
Port officials believe the expanded infrastructure will not only allow Los Angeles to welcome more ships, but will also enhance the waterfront experience for residents and visitors while delivering a stronger economic return for the surrounding community.
What The New Harbor Cruise Terminal Will Deliver
Plans for the Harbor Cruise Terminal and Park show a distinctive circular terminal building, with cruise berths on either side capable of handling the largest ships currently in service. At the heart of the structure will be an open-air green space, designed as a public park with stepped seating overlooking the harbour.
Sustainability is a central element of the design. The new terminal will feature shore power capabilities, allowing ships to connect to the local electricity grid while alongside, significantly reducing emissions compared with running onboard engines.
“It will be an investment in our workforce, sustainability, resilience and innovation – keeping us ready for the opportunities of tomorrow,” Seroka said.
The environmental focus builds on recent progress at the port, which has reported record-low emissions on a per-TEU basis. Port authorities have indicated that further reductions are planned as part of wider modernisation efforts.
World Cruise Center Also Set For Redevelopment
Alongside the new Outer Harbor terminal, Pacific Cruise Terminals will also oversee a redevelopment of the existing World Cruise Center. The facility has been in operation since 1988 and currently consists of two terminal buildings, two cruise berths and a shared baggage handling structure used by multiple cruise lines.
“This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations,” Seroka said.
While detailed plans for the World Cruise Center upgrade have not yet been released, the dual investment signals a long-term commitment to positioning Los Angeles at the forefront of the US cruise industry as demand continues to accelerate.
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Winter Storm Fern is continuing to cause significant disruption to cruise operations across large parts of the continental United States, with multiple cruise lines adjusting itineraries, arrival times and embarkation schedules in response to hazardous winter weather conditions.
As the powerful storm moves through the central, midwestern and eastern US, bringing snow, ice, freezing rain and dangerously low temperatures, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line have confirmed changes affecting several ships and homeports.
Harmony Of The Seas Returns Early To Galveston
Royal Caribbean has taken proactive action by bringing Harmony of the Seas back to Galveston one day earlier than scheduled, cutting short her current 7-night Western Caribbean sailing.
The Oasis-class ship, which departed on 18th January, will now arrive in Galveston at approximately 11 am on Saturday, 24th January, instead of Sunday, 25th January.
Guests onboard were notified of the change via letter, which explained the decision was made to reduce the risk of disruption to onward travel due to winter weather.
“In order to give you the best chance at a safe and uninterrupted journey home by avoiding the winter weather impacts to local infrastructure and transportation, we have decided to arrive in Galveston one (1) day earlier than originally scheduled,” the letter stated.
According to the National Weather Service, the Galveston area faces rain, thunderstorms and the possibility of freezing rain, while much of Texas is under threat of mixed precipitation, extreme cold and wind chills below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Of particular concern is the risk of ice forming on bridges linking Port of Galveston to the mainland, which could strand travellers if conditions worsen.
As a result of the early return, Harmony of the Seas has cancelled her final planned port call to Cozumel, Mexico, which was scheduled for Friday, 23rd January. The ship sailed back to Texas at top speed to stay ahead of the storm.
Guests are permitted to disembark on Saturday once the ship is cleared by authorities, but those unable or unwilling to travel can remain onboard until the original Sunday debarkation. Guests choosing to stay must notify their stateroom attendant or Guest Services by noon on Friday.
While staying onboard, guests will need to briefly debark with their travel documents on Saturday before reboarding, similar to a back-to-back sailing process. Retail shops and the casino will remain closed while the ship is docked.
Royal Caribbean is offering compensation to all guests in the form of a one-day pro-rated refund of the cruise fare, issued as onboard credit and refunded to the card on file if unused. All shore excursions booked through the cruise line for Cozumel are being automatically refunded. Importantly, guests will still receive full loyalty points for the original 7-night sailing, regardless of when they disembark.
Local parking operators near the port, including EZ Cruise Parking and Lighthouse Cruise Parking, have confirmed they are prepared for the ship’s early arrival and will operate shuttle services accordingly. Because guests can remain onboard until Sunday, Harmony of the Seas’ next sailing is not expected to be impacted.
Carnival Pride Delayed As Baltimore Faces Severe Conditions
While Royal Caribbean has moved ships ahead of the storm, Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed delays at other homeports, most notably in Baltimore.
Carnival Pride will be unable to return to Baltimore as scheduled on Sunday, 25th January, and is now expected to dock around midday on Monday, 26th January. As a result, the ship’s next sailing has been shortened by one day.
“The Port of Baltimore has advised that we should not expect to dock Sunday (January 25), which will impact the itinerary for your upcoming cruise,” Carnival informed guests. “We are now making plans to dock around noon time, Monday, January 26, forcing a shortening of your cruise by one day.”
The National Weather Service has placed Baltimore under a winter storm warning from 10 am on Saturday, 24th January through 4 am on Monday, 26th January. Forecasts include 7 to 14 inches of snow and sleet, ice accumulation, power outages and travel conditions described as potentially “nearly impossible”.
Because of the shortened sailing, Carnival Pride will no longer be able to visit Bimini on her upcoming Bahamas itinerary. Calls at Celebration Key and Princess Cays are still expected to go ahead, though port times may be adjusted depending on how quickly the ship can dock, debark returning guests and begin embarkation.
Embarkation is currently anticipated to begin around 4 pm on Monday, 26th January, but Carnival has advised guests not to proceed to the terminal until final confirmation is provided. Further updates were promised no later than 3 pm on Sunday, 25th January.
Guests on the affected sailing will receive a one-day pro-rated refund of their cruise fare to the original form of payment. Carnival is also refunding pre-paid packages, including drinks packages, wi-fi and gratuities, with those refunds issued as onboard credit. At this stage, the cruise line has not confirmed whether additional assistance will be offered for altered travel arrangements or hotel stays.
Other Ships Monitoring Storm But Still Sailing
Carnival Cruise Line has also issued precautionary updates to guests booked on Carnival Jubilee from Galveston and Carnival Sunshine from Norfolk. Both sailings remain scheduled to depart as planned on Saturday, 24th January, despite the storm.
Guests were told that while weather is not currently expected to impact operations, forecasts can change and the situation continues to be monitored closely. Passengers are being urged to take extra care when travelling to the ports and to sign up for text alerts. Carnival has confirmed that departures will not be delayed to accommodate guests impacted by cancelled flights or hazardous road conditions.
Carnival Jubilee is due to sail on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise to Roatan, Costa Maya and Cozumel, returning on 31st January. Carnival Sunshine is scheduled for an 8-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary visiting Celebration Key, Princess Cays and Grand Turk, returning to Norfolk on 1st February.
With Winter Storm Fern expected to continue impacting large areas of the US into early next week, cruise lines have stressed that further changes remain possible. Guests sailing from any homeport in the storm’s path are advised to stay in close contact with their cruise line and monitor official updates as conditions evolve.
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MSC Cruises has revealed plans to launch a brand-new year-round cruise programme from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, with operations set to begin in November 2026.
The move marks the first time MSC Cruises has offered year-round sailings in the Southern Caribbean. The new operation will be based at a newly established homeport in La Romana, located on the country’s southern coast, and is expected to significantly boost tourism to the region.
MSC Opera To Operate Weekly Sailings
MSC Opera will be deployed on the new programme, offering weekly departures throughout the year. Guests will be able to choose between a seven-night cruise or a 14-night back-to-back ‘butterfly’ itinerary. Bookings are already open, with the inaugural sailing scheduled to depart on 16th November 2026.
A standout feature of the itinerary is a call at Catalina Island, a protected nature reserve just off the coast of the Dominican Republic. The island is known for its white sand beaches, clear waters and coral reefs, giving guests the option to relax ashore or take part in snorkelling excursions.
The Dominican Republic’s strong air connectivity is expected to support the programme, with multiple international airports providing access from key markets.
MSC Cruises estimates that the new homeport operation will bring around 120,000 international visitors to La Romana each year, translating to approximately 240,000 inbound and outbound airline passengers. The cruise line says this will deliver a meaningful economic boost to local hotels, restaurants and businesses.
“MSC Cruises first started calling in the Dominican Republic in 2014, so after more than ten years it is a proud a moment for me to speak about our new homeporting offering in La Romana.
“With year-round operations we extend the traditional season, bringing positive economic impact to the local community and bringing 120,000 additional international visitors to La Romana each year. MSC Cruises is committed to the Dominican Republic and this new programme for the long-term.”
Gianni Onorato, MSC Cruises’ CEO
Caribbean Ports And Fly And Cruise Options
The itinerary has been designed to showcase a mix of well-known Caribbean islands and lesser-visited destinations. Ports of call include La Romana, Catalina Island, Fort-de-France in Martinique, Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, St. John’s in Antigua and Barbuda, as well as additional stops such as Philipsburg, Basseterre and Road Town on select sailings.
MSC Cruises will also offer Fly and Cruise packages as part of the programme, bundling flights, transfers and the cruise into a single booking. The cruise line says this approach is aimed at providing greater convenience and peace of mind for guests, with all travel arrangements handled directly by MSC Cruises.
Pricing has already been released for selected sailings. A 14-night Fly and Cruise itinerary aboard MSC Opera, flying from London Heathrow to Bridgetown, Barbados, starts from £2,959 per person, departing on 3rd December 2026.
The itinerary includes calls at Fort-de-France, Pointe-à-Pitre, Road Town, La Romana, Virgin Gorda, Basseterre, Philipsburg and Catalina Island.
For guests preferring a shorter option, a seven-night cruise-only sailing departing La Romana on 7th December 2026 is priced from £509 per person. That itinerary includes visits to Virgin Gorda, Philipsburg, Basseterre, Road Town and Catalina Island.
MSC Cruises says the new year-round deployment underlines its long-term confidence in the Dominican Republic as a cruise destination and represents a significant expansion of its Caribbean offering.
About MSC Opera
MSC Opera is one of four ships in the Lirica class, a smaller ship class designed to access a wider range of destinations while offering a more personalised onboard experience.
On board, guests can choose from two main restaurants serving Mediterranean and international cuisine, alongside a variety of bars and lounges. Family facilities include dedicated children’s and teens’ areas, a spray park and virtual reality gaming spaces.
The ship also features a Technogym-powered fitness centre, outdoor sports facilities such as minigolf and shuffleboard, and the MSC Aurea Spa, which includes massage treatments, a steam room and a sauna.
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Winter Storm Fern is a mess in the making as it’s already moving across the United States and causing cruise ships to adjust schedules.
Map image: weather.gov / National Weather Service
This major winter storm is expected to impact millions in 40 U.S. states. Flights are being delayed and cruise ships are not immune to some impacts from this system.
As cruise lines juggle itineraries and make last-minute changes, this article highlights some of the cruise ships that we have confirmed are already facing changes due to the storm or are at least under watch.
Here is the quick rundown.
Carnival Pride (Baltimore)
This is the big one for the weekend and Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald just updated everyone on Facebook tonight about some new changes with Carnival Pride.
Because Baltimore is expecting heavy snow, Carnival has officially postponed and shortened the upcoming sailing.
The ship is now planning to dock around noon on Monday, January 26 instead of the 25th. This will delay the next cruise, which will be one day shorter than originally planned.
If you’re on this sailing, keep a close eye on your texts. Carnival is asking guests to text CCL1 to 278473 for the most current embarkation times.
Harmony of the Seas (Galveston)
Down in Texas, the concern is more ice than snow, which can cause even more problems, including massive power outages.
Royal Caribbean is bringing Harmony of the Seas back to Galveston a day early to help guests beat the freezing rain and ice in forecast for Sunday.
The ship is now expected to arrive on Saturday, January 24, around 11:00 PM. To make this early arrival possible, the ship had to skip its scheduled stop in Cozumel.
The good news is that you don’t have to get off early if you can’t change your travel plans. Royal Caribbean is letting guests stay on board until Sunday morning, though the shops and casino will be closed. To be clear, guests will have to disembark and then get back on board to clear Customs and Boarder Protection requirements.
They are also providing a one-day fare refund as onboard credit to make up for the shortened itinerary.
Vision of the Seas (Baltimore)
This ship is also based in Baltimore and has a current departure scheduled for Saturday, January 24. It is currently on high alert and there hasn’t been an official decision from Royal Caribbean just yet.
But because Baltimore’s cruise port is expecting to get at least 8-12 inches of snow, it could make travel to and from the port a bit messy.
Royal Caribbean is warning guests about potential boarding delays and terminal issues, but if the cruise line decides to make a change to the schedule as well we will update this information.
Odyssey of the Seas (New Jersey)
Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas is scheduled to leave Cape Liberty, New Jersey, on Monday, January 26.
The cruise line is monitoring the situation closely, and since the storm will be moving toward the Northeast by Monday conditions could be a problem.
There haven’t been official schedule changes for this ship yet, but with the storm timing, a delay in boarding wouldn’t be all that shocking. Make sure to check your email for any last-minute updates before you head to the terminal.
MSC Meraviglia (Brooklyn)
MSC Meraviglia is scheduled to arrive back in Brooklyn on Sunday, January 25. MSC Cruises has not officially postponed or changed the schedule yet either, but heavy snow and wind in New York harbor could delay docking. Passengers scheduled to sail on this ship should keep an eye out for any information from the cruise line.
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Cruise holidays offer something truly special, especially for retirees who finally have the freedom to slow down and enjoy life at their own pace. With no schedules to rush and no responsibilities waiting back home, time on a cruise becomes an opportunity, not just for relaxation, but for reflection, curiosity, and rediscovery. Beyond shows, shore excursions, and deck-side lounging, there are quieter, more personal ways to pass the time that can be just as rewarding.
Turn Downtime Into Reflection Time
Cruises naturally create pockets of unstructured time. Sea days, in particular, invite moments of calm that are increasingly rare in everyday life. Many travelers use this time to read, journal, or simply sit and watch the horizon. For retirees, this slower rhythm can also be the perfect setting for reflection on life experiences, personal journeys, and the people who shaped them along the way.
Revisit Your School Years From the Comfort of the Ship
One unexpectedly engaging way to pass the time on a cruise is by looking back at your school years. Revisiting old memories can be both entertaining and meaningful, especially when you’re in a relaxed environment far removed from daily routines. Today, this no longer requires packing photo albums or physical keepsakes.
With internet access available on most cruise ships, you can explore school memories through online yearbooks. You can use a school yearbook finder to view digital versions of high school yearbooks, bringing back faces, names, and moments you may not have thought about in decades. Browsing through these pages can turn a quiet afternoon into a deeply personal and surprisingly joyful experience.
Spark Conversations With Fellow Passengers
Cruises are social by nature, and shared memories are a powerful conversation starter. Mentioning that you’ve been looking through your old school yearbook, for example, often leads to stories, laughter, and instant connection. Fellow passengers may share their own school experiences, hometowns, or memories of teachers, sports teams, and dances. These conversations tend to feel warmer and more genuine than typical small talk.
Reflect on How Far You’ve Come
Looking back at your younger self while cruising adds a unique sense of perspective. You can see your life story more clearly, appreciating challenges overcome, friendships formed, and paths taken. For many retirees, this kind of reflection brings gratitude and reassurance, reinforcing a sense of fulfillment rather than nostalgia alone.
Reconnect With Old Friends at Your Own Pace
A cruise offers the perfect balance of privacy and connection. If you come across a familiar name or face in an online yearbook, you may feel inspired to reach out to someone you lost touch with long ago. There’s no pressure to act immediately, but the idea often lingers pleasantly, giving you something meaningful to think about as you enjoy the journey.
Enjoy Mental Stimulation Without Effort
While cruises are known for entertainment, not all stimulation needs to come from organized activities. Revisiting memories engages the mind gently, encouraging recall, curiosity, and storytelling without feeling demanding. It’s a relaxing way to stay mentally active while still fully embracing the leisurely pace of a cruise holiday.
Make Time Feel Richer, Not Longer
For retired travelers, time is one of the greatest luxuries. Unique activities like reflecting on your life and chatting with others onboard can help make that time feel richer rather than simply longer. It transforms idle moments into meaningful ones, adding emotional depth to the travel experience.
Down in Texas, the concern is more ice than snow, which can cause even more problems, including massive power outages.
