Golf and cruising.. sounds like the perfect vacation for some. And now those two worlds are coming together. Viking, the first cruise line to operate more than 100 cruise ships, has just signed a multi-year deal with the PGA Tour.
Announced today, the agreement names Viking as the Official Cruise Line of the PGA TOUR and the PGA TOUR Champions.
The partnership is set to run through 2030. Over the next several years, Viking will be featured across various digital platforms and media broadcasts during PGA TOUR events.
A Natural Fit
The goal is to introduce the cruise line’s destination-focused sailings to a broader audience of golf-lovers. And Viking knows that golf is already a favorite activity for many of its guests.
“Both golf and travel are important priorities in the lives of many Viking guests, so partnering with the PGA TOUR is a natural fit and builds on our continued commitment to support cultural programming and events,” said Richard Marnell, Viking’s Executive Vice President of Marketing.
A History of World-Class Partnerships
While this PGA Golf partnership is a big deal, Viking has spent decades forming other partnerships with brands its guests love even when they aren’t cruising.
Here are a few other partnerships Viking has made in the past:
The British Museum & The Metropolitan Opera
The Los Angeles Philharmonic
PBS’s MASTERPIECE: a staple partnership for Viking that began in 2011
The company also recently announced a long-term agreement with the Norwegian Football Federation.
As the main sponsor for Norway’s National Team Academy and its youth national teams, Viking is taking part in the “Future Vikings” program, which helps develop the next generation of stars.
This investment in youth sports honors the heritage of Viking’s founder, Torstein Hagen, in his home country of Norway.
Today, Viking operates a fleet of more than 100 vessels, including over 80 river ships, 12 ocean ships, and two purpose-built expedition ships designed for the polar regions.
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No matter how carefully you pack your clothes, creases are almost inevitable once you unpack in your cruise cabin. Even formal outfits folded with care can end up needing a bit of attention after travelling.
Whether you’re heading off on your first cruise or you’re a seasoned cruiser, there are a few simple ways to keep your clothes looking smart and crease-free on board.
But before we get started, there’s one crucial point you need to be aware of…
You Are Not Allowed to Bring an Iron on a Cruise
While you might be tempted to pack a compact travel iron or a clothes steamer, it’s important to know that these items are strictly prohibited on most cruise lines, regardless of their size. The same restriction typically applies to personal clothes dryers, too.
But luckily, there are a few other cruise-approved methods to keep your clothes looking good and wrinkle-free.
How to Deal With Wrinkled Clothes on a Cruise
I have five solutions to keep your clothes wrinkle-free, from self-service laundry rooms to some simple hacks you can do in your cabin. Let’s go over each option.
1. Use the self-service laundry room
While in-cabin irons are not provided on cruise ships due to fire safety concerns, there are alternatives available. You can sometimes request an iron from the housekeeping staff or find one in the ship’s dedicated laundry area. Additionally, the onboard laundry service is a convenient option for taking care of your garments.
You can find more detailed information about using laundry services on a cruise ship in my Cruise Ship Laundry Guide.
Some cruise lines do offer self-service rooms with ironing equipment. This information could be beneficial when planning your trip, ensuring you are well-prepared and can travel with ease. So, below, I’ve compiled a table listing all the cruise lines and whether or not they offer this facility.
Cruise Line
Self-service rooms with ironing equipment available
Azamara
Yes
Carnival
Yes, but only ironing rooms on Carnival Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration & Carnival Jubilee
Celebrity Cruises
No
Costa Cruises
No
Cunard
Yes
Disney Cruise Line
Yes
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Yes
Holland America Line
Yes, but only on Amsterdam and Maasdam ships
Marella Cruises
No, but allows guests to bring a travel iron on board
MSC Cruises
No
Norwegian Cruise Line
No, but you can request an iron and board from guest services
P&O Cruises
Yes
Princess Cruises
Yes
Royal Caribbean
No
Virgin Voyages
No
2. Use a flat iron
For those of you who might be surprised, let me clarify: Yes, I’m referring to hair straighteners, also known as flat irons or curling irons.
It’s important to remember that a traditional iron is off-limits when packing for a cruise, but you can bring your hair straighteners or a curling iron. These can come in handy not just for your hair but also for getting the creases out of your clothes.
Straighteners can work wonders on small fabric wrinkles. For example, they can be great for straightening collars or smoothing down hems on shirts and dresses. Just check that they are clean and free from any hair product residue to avoid staining your clothes.
Of course, hair straighteners and curling irons won’t replace a traditional iron’s effectiveness. Still, while you’re on a cruise and working with what’s available, they become a versatile and surprisingly effective tool to remove creases from your clothes.
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3. Use the pressing service
If you have more delicate items or simply don’t fancy the chore of ironing during your cruise, a pressing service can be a convenient solution. This service, offered by most cruise lines, can handle various clothing items and fabrics, ensuring they look their best.
It’s worth noting that fees for this service vary depending on the cruise line and type of garment, with the higher-end costs tending to represent suits and evening gowns.
The table below provides an approximate cost per item for pressing across various cruise lines, giving you an idea of what you can expect to pay.
Remember that these figures are subject to change, and it’s always best to check the latest information with your cruise line of choice.
Cruise Line
Approx cost per item for pressing only
Azamara
$2 to $5
Carnival
$2.80 to $12.99
Celebrity Cruises
$4 to $15
Costa Cruises
$2 to $9
Cunard
$2.50 to $15.50
Disney Cruise Line
$2 to $6.60
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
£1 to £5
Holland America Line
$2.50 to $6.50
Marella Cruises
£1.35 to £4.65
MSC Cruises
$1.30 to $9.90
Norwegian Cruise Line
$1.95 to $11.95
P&O Cruises
£3.00 to £12.00
Princess Cruises
$1.25 to $11.50
Royal Caribbean
$1.99 to $14.99
Virgin Voyages
$4
Windstar
$1.75 to $9
4. Use crease release spray
Crease release sprays can be a quick and effective solution to wrinkled clothing while on a cruise. These sprays are easy to pack, convenient to use, and don’t require an iron. One of the popular choices among travellers is wrinkle release spray.
To use a crease release spray, all you have to do is spray the product onto your wrinkled garment, smooth and stretch the fabric, and let it dry. The product helps to relax the fibres in the fabric, reducing the appearance of creases. This can be particularly useful for lightly wrinkled clothing and when you’re rushing to get ready.
You can purchase it from various online retailers, including Amazon. Please always remember to follow the instructions on the product label to ensure the best results.
5. Hang clothes in a steamy bathroom
Another easy and effective method to remove wrinkles from your clothes while on a cruise is to hang them in a steamy bathroom. This age-old trick is quite popular among travellers and doesn’t require any special equipment or products.
To use this method, simply hang your wrinkled garments in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The shower’s heat and steam will help relax the fibres in the fabric and smooth out the wrinkles.
To maximise the effectiveness of this method, make sure to close all doors and windows in the bathroom to keep the steam in. You’re meant to do this anyway. You should also smooth out the garment with your hands after the shower.
Also, remember to hang your clothes away from the shower to prevent them from getting wet. This method is especially effective for lightweight and delicate fabrics that can easily be damaged by an iron.
So next time you’re getting ready for a formal dinner or a special event on your cruise, consider using the steamy bathroom method to have your clothes looking their best.
More Tips to Avoid Wrinkled Clothes on a Cruise
With these ironing alternatives, you can always look your best on your cruise, even without access to an iron. However, you can take some additional steps to avoid wrinkled clothes altogether.
Here are a few more tips to keep your clothes looking fresh and crease-free throughout your cruise:
1. Unpack straight away
As soon as you get to your cabin and your suitcases have been delivered, make sure to unpack your suitcases. Clothes left folded in luggage for long periods are more likely to develop deep creases and wrinkles.
You can minimise the risk of wrinkles forming by hanging your clothes in the wardrobe or laying them flat in drawers as soon as possible. Plus, it’s always nice to get settled into your cabin, so you can start enjoying your cruise experience.
2. Choose synthetic fabrics
One simple trick to avoid creases and wrinkles in your clothes is to choose clothing made of synthetic fabrics. Materials like polyester, nylon, and elastane are less prone to creasing than natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Synthetic fabrics are often lightweight and easy to pack, making them a great choice for travel.
In fact, some of my favourite cruise dresses are made from synthetic fabrics. They not only look good, but also maintain their shape throughout the cruise without needing any ironing. You can take a look at some of these crease-resistant dresses on Amazon that I personally recommend for a cruise.
3. Don’t stress over it!
Lastly, try not to stress over wrinkles or creases in your clothes. Remember, you’re on a cruise to relax and enjoy yourself. It’s all about having a good time and making lasting memories.
While we all want to look our best, a few wrinkles in your clothes won’t detract from the great experiences you’ll have on board.
Indeed, everyone is in the same boat, quite literally! The likelihood is that most fellow passengers are dealing with the same issue, and they are far more interested in enjoying the cruise than worrying about a few creases. So, take a deep breath, let it go, and focus on having the most enjoyable cruise possible.
Oceania Cruises has officially transitioned to an adults-only cruise line, with immediate effect for all new reservations.
From today (7th January 2026), only guests aged 18 and over will be permitted to book new sailings, a move designed to reinforce the brand’s reputation for refined, tranquil cruising.
The cruise line has confirmed that existing bookings which include guests under the age of 18 will be honoured, ensuring no disruption for families already booked to sail.
Oceania’s decision reflects its long-standing appeal to mature travellers, with the majority of its guests aged over 55 and an onboard product that has never been designed around children or multigenerational travel.
Guest Feedback Drives Major Brand Shift
According to Oceania Cruises’ chief commercial officer, Nathan Hickman, the change formalises what has long been the reality onboard.
Oceania’s ships do not feature children’s clubs, teen lounges or family-focused entertainment, and Hickman said guest feedback made it clear that moving fully to an adults-only model would be welcomed.
“We recognize this is a pretty big change, and I think it’s a good change,
“It’s exactly what our guests have indicated that they want.”
Hickman added that becoming an adults-only line will help create a more consistent onboard atmosphere across all itineraries and make it easier for travel advisors to guide customers toward the cruise experience that best suits their expectations.
While children have historically been allowed onboard, they have represented only a very small percentage of Oceania’s passengers.
Joining a Small Group of Adults-Only Cruise Lines
Although luxury and upper-premium cruise lines typically attract fewer children than mainstream brands, only a limited number explicitly prohibit under-18s.
With this change, Oceania joins Viking and Virgin Voyages as one of the few cruise brands operating exclusively for adults.
The move also aligns with a broader repositioning of the brand.
Over the past year, Oceania has reclassified itself from upper-premium to luxury, introduced fare inclusions such as alcohol or shore excursion credits, and unveiled new suite designs aboard upcoming ships.
“Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again,
“By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey — one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery.”
Jason Montague, chief luxury officer at parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Unaffected
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ other luxury brand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will continue to welcome families, Hickman confirmed.
Unlike Oceania, Regent does offer a dedicated youth programme, Club Mariner, on select sailings, and will remain an option for travellers seeking a luxury cruise that accommodates children.
For Oceania, however, the shift to adults-only cruising cements what the line has long marketed: an experience centred on fine dining, immersive destinations and a calm, elegant atmosphere, now with a clearly defined age policy to match.
The best way to book an Oceania cruise…
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Two Holland America Line cruise ships departed this past Sunday on epic cruises that will spend the next several months exploring the globe.
Volendam departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on a 133-day world cruise that will visit 51 ports in 23 countries on five continents. The cruise will visit South America, Antarctica, Asia, Alaska and the Panama Canal.
Zaandam departed on a 93-day cruise from San Diego, California that will visit 42 ports in the South Pacific including Bora Bora, Australia and New Zealand.
The two Grand Voyages exemplify the cruise line’s commitment to immersive, destination-rich travel.
Thoughtfully crafted to allow guests to explore the world at an unhurried pace, these extended itineraries offer meaningful time ashore and carefully curated experiences that bring each destination to life.
Michael Smith, senior vice president of guest experience and product development, said the following:
“We’ve been sailing the globe for more than 150 years, and our Grand Voyages really showcase what makes the Holland America Line experience so special.
“The length of these journeys allows our team to create experiences that unfold at a relaxing and meaningful pace, and our guests settle into a rhythm of discovery that simply isn’t possible on shorter sailings. For many, this becomes the trip of a lifetime — a chance to see the world in comfort, in community and with a sense of wonder that grows with every new port.”
Next year, Holland America will offer two Grand Voyages on the same ships, a 129-day cruise and a 70-day one.
The 2027 Grand World Voyage will sail roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale and visit 53 ports in 28 countries, with overnight calls at seven destinations.
The 2027 Grand South America & Antarctica Voyage will visit 31 ports in 13 countries, including a four-day visit to Antarctica.
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Interested to see who’ll be your cruise director on your upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise?
Or maybe you have a favourite cruise director, and are planning your cruise to make sure you’re onboard at the same time as them.
Here’s a look at every Royal Caribbean ship, and their cruise director.
Adventure of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
MICKEY MARTIN
Unknown
02/14/2026
MARC WALKER
02/14/2026
03/06/2026
Credit: Mickey Martin/LinkedInCredit: Marc Walker/Linkedin
Mickey Martin is the current cruise director on Adventure of the Seas. He will be leading the entertainment and activities onboard until February, when Marc Walker will board to take over.
Adventure of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship, with a gross tonnage of 137,276 and accommodating up to 3,807 guests at full capacity.
Allure of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
JOHN GRANTHAM
Unknown
TBA
Credit: John Grantham/Linkedin
John Grantham is currently serving as cruise director on Allure of the Seas. His end date has yet to be announced, so guests can expect to enjoy his lively entertainment leadership for the foreseeable future.
Allure of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 225,282 and a maximum guest capacity of 6,780.
Anthem of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
MICHELLE OLIVEIRA
07/12/2025
TBA
Credit: Michelle Oliveira/Facebook
Michelle Oliveira is the current cruise director on Anthem of the Seas, joining the ship in July. She will be entertaining guests and leading the onboard activities for the next couple of months at least.
Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.
Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
ERIC RODAS
Unknown
02/01/2026
ADAM DONALDSON
02/01/2026
04/12/2026
ADAM DONALDSON
08/03/2026
10/05/2026
Credit: Eric Rodas/LinkedInCredit: Adam Donaldson/Instagram
Eric Rodas is currently the cruise director on Brilliance of the Seas, delighting guests with his energy and entertainment leadership. He’ll wrap up in early February before Adam Donaldson takes over for a couple of months – and Adam will return later in 2026 as well.
Brilliance of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,543.
Enchantment of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
CAROLINE PETERS
Unknown
TBA
Credit: Caroline Peters
Caroline Peters is currently the cruise director on Enchantment of the Seas, having taken over the role in late 2025. She will continue leading the entertainment programme onboard for the foreseeable future.
Enchantment of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 82,910 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,730.
Explorer of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
JERRY SALCEDO
Unknown
March 2026
CHRIS GRUBY
March 2026
July 2026
Credit: Chris Gruby/LinkedIn
The current cruise director of Explorer of the Seas is Aysylu Sadrislamova. Her sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so guests can look forward to her entertainment leadership for the time being.
Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 137,308 and a maximum passenger capacity of 3,840.
Freedom of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
RENATO ARANA
Unknown
TBA
Credit: Renato Arana/LinkedIn
Renato Arana is currently listed as the cruise director on Freedom of the Seas. Specific details about his sign-on and sign-off dates have not been confirmed, but he is expected to continue leading the entertainment onboard for now.
Freedom of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 156,271 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,515.
Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
LAUREN ARMSTRONG
01/17/2026
04/10/2026
Credit: Lauren Armstrong/Facebook
Chris Gruby is currently serving as the cruise director on Grandeur of the Seas. He joined the ship in September, and continues to oversee the entertainment and activities onboard for the time being through to January 2026.
Grandeur of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 73,817 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,440.
Harmony of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
KATIE KNOWLES
11/09/2025
TBA
Credit: Katie Knowles/LinkedIn
The fantastic Katie Knowles recently took over the entertainment onboard Harmony of the Seas. It’s not yet known when her run will end, so enjoy her onboard while you can!
Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 226,963 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,687.
Gemma Hugo joined Icon of the Seas as cruise director on 16th August 2025. She’ll wrap up in early January 2026, with Cory Rogers taking over for the first of his three stints in 2026.
Icon of the Seas is an Icon-class ship with a gross tonnage of 250,800 and a maximum passenger capacity of 7,600.
Independence of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
SUSAN ADAMS
09/10/2025
TBA
BRIAN LEAVITT
09/26/2026
11/29/2026
Credit: Brian Leavitt/LinkedIn
Susan Adams is currently listed as the cruise director on Independence of the Seas. She joined the ship in September, and is due to remain onboard for a couple of months at least. We know that Brian Leavitt will be cruise director for the ship later in 2026.
Independence of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 155,889 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,560.
Jewel of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
ERIC LOPEZ
Unknown
TBA
Eric Lopez is currently the cruise director on Jewel of the Seas, having joined the ship in October 2025. It isn’t yet known when he will be leaving.
Jewel of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,501.
Liberty of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
CLO O’CONNOR
Unknown
TBA
Clo O’Connor is currently the cruise director on Liberty of the Seas. Their sign-off date hasn’t yet been announced.
Liberty of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 154,407 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,960.
Mariner of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
BRIAN LEAVITT
11/06/2025
01/15/2026
DANIEL GILHAM
01/15/2026
05/30/2026
LAUREN ARMSTRONG
May 2026
08/03/2026
DANIEL GILHAM
08/03/2026
11/27/2026
Credit: Brian Leavitt/LinkedInCredit: Daniel Gilham/ Royal CaribbeanCredit: Lauren Armstrong/Facebook
Brian Leavitt is the current cruise director on Mariner of the Seas, set to remain in the role through to January.
Mariner of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 139,863 and a maximum passenger capacity of 3,114.
Navigator of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
MARK ROUS
12/12/2025
02/02/2026
Credit: Mark Rous/LinkedIn
Daniel Gilham is currently the cruise director on Navigator of the Seas, having taken over the role in September 2025. He’ll leave the ship in December, making way for Mark Rous.
Navigator of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 139,999 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,000.
Oasis of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
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Sign Off
ELVIS PINTO
Unknown
TBA
Credit: Elvis Pinto/LinkedIn
Elvis Pinto joined Oasis of the Seas as cruise director during November 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been announced, so he is expected to oversee the ship’s entertainment programme for the foreseeable future.
Oasis of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 226,838 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,780.
Odyssey of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
STEVE KNISLEY
11/16/2025
03/15/2025
Credit: Steve Knisley/LinkedIn
Steve Knisley has re-joined Odyssey of the Seas as cruise director in November 2025. He’s due to be onboard until March.
Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra-class ship with a gross tonnage of 167,704 and a maximum passenger capacity of 5,510.
Ovation of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
MIKE HUNNERUP
11/24/2025
02/02/2026
RICKY MATTHEWS
02/02/2026
5/29/2026
BRIAN LEAVITT
05/22/2026
08/07/2026
RICKY MATTHEWS
08/07/2026
12/11/2026
BRIAN LEAVITT
11/30/2026
02/19/2027
Credit: Brian Leavitt/LinkedInCredit: Ricky Matthews/Facebook
Mike Hunnerup recently took over the role of cruise director on Ovation of the Seas. His sign-off date is TBC. Brian Leavitt will be onboard later in 2026 for two separate runs as cruise director.
Ovation of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.
Quantum of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
BAL GABOR
Unknown
TBA
Bal Gabor is currently the cruise director on Quantum of the Seas, having joined the ship in May 2025. Their sign-off date has yet to be announced, so guests can look forward to their leadership onboard for now.
Quantum of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.
Radiance of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
ADAM DONALDSON
Unknown
01/20/2026
BRIAN LEAVITT
01/20/2026
03/06/2026
Credit: Adam Donaldson/InstagramCredit: Brian Leavitt/LinkedIn
Adam Donaldson is the current cruise director on Radiance of the Seas, and Brian Leavitt will be joining the ship in January, through to March.
Radiance of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,466.
Rhapsody of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
CARLO LOGA
09/14/2025
January 2026
SHEENAGH WALKER
January 2026
TBA
Credit: Sheenagh Walker/LinkedIn
Carlo Loga is currently the cruise director on Rhapsody of the Seas. While the exact dates of this current run are unknown, we do know that Sheenagh Walker will take over in January.
Rhapsody of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 78,878 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,416.
Serenade of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
TALITA LEONI
Unknown
TBA
CHRIS GRUBY
October 2026
January 2027
Credit: Talita Leoni/LinkedInCredit: Chris Gruby/LinkedIn
Talita Leoni is currently the cruise director on Serenade of the Seas. Although the exact date of her sign-on is unknown, she is set to continue leading the ship’s entertainment and activities for the foreseeable future.
Serenade of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,476.
Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
RAPHAELA
Unknown
TBA
Raphaela is currently the cruise director on Spectrum of the Seas. Her sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so she is expected to continue leading the entertainment programme onboard for now.
Spectrum of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra-class ship with a gross tonnage of 169,379 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.
Star of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
CHRIS BROWN
10/12/2025
TBA
Credit: Chris Brown/LinkedIn
Chris Brown has recently taken over the role of cruise director for Royal Caribbean’s newest ship. He joined in October.
Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship, is set to launch in August 2025. She will offer approximately 250,800 gross tonnes and accommodate around 7,600 passengers, promising revolutionary experiences at sea.
Symphony of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
JAMIE FENTIMAN
11/09/2025
03/31/2026
JAMIE FENTIMAN
Mid-May 2026
Mid-September 2026
JAMIE FENTIMAN
November 2026
March 2027
Jamie Fentiman
Jamie Fentiman is currently the cruise director on Symphony of the Seas, having joined the ship in November 2025.
Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 228,081 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,680, known for its vibrant onboard atmosphere and innovative amenities.
Utopia of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
MARC WALKER
05/01/2026
08/17/2026
MARC WALKER
10/19/2026
02/08/2027
Credit: Marc Walker/Linkedin
Marc Walker recently returned as the cruise director on Utopia of the Seas, having previously been on the ship when she debuted. He’ll be onboard for much of 2026.
Utopia of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of approximately 236,860 and a maximum passenger capacity of around 6,700.
Vision of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
DOMINICK RICHARD
10/09/2025
01/24/2025
Dominick Richard is currently the cruise director on Vision of the Seas. Their sign-off date has now been confirmed as being in late January.
Vision of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 78,717 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,514.
Voyager of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
TORNADO TANYA
10-27-2025
TBA
Credit: Sheenagh Walker/LinkedIn
Tornado Tanya is currently the cruise director on Voyager of the Seas, having joined the ship in October 2025. The end date for her run hasn’t been announced yet.
Voyager of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 138,194 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,269.
Wonder of the Seas Cruise Directors
Cruise Director
Sign On
Sign Off
KATY MCCULLAGH
11/28/2025
TBA
Credit: Katy McCullagh/LinkedIn
Katy McCullagh is currently the cruise director on Wonder of the Seas.
Wonder of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship, currently the largest cruise ship in the world, boasting a gross tonnage of 236,857 and accommodating up to 6,988 passengers.
What a Cruise Director Does
On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the cruise director plays a key role in shaping the onboard experience. Working closely with the hotel director, entertainment teams, and performers, they ensure that every guest enjoys a vibrant, memorable holiday at sea.
Royal Caribbean cruise directors are responsible for hosting a wide range of activities, from trivia and game shows to poolside parties and nightly events. They also keep guests updated with daily announcements and entertainment schedules, helping everyone make the most of their time onboard.
The cruise line employs a large number of cruise directors as they need to rotate between ships, cover leave periods, and ensure fresh energy across the fleet.
Contracts can vary significantly; some cruise directors might only step in for a few weeks to cover a gap, while others may remain with a ship for several months at a time.
Sometimes, cruise directors’ contracts will overlap. This allows a new director to join the ship while their predecessor is still onboard, providing time for a smooth handover and helping them settle in with the team.
Cruise Director Schedule Changes
Cruise director schedules can often change at short notice.
Whether due to personal circumstances, fleet movements, or other operational needs, Royal Caribbean works hard to ensure every ship always has a capable and energetic entertainment lead in place. And sometimes things are vague – you’ll notice a few TBAs in this guide.
This schedule is updated weekly, so you can stay informed about the latest cruise director assignments and any changes as they happen.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Directors on Social
Here are social media links for some of Royal Caribbean’s cruise directors:
If you have trouble keeping your kids in their cabins after 1AM you might find that your cruise got a little more expensive.
A parent of a 14-year-old child is jokingly questioning taking the kids on a cruise again after receiving a warning letter from the cruise line which threatens a $500 fine.
“Might be a while til we take these kids on a cruise.. baby we almost got a $500 fine…,” Phyllis Teacher posted.
The parent posted the letter from on Facebook, and the post has already received well over 500 comments as other cruisers give their advice and witty comments.
The letter from Carnival Elation’s staff captain was straight to the point and stated that the child had “violated our curfew policy for minors.”
“We understand that our younger guests are eager to explore and enjoy the ship, however, the cufrew is a mandatory policy. If your child violates this policy again during this cruise, a fine of up to $500 will be imposed”, the letter stated.
It’s really a courtesy of the cruise line to send this letter as a warning, but the penalty for a third violation is very severe and will result in being banned from the cruise line entirely.
“A third violated will result in disembarkation from the ship, for all in the travel group, and placement on our no-sail list.”
According to Carnival’s official policy, “Guests 17 years of age and under who are not accompanied by an adult in their traveling party, 21 years of age or older, must be clear of all public areas by 1:00 AM.”
Teacher clarified that the teen wasn’t actually alone as he was with cousins who were 19 and older. However, Carnival’s rules state that supervising adults must be at least 21.
While comments to the post were all over the map, many were glad to see Carnival enforcing this rule. The topic of unruly kids on a cruise ship is always a hot one among cruisers, but at least in this case the only issue was the child being out after curfew.
Carnival is a family cruise line and has committed to welcoming families and children on board. But as many of us know, it’s usually a parent issue when a child disrupts a cruise vacation.
Incidentally, Oceania Cruises just broke news today with the announcement that they are now an adult-only cruise line.
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There’s another player in the ring of adult-only cruises after a luxury cruise line announced today that only passengers 18 and older will be allowed on their ships.
Oceania Cruises officially switched over to adult-only travel on January 7, 2026. While the cruise line has always been known for its fine dining and “sophistication at sea”, this move makes the “no kids” policy official for their entire eight-ship fleet.
Why the Change?
According to Oceania’s leadership, this wasn’t about not wanting families on their ships, but rather a result of listening to what their loyal travelers were asking for.
Passengers loyal to the cruise line keep coming back because of its “serene environment” and what they call the “finest cuisine at sea.” By removing the need to cater to all ages, Oceania can double down on the tranquility that fans of the company keep raving about.
But if you already have a trip on the books with a traveler under 18, don’t worry. Oceania has confirmed they will fully honor all existing reservations made before today.
Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, explained why the cruise line decided to make the change:
“Our guests have consistently shared that the tranquil environment aboard our ships is one of the primary reasons they return time and time again. By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey – one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery.”
Oceania stated that it was the passenger feedback, from both loyal and new-to-brand guests, that showed them what people really wanted: “serene atmosphere, sophisticated service and unhurried pace”.
The Fleet
Oceania’s current fleet of eight ships offer a passenger capacity ranging from around 700 to 1,200 guests. These vessels that range from 30,000 gross tons in Regatta Class to 67,817 gross tons in Allura Class.
But the real news for the future is the Sonata Class. The first of these is set to debut in August 2027. At 86,000 gross tons, it will be the largest ship ever built for Oceania, but will still only carry around 1,390 guests, maintaining the cruise line’s great passenger to space ratio.
Oceania has three more Sonata-class ships on order through 2035.
Joining the “Adults-Only” Club
Oceania isn’t the first to realize that many cruisers are looking for a kid-free vacation. Even parents of young children have expressed a desire to make that getaway cruise an actual getaway.
Viking: Often called “The Thinking Person’s Cruise,” Viking was a pioneer in this space. Every single ship in their fleet (both on the rivers and the oceans) is strictly 18+. You won’t find casinos or kids, but you will find spas, libraries, and cultural lectures.
Virgin Voyages: If you want a “grown-up” vacation, Virgin is another great choice. Their ships are 18+ and offer inclusive Michelin-level dining.
You can read more about these two adult-only cruise lines and how they compare here.
Carnival Cruise Line has also experimented with adult-only (21+) cruising on a few select casino cruises. They proved to be wildly popular, and there are eight of these SEA (Sailings Exclusively for Adults) scheduled for 2026 you can see here.
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A Long Island travel agent has been arrested on multiple fraud and larceny charges after allegedly taking large sums of money from customers for trips that were never booked, including cruises, destination weddings and international holidays.
Nassau County police confirmed on 6th January 2026 that a 47-year-old woman from East Meadow, New York, was taken into custody following an investigation into a series of complaints from former clients.
Investigators say customers paid tens of thousands of dollars to the woman’s travel agency, only to discover that no reservations had ever been made and refunds were not issued.
Alleged Fake Cruise Booking Left Passengers at the Port
Police identified the accused as Tavia Thomas, the owner and sole operator of Destiny Travel, which was based at 1936 Hempstead Turnpike in East Meadow.
One of the most serious allegations involves a group of nine cruise passengers who believed they were booked on a Royal Caribbean cruise departing from Bayonne, New Jersey, in July 2024.
According to police, the group paid Thomas a total of $35,753.98. When they arrived at the cruise terminal, they were informed that their bookings were fraudulent and had been cancelled because they never existed in the cruise line’s system.
Authorities say this was not an isolated incident. Thomas now faces three counts of grand larceny, three counts of scheme to defraud, and two additional grand larceny charges linked to separate cases.
Weddings and Family Trips Also Allegedly Affected
The investigation suggests the alleged fraud extended well beyond cruise bookings.
In one case, Thomas is accused of accepting $5,000 from two customers who believed she was arranging a destination wedding at an ALG Vacations resort. Police say no such booking was ever made.
Another reported case involves a family planning a 75th birthday celebration in the Dominican Republic, where investigators allege Thomas collected more than $10,000 without securing any travel arrangements.
Police said customers paid via cash, cheque or electronic transfer. Thomas was the only person operating Destiny Travel, and there were no additional staff involved.
Detectives are now urging anyone who believes they may have been affected by similar incidents to come forward and contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers.
Online Reviews and Business Claims Under Scrutiny
Destiny Travel’s website states that the agency had been serving New York City and Long Island since 2016 and promoted itself as offering stress-free planning for cruises, group trips and destination weddings.
The site also claims affiliations and certifications linked to major travel industry organisations and describes a team of “experienced travel agents”, despite police saying Thomas was the sole operator.
“I founded Destiny Travel NY to offer stress-free planning for unique and memorable destination weddings,” Thomas said in promotional material published online.
However, multiple online reviews paint a different picture. In a review posted on TheKnot on 19th August 2024, one customer wrote:
“Tavia Thomas is a scammer and she must be stopped. My group of 80 people were set to leave to Cancun, Mexico, for our wedding 07/17/24 and Tavia called us 07/16/24 stating the vendor cancelled. Which was a compete lie.
“She stole our money and she keeps doing this to multiple groups of people. She is a liar and a thief and she must be stopped and in jail!”
Other reviews from earlier years were positive, highlighting attentive service, suggesting problems may have escalated more recently.
The Better Business Bureau does not accredit Destiny Travel and has given the company an F rating, citing failure to respond to complaints and concerns related to its operating history. At the time of writing, the business address listed online was linked to a UPS Store location.
Police say the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges are possible as more alleged victims come forward.
Wherever possible, always book your travel with an agent you can trust – verify that they have genuine, independent reviews and that there are no similar issues of loss of unprotected funds such as in this case.
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Princess Cruises has announced new cruises to Northern Europe for 2027 that include 48 sailings that will visit 54 ports in 18 countries.
Princess Cruises will have four ships sailing to Northern Europe in 2027 and these newly announced sailings will open for bookings on January 13, 2026.
The cruises range from standard seven-day cruise to the 64-day Ultimate European Journey on the four following ships: Regal Princess, Majestic Princess, Sky Princess and Caribbean Princess.
Highlights of the April to August 2027 season include:
6 Regions: Atlantic, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltics, Iceland, and the British Isles
48 Cruises: You can book individually or combine for extended trips, including new open‑jaw options that offer highly port‑intensive destination itineraries
54 Destinations in 18 Countries: Barcelona, Oslo, Reykjavik, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Belfast, Amsterdam, and the scenic fjords of Iceland and Norway
5 Homeports: Southampton (London), Copenhagen, Reykjavik, Helsinki, and Fort Lauderdale
Cultural Access: UNESCO sites, medieval cities like Visby, smaller gems like Seyðisfjörður and Akureyri, and world-class capitals including Stockholm, Edinburgh, and Barcelona
Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer, said the following:
“Princess is sailing Northern Europe like never before, presenting our most comprehensive program yet.
“With enriched itineraries, broader destination choices, and more opportunities for guests to personalize their ideal 2027 summer getaway, this Northern Europe program is more varied, more flexible, and more inspiring than ever.”
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Cruise lines are showing no sign of slowing down their builds of new ships as more people discover the value and experience of cruising. Just four cruise lines are responsible for almost half of all the new ships in the next 10 years or so.
Cruise ships almost always sail above 100% capacity, usually closer to 107% or so. That’s why you typically can’t just walk onto a ship on embarkation day and ask for an upgrade to a new cabin.
With demand on the rise, cruise lines are ordering new ships at a blistering pace. In fact, just four cruise lines account for 33 vessels that are currently on order. Some are being built right now, and others are scheduled to be built a decade from now.
Cruise Industry News just released the recent edition of the cruise orderbook which highlights 74 ships in total that are on order from over a dozen cruise lines.
Below I listed all the ships on order from these four main cruise lines: Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises leads among these four brands with the most aggressive build schedule of 10 ships, showcasing the massive World Class and the new Frontier Class. All of these new ships will be LNG-fueled.
MSC World Asia (December 2026): 216,638 gross tons, 6,758 passengers at double capacity, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
MSC World Atlantic(2027): 216,638 gross tons, 6,774 passengers at double capacity, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
World Class 5 (2028): 216,638 gross tons, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
World Class 6 (2029): 216,638 gross tons, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
World Class 7 (2030): 216,638 gross tons, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
World Class 8 (2031): 216,638 gross tons, built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
New Frontier Class 1 (2030): 180,000 gross tons, 5,400 passenger capacity, built at Meyer Werft.
New Frontier Class 2 (2031): 180,000 gross tons, 5,400 passenger capacity, built at Meyer Werft.
New Frontier Class 3 (2032): 180,000 gross tons, 5,400 passenger capacity, built at Meyer Werft.
New Frontier Class 4 (2033): 180,000 gross tons, 5,400 passenger capacity, built at Meyer Werft.
Norwegian Cruise Line has 7 Ships on order. The cruise line is working toward a new ultra-large prototype series starting in 2030, while continuing the Prima Plus class buildout.
Norwegian Luna (2026): 156,300 gross tons (Prima Plus class), built at Fincantieri, 3,571 passenger capacity.
Unnamed (2027): 169,000 gross tons (Prima Plus), 3,650 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2028): 169,000 gross tons (Prima Plus), 3,650 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2030): 225,000 gross tons (new large class), 5,100 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2032): 225,000 gross tons, 5,100 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2034): 225,000 gross tons, 5,100 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2036): 225,000 gross tons, 5,100 passenger capacity, built at Fincantieri.
Royal Caribbean has four Ships on order. The cruise line will continue to build out the popular Icon-class ships with Legend of the Seas scheduled to debut in Summer 2026, and a seventh Oasis Class ship will be coming in 2028.
Legend of the Seas (2026): 250,800 gross tons (Icon Class), built at Meyer Turku, passenger capacity of 5,610 passengers.
Unnamed (2027): 250,800 gross tons (Icon Class), built at Meyer Turku, estimated passenger capacity of 5,610.
Unnamed (2028): 236,860 gross tons (7th Oasis Class ship), built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, estimated capacity of 5,610.
Unnamed (2028): 250,800 tons (Icon Class), built at Meyer Turku.
Sunsation Point on Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival has 5 Ships on order between 2027 and 2033. Carnival’s orders include Excel-class ships and a new larger series (Project Ace) starting in 2029, with no deliveries in 2026.
Carnival Festivale (2027): 182,800 gross tons (Excel class), built at Meyer Werft, double capacity of 5,400 passengers.
Carnival Tropicale (2028): 182,800 gross tons (Excel class), built at Meyer Werft, double capacity estimated at 5,400.
Unnamed (2029): 230,000 gross tons (new class), built at Fincantieri, capacity of 6,200 passengers.
Unnamed (2031): 230,000 gross tons, built at Fincantieri.
Unnamed (2033): 230,000 gross tons, built at Fincantieri.
