One of Carnival Corporation’s cruise ships recently went into dry dock for maintenance and upgrades and now has RFID boarding passes.
AIDA Cruises, Carnival’s German cruise line, is currently in the middle of a massive upgrade program to their ships called AIDA Evolution.
AIDAluna recently remerged from a seven-week dry dock in France with new features and upgrades.
All cabins on the ship were redone and now feature USB and USB-C ports. The suites were completely refurnished and new stern suites were added that have a private sun deck.
For guests staying in suites, there is now a new suite lounge and new Sky Deck with two hot tubs and cabanas.
The ship now features 10 restaurants and snack bars and 13 bars and cafes.
Interactive screens were added to AIDAluna and guests will now use RFID boarding passes.
AIDAluna also received a new nail and hair spa and two new wellness suites.
The Theatrium was modernized with new lightning and sound technology for better entertainment.
For families, there is now a new Fun Park with climbing tower, a newly designed kids club and a game center.
Felix Eichhorn, President of AIDA Cruises, said the following:
“With AIDA Evolution, we are investing a three-digit million sum in the modernization of our Selection fleet. In doing so, we are clearly committed to our smaller ships and making them fit for the future – both in terms of the travel experience and technical innovations and sustainability. AIDAluna is another milestone on this path.”
AIDA Cruises has another five cruise ships getting remodeled between now and 2028.
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Seabourn has announced one of its most ambitious voyages to date, revealing a 145-day roundtrip world cruise from Miami that will visit some of the most sought-after destinations on the planet.
The ultra-luxury Seabourn Quest will depart Florida on 5th January 2027 and return on 30th May 2027, completing a nearly five-month journey that spans 67 ports in 19 countries.
The itinerary includes bucket-list destinations such as Hawaii, Bora Bora, Australia and New Zealand, all without the need for guests to board a flight mid-journey.
The sailing will also feature two transits of the Panama Canal and visits to remote and iconic regions including the Galapagos Islands, French Polynesia and the South Pacific, making it one of the most wide-ranging world cruises ever offered by the line.
Highlights of a Truly Global Itinerary
Seabourn Quest’s 2027 World Cruise is designed to balance major global cities with lesser-visited ports and extended stays that allow for deeper exploration.
Overnight calls are scheduled in destinations including Sydney, Darwin, Hobart, Lima and Papeete, giving guests time to experience each port beyond a single day ashore. The voyage will also mark Seabourn’s first-ever calls to Wallaroo in Australia and Whangarei in New Zealand.
Other itinerary highlights include extended time in Hawaii, multiple calls across French Polynesia including Bora Bora, and visits to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands. Guests will also cross both the Equator and the International Date Line during the voyage.
Scenic cruising is a major feature, with planned sailings through New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Australia’s rugged Kimberley Coast and the dramatic fjords of Chile.
What’s Included for World Cruise Guests
As expected from Seabourn, the 2027 World Cruise includes an extensive list of inclusions designed to make long-term life at sea as seamless and luxurious as possible.
Among the benefits are upgraded Starlink WiFi for two devices per guest, business or first-class roundtrip flights, private door-to-door transfers, luggage valet service and a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay.
Guests will also receive a medical services package valued at $1,000, unlimited laundry and pressing, and up to $10,000 in shipboard credit per suite.
The cruise also features exclusive dining experiences, private tasting menus, expanded special events including a gala dinner, and access to President’s Events.
World Cruise guests will also benefit from a reduced 50% deposit at the time of booking and the option to join immersive Seabourn Journeys ashore.
Cultural performances, culinary events and specially curated shore experiences will be woven throughout the voyage, tailored specifically for guests sailing the full world cruise.
Life Onboard Seabourn Quest
Seabourn Quest is one of the line’s most established ultra-luxury ships, carrying just over 450 guests in an all-suite configuration. Most suites feature private verandas, walk-in wardrobes and marble bathrooms, while the ship maintains a near one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio.
The onboard experience is designed for long, immersive journeys, with multiple open-seating dining venues, enrichment lectures, destination briefings and cultural talks scheduled throughout the voyage. Guests can also enjoy a spa, fitness centre, pool decks and a variety of quiet lounges suited to relaxed sea days.
With generous storage, attentive housekeeping and a calm onboard atmosphere, the ship is purpose-built for guests spending several months at sea.
Seabourn President on the 2027 World Cruise
Mark Tamis, President of Seabourn, said the voyage was designed to create meaningful connections with destinations and cultures across the globe.
“We invite travelers to embark on our 2027 World Cruise and discover the most awe-inspiring and extraordinary destinations across Australia, New Zealand, Polynesia, and beyond.
“This voyage invites guests to explore and create lasting connections with both the extraordinary places we visit, and the people and cultures that bring them to life.
“Along the way, guests will enjoy Seabourn’s signature style of luxury travel at sea, elevated by the intuitive, personalized service delivered by our incredible onboard team.”
With its combination of iconic destinations, extended stays and comprehensive inclusions, Seabourn’s 2027 World Cruise is shaping up to be a standout option for travellers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime journey without the logistical challenges of traditional globe-trotting.
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A 14-night sailing out of Buenos Aires, Argentina was delayed after Celebrity Equinox broke from its mooring lines and started to drift.
The drifting ship then had a slight collision with a refueling ship that left a long scratch along the side of the hull.
Online video of the scratch left some social media comments wondering about the damage with one saying, “Hopefully it’s just the paint and there’s no structural issues.”
Passengers were still in the middle of the embarkation process out of Buenos Aires when some stronger winds began to pick up, with some gusts up to 40mph. One or more mooring lines broke free and the 2,880-capacity ship began to slowly move away from the pier.
As the bow of the 122,000 gross ton ship swung out, the aft of the vessel made contact with the pier, and the side of the ship rubbed against a refueling tanker that was nearby.
This resulted in a very noticeable scratch along Celebrity Equinox’s hull. The ship breaking free also caused the embarkation gangway to pull away from the dock, which left it hanging against the side of the ship.
Tugboats were then called right away to stabilize the ship and push it back into position. Because the incident happened during boarding, the process was paused for a couple hours while a new gangway was locked into place and the ship was inspected for safety.
Impact on the 14-Night Itinerary
No injuries were reported among the 2,800+ passengers or the 1,200 crew. While the damage looks to be mostly cosmetic, the ship did not depart on Saturday evening as originally scheduled.
The ship remained docked overnight and officially headed out to sea just before 11:00 AM on Sunday.
The delay has impacted the schedule slightly. While the visit to Montevideo, Uruguay was not cancelled, the ship’s time in port was cut a little short. The rest of the Patagonia and Antarctica itinerary is currently expected to go on as scheduled.
Some passengers onboard shared photos of the damage on social media with one saying, “The gangway went off the pier and was hanging against the ship partially submerged. Crazy situation, but sounds like we’ll resume boarding soon.”
Celebrity Equinox is scheduled to arrive back in Buenos Aires on January 3, 2026.
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2025 was quite the year in cruise – some amazing new ships, some incredible announcements about upcoming destinations… There’s certainly plenty of good to look back on.
But, equally, there was plenty of cruise news that wasn’t quite as positive. Tragedies, scandals, controversies – there wasn’t ever really a quiet month!
Here’s a look back at the biggest cruise news stories of 2025. Which do you remember, which did you miss that have shocked you now, and which would you rather forget?
January
World’s Biggest Cruise Ship Sees Popularity Plummet
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas celebrated her first year at sea in January 2025, but review data at the time showed a surprising shift in guest sentiment. Expected to be a fleet favourite, her ranking amongst cruise ships fell sharply in her debut year…
Carnival Adjusts Minor Guest Policy In Potential Crackdown
Carnival quietly tightened its minor guest policy, introducing stricter rules on where under-21s could stay onboard. The changes reshaped family cabin bookings and sparked plenty of debate among passengers. Behind the safety message, some questioned what really drove the update and how it would be enforced at sea….
Carnival Reinforces Rules on Gambling on Cruise Ships
Carnival Cruise Line doubled down on its ban of cash games outside the casino after guests asked if games like Left-Center-Right could be played for money. What sounded like a harmless bit of fun turned into a hot topic, with many cruisers surprised by how strict the rules are and how closely they’re enforced.
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February
Cruise Passengers Allege Mistreatment Following Balcony Fire
A quick weekend cruise turned tense when a balcony fire broke out on Carnival Glory, filling a cabin with smoke and leaving guests badly shaken. Although the flames were brought under control, the real controversy came afterwards, as the passengers claimed they were mistreated by crew during the investigation. Their side of the story raised even more questions.
Carnival Cruise Passenger’s Booking Mysteriously Cancelled – With a Shocking Twist
A couple’s dream cruise nearly fell apart when their booking vanished without warning and a surprise refund hit their bank account. What first looked like a tech glitch turned into a much stranger story involving unexpected access to their account. The twist behind who cancelled the trip left cruisers stunned.
Some Sky Princess guests were left shocked after their future cruises were completely transformed, swapping warm, sun-soaked itineraries for dramatically different routes. What was meant to be one type of holiday suddenly became something else entirely, leaving passengers scrambling to reassess their plans and question why such sweeping changes were made.
March
Cruise Line Abandons Port – Entire Season Cancelled
Cruisers who thought they’d locked in bargain sailings were caught off guard when Princess Cruises quietly wiped out a run of future voyages. Planned trips disappeared overnight, throwing holiday plans into doubt. With no clear answers at first, guests were left wondering what sparked the sudden pullback and where those ships might be heading instead.
Pirate Alert Issued Onboard Cunard’s Queen Anne
Guests aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne were caught off guard when the captain announced extra security while sailing through a region known for piracy. Lights were dimmed, decks were closed, and passengers were given quiet instructions on what to do if something happened…
Tragic Incident Leaves Cruise Passengers Injured Including Four Critical
A routine sightseeing trip for cruise passengers in Barcelona turned into a chaotic emergency after a serious bus collision near one of the city’s most famous landmarks. What started as a simple shore excursion quickly made international headlines, with questions now being raised about tourist safety and mounting pressure on cruise visits to the city.
Terrifying Ordeal As Cruise Excursion Boat Capsizes With 38 Passengers Onboard
What started as a simple island excursion off Cartagena turned into a heart-stopping moment when a small boat carrying cruise passengers suddenly capsized at sea. Dramatic footage showed guests in the water as nearby vessels rushed to help. The incident raised fresh questions about shore excursion safety and how closely operators are monitored.
April
British Couple Travels 10,000+ Miles Only To Be Denied Boarding Over Minor Passport Issue
A British couple’s dream cruise ended before it began when a seemingly tiny passport flaw stopped one of them from boarding in Sydney. After travelling halfway around the world, they were turned away at the terminal, sparking debate over how strict cruise and border rules really are and what counts as “too damaged” to travel…
Passenger Arrested After Violent Assault Aboard Royal Caribbean Cruise
A holiday at sea took a dark turn when a dispute in an elevator erupted into a shocking act of violence aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. What began as a minor disagreement quickly spiralled, leaving one passenger seriously injured and the incident raising fresh concerns about passenger behaviour and safety on busy ships.
Cruise Destination Removed From Schedules AGAIN Due To Unrest
Royal Caribbean pulled Labadee from several itineraries, surprising guests who were expecting to visit the private resort. Ships were rerouted to other Caribbean ports, and the sudden switch sparked speculation about what’s happening behind the scenes. With more sailings likely affected, many cruisers were left watching closely for what comes next.
It’s worth noting that, despite being returned to cruise schedules later in 2025, it has been pulled again over concerns…
May
Beloved Cruise Captain Dies Overnight On Asia Cruise
Passengers aboard Diamond Princess were shaken after a late-night medical announcement was revealed to involve the ship’s own captain. What began as a routine port call turned into a deeply emotional voyage, as guests and crew were faced with an unexpected loss at sea and a story that resonated far beyond the ship.
The Infamous ‘Poop Cruise’ Revisited In Popular Documentary Series
Netflix dove back into one of cruising’s most infamous disasters with a new documentary on the notorious “Poop Cruise”. The episode promised behind-the-scenes stories from passengers and crew who lived through the nightmare, going beyond the headlines to reveal what it was really like when everything went disastrously wrong at sea.
Not A Perfect Day As Fight Breaks Out On Cruise Private Island
A relaxing day at CocoCay took a shockingly ugly turn when a confrontation in the water erupted into a full-blown fight. What started as a dispute over space near private cabanas quickly escalated, leaving guests stunned and sparking heated debate online about entitlement, boundaries, and cruise shore behaviour.
College Graduate Critically Injured On Bahamas Cruise Excursion
A dream cruise celebration turned into a nightmare after a young passenger suffered devastating injuries in a ferry accident near Nassau. What exactly happened to cause the incident still remains unclear, as the passenger deals with the aftermath of the life-changing excursion.
Chaos As Ship Breaks Away From Moorings Sending Guests Into The Water
Strong winds in Sicily turned a routine port stop into chaos when Norwegian Epic broke free from the dock, sending debris flying and knocking passengers into the harbour. What unfolded in Catania quickly became one of the most dramatic port incidents of the year, with frightened guests and serious questions raised about dock safety.
June
Cruise Critics BANNED from 93 Ships After Negative Reviews
Two well-known cruise reviewers were suddenly banned from sailing with every brand in the Carnival group, leaving the cruising community stunned. After years of giving honest opinions, they found themselves completely blacklisted. The reasons were vague, the fallout was huge, and the industry debate that followed was even bigger.
Carnival Completely Overhauls Loyalty Program With Immediate Backlash
Well, this one certainly caused some waves, no pun intended. After teasing an announcement for months, Carnival unveiled a new loyalty program called Carnival Rewards – and broadly speaking, Carnival’s fanbase hated it. There have been several changes announced since, but a lot of the damage has been done.
Royal Caribbean’s Latest Overbooked Ship Offer
Royal Caribbean went through a strange period this year of having several overbooked sailings – meaning very generous offers being made to passengers in a bid to get them to delay or cancel their cruises. If you didn’t mind cancelling last minute, you could get a serious financial win…
Cruise Cancelled Following Fire Onboard
Guests aboard MSC Orchestra faced an anxious night after a technical fire triggered a ship-wide power failure, leaving them without lights, services, or clear answers for hours. The situation forced major itinerary changes and cancellations, with travellers caught in limbo as the ship was taken out of service for urgent inspections.
July
Celebrity Cruises Cancels Sailing The Night Before Departure
Cruisers were left stunned after Celebrity Beyond cancelled a sailing at the very last minute due to unexpected engine problems. What started as a short delay quickly turned into a full cancellation, throwing holiday plans into chaos. Passengers were left scrambling, with many questioning how close to departure a cruise can be pulled.
Pensioner Denied Boarding Cruise At Last Second Over One Missed Detail
An elderly woman’s dream of taking her very first cruise ended in tears when she and her daughter were turned away at the port over a booking error. Their suitcases were already on the ship when they were told they couldn’t sail, sparking outrage and heartbreak in equal measure.
Tragedy As Crew Member Goes Overboard From World’s Largest Cruise Ship
A terrifying emergency unfolded aboard Icon of the Seas when a crew member went overboard, triggering a frantic rescue at sea. What first appeared to be a tragic accident later revealed a far darker backstory, leaving passengers shaken and raising serious questions about what really happened behind the scenes.
Guest Falls From Icon Of The Seas Infinity Pool Railing In Shocking Viral Video
A viral clip from Icon of the Seas had viewers convinced a guest had fallen into the ocean after a risky stunt by the infinity pool. What actually happened was just as shocking, and it sparked fresh debate about onboard safety, reckless behaviour, and how close this moment came to ending in tragedy.
Guests Raise Concerns Over Beach Erosion At Disney’s Newest Private Island
Guests at Disney’s private island began voicing serious concerns after parts of the beach near premium cabanas started disappearing. What should have been soft sand in front of luxury rentals turned into uneven rock and sudden drop-offs, leaving some cruisers questioning whether the area is still safe and what Disney might do next.
August
Royal Caribbean Closes Beverage Package Loophole
Royal Caribbean quietly closed a loophole that many cruisers relied on to save hundreds on drink packages. What used to be a simple call to customer service no longer works, and couples are now facing much higher bills. The change has sparked frustration and raised questions about what pushed the line to act.
Cruise Passengers Tragically Drown During Greek Island Visit
A tragic shore visit left the cruise world shaken after two passengers were swept into the sea at one of Greece’s most famous beaches. What started as a simple sightseeing moment ended in disaster, raising fresh questions about safety during extreme weather and how much warning visitors really get at cruise destinations.
Cruise Guests Hit By Bus In Livorno: One Dead
Cruisers were left shaken after a devastating incident in the port of Livorno claimed the life of a passenger and left her husband critically injured. Guests heard the news directly from the ship, and early reports raised troubling questions about how such a tragedy could happen in a busy cruise terminal.
British Passenger Dies In Onboard Pool
Passengers were left stunned after a British man was found unresponsive in the pool aboard Marella Voyager while the ship was docked in Naples. The sudden tragedy unfolded quietly onboard, with questions around what happened emerging as authorities investigated and the voyage was delayed.
September
Wonder of the Seas Returns To Miami After Onboard ‘Altercation’ Sends Two To Hospital
Wonder of the Seas was forced to make an unexpected return to Miami after an onboard incident left two guests needing hospital treatment. Emergency crews lined the dock as the ship arrived, while conflicting passenger reports spread online. What actually happened onboard quickly became one of the most talked-about cruise stories.
Cruise Passenger Jumps From Rhapsody Of The Seas To Dodge Gambling Debt
A cruise guest shocked passengers after deliberately jumping overboard in port in a bizarre attempt to avoid a casino debt. What first looked like a dramatic stunt quickly unravelled into a much stranger story involving large sums of cash, fake identities, and serious federal charges waiting back on shore.
Cruise Ship MV Gemini Strikes Pier In Piraeus
A routine docking went badly wrong when an ageing cruise ship struck the pier, tearing a hole in its hull and forcing urgent inspections. With the ship already troubled by recent technical problems, this latest mishap has raised fresh questions about how long she can keep sailing and what might come next.
October
Crew Member Dies After Onboard Accident Aboard P&O Cruises’ Arvia
A routine voyage turned deeply emotional after a crew member lost their life following an onboard accident. With few official details released, questions quickly spread across the cruise community. The tragedy cast a sombre cloud over the sailing and drew attention to the hidden risks faced by crew behind the scenes.
Disney Dream Overboard Investigation Unveiled – Blame Attributed To Mother
New details later revealed how a young child fell overboard from Disney Dream and why the terrifying incident unfolded as it did. What was first a mystery became a sobering lesson about hidden risks onboard, split-second decisions, and the fine line between a holiday moment and a life-changing emergency.
Family Demands Answers After 80-Year-Old Left Behind by Cruise Ship and Found Dead on Remote Island
A dream cruise turned tragic after an elderly passenger was left behind on a remote island and later found dead. What began as a routine shore excursion raised disturbing questions about headcounts, safety procedures, and how someone could be forgotten. The aftermath shocked the cruise world and left a family demanding answers.
November
FBI Investigates Death Of 18-Year-Old “Straight-A” Student Aboard Carnival Horizon
A routine sailing took a dark turn when a young passenger died aboard Carnival Horizon, prompting federal agents to board the ship on its return to port. With cabins sealed off and investigators involved, the story quickly shocked cruisers and raised difficult questions about what happened – with more details later revealed…
Two Guests Kicked Off Royal Caribbean Cruise For Fighting
Things got messy at sea when a fight between two online streamers erupted on Harmony of the Seas and was caught on camera. What started as an argument quickly turned physical, leading to ship security stepping in and both men being kicked off mid-cruise, leaving shocked passengers and a viral video in their wake.
Cruise Vloggers Banned From Filming After Complaint
A pair of young cruise vloggers found their holiday turned tense after being warned to stop filming ship tours following a guest complaint. Confusion over what’s allowed sparked debate about privacy, content creation and where cruise lines draw the line, leaving many wondering how far filming restrictions could go.
December
Princess Cruises Sued After Theatre Seat Collapse Injures Guest
Cruise lines are no strangers to lawsuits from guests – people often feel entitled to compensation for experiences gone wrong. But this was an unusual one as a guest sued Princess Cruises over a collapsed theatre chair – claiming it caused them significant injury…
Grandmother Jailed in Bahamas After Boarding Royal Caribbean Ship With Firearm
A cruising grandmother was arrested during a visit to the Bahamas after she was found to be carrying a gun – raising serious questions about how she had boarded her Royal Caribbean cruise with it in the first place…
Teacup Chihuahua Is Emotional Support Dog On Royal Caribbean Cruise
A cruiser caused a stir when their viral videos revealed that they were sailing with their chihuahua as an emotional support dog. As you can imagine, many people responded to this viral cruise story with less-than-positive comments…
Family Denied Cruise Boarding After Forgetting One Essential Document
A family was denied boarding after travelling 7 hours to reach their cruise port, all because of a misunderstanding over a key document. While they insisted the cruise line should reimburse them or offer a future sailing date, many other cruisers spoke up on behalf of the cruise line’s rules…
Final Word
From viral dramas and vanished sea days to dock mishaps, bans, breakdowns and plot twists nobody saw coming, the cruise world didn’t exactly sail through calm waters.
Between unexpected detours, onboard drama and moments that shocked even seasoned cruisers, 2025 proved one thing loud and clear: life at sea is never dull.
Now, let’s see what 2026 brings…
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Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed a significant change for its New York operations as part of its newly announced 2027 deployment plans, bringing a familiar ship’s run in Manhattan to…
A family’s cruise holiday came to an abrupt end at the port of Jacksonville, Florida, after several guests were denied boarding for failing to bring the correct travel documentation. The…
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Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed a significant change for its New York operations as part of its newly announced 2027 deployment plans, bringing a familiar ship’s run in Manhattan to an end while introducing a new vessel to the market.
The update, revealed as part of Carnival’s wider North American and international deployment strategy, places New York at the centre of some of the cruise line’s most notable fleet movements.
The changes are designed to refresh the product offered from key homeports while maintaining a strong range of itineraries.
Carnival president Christine Duffy said the broader deployment strategy is focused on offering guests greater flexibility and more distinctive cruise experiences from iconic cities worldwide.
Carnival Venezia to Leave Manhattan
As part of the reshuffle, Carnival Venezia will depart the New York market ahead of the 2027 summer season. The ship has been a regular presence in Manhattan, sailing a mix of Bermuda and Caribbean itineraries and helping anchor Carnival’s operations from the city.
While Carnival has not yet announced Venezia’s next deployment, the cruise line confirmed the ship is being replaced rather than withdrawn from the port altogether.
For New York cruisers, this marks the end of Venezia’s tenure and a shift to a new onboard experience.
Carnival Firenze Arrives in New York for First Time
Carnival Firenze will take over Venezia’s role in Manhattan, arriving in New York in May 2027. The move marks the first time Firenze has been homeported in the city.
Originally built with Italian-inspired design and venues, Carnival Firenze brings the cruise line’s Fun Italian Style concept to New York. Carnival says the change is intended to keep the Manhattan offering feeling fresh while continuing to serve popular regional itineraries.
Once based in New York from 27th May 2027, Carnival Firenze will operate a varied schedule that includes four- and five-day sailings to Bermuda and Canada, providing short-break options for local cruisers.
Longer itineraries will also feature prominently, including a seven-day cruise with three consecutive days in Bermuda. Additional eight-day Eastern Caribbean sailings will call at Celebration Key, Grand Turk and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
A standout itinerary will depart on 19th August 2027, offering a five-day cruise to New England and Canada with calls at Portland, Maine, and Saint John, Canada.
One-Off Miami to New York Repositioning Cruise
Before beginning her New York season, Carnival Firenze will sail a one-time Carnival Journeys repositioning cruise from Miami to Manhattan.
The 11-day Southern Caribbean sailing departs Miami on 16th May 2027 and includes visits to Celebration Key in Grand Bahama, Aruba, Curaçao and St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands. As with other Carnival Journeys sailings, the itinerary is expected to feature longer port stays and a more relaxed pace.
Carnival Splendor Adds New International Sailings
Alongside the New York changes, Carnival Cruise Line also confirmed expanded international deployments for Carnival Splendor during the 2027 and 2028 season.
The ship will introduce four new sailings across Australia and Southeast Asia, including two roundtrip cruises from Sydney and two Carnival Journeys itineraries to and from Singapore following a dry dock.
One notable 15-day sailing from Sydney will include ports in Australia and Indonesia, followed by a sea day crossing the Equator. A 16-day return voyage will include an additional call at Darwin.
New York Remains a Key Carnival Homeport
For New York cruisers, Carnival’s 2027 plans signal continued investment in the Manhattan homeport. The arrival of Carnival Firenze, combined with a broader mix of itineraries and a refreshed onboard experience, offers something new for repeat guests sailing from the city.
With bookings expected to open well ahead of the 2027 season, travellers keen to cruise from New York may want to keep an eye on dates and availability as Carnival continues to roll out further deployment details.
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Holland America Line has launched their biggest cruise sale of the year that is good on over 500 cruises all around the world.
Holland America Line’s new ‘Start Your Journey’ promotion is the cruise line’s biggest deal of the year. It not only offers savings off of cruise fares, but also gives onboard credit that you can spend on the ship.
Holland America’s ‘Start Your Journey’ includes the following:
Up to 30% off cruise fares, prices as low as $162 per person, per day
Free free balcony upgrade for the price of an ocean view stateroom
Free ocean view upgrade for the price of an inside stateroom
Kids cruise free on select cruises in 2026 and 2027
Up to $250 in onboard credit to spend once you are on the ship
As an added bonus, the cruise line is offering up to $200 in shore excursions on cruises to Alaska and Cruisetours when you use promo code #1ALASKA26 at checkout.
Holland America Line’s Koningsdam visiting Glacier Bay
Beth Bodensteiner, president, Holland America Line, gave the following statement:
“Whether discovering glaciers and wildlife in Alaska or the culture and history of Europe, Holland America believes the best journeys are those where the destination comes to life on and off the ship.
“The ‘Start Your Journey’ offer is the perfect opportunity for guests to plan a vacation that combines exploration with relaxation and the best service at sea.”
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A family’s cruise holiday came to an abrupt end at the port of Jacksonville, Florida, after several guests were denied boarding for failing to bring the correct travel documentation.
The incident involved a Norwegian Cruise Line sailing to the Bahamas, where a passenger’s wife and parents were turned away at the terminal because the parents, who are permanent US residents, did not have their physical green cards with them.
Although the exact sailing was not identified, Norwegian Gem is currently homeported in Jacksonville through spring 2026 and is the most likely ship involved.
According to a Reddit post describing the incident, the family had driven approximately seven hours to reach the port, only to be stopped during the check-in process.
“I bought my wife and in-laws tickets to the Bahamas leaving from Jacksonville and they drove down there yesterday (7 hour drive) but were refused entry on to the ship because my in-laws, who are permanent residents with passports and state IDs, did not have their physical green cards with them,
“The reason given by the person refusing entry was that, quote: ‘when we come back through US Customs from the Bahamas, how are they going to get back into the country without their cards?’”
The family has since sought a refund or future cruise credit from Norwegian Cruise Line, citing inconvenience and embarrassment. That request has reportedly been denied.
Cruise Line Rules Leave Little Room for Flexibility
The family argued that they were unaware physical green cards were required and said the documents were not requested during the booking or online check-in process.
“When I purchased the tickets NCL did not ask to upload them, nor did they ever mention them when I registered her parents as non-US citizens during check out,” the Redditor claimed.
However, Norwegian Cruise Line’s travel documentation requirements clearly state that permanent residents must carry their physical green cards in order to sail.
“US Alien Residents holding an Alien Resident Card (ARC), also known as a ‘Green Card’ must be in possession of the ARC in order to sail,” the cruise line’s policy says.
“US Alien Residents who do not have their ARC, as well as a valid passport from their country of citizenship, with them at check-in will be denied boarding.”
In addition, US federal law requires permanent residents to carry their green cards at all times and present them when entering or re-entering the country. Cruises to the Bahamas are considered international travel, making the documentation mandatory.
Some of the confusion seems to stem from the cruises being classed as closed-loop sailings, which allows those who were born in the US to sail internationally to some destinations without their passport, provided the ship is embarking and disembarking from the US.
However this doesn’t apply to holders of a green card.
Cruise Community Offers Tough Love
Rather than sympathy, the family received blunt responses from other cruisers online, many of whom said the responsibility lay firmly with the guests.
“It’s your responsibility to have the appropriate documents. Even a small amount of research ahead of time could have prevented this situation. It sucks and I’m sorry, this is definitely a ‘you’ problem,” one commenter wrote.
Another added: “OP could have read the NCL website or asked his travel agent. He needs to mark this up as a very expensive lesson learned.”
While the situation was clearly distressing for those involved, experienced cruisers frequently warn that cruise lines enforce documentation rules strictly, with little flexibility once guests arrive at the terminal.
For anyone preparing to sail, the incident serves as a reminder to carefully review travel document requirements well in advance and, when in doubt, contact the cruise line directly to confirm exactly what is needed before heading to the port.
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Cruise passengers have taken to social media to express outrage after a child was allegedly brought into an adults-only spa during a Thanksgiving sailing, undermining what guests say was a paid-for promise of peace and quiet.
The incident was described in a viral Reddit post by a cruiser who said they had paid around $600 for week-long access to an adults-only thermal spa.
According to the post, the guest arrived expecting a calm, tranquil environment, only to find a young child inside the spa area alongside their father.
Adults-only spaces onboard cruise ships are designed to give guests a break from busy family areas. Access is often limited and sold at a premium, particularly for thermal suites and spa facilities, where silence and relaxation are part of the appeal.
Child Allegedly Allowed to Stay in Spa Area
According to the Reddit post, the child appeared to be between five and seven years old and was described as restless and bored inside the spa.
The original poster wrote that the child was “jumping and squirming around” while the father was “lying on a lounger sleeping (or just ignoring the kid).”
Other spa guests were said to be visibly uncomfortable, with the situation dragging on long enough for it to feel intentional rather than a brief mistake or misunderstanding about where children were allowed.
For many seasoned cruisers, the scenario struck a familiar nerve. Adults-only areas, particularly on family-heavy sailings, are frequently tested by guests who treat age restrictions as optional rather than enforced rules.
Staff Intervention Triggers Backlash
Eventually, a spa attendant noticed the situation and intervened. According to the post, the crew member calmly explained that the spa was restricted to adults and asked that the child be removed.
Rather than accepting responsibility, the child’s mother reportedly appeared and addressed the child directly, saying: “Oh, honey, THEY don’t want you in here, so now we all have to leave.”
That response quickly became the focal point of anger in the online discussion. Many commenters felt the parents had unfairly shifted blame onto both the spa staff and the child.
“That poor kid… Not being wanted is a different level of hurt than just about everything else,” one commenter wrote.
Another added that the remark was used “to put the responsibility on the spa attendant and not the idiot father that brought the child.”
The child, commenters noted, had not broken any rules. The adults had.
Plenty of Child-Friendly Alternatives Onboard
What further fuelled frustration was the sheer range of child-focused attractions available on the ship. According to the original post, the vessel featured a kids’ club, teen areas, an arcade, VR games, an escape room, water slides, a children’s splash area and even bumper cars.
“It’s not like there’s nowhere for the kid to go. Some parents are a mess lol,” one commenter wrote.
Many pointed out that few children would choose a silent thermal spa over water slides and games, particularly when supervised kids’ clubs are specifically designed to entertain them safely.
Guests Point to Cost and Limited Availability
Beyond the awkward confrontation, many cruisers highlighted the financial impact. Thermal spa passes are often capped and sell out quickly, meaning other guests miss out once capacity is reached.
“Hey lady. I paid $600 to enjoy my day without your child bothering me. Please take your child from the adult only area. Or pay me back the $600 you are wasting on me,” one commenter wrote.
Spa access is not a casual purchase for many cruisers. Guests often plan their relaxation time carefully around sea days and port visits, making disruptions feel especially intrusive.
A Familiar Pattern for Frequent Cruisers
The incident sparked a wider debate about entitlement onboard large cruise ships, where thousands of guests share limited spaces.
Many commenters said they had witnessed similar situations play out in adults-only pools, quiet lounges and late-night venues. One summed it up simply: “People think the rules don’t apply to them.”
Others noted that simple solutions exist. With both parents present, one could have taken the child elsewhere while the other enjoyed the spa, then swapped later. Kids’ clubs, several commenters added, are designed precisely to allow parents uninterrupted adult time.
As the discussion gained traction, it became clear the anger was less about a single child and more about accountability. Cruise guests expect staff to enforce clearly advertised rules, particularly in spaces they have paid extra to access.
“Rules are rules” as one of the Redditors put it – and for many cruisers, respecting those boundaries is essential to keeping everyone’s holiday enjoyable.
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Royal Caribbean Group and the Virgin Islands Port Authority have announced a landmark agreement to redevelop the Crown Bay Center in St. Thomas, USVI.
Photo: The Virgin Islands Port Authority
The redevelopment will modernize the waterfront and turn the port area into a tourism-focused area with improved commercial, recreational, and cultural spaces.
The project is expected to generate new jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities for local businesses, local taxi drivers and tour operators.
Crown Bay Center opened in 2007 and was built to accommodate Oasis class ships, which were at the time the largest in the world.
Melissa Morales, senior director, Destination Development, Americas, Caribbean, and Europe, Royal Caribbean Group, gave the following statement:
“Royal Caribbean Group proudly supports the revitalization of the Crown Bay District. By providing elevated experiences for our guests while also paying respect to the local culture and delivering significant economic benefits to the community, we can collectively usher in a new future for U.S. Virgin Islands.”
Kevin Goldstein, head of development for the Americas for Cruise Terminals International, added:
“Crown Bay is a priority destination within CTI’s global portfolio, and this agreement provides the underpinning for a very significant and substantial long-term investment into St. Thomas and U.S. Virgin Islands.
“We are extremely excited to continue our collaboration with Royal Caribbean Group and Virgin Islands Port Authority partners toward the realization of this ambitious and exciting redevelopment of Crown Bay.”
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