Luxury Cruising Editorial

MSC Cruises has announced a major expansion of family-friendly entertainment at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its private island in The Bahamas, with new activities rolling out from January 2026.

The cruise line says the upgrades are designed to enhance guest experiences and strengthen the island’s role as a natural extension of onboard programming.

Ocean Cay already features eight white-sand beaches, water sports, and marine conservation initiatives led by the MSC Foundation. Many itineraries include late-night or overnight stays, allowing travellers more time to explore.

The new lineup will launch in phases throughout 2026 and is aimed at travellers of all ages. Highlights include:

Wellness and Sports Experiences

Two professional fitness coaches from MSC ships sailing in the United States will lead daily beachside wellness activities.

Programming will range from yoga and functional workouts to hot yoga paired with ice baths, plus sunrise yoga sessions with sound-healing elements. The cruise line says the goal is to help guests unwind in a scenic, relaxing environment.

Augmented Reality Treasure Hunt

A new educational AR adventure will allow guests to explore the island while learning about local marine life and conservation work.

Using mobile devices, players can scan custom-built wooden sculptures to unlock digital storytelling linked to ecological themes and native species.

LEGO Pop-Up Experience

Families arriving at Ocean Cay will be greeted by a colourful LEGO activation at the Welcome Pavilion. The interactive setup will feature seven LEGO mascots and MSC Cruises’ own character, Doremi.

These additions join existing recreational offerings such as snorkeling, paddleboarding and jet skiing, as well as access to the Marine Conservation Centre where guests can learn about coral restoration.

MSC Cruises describes the enhancements as part of an ongoing effort to deliver more immersive shore experiences tied to sustainability and wellness.

More details on later phases of the rollout are expected in the coming months.

Related Posts

P&O Cruises is expanding options for larger families, introducing new five-berth staterooms on three of its biggest ships. The news comes just weeks after the cruise line announced it was…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona faced an unusual departure delay from Southampton after dozens of shipping containers – many packed with bananas – fell overboard from a cargo vessel nearby. The…

Ensenada, long considered the obligatory West Coast port call rather than a highlight of Mexican itineraries, is set for a major upgrade. Carnival Cruise Line has announced a new waterfront…

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

P&O Cruises is expanding options for larger families, introducing new five-berth staterooms on three of its biggest ships.

The news comes just weeks after the cruise line announced it was opening selected voyages on Arcadia and Aurora to passengers of all ages.

The move, announced this week, marks the first time the UK-based cruise line has provided accommodation for five guests in a single cabin.

Until now, families of five have typically been split across two staterooms or required more costly suite categories.

The five-guest cabins will launch on the following ships and departure dates:

• Britannia – 12 Superior Deluxe Balcony cabins available from sailing B616 on 3rd July 2026
• Iona – 23 Conservatory Mini-Suites available from sailing G621 on 4th July 2026
• Arvia – 15 Conservatory Mini-Suites available from sailing K615 on 5th July 2026

Bookings open 8th December 2025.

According to the cruise line, these rooms will include a fixed double bed plus a double sofa bed and a pull-down berth, depending on layout.

Pricing will also be simplified. P&O Cruises confirmed the fifth guest will not pay more than the standard rate currently charged for third and fourth guests in a stateroom.

Arcadia and Aurora Also Opening to Families

Alongside the accommodation upgrade, P&O Cruises will make Arcadia and Aurora available to guests of all ages on selected holidays throughout the year. Both ships traditionally operate as adult-only vessels.

The change will allow families to experience the more classic style of cruising those ships are known for, including calmer public spaces and wider-ranging itineraries, while ensuring entertainment and dining remain family-friendly during the designated sailings.

Infants from six months old are permitted on most cruises, though a small number of itineraries with long stretches at sea or remote ports may require babies to be at least 12 months old.

Availability Will Be Limited

P&O Cruises is encouraging families to book early due to the small number of five-berth staterooms available and high expected demand.

The line says the changes reflect growing interest from multi-generational groups and larger families who want to travel together without compromising on value.

Related Posts

MSC Cruises has announced a major expansion of family-friendly entertainment at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its private island in The Bahamas, with new activities rolling out from January 2026….

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona faced an unusual departure delay from Southampton after dozens of shipping containers – many packed with bananas – fell overboard from a cargo vessel nearby. The…

Ensenada, long considered the obligatory West Coast port call rather than a highlight of Mexican itineraries, is set for a major upgrade. Carnival Cruise Line has announced a new waterfront…

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

Ensenada, long considered the obligatory West Coast port call rather than a highlight of Mexican itineraries, is set for a major upgrade.

Carnival Cruise Line has announced a new waterfront attraction that aims to make the Baja California stop a genuine draw for travellers rather than just a checkbox on a cruise schedule.

The project – Ensenada Bay Village: Treasures of Baja – was officially introduced during a ceremony on 5th December 2025, with Carnival Panorama anchored nearby.

Local officials and Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy joined the announcement, calling the development a major economic boost for northern Mexico’s cruise industry.

What Ensenada Bay Village Will Offer

The forthcoming complex will blend resort-style entertainment with Baja culture in a space designed specifically for cruise guests.

Early plans include:

• Adventure elements such as zip lines and a dune-style off-road attraction
• A boat canal and river ride
• An adults-only beach club area
• Hot springs and wellness features
• Food and beverage experiences showcasing wine, tequila, and chocolate local to the region
• Family spaces and hands-on cultural activities

Architectural designs borrow from historic Baja and Alta California influences to distinguish the development from typical port shopping zones.

The investment – roughly $26 million – is being led by Hutchison Ports ECV and ITM Group, both active partners in cruise-destination development across Mexico and the Caribbean.

A Bid to Strengthen Mexico’s Cruise Appeal

Carnival says the goal is to enhance the guest experience while reinforcing local ties.

“We’re working with partners who want to create destinations that cruise visitors remember – and that communities benefit from,” Duffy said during the event.

ITM Group CEO Mauricio Hamui emphasized that the project is intended to feel authentic rather than manufactured, noting the region’s culture and natural scenery will influence everything from food offerings to décor.

Timeline and Impact

Construction is expected to take about two years once the project breaks ground, which positions the opening window in late 2027 or early 2028.

When complete, Ensenada Bay Village will be capable of handling as many as 9,000 cruise passengers per day and could generate more than 1,100 local jobs. It is anticipated to feature prominently on voyages operated from Long Beach, including Carnival Panorama and Carnival Legend.

Carnival Corporation brands such as Princess Cruises and Holland America Line may also incorporate the destination into future itineraries.

A Wider Industry Shift

Cruise lines have been leaning heavily into purpose-built experiences – particularly in The Bahamas – where controlled environments allow for tailored entertainment and spending.

Mexico has not had a comparable attraction until now. Royal Caribbean is opening a Perfect Day resort at Costa Maya in 2027, but that will serve Mexico’s east coast.

Ensenada’s repositioning signals that the West Coast could soon offer more competitive port experiences, potentially reshaping how short cruises from California are marketed.

Related Posts

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

St. Maarten is tightening rules on aggressive tourist solicitation at its cruise port, aiming to protect visitor experience as the island enters its busiest months of the year. Philipsburg welcomes…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port. The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded…

Carnival Cruise Line is relaxing one of its onboard dress expectations for Christmas Day, allowing guests to keep up a familiar festive ritual even at sea. Matching pyjamas are a…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona faced an unusual departure delay from Southampton after dozens of shipping containers – many packed with bananas – fell overboard from a cargo vessel nearby.

The Baltic Klipper lost 16 containers in the Solent on the evening of 6th December, close to the Nab Tower Lighthouse off the Isle of Wight.

UK Coastguard officials confirmed eight of the boxes contained bananas, two held plantains, one contained avocados and the remaining five were empty.

With the floating cargo posing a navigation hazard, Iona remained safely alongside in Southampton rather than risk a night-time departure through the busy shipping channel.

HM Coastguard said search teams and aircraft were deployed immediately, warning that collisions with the drifting containers could cause serious damage to passing vessels or jeopardise recovery crews.

Itinerary Remains on Track

By Sunday evening, 7th December, the 5,200-passenger ship was finally cleared to leave and was recorded sailing at approximately 17 knots.

Because the start of the 14-night Canary Islands cruise includes several sea days, P&O Cruises does not anticipate changes to scheduled port calls.

Iona’s first stop, Funchal in Madeira, is set for 10th December, followed by calls at Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Arrecife, Cádiz and Lisbon before returning to Southampton on 20th December.

Ongoing Recovery Effort

Five containers have so far washed up near Selsey in West Sussex, where police, fire services and local authorities placed cordons and warned the public to keep away.

Additional containers have been spotted offshore, and aerial search teams continue to sweep the area. Cleanup crews are expected to begin cargo removal operations on 8th December.

Authorities have asked anyone who discovers debris to report it immediately. Under UK maritime law, keeping unreported wreck material is a criminal offence if not disclosed within 28 days.

While cargo spills are not unheard of around major shipping hubs, the sight of banana-filled containers drifting toward shore has certainly captured attention – and briefly kept one of Britain’s biggest cruise ships in port.

Related Posts

Ensenada, long considered the obligatory West Coast port call rather than a highlight of Mexican itineraries, is set for a major upgrade. Carnival Cruise Line has announced a new waterfront…

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

St. Maarten is tightening rules on aggressive tourist solicitation at its cruise port, aiming to protect visitor experience as the island enters its busiest months of the year. Philipsburg welcomes…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port. The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded…

Carnival Cruise Line is relaxing one of its onboard dress expectations for Christmas Day, allowing guests to keep up a familiar festive ritual even at sea.

Matching pyjamas are a staple of Christmas morning in many households, and Carnival has confirmed families will be permitted to wear them to brunch on 25th December – provided the outfits remain suitable for all ages.

Cosy Christmas Breakfast

The clarification comes from brand ambassador John Heald, who fields a steady stream of guest questions about what is and isn’t allowed onboard.

With Christmas approaching, he said pyjamas are a surprisingly common point of confusion.

“I’ve also had some guests asking about whether holiday pajamas are going to be allowed in the dining room for Christmas brunch,” Heald said.

“Here’s my guidance: if you have a family tradition of having breakfast (or brunch) in your holiday pajamas, the ships are advised to make a one-time exception on Christmas morning to the ‘no pajamas’ rule.”

While Carnival’s official dress FAQ does not explicitly name pyjamas, it does state that clothing that is sheer, see-through or sexually suggestive is not appropriate.

Heald stressed that the seasonal dispensation still has limits.

“Please note: they must be family friendly (and should be long pants/sleeves),” he added. “Ultimately the maître d has discretion to ask you to change if they don’t pass family friendly guidelines. Don’t get on the naughty list by trying to slip by in something that crosses the line.”

Guests may therefore want to keep novelty adult-themed nightwear at home.

Where the Christmas Cruises Will Be

A number of Carnival ships will be at sea on Christmas morning, making the popular Seaday Brunch the main setting for the relaxed dress code.

Others will be in port – from Nassau and Cozumel to Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay and Willemstad – where pyjamas are unlikely to be ideal attire once ashore.

Passengers planning to explore should be ready to change quickly after breakfast.

Festivities Continue Throughout the Fleet

Carnival is promising a full line-up of seasonal events across its December sailings, including appearances by Santa and the Grinch, tree-lighting moments, themed trivia, faux snowfalls in the atrium and a dedicated holiday show.

Festive wardrobes will also come into play for ugly-jumper contests and formal evening, which Heald said is expected to fall on the night of 25th December on most voyages, though guests are encouraged to check the Hub app for ship-specific timing.

Whether celebrating at home or at sea, cruisers will still be able to keep one cosy tradition alive – so long as their Christmas pyjamas keep things nice rather than naughty.

Related Posts

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

St. Maarten is tightening rules on aggressive tourist solicitation at its cruise port, aiming to protect visitor experience as the island enters its busiest months of the year. Philipsburg welcomes…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port. The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded…

The theatrical spirit of Meat Loaf will once again take to the ocean waves in 2026, as Steve Steinman’s rock spectacular returns for a second high-octane sailing following its sell-out…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port.

The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded her 14-night Spain and Canary Islands cruise by docking on Friday afternoon rather than Saturday morning, a precaution to ensure a smooth and safe arrival.

“Due to the predicted weather forecasts for our arrival into Southampton on Saturday morning being less than favourable, we have made the decision to bring our arrival into Southampton forward to Friday, where we intend to be alongside by early afternoon,

“This will ensure that we are docked in front of the current weather system moving across the UK providing a more comfortable final approach.”

Captain Martin Allen, writing to guests ahead of the adjustment.

Coastal winds and gusty conditions were expected to make tight manoeuvring at the harbour entrance more challenging. Bringing the arrival forward ensured safety remained the priority for guests and crew.

A Familiar Winter Strategy

Almost exactly a year ago, Iona remained alongside longer than scheduled due to stormy seas – a reminder that seasonal weather regularly affects cruise operations into and out of the UK.

Guests stayed aboard despite the early arrival, as Border Force clearance was not scheduled until the original debarkation day.

“While we will be alongside on Friday, Border Force will not be clearing the ship for disembarkation,” Allen confirmed. “Therefore, guests will not be permitted to disembark the vessel on Friday.”

Entertainment, dining and the full evening programme continued as planned, ensuring cruisers enjoyed their final night onboard.

No Technical Issues

Earlier in the voyage, the call to Lisbon on 3rd December was cancelled due to industrial action in the Portuguese port.

However, Iona’s early arrival to Southampton was unrelated to any onboard difficulties.

Iona – P&O Cruises’ first Excel-class ship – carries up to 6,685 passengers and around 1,700 crew members.

Next Sailing to Proceed Normally

Turnaround operations were expected to take place once debarkation commenced on schedule, with the ship’s next 14-night Canary Islands itinerary due to operate as planned.

Related Posts

Carnival Cruise Line is relaxing one of its onboard dress expectations for Christmas Day, allowing guests to keep up a familiar festive ritual even at sea. Matching pyjamas are a…

The theatrical spirit of Meat Loaf will once again take to the ocean waves in 2026, as Steve Steinman’s rock spectacular returns for a second high-octane sailing following its sell-out…

Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess was forced to initiate a brief man-overboard response in Martinique after a man jumped into the water beside the ship on Saturday, 29th November 2025. The…

Carnival Cruise Line has introduced a new price rise that will affect most guests onboard, increasing the automatic service charge applied to many onboard purchases. The fee, long set at…

St. Maarten is tightening rules on aggressive tourist solicitation at its cruise port, aiming to protect visitor experience as the island enters its busiest months of the year.

Philipsburg welcomes more than 1.5 million cruise passengers annually, making tourism the backbone of the local economy. But recent complaints about visitors being harassed by pushy vendors have prompted officials to step in.

The Minister of Justice has issued a new decree enforcing public-order controls around the waterfront entry points. Under the rules, anyone who approaches cruise passengers without authorisation, disturbs the peace, or attempts to sell services unlicensed will face a fine of $190.

Prohibited activities include touting unlicensed excursions, bicycle or car rentals, hair braiding, massages, and repeatedly approaching visitors in hopes of securing business.

Authorities stress that the measures are aimed at unregulated operators rather than legitimate businesses holding permits.

Why Introduce Restrictions Now

With hurricane season over, the Caribbean has moved into peak cruise season.

The order will be active from 1st December 2025 through 30th April 2026, a period when dozens of cruise ships call each week from major lines such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The restricted zones include the entrances to the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities and the access points leading to Captain Hodge Wharf and Walter Plantz Wharf along the Boardwalk.

Positive Response From Cruisers

The announcement, shared on the Government of Sint Maarten’s Facebook page on 4th December, has been widely supported by travellers.

“Good call! I have never wanted to go on a cruise ship holiday because I have witnessed from the shore how cruise passengers get ‘attacked’ by vendors the instant they step off the ship,” one commenter wrote.

Another added: “Great news, these people what they do is scare the tourists, I understand they want to work and be nice, but definitely is not the way to market or promote a business.”

St. Maarten is not alone in tightening controls around cruise terminals.

Nassau in The Bahamas has recently introduced fencing and controlled access points to reduce unwanted interactions. Within those secured areas, only approved vendors may operate, allowing visitors to browse, shop and relax without pressure.

With the new rules in place, St. Maarten hopes to provide a more welcoming arrival – and ensure that guests leave with memories of its beaches and hospitality rather than tense encounters at the pier.

Related Posts

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026. The World-class vessel, which will debut…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port. The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded…

Carnival Cruise Line is relaxing one of its onboard dress expectations for Christmas Day, allowing guests to keep up a familiar festive ritual even at sea. Matching pyjamas are a…

The theatrical spirit of Meat Loaf will once again take to the ocean waves in 2026, as Steve Steinman’s rock spectacular returns for a second high-octane sailing following its sell-out…

MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details of MSC World Asia as the line marks 12 months until the flagship enters service in December 2026.

The World-class vessel, which will debut with week-long Mediterranean sailings, is being designed with subtle influences from Asian culture, art and landscapes.

Alongside features returning from sister ships, the line is introducing several new concepts that MSC says will shape the onboard experience.

Asia-Inspired Features

One of the most striking additions will be a stainless-steel dragon sculpture suspended 10 metres above the World Promenade and illuminated by thousands of LED lights.

Measuring 12 metres long and nine metres wide, it forms part of the ship’s visual focus on Asia-inspired design.

The ship will also incorporate a redesigned version of MSC’s signature dry slide attraction. Named The Spiral @ Tree of Life, the 81-metre slide will span 12 decks and take cues from Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.

New dining options include a pan-Asian street food venue with both indoor seating and an outdoor terrace, showcasing flavours from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Families will see changes to the top-deck attractions, with The Harbour reimagined as an Asian-inspired outdoor family park featuring rides and a high ropes course.

A new venue called The Clubhouse will combine bumper cars, table games, basketball, roller skating and a LEGO zone, with programming that shifts throughout the day.

Elsewhere, the ship will feature MSC’s first all-American sports bar deployed in Europe, plus more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants in total, including established brands such as Butcher’s Cut, Kaito and Hola! Tacos & Cantina.

Luxury Suite Options

MSC World Asia will offer the widest choice of MSC Yacht Club accommodations to date, including new Royal Duplex Suites for up to six guests. Across the ship, more than 20 cabin types will be available.

The ship will again be organised into seven distinct districts, each designed to provide different atmospheres ranging from family-focused to adults-only relaxation.

Wellbeing facilities will include the Aurea Spa, Zen pools at the aft, 13 whirlpools and a gym overlooking the sea, while entertainment will span multiple venues with live music, stage productions and continuous programming.

MSC World Asia is due to begin sailing seven-night Mediterranean itineraries on 4th December 2026, calling at ports including Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia, Messina and Valletta over the winter season, with Naples replacing Rome in summer 2027.

Prices currently begin at £693 per person for selected January 2027 departures.

Related Posts

St. Maarten is tightening rules on aggressive tourist solicitation at its cruise port, aiming to protect visitor experience as the island enters its busiest months of the year. Philipsburg welcomes…

P&O Cruises’ flagship Iona has returned to Southampton earlier than planned, cutting short her sailing time to avoid worsening weather conditions forecast to affect the port. The 184,100-gross-ton ship concluded…

Carnival Cruise Line is relaxing one of its onboard dress expectations for Christmas Day, allowing guests to keep up a familiar festive ritual even at sea. Matching pyjamas are a…

The theatrical spirit of Meat Loaf will once again take to the ocean waves in 2026, as Steve Steinman’s rock spectacular returns for a second high-octane sailing following its sell-out…