It was a landmark day for Royal Caribbean Group, as the cruise giant celebrated three major shipbuilding milestones at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France – one for Royal Caribbean International and two for Celebrity Cruises.
The event saw the steel cutting for Royal Caribbean’s next Oasis-class ship, the delivery of Celebrity Xcel, and the steel cutting for Celebrity Xcite, the sixth vessel in Celebrity’s acclaimed Edge-class series.
Together, the achievements mark a powerful demonstration of the company’s continued investment in design innovation and sustainable shipbuilding across its brands.
Construction Begins on Seventh Oasis-Class Ship
Royal Caribbean officially began construction on its next Oasis-class vessel on 23rd October 2025, when the first piece of steel was cut – a symbolic first step in the creation of what will become one of the largest cruise ships in the world.
The yet-to-be-named ship will debut in 2028 and continue the legacy of the record-breaking class that began with Oasis of the Seas in 2009.
Representatives from Royal Caribbean Group and Chantiers de l’Atlantique attended the steel-cutting ceremony, which marked the moment the design phase moved into physical construction.
The Oasis class revolutionised modern cruising with its “neighbourhood” concept, dividing the ship into themed districts such as Central Park, Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade.
Although few details have been revealed about the seventh ship, it is expected to build on this evolution with new experiences and sustainability features.
Over the coming years, the shipyard will assemble its massive hull blocks, install internal systems, and complete sea trials before delivery in 2028.
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Celebrity Cruises Welcomes Celebrity Xcel and Begins Building Xcite
At the same time, Royal Caribbean Group’s premium brand, Celebrity Cruises, officially took delivery of its newest Edge-class ship – Celebrity Xcel – and announced the start of construction for her sister ship, Celebrity Xcite.
The 140,600-gross-ton Celebrity Xcel is the fifth ship in the Edge series and will accommodate up to 3,950 guests.
Like her sisters, she features Infinite Veranda staterooms, the Magic Carpet – a cantilevered platform that moves between decks – and the elegant three-deck Grand Plaza.
The ship also continues Celebrity’s push toward cleaner energy use, designed to be methanol-capable to reduce emissions.
“Each ship in the Edge Series has reimagined what’s possible at sea through elevated design and experiences that deepen the connection to the destinations being visited,”
“With Celebrity Xcel now joining the fleet and Celebrity Xcite on the horizon, we’re continuing to set new standards for excellence and innovation alongside our trusted partners at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.”
Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.
Celebrity Cruises’ President Laura Hodges Bethge, ship’s captain Kyriakos Matragkas, and the vessel’s 1,600 crew members attended the handover ceremony, celebrating the completion of construction that began in June 2024.
The same day, the steel-cutting ceremony for Celebrity Xcite marked the formal start of the sixth Edge-class ship’s build, with delivery set for 2028. This ceremony also marked the reveal of the ship’s name.
A Celebration of Innovation
All of Celebrity’s Edge-class ships have been constructed at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, beginning with Celebrity Edge in 2018. Shipyard General Manager Laurent Castaing praised the long-running collaboration, noting that “Celebrity Xcel and the entire Edge Series are the result of close teamwork and a shared commitment to excellence.”
The shipyard is also responsible for building Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, highlighting the close partnership between the French yard and Royal Caribbean Group that spans both its mainstream and premium brands.
Setting Sail Into the Future
Celebrity Xcel will debut ahead of schedule, departing Port Everglades on 9th November 2025 for a four-night preview cruise to Cozumel, Mexico, followed by her maiden five-night voyage on 18 November to Cozumel and Bimini, Bahamas.
From late 2025 through spring 2026, she will operate 7-night Caribbean itineraries, before repositioning to Barcelona in summer 2026 for Mediterranean sailings.
Her second winter season will be based in Miami from November 2026.
As for Celebrity Xcite, her design details and itineraries are yet to be announced, but she will continue the Edge-class tradition of luxury innovation when she joins the fleet in 2028 – coinciding with the arrival of Royal Caribbean’s next Oasis-class giant.
Together, these three milestones underline Royal Caribbean Group’s continued dominance in shipbuilding and innovation, with both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises preparing to deliver the next generation of experiences at sea.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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A picturesque autumn cruise through Canada and New England has turned sour after dozens of passengers aboard Oceania Cruises’ Insignia fell ill with gastrointestinal symptoms linked to norovirus.
The Insignia departed Montreal on 16th October 2025 for an 11-night voyage to Boston, but by 20th October, 74 of the 637 guests and one crew member out of 391 had reported illness, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Health officials have since confirmed norovirus as the cause.
Cruise Itinerary and Response
The 30,277-gross-ton vessel is operating an autumn foliage itinerary calling at Quebec City, Saguenay, Sept-Îles, Corner Brook, Sydney, Halifax, and Saint John, before visiting Portland, Maine, and concluding in Boston on 27th October.
The outbreak was reported while the ship was sailing in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Once cases were detected, the crew immediately activated its outbreak prevention protocols – isolating affected guests in their cabins, increasing sanitation of public spaces, and switching dining services to crew-assisted stations to limit shared contact points.
High-touch areas such as railings, lift buttons, and door handles are receiving enhanced cleaning, and crew are following strict hygiene procedures.
As the number of cases surpassed reporting thresholds – equivalent to 11.6% of passengers – Oceania Cruises alerted US health authorities as required.
“VSP [Vessel Sanitation Program] is remotely monitoring the situation, including review of the ship’s outbreak response and sanitation procedures,” the CDC confirmed in a statement.
The CDC notes that illness counts are cumulative and may fluctuate if new cases emerge before the voyage ends.
Understanding Norovirus
Norovirus is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis in the United States, responsible for vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. It spreads rapidly in close-contact settings such as cruise ships, schools, and care facilities, where even small traces of contamination can transmit infection.
While symptoms typically last only one to three days, the virus can linger on surfaces and remains infectious even after recovery, making containment difficult in shared environments.
Passengers are urged to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating or after using the toilet. Alcohol-based sanitiser, the CDC warns, is less effective against norovirus.
A Challenging Year for Cruise Health
The Insignia outbreak marks the first norovirus incident of 2025 for Oceania Cruises but adds to a growing list of cases across the industry this year.
The CDC has now logged 15 confirmed norovirus outbreaks aboard cruise ships in 2025, plus additional cases of other gastrointestinal illnesses.
Earlier in the year, Holland America Line’s Volendam reported infections in January, followed by further monthly cases through May. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas also faced outbreaks during the summer and early autumn.
Including unrelated incidents of E. coli, Ciguatera seafood poisoning, and three outbreaks with unconfirmed causes, 2025 has already seen 20 total cruise illness events, surpassing the 18 recorded in 2024.
Staying Safe Onboard
Health authorities recommend that guests who experience vomiting or diarrhoea immediately inform the ship’s medical team and remain in isolation to prevent spreading the virus.
Norovirus can disrupt even the most well-maintained ships, but with quick reporting and cooperation from passengers, outbreaks can often be contained before they spoil the entire voyage.
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I’m sure nobody goes out of their way to be a ‘bad’ cruise passenger, but there might be some of you reading this who are actually causing issues for the crew without realising it.
Especially the cabin stewards. These hard-working legends put a ton of effort into keeping your cabin at its best, and making sure you have everything you need (within reason), but some passengers don’t half make their job even more difficult.
Perhaps you’re one of them, and you don’t realise it? Here are the 11 things that cabin stewards hate that cruise passengers do without realising, so that you can adjust your behaviour onboard if you need to.
1. Hiding Room Service Trays Or Food
I understand that, once you’ve finished with your room service tray or that buffet plate you brought back to your cabin, you might want it out of sight.
I get it, dirty plates are one of the worst offenders for just making a room look cluttered and dirty.
The best advice is generally to put the plate outside your door so it can be collected, but some people don’t like to do that. And so instead they might try to hide the plates temporarily, maybe behind a curtain, under the bed, or in the wardrobe.
An utterly terrible idea, because your cabin steward is not doing a deep-clean every single time they enter your room, and so there’s a good chance they’ll miss the plates if they’re hidden.
This can lead to odours and also means that, if you keep ordering more room service or bringing more plates back, you’ll end up with quite the collection that becomes harder to tidy away properly.
If you don’t want to leave the plate outside your door, make sure it’s in plain sight so it can be removed.
2. Overusing Do Not Disturb Signs
Of course, everyone needs privacy at times, but keeping the “Do Not Disturb” sign up all day can cause issues.
Stewards work to very tight schedules, and if they miss their window to clean your cabin it disrupts their flow. It’s fine to use it for a little while but don’t leave it up there permanently!
In some cases, a cabin left on “Do Not Disturb” too long will even trigger a welfare check from security. That’ll be awkward if you’ve just left it there because you want a bit of peace…
If you want service later, flip the sign to “Make Up Room” when you head out, or simply let your steward know your preferred cleaning time.
3. Mixing Clean And Dirty Towels
Folding a damp towel neatly and leaving it on the floor may seem helpful, but it only creates confusion. Is it clean enough to reuse, or should it be replaced?
To keep things clear, always put used towels in the shower or bath, and hang up anything you plan to use again.
This saves your steward wasting precious time sorting through piles of linen.
4. Bringing Your Own Toilet Paper Or Flushing Wipes
Cruise ship plumbing is sensitive and designed only for the thin paper provided onboard.
And I know it might not be as luxurious as the kind you use at home, but there’s no way around that.
Some people who’ve cruised before might even bring their own to get around the problem but trust me, you shouldn’t!
Using thick, plush toilet paper from home – or worse, flushing wet wipes – can block the system, causing problems not just in your cabin but across the deck.
Always stick to the supplies provided and bin anything that isn’t toilet paper.
5. Rearranging Furniture
Cabin furniture is carefully positioned and often secured for safety.
Moving it around, even just to “make more space”, creates hazards and extra work, as everything needs to be put back before the next guests arrive.
In fact in some cases your steward will be under instruction to move it back immediately, and to keep moving it if you continue to shift it.
If you really want a different set-up, speak to your steward instead of dragging chairs or beds yourself.
6. Drying Wet Clothes On Furniture Or Sprinklers
It’s tempting to drape swimsuits or towels over chairs or lamps to dry, but this can cause damp smells, damage furniture, or even trigger the fire-safety system if hung on sprinklers (yes, some people apparently do this – crazy!)
Most cruise cabins I’ve sailed in have a retractable clothesline in the shower – use that instead. If you need more drying space, ask your steward for extra hangers.
Cabins aren’t huge, and when clothes and shoes are spread across the bed, floor, and chairs, it makes cleaning much more time-consuming.
Stewards end up carefully moving items just to make the bed or vacuum. Keeping your belongings in the wardrobe or drawers helps them do their job faster and more efficiently.
8. Complaining About Things Stewards Can’t Control
Problems with air conditioning, noisy neighbours, or technical faults aren’t within a steward’s power to fix.
While they can report issues, it’s quicker and more effective to contact guest services directly.
Save your steward for cabin-specific requests like extra pillows or replacing light bulbs – they’ll appreciate it and you won’t be burdening them with extra things to remember.
Oh, and if guest services are a little slow, don’t take it out on your cabin steward. It’s not their job to just sit and take your complaints!
Expensive jewellery, passports, and wads of cash left on display don’t just slow cleaning down – they put stewards in a difficult position.
Even though theft is rare, the presence of valuables creates stress for them and risk for you. They don’t want to be accused of something they didn’t do if anything goes missing!
For everyone’s peace of mind, always use the in-cabin safe for anything important.
11. Holding Stewards Up For Long Chats
A quick “hello” or “thank you” is always welcome, but long conversations can throw a steward’s schedule completely off track.
They’re often responsible for 15 to 20 cabins or perhaps more, and on some cruise lines those cabins are still serviced twice a day, so every minute counts.
If you’d like to chat, catch them at a quieter time rather than when they’re rushing with a trolley of supplies.
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Final Word
Cabin stewards work tirelessly to keep your cruise experience smooth and comfortable.
By avoiding these small but significant habits, you not only make their lives easier but also help ensure you receive the very best service in return.
A little consideration goes a long way – so next time you’re on board, be the kind of passenger your steward is secretly delighted to look after.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Virgin Voyages has shaken up the cruise world with its fresh, adults-only approach. With stylish ships, innovative dining, and a party-meets-relaxation vibe, it feels a world away from the more traditional cruise lines.
But while the brand prides itself on offering something different, choosing the right cabin is just as important here as it is on any other ship.
After all, no sailor wants their chic getaway spoiled by a cabin that’s too noisy, too dark, or simply not worth the premium price tag.
That’s why I’ve studied the deck plans, scoured sailor reviews and trawled cruise forums to highlight the Virgin Voyages cabins you might want to steer clear of.
Quirks of Virgin Voyages Cabins
Before we dive into which cabins to avoid, it’s worth pointing out a few quirks that make Virgin Voyages staterooms a little different to those you might be used to.
A or Z?
On Virgin Voyages ships, cabins on the port and starboard sides share the same numbers – the only difference is that one ends with an A and the other with a Z.
So, if you’re swapping cabin tips with fellow sailors, make sure you’ve got the right letter or you could end up knocking on the wrong door.
(There are some inside cabins that are in the centre of the ship – those get the letter M, which I assume stands for ‘middle’, not for ‘meh’.)
Numbers run ‘backwards’
On most cruise ships, cabin numbers get higher as you head from front to back. Virgin Voyages flips that on its head.
The lowest cabin numbers are towards the back of the ship, and they increase as you walk forward. It takes a little getting used to, but once you know, you know.
Still, you have to wonder why they’ve done this. Just to be different?
Convertible Seabed
Almost all standard cabins feature Virgin’s quirky ‘Seabed’ – a bed that transforms into a sofa during the day.
In theory, it gives you more living space, but not everyone likes the idea of the mattress doubling as a sofa space. It’s a bit of a Marmite feature among sailors.
Typically it’ll be left as a bed configuration throughout your voyage, and you won’t even know it exists as a sofa, unless you request that it is changed during the day.
Tech-heavy controls
Cabins come with a tablet-style control system for lights, curtains, TV and even ordering amenities.
It’s fun and very “Virgin,” but if you’re not particularly techy, it can feel fiddly at first compared to the good old-fashioned light switch.
Virgin Voyages Cabin Overview
Before we dive into the specific cabins you’ll want to avoid, let’s take a look at each cabin option on the ships and what you can expect.
The good news, when it comes to understanding the good and bad cabins, is that the four ships in the Virgin Voyages fleet are almost identical. This makes it easier to give broad advice that applies to all of the ships.
Still, there are also some tips that apply not just to the Virgin Voyages fleet, but also to any cruise ship in the world. There are some cabins that you’ll always want to avoid, regardless of cruise line.
So to make things even easier for you, I’ve put together a handy cabin checklist which you can use when you book your next Virgin Voyages cruise, or any cruise for that matter.
These are the cabin types you can get on a Virgin Voyages ship..
Insider Cabins
Insider cabins are the most affordable way to sail with Virgin Voyages.
They don’t have a window or balcony, but they’re modern, stylishly designed, and surprisingly comfortable for the price. Perfect if you’re planning to spend most of your time enjoying the ship, with your cabin as a cosy retreat at the end of the day.
Category
Room
Max. Guests
Average Size (sq. ft.)
IN
The Insider
2-3
105-177
I1
Solo Insider
1
105
I4
Social Insider
4
177
The Solo Insider is tailored for single travellers, offering all the essentials without the need to pay extra for double occupancy.
The Social Insider is a fun option for groups of friends, sleeping up to four guests with twin beds and two pull-down bunks.
It’s more compact than other layouts, but great value if you don’t mind sharing.
Sea View Cabins
Sea View cabins are a step up from the Insider category, with a large porthole window that brings in natural light and gives you a glimpse of the ocean as you sail.
They’re a great middle ground if you want something brighter and airier without stretching to the cost of a balcony.
Category
Room
Max. Guests
Average Size (sq. ft.)
VW
The Sea View
2-3
130-190
V1
Solo Sea View
1
130
The Solo Sea View offers the same outside view in a cabin designed just for one, giving solo travellers a light-filled space without paying a supplement for a double room.
Sea Terrace Cabins
Sea Terrace cabins are Virgin Voyages’ most popular choice, giving you a private balcony complete with the line’s signature red hammock.
They strike a nice balance between comfort and price, making them a favourite for many sailors.
Category
Room
Max. Guests
Average Size Including Balcony (sq. ft.)
TR
The Sea Terrace
2-3
225
TS
Sea Terrace – (Slightly) Smaller Balcony
2
191
TL
Ltd View Sea Terrace
2-4
225
TC
Central Sea Terrace
2-3
225
XL
XL Sea Terrace
2-3
265
The standard Sea Terrace offers a good-sized balcony with space to relax in your hammock while watching the waves roll by.
The Sea Terrace – (Slightly) Smaller Balcony does exactly what the name suggests, although you might argue that Virgin Voyages are being a little cheekier calling it “slightly” smaller.
The balcony is noticeably more compact, with no room for chairs, but you do get two hammocks instead of one – a quirky twist that some guests love. Note that these rooms only debuted on the new Brilliant Lady.
The Ltd View Sea Terrace gives you the same indoor space but with views partially blocked by the ship’s lifeboats.
The Central Sea Terrace is all about location, placing you in the heart of the ship for easy access to restaurants, bars and entertainment.
The XL Sea Terrace is a little larger overall, with the extra space mostly going to the bathroom rather than the balcony.
RockStar Quarters (Suites)
RockStar Quarters take Virgin Voyages’ suite experience up a notch, blending bold design with exclusive perks that make you feel like, well, a rock star.
All RockStar sailors get access to Richard’s Rooftop, a private sundeck and bar just for suite guests, plus a curated in-room bar with the first round of drinks on the house.
You’ll also enjoy priority booking for restaurants, events and shore experiences, along with the support of RockStar Agents who can help with everything from dinner reservations to party invites.
Category
Room
Max. Guests
Average Size Including Balcony (sq. ft.)
SAP
Sweet Aft Suite – Pretty Big Terrace
2-3
416-418
SAE
Sweet Aft Suite – Even Bigger Terrace
2
459-504
SAB
Sweet Aft Suite – Biggest Terrace
2
557-661
SS
Seriously Suite
2
352
SCP
Cheeky Corner Suite – Pretty Big Terrace
2
615-617
SCE
Cheeky Corner Suite – Even Bigger Terrace
2
660-710
SCB
Cheeky Corner Suite – Biggest Terrace
2
753-847
SB
Brilliant Suite
4
482
The Sweet Aft Suites are a real favourite, located right at the back of the ship with sweeping wake views. There are three versions – each with a bigger terrace than the last – so you can choose just how much outdoor space you want.
The Seriously Suite is the most straightforward RockStar option, with plenty of room indoors and a terrace for lounging. It’s a great entry point into the RockStar lifestyle.
The Cheeky Corner Suites are positioned at the ship’s corners, giving you unique angled views from the balcony. Like the Sweet Afts, they come in three different sizes, with terraces that range from spacious to sprawling.
The Brilliant Suite is a bright, airy space with generous indoor and outdoor areas, perfect if you want the full RockStar treatment without going all the way to the Mega RockStar level.
Mega RockStar Quarters (Suites)
Mega RockStar Quarters are Virgin Voyages’ top-tier suites, designed to be the ultimate indulgence at sea.
They include everything you’d get at RockStar level, plus a long list of extras that take the experience to another level.
Sailors in these suites enjoy a daily bar tab to spend anywhere on the ship, unlimited spa access, and even private transfers or free parking before and after your voyage.
Your in-room bar is completely bottomless, WiFi is included throughout your trip, and of course, you’ll still have priority bookings and the support of RockStar Agents whenever you need them.
These are the largest and most lavish cabins on the ship, with expansive terraces, stylish living areas, and standout design touches that make them feel more like a private apartment than a cruise suite.
If you’re looking for the most luxurious way to experience Virgin Voyages, the Mega RockStar Quarters are it.
Category
Room
Max. Guests
Average Size Including Balcony (sq. ft.)
SG
Gorgeous Suite
4
570
SP
Posh Suite
4
833
SF
Fab Suite
4
950
SM
Massive Suite
4
2,150
The Gorgeous Suite lives up to its name with stunning sea views from its oversized terrace. It’s the most intimate of the Mega RockStar options, but still comes with all the same high-level perks and that all-important bottomless bar.
The Posh Suite delivers sleek style and plenty of space, with a large terrace that’s great for sunbathing or evening cocktails. It’s a glamorous option for those who want something indulgent without going quite as over the top.
The Fab Suite is all about that indoor-outdoor lifestyle, with a spacious wraparound terrace that’s perfect for entertaining. It’s a little smaller than the Massive, but still has more than enough wow factor.
The Massive Suite is the headline act – literally named because of its sheer size. It comes with a huge terrace complete with outdoor dining, lounge areas, and even your own music room stocked with guitars and an amp. It’s designed to feel like a true rock star’s crash pad.
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Virgin Voyages Cabins to Avoid
There aren’t really any awful cabins on Virgin Voyages – the ships are brand new, beautifully designed and every stateroom feels modern and stylish.
But as with any cruise ship, some cabins have quirks that might not suit everyone. It really depends on your own priorities – whether you’re a light sleeper, want the best view, or simply don’t want to spend half your holiday walking from one end of the ship to the other.
With that in mind, here are a few Virgin Voyages cabins you might want to think twice about:
1. Ltd View Sea Terrace
These cabins still give you Virgin’s trademark hammock and outdoor space, but the view can be quite heavily obscured by lifeboats and equipment.
If you mainly want a balcony to relax and read in the hammock, they’re fine. But if you love watching the horizon and the sea, you’ll probably feel short-changed and you might want to consider booking something better.
2. Sea Terrace – (Slightly) Smaller Balcony
The name makes it sound like a minor compromise, but these balconies are noticeably smaller – really too tight to fit chairs.
On top of that, they also have an obstructed view, so it’s a bit of a double whammy.
The upside is that you do get two hammocks instead of one, which can be handy if you’re sailing as a couple and usually end up arguing over who gets it.
3. Deck 8 Cabins
Many sailors mention noise in these cabins thanks to what’s happening one deck below.
Deck 7 is home to several busy venues, and the music and activity there can sometimes be heard in the cabins directly above.
It’s not constant, but if you’re a light sleeper, you may prefer a higher deck. It’s definitely noticeable as a lot of past guests recommend avoiding this deck altogether.
4. Deck 14 Cabins
On the flip side, being right under Deck 15 means you’ll sometimes hear the pool deck above.
It’s not just the guests either – some people have reported hearing the crew working on cleaning the pool deck as early as 3 am. That’s quite the early morning wake-up call.
Party nights can be particularly lively, and during the day the overhang can leave your balcony more shaded than sunny.
Not ideal if you’re hoping to soak up the rays.
5. Deck 15 Cabins Near Pool Deck Doors
There aren’t many cabins up here, but if you’re right next to one of the shared doors leading to the pool deck, expect plenty of opening and closing (and sometimes slamming) as people come and go.
It can get a little wearing over the course of the day, so maybe avoid the cabins directly next to these doors.
6. Solo Insiders (Low Beds)
These are a great budget-friendly way to travel solo, but space is limited and the beds are set low to the ground.
That means you can’t slide a suitcase underneath, and if you have mobility issues, climbing in and out isn’t the easiest.
7. Social Insiders
Designed for groups of up to four, these are compact to say the least.
With twin beds and bunks, there isn’t much room left over to relax.
If you’re all planning to spend your time out enjoying the ship and just need somewhere to sleep and shower, they’re fine. But don’t expect elbow room.
8. Triangular Sea View Cabins
Some Solo and Standard Sea View cabins have a triangular layout, which can look roomy on the deck plans.
In practice, though, the odd shape means floor space is limited in the main living area.
Some guests aren’t bothered, but others find it less practical than the square layouts.
9. Sea Terrace Cabins Without Hammocks
Not every Sea Terrace has Virgin’s iconic red hammock.
Some have metal-fronted balconies instead, which not only block the view when you’re sitting down but also don’t allow for a hammock.
The deck plans don’t highlight these cabins, so if the hammock is important to you, it’s best to ask when booking.
I did find this list, but it might be out of date, as there was talk of Virgin Voyages adding more hammocks since. Note that this applies to both A and Z cabins:
Some of these have a hanging egg chair instead, but not all do.
10. Cabins Near Crew Doors
A few guests have mentioned noise from crew service doors – particularly banging in the early hours as staff move equipment around.
These aren’t marked on the deck plans, so if you’re sensitive to noise, it can be worth asking your agent or Virgin to double-check your cabin’s location.
The ones I’ve seen mentioned are 11198A and 12102A.
11. Connecting Cabins (Unless Using Both)
Brilliant if you’re travelling as a family (with siblings or other older family members – remember that Virgin Voyages is adults-only) or group and want the extra space, but if you’re only booking one side, the connecting door isn’t as soundproof as a regular wall.
You might find yourself overhearing your neighbours. And on an adults-only cruise that could mean hearing some things you don’t want to hear.
12. Cabins Worst For Seasickness
Like any ship, the spots where you’ll feel motion the most are right at the front or back on the higher decks.
If you’re prone to seasickness, try to stick to a midship cabin on a lower deck.
Having a window or balcony helps too, as being able to see the horizon can really ease queasiness.
While some cabins have quirks that won’t suit everyone, Virgin Voyages also has plenty of staterooms and suites that really shine.
1. Cabins Near Aft Elevators
Many sailors swear by these cabins thanks to their location.
The aft elevators are noticeably quieter and less busy than the mid-ship or forward banks, which means less waiting around and an easier time getting where you want to go.
It’s a small detail that can make a big difference to how smooth your days feel on board.
2. Seriously Suites
Among the RockStar Quarters, the Seriously Suite is a real sweet spot.
It’s spacious, comfortable and comes with all the RockStar perks – like Richard’s Rooftop access and a stocked in-room bar – but without the eye-watering price tag of the bigger suites.
For many cruisers, it’s the perfect balance of luxury and value.
3. Slightly Larger Sea Terraces
There are a small number of Sea Terrace cabins that have a slightly larger terrace than others, just because of their location on the ship. It’s where the ship extends outwards, and across the fleet it’s the cabins ending “102”.
It might look like the 106 cabins are equally spacious on the terrace but not really. It’s that small extension on the 102 cabins that gives you a great view out to sea but also towards the aft, and is a great bargain since they aren’t more expensive than regular Sea Terrace options.
Guarantee Cabins
When booking with Virgin Voyages, you’ll sometimes see the option of a “Lock It In” or guarantee cabin. This means you choose the category – Insider, Sea View, Sea Terrace or even a suite – but you don’t pick the exact location. Virgin assigns your room closer to sailing, and in return you usually pay a lower fare.
It’s a great way to save money if you’re flexible and not too worried about being near a certain venue or on a particular deck. Occasionally you might even get a pleasant surprise with an upgrade to a slightly better location.
The trade-off is that you have no control – so if avoiding noise, seasickness, or obstructed views is important to you, it’s probably worth paying extra to select your own stateroom.
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Final Word
Virgin Voyages’ ships are still relatively new, and while this guide covers a lot of what we know about the cabins, there’s always more to learn as more sailors share their experiences.
Every cruiser has different priorities – whether that’s price, location, or simply having the best balcony view – so it’s always worth doing a little extra research before you book. Checking out recent reviews, studying the deck plans, or watching cabin tour videos can give you extra confidence in your choice.
It’s also well worth looking for photos from past guests who’ve stayed in the exact cabin you’re considering. Seeing it “in real life” can help you decide if it’s the right fit.
Hopefully this guide has given you a solid starting point for choosing the best cabin on Virgin Voyages – but a little extra digging will always pay off when it comes to picking the perfect stateroom for your holiday.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Holland America Line has announced their 2027-2028 Asia season that includes the cruise line visiting new ports in Japan.
The three new ports in Japan that Holland America Line will visit are Hitachinaka, Nagoya, and Maizuru. This includes a new scenic cruising experience in Maizuru Bay.
Six ports will feature overnight visits allowing guests the opportunity for a deeper authentic connection. They are:
Halong Bay, Vietnam
Seoul, South Korea
Bangkok, Thailand
Manila, Philippines
Osaka, Japan
Shanghai, China
Cruises on Noordam will range from 13 to 15 days and visit Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.
A total of 15 itineraries will be offered with many of them sailing from Tokyo, Japan. Other homeports include Singapore, Hong Kong and Seattle.
Robert de Bruin, Holland America Line’s director of deployment and itinerary planning, said the following about these new cruises in Japan:
“Asia offers guests a wealth of natural wonders and remarkable cultural landmarks. We know our guests are eager for deeper exploration, so this season we’ve added new ports, increased calls to lesser-visited destinations and provided extended stays in popular locales. These enhancements allow guests to make the most of their journey, fully delving into the culture of each destination.”
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In 2000, Carnival Cruise Line became the cruise line to offer cruises from Galveston, Texas. This weekend, Carnival celebrated 25 years of sailing from the port.
Over those 25 years, more than 10 million guests have embarked on a Carnival cruise ship from Galveston.
A special celebration was held on Carnival’s flagship, Carnival Jubilee, to celebrate the big milestone. Adorned with the Texas star on her bow, the cruise ship symbolizes Carnival’s ongoing commitment to the region.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy welcomed community leaders, business partners and government officials including U.S. Congressman Randy Weber, Galveston Mayor Craig Brown and Galveston Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees to commemorate the cruise line’s long-standing relationship with the community.
Carnival Cruise Line is the only line to have four ships sailing from the region. In 2027/28, the ships will be refreshed and carry more guests from the port than ever before.
While most cruises visit the Western Caribbean, many itineraries now include a stop at Carnival’s brand new port in The Bahamas, Celebration Key.
Christine Duffy said the following about this major milestone from Galveston:
“Sailing from Galveston has been a defining part of Carnival’s story for the last 25 years, and we’re just getting started. This milestone is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when strong partnerships, community support and a passion for fun come together.
“From being the first cruise operator to homeport here to launching Carnival Jubilee, a ship that honors our Texas roots, we’re proud of what we’ve built and even more excited about what’s ahead.”
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Remember the story from over the summer of the dad who jumped off a Disney cruise ship to save his daughter who had fallen into the water? Well, as with most of these overboard situations on cruise ships, there’s more to the story than meets the eye.
New reports reveal that the mother of the child had asked the girl to pose in the porthole before she fell into the ocean.
New information from a police investigation has revealed the details leading up to a viral incident in June where a 5-year-old girl fell 50 feet from the cruise ship Disney Dream and was rescued by her father.
While the original story focused on the dad’s heroic dive into the ocean, a police report reviewed by authorities, states that the girl’s mother encouraged her to stand near the porthole just seconds before she fell.
What the Police Report Stated
The report, put together by the Broward County Sheriff’s Office detectives, helped clarify the facts of the situation, even after so many rumors had spread online about the incident.
The family was walking on Deck 4 when the mother pointed to an open porthole and suggested her daughter pose for a picture there. The mother reportedly told officers she thought the porthole had a window or plexiglass barrier and believed the child would be safe.
Instead, the porthole was open to the air. The child climbed onto the railing, lost her balance, and fell backward into the ocean. The mother took multiple pictures that, when viewed together, created a short video of the child climbing onto the railing and falling.
Security footage from the ship also helped tell the story of what happened, in combination with the full account given by both parents.
The Rescue
The father, who was about ten feet ahead and didn’t see the fall, heard the mother’s screams. She told him what happened, and it didn’t take long for him to spring into action.
After about 45 seconds of trying to get help, he made the decision to jump in after his daughter. He was able to find the girl by following her screams and kept her afloat by treading water.
The ship issued a “man overboard” call, and a rescue boat was launched to pick up both passengers. The father and daughter were brought back aboard the ship within 20 minutes of the fall.
It was a miracle that the girl was uninjured. The father had to be given medical treatment, as some guessed it was because of the length of time he had to tread water. Initial reports stated that he looked exhausted after the ordeal.
An Avoidable Accident
The detective who wrote the report criticized the mother’s actions. He called the accident “avoidable” and recommended criminal neglect charges.
But the State Attorney’s Office reviewed the case and decided not to prosecute the mother, concluding that her actions, while very irresponsible, did not meet the standard for criminal negligence.
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An emergency situation took place on Norwegian Jewel as the cruise ship was crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a 12-day sailing from Barcelona, Spain to Miami, Florida. The ship departed Barcelona on October 15, 2025.
Several news outlets have reported someone falling overboard, which set off a major search and rescue operation far out in the North East Atlantic.
‘Code Oscar’ Heard at 2 AM
The emergency on Norwegian Jewel began early on October 21, 2025. Passengers were suddenly woken up around 2:00 AM by an announcement over the speakers with the message “Code Oscar starboard“.
‘Code Oscar’ is the emergency signal for a “person overboard,” used by cruise lines to alert the crew of the situation without being too alarming to passengers on the ship.
A British passenger confirmed that the captain later announced someone had “gone overboard” and that the ship was immediately entering “search and rescue mode,” which involved the vessel circling in the Atlantic Ocean.
Because the incident happened at 2:00 AM, it was a lot harder for the crew to carry out the rescue operation in the darkness.
Mid-Atlantic Search
Screenshot via Marinetraffic.com
When the emergency took place, the Norwegian Cruise Line ship was deep in the North East Atlantic Ocean, far from any national Coast Guard help, complicating rescue efforts.
The ship had recently left Ponta Delgada, Portugal, on October 20th . Because the ship was in international waters, the crew had the main responsibility for the search during the most critical first few hours. The time of the incident and the water temperature make the speed of the rescue important for survival.
One passenger onboard stated that “the Captain just announced that we are in a search and rescue mission and will be circling. He asked passengers to stay calm and inside.”
Search Called Off
After the alarm, Norwegian Jewel slowed down and went through the turning procedures to go back over the spot where the person fell. The crew also launched search teams.
Tracking data showed the Norwegian Jewel returned to its normal, high cruising speed of over 20 knots, after going back and forth over the area for more than 10 hours. The ship is now heading toward Miami.
A large ship typically only resumes its cruising speed when the captain or the coordinating rescue center decides the search has been suspended.
The ship is still expected to arrive in Miami on its scheduled date of October 27, 2025.
NCL’s Response
Norwegian Cruise Line has not yet released an official statement after the incident. Cruise lines usually wait until investigations are complete and the family has been formally notified.
Norwegian Jewel, built in 2005, is now 20 years old. While advanced MOBD systems (which use cameras and sensors to automatically detect a fall) are available, some older vessels are not equipped with these sensors.
Without this technology, the crew have to rely on visual confirmation and if anyone saw the person go overboard. And at 2:00AM, it makes matters even more difficult.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones during this time.
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A 77-year-old U.S. citizen traveling from Tennessee to Venice was charged in Ravenna, Italy, after security at the Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal found a firearm in his luggage.
According to news reports, the man was getting ready to board a cruise ship to Croatia, which was scheduled to leave later in Civitavecchia, Italy. The firearm found was a 6.35mm Browning semi-automatic pistol. It was detected during routine X-ray screening at the terminal.
The man claimed he had a valid U.S. gun license and that he forgot the firearm was still in his backpack. Italian police seized the weapon, charged him with illegal firearm possession, and issued a deportation order.
Specific details of the exact cruise ship name were not provided in the initial report, and public cruise schedules from Civitavecchia show that many vessels operate on routes to the Adriatic including Croatia.
This story might remind readers of a similar incident just last March where a 73-year-old U.S. tourist was arrested at the Kobe Cruise Terminal in Japan for carrying a handgun. In this case the weapon was detected after airport screenings had failed to flag it. Charges were filed, but prosecutors later dropped them.
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Carnival Cruise Line has not only announced plans to return to year-round cruises from Mobile, Alabama, but they are also expanding capacity in the region with a Conquest class ship for the first time.
Carnival Valor will sail from Mobile, Alabama for the first time.
Carnival Valor will be the first Conquest class ship to offer cruises out of Mobile starting on May 15, 2027. The ship will sail six- and eight-night cruises that visit Carnival’s private ports at Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay.
The cruise ship will also offer two 14-day Carnival Journeys cruises from Mobile.
On September 26, Carnival Valor will sail a 14-day itinerary to the Caribbean and Panama, including stops in Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Cartagena, Columbia; Colón, Panama; Limón, Costa Rica; Cozumel, Mexico; Aruba; and Curaçao.
On January 16, the ship will offer a Southern Caribbean 14-day sailing visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Aruba; Curaçao; and Celebration Key.
Another unique sailing from Mobile on Carnival Valor will be a seven-day Thanksgiving cruise that departs on November 20 and visits Key West, Celebration Key and Nassau.
Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, said the following:
“Mobile has been an important part of the Carnival family, and we’re thrilled to mark the return of year-round deployment with our first-ever Conquest-class ship serving the market.
“This is a big win for our guests who love the convenience of cruising close to home, and for the community that has supported us for many years. Carnival Valor will bring even more opportunity for fun, and we can’t wait to welcome our guests aboard.”
Carnival Cruise Line currently offers seasonal cruises out of Mobile and Carnival Spirit will continue to homeport there from October 2026 until April 2027.
In other news, Carnival said that Carnival Glory will continue to sail from Port Canaveral (three- and four-day cruises) and Carnival Conquest from Miami (three- to five-day cruises).
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