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Transfers From All 4 Nearby Airports Explained

Flying into Florida for your cruise? You’re not alone – Port Canaveral is now the world’s busiest cruise port, with ships sailing year-round to the Caribbean and beyond.

But getting from the airport to the port can be confusing, especially with four different airports nearby. Some are closer, others faster, and a few have easier transfers than you’d expect.

Port Canaveral Cruise Port

Here’s exactly how to reach Port Canaveral from each one – so you can start your holiday stress-free and right on time.

The Closest Airports to Port Canaveral

There are four airports located in close proximity to Port Canaveral in Florida. This makes it convenient for travellers to fly in and head to their cruise ship.

Port Canaveral cruise terminal is easily accessible from Melbourne, Orlando Airport, Orlando International Airport, Orlando Sanford Airport and Daytona Beach Airport.

The airports closest to Port Canaveral are:

  1. Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) – 27 miles (43 kilometres)
  2. Orlando International Airport (MCO) – 45 miles (72 kilometres)
  3. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) – 57 miles (92 kilometres)
  4. Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) – 71 miles (114 kilometres)

Port Canaveral is located on the east coast of Florida, approximately 45 miles east of Orlando International Airport (MCO) –  the largest airport in the state. The closest airport to Port Canaveral is actually Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB). This is a smaller airport that lies 27 miles south of Port Canaveral. 

Journey Times to Port Canaveral

From Orlando International Airport

If you are flying to Orlando International Airport (MCO), the journey from the airport to Port Canaveral should only take around 40 minutes. But it could be up to an hour, depending on the traffic conditions at the time of your journey. 

As this is the international airport in the region, it’s what you’d normally consider as the ‘Port Canaveral airport’ if you’re flying in from the UK or any other country.

From Orlando Melbourne Airport

Even though Melbourne Orlando International Airport is 20 miles closer to Port Canaveral, you should still expect the journey to the port to take between 45 minutes and an hour due to the slower road conditions and local traffic. Just because it’s the airport closest to Port Canaveral, that doesn’t mean it has the fastest connection time.

From Orlando Sanford Airport

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is approximately 57 miles from Port Canaveral. The driving time can vary depending on traffic conditions, but it typically takes around one hour and 15 minutes to one hour and 30 minutes. 

From Daytona Beach Airport

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is located further up the coast, about 70 miles north of Port Canaveral. In light traffic, you can head straight down the I-95 in an hour, but it could take up to two hours in rush hour.

Getting to Port Canaveral Cruise Port From the Airports

If you are planning a cruise from Port Canaveral and flying into Orlando for your vacation, it is important to plan your transportation ahead of time. There are several options for getting to Port Canaveral from the airport, including rental cars, taxis, shuttles and ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft.

paying for taxi with cash

A stress-free way to get to the port is to book a shuttle transfer in advance. This will give you a door-to-door service. It can pick you up at the airport and drop you off directly at the terminal at Port Canaveral.

You can check the latest shuttle prices here.

However you travel, be sure to allow plenty of time for your journey to the port. You will want to arrive at least a few hours before your cruise is scheduled to depart. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security and board the ship.

1. Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport is the closest major airport to the port, situated about 45 miles west of Port Canaveral. This airport is one of the busiest in the state of Florida. It has flights to a wide range of destinations both domestically and internationally, and serves over 43 million passengers each year. 

airport hall

It’s a hub for Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines, and offers flights from many other major carriers as well. With its convenient location and wide range of flight options, Orlando International Airport is a popular choice for travellers flying to Port Canaveral.

There is a quick highway link to Port Canaveral, so it has the fastest transfer time between plane and ship. It’s also a great place to fly to if you want to see the sights before heading on your cruise. The close proximity of Disney World and Orlando Universal offers the chance to visit some of the world’s best theme parks before hitting the high seas.  

How to Get From Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral 

You can get from Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral Cruise Port by road. The best options are to take a shared shuttle bus ($30) or an Uber (from $62). The total travel time should be between 40 minutes and an hour.

Shuttle bus in airport

Shared shuttles run regularly between Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral, and cost $30 per person. Unless you are travelling alone, it could be worth taking an Uber. This can be booked for $62 for an UberX or $92 for an UberXL (which will fit more passengers). It is also possible to get a regular taxi on arrival, which is likely to be slightly more expensive than an Uber.

2. Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)

Melbourne Orlando International Airport is 27 miles from Port Canaveral.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport is a smaller regional airport that serves fewer than half a million passengers each year. While it may not have as many flight options as Orlando International Airport, it is still a convenient choice for travellers looking to fly into the Port Canaveral area. 

It’s worth noting that although it is the closest airport to Port Canaveral, transfer times are usually slightly longer than from Orlando International Airport. It’s not a huge difference, though, so go for whichever one has the most convenient or best-value flight options. 

The airport is served by several major carriers, including American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. It offers flights to a variety of destinations in the United States, but it is a particularly convenient choice if you are heading here from Atlanta or Charlotte. 

American aircraft in the airport

It’s a good choice for anyone who prefers smaller airports that are less busy. Plus, the transfer to Port Canaveral is more scenic if you drive from Melbourne Orlando International Airport. 

How to Get From Melbourne Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral

You can get from Melbourne Orlando International Airport to Port Canaveral Cruise Port by road. You have the option to choose between a shared shuttle bus ($30) or an Uber (from $56). The total travel time to the port should be between 50 minutes and an hour.

Shared shuttles are available, but run less frequently from Melbourne than from Orlando International. I recommend that you book an Uber for around $60 (or $70 for a larger Uber XL), as shuttles are not always available.

3. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Orlando Sanford International Airport is 58 miles from Port Canaveral.

Orlando Sanford International Airport is slightly further away from the port than the other Orlando airports, but it may offer good value flight options for travellers. 

The airport serves around three million passengers a year. The majority of these are domestic arrivals from elsewhere in the USA. Orlando Sanford International Airport is a major hub for Allegiant Airlines, which serves 30 cities across the United States, so it is a good option if you are coming from one of those cities. It’s a smaller and more relaxed airport than Orlando International Airport, but it still has all the facilities you need.

Allegiant aircraft

It is often possible to find cheaper flights to Orlando Sanford International Airport than to the other airports in this list. When weighing up the value of the flights, consider that the transfer is a bit farther, so it may cost more. Time-wise, the transfer is around one hour, so not too much longer than the transfer from the main Orlando airport to Port Canaveral.

How to Get From Orlando Sanford International Airport to Port Canaveral

You can get from Orlando Sanford Airport to Port Canaveral Cruise Port by road. The best options are to take a shared shuttle bus ($45) or an Uber (from $85). The total travel time should be around 60 to 75 minutes door-to-door.

Shared shuttles run between Orlando Sanford International Airport and Port Canaveral. They cost $45 per person. Unless you are travelling alone, it’s probably easiest to take an Uber, which can be booked for $85 for an UberX or $114 for an UberXL (which will fit more passengers). 

4. Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)

Daytona Beach International Airport is 72 miles from Port Canaveral.

Daytona Beach International Airport is a bit farther away from the port, but still within a reasonable driving distance and takes just over an hour if traffic is light. This airport is served by several major carriers, including Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines. It offers flights to a variety of destinations throughout the United States. 

With its convenient location on the east coast of Florida, Daytona Beach International Airport is a good choice for travellers looking to spend a bit of time on the coast. The world-famous Daytona Beach is a great place to relax before or after their cruise. 

Daytona Beach Florida Beachfront

How to Get From Daytona Beach International Airport to Port Canaveral

You can get from Daytona Beach International Airport to Port Canaveral Cruise Port by road. This airport is not as frequently used to connect with Port Canaveral, so there are no shuttle buses. An Uber should cost around $104 ($148 for Uber XL). The journey should take 60 to 75 minutes.

It doesn’t take much longer to get to Port Canaveral from Daytona Beach, but it’s a longer distance, so the cost of the transfer is a little higher. You can pre-book an Uber or get a taxi at the airport, and the cost will be just over $100. At the time of research, there were no shuttle buses available.

The Bottom Line

All of the airports in and around Orlando are within roughly an hour’s drive of the cruise port. So, from a transfer point of view, I don’t think it matters too much which one you fly to. 

I would be happy to fly to any of the four airports near Port Canaveral. I would choose my flights based on which ones were the best value and the most convenient at the other end. 

If you want to take a shuttle bus to Port Canaveral, then Orlando International Airport has the most frequent shuttle buses and the quickest transfer time. But on my last cruises, I just took an Uber and found that to be super-convenient too.

If you have some time in Port Canaveral either before or after your cruise, check out this list of things to do near Port Canaveral Cruise Port for ideas on how best to spend the day.

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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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Princess Cruises Makes Changes to Deposits and Final Payments

Princess Cruises has made two changes that affect non-refundable deposits and the final payment schedule for some of their cruises.

princess cruise ship

Non-Refundable Deposits

Starting today, Princess Cruises has expanded the types of cruise fares that default to non-refundable deposits.

Deposits that are paid within three days are non-refundable, unless upgraded to a refundable deposit at the time of booking. Cruisers will have the choice to choose either a refundable or non-refundable deposit on select fares when booking a Princess cruise.

As part of this change, non-refundable deposit amounts are currently being promoted at half price. This policy applies to all future cruises and is available to legal residents of North America.

This change only applies to cruises booked on or after October 15, 2025.

Princess cruise ships, Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess in Port Everglades

Final Payments

Princess Cruises has also made a change to their final payment schedule. This change took effect last week for all cruises booked on or after October 8, 2025.

For cruises that are 13 days and shorter, final payment is now due 90 prior to the cruise.

For sailings that are 14 days and longer, final payment is now due 120 days prior to the cruise.

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Carnival’s Heald Explains Why Ship Is Requiring Old School Muster Drill

Ever since cruise lines started doing e-muster or virtual muster drills after the shutdown, the practice has become so popular it’s hard to imagine going back.   But a recent email stating the requirement of the old-style muster drill on Carnival Sunshine caused some confusion.

Carnival Sunshine lifeboats muster

One of the biggest pain points of cruising in years past was the drawn-out process of going to the muster station in an area packed with people while you waited to see who was absent.

No one misses those roll calls as the person in front of you stepped on your toes, nor the stampede which followed in crowded stairwells.  It wasn’t a fun way to start off the cruise, and it’s the part I always dreaded the most.

Because most cruisers now love the quick digital safety briefing, it was a surprise to some Carnival cruisers when an upcoming cruise was told it had to return to the “old school” drill.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, quickly cleared things up for the next Carnival Sunshine sailing, explaining that this isn’t a long-term change, but something they have to do.

Not a Fleet-Wide Requirement

John Heald posted a video on his popular Facebook page this morning to respond to questions about the Carnival Sunshine‘s sailing on the 18th. This cruise will require passengers to take part in a traditional, full-ship muster drill.

“A lot of you wrote to me and said, why are we going back to the old way of doing boat drill, muscle station drill, lifeboat drill, whatever you like to call it”, Heald said in the video.

He explained that this isn’t a fleet-wide thing. Instead, it is a specific, required action for the Sunshine‘s next voyage, as determined by maritime regulations.

Carnival cruise ship muster drill

Why Traditional Muster Drill is Required

The reason for the traditional drill is due to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) treaty. SOLAS is an international maritime treaty that sets minimum safety standards for ships. A big part of these standards is making sure all cruise ships conduct periodic safety exercises.

Heald made it clear that this requirement comes from authorities:

“This is something that every single ship needs to do twice a year as per US Coast Guard, Australian Coast Guard and other government agencies and SOLAS, Safety of Life at Sea.”

While digital briefings (like e-muster) take care of the daily requirement to brief individual passengers, the full, “old style” drill is still required for periodic checks and compliance.

These twice-a-year drills are necessary to check the ship’s entire safety system, including crew preparedness, alarm checks, and the flow of passengers to their muster stations.

Heald said that the crew is working to make the process as efficient and painless as can be:

“We have sent you an email and you are going to be doing the old style muster drill. We will get this done as quickly as possible.” He stated, “I know the crew will take great care of you and make sure that it is done as quickly as possible.”

For passengers sailing on Carnival Sunshine on October 18th, this means physically gathering at your assigned muster station. Crew members will then give a live demonstration and explanation of safety procedures, including how to properly wear a life jacket and what steps to follow in an emergency.

Mattresses on Carnival Ships

Heald took a moment to address another common question from cruisers in the Facebook live video this morning: mattress comfort.

He acknowledged the feedback and concerns about firmness and wear and tear. He assured Carnival fans that the cruise line has an established policy to maintain quality, and he stated that all ship mattresses are replaced every two years.

Update on Mardi Gras Drydock

Heald also provided a quick update on Carnival Mardi Gras.  He announced that the ship has officially left drydock and is currently heading to Barcelona, where it will begin its repositioning voyage.

He also shared an interesting fact about the ship’s trip home:

“I think that is absolutely fabulous. There are 1,020 people, 1,020, who brought the ship from Port Canaveral to Barcelona, have either taken a cruise on the Carnival Miracle or stayed in Europe… and 1,020 of them are taking the ship back home to Port Canaveral again. So I think that is absolutely brilliant…”

The Brand Ambassador is traveling to the ship to meet those passengers and will be sharing more statistics and details about the work completed during the drydock soon.

Heald mentioned that while specific public area changes will be announced later, Mardi Gras is scheduled to welcome guests back on October 16 for a repositioning voyage returning to Port Canaveral.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Goes Digital With Daily Programs

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has begun phasing out printed daily programs across its fleet, opting instead for digital-only access to its Freestyle Daily through the NCL app or interactive stateroom TVs.

NCL Freestyle Daily

Guests sailing in recent weeks have reported that paper copies are no longer being automatically delivered to cabins, marking a major change for one of cruising’s most familiar traditions.

According to Norwegian’s website, the Freestyle Daily contains “a schedule of the next day’s activities and events” – from live entertainment and dining highlights to spa specials and trivia sessions.

Printed copies, once a nightly staple, are now available only on request or at limited pickup points onboard.

The move follows a string of recent onboard policy changes, including a $5 charge for extra entrées in main dining rooms and a $10 per person no-show fee for specialty dining reservations.

Norwegian also announced that, beginning 1st March 2026, its More at Sea drinks package will no longer apply at the line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

A Shift Away From Paper

The transition to digital programs is part of a wider industry trend towards cutting down on printed materials – both for environmental and operational reasons. Norwegian has not commented publicly on the change, but many guests suspect it’s a cost-saving measure that also reduces paper waste.

However, not all cruisers are cheering the decision. Some prefer the convenience and ease of flipping through a printed program rather than scrolling on a phone screen or relying on a sometimes unreliable app or WiFi connection.

The Paper Debate: A Familiar Discussion at Sea

Norwegian isn’t the first cruise line to face a backlash over cutting back printed newsletters. Carnival Cruise Line recently encountered the same debate after one environmentally conscious guest described the paper FunTimes daily newsletter as “a waste of paper.”

“Don’t you agree by now Carnival should have come up with some kind of alternative to wasting ALL that paper in the FunTimes? NOBODY reads it,” the passenger wrote to brand ambassador John Heald, arguing that the cruise line should go completely digital “to protect the rainforests.”

Carnival FunTimes

But when Heald polled his followers – more than 640,000 of them – the response was overwhelming: most cruisers still want the printed version.

“My wife and I just had this conversation last night. We prefer the paper copy,” one guest said. “Carnival’s app is still glitchy at best, so until that works perfectly, paper it is.”

Other passengers said they like having the FunTimes to keep as a souvenir, use in a scrapbook, or simply tuck into a pocket while exploring the ship.

Several also pointed out that Carnival recycles all printed materials onboard – along with cans, bottles, and packaging – reducing the environmental impact.

Some suggested a middle ground: allowing guests to opt out of receiving the printed newsletter when they prefer to go digital.

Balancing Convenience, Sustainability, and Tradition

As cruise lines modernise, balancing sustainability efforts with passenger preferences remains tricky.

While many travellers welcome digital options for their convenience and eco-friendliness, others – particularly those who want to disconnect from their phones on holiday- still value the simplicity and tangibility of a printed daily program.

Whether Norwegian Cruise Line will face similar guest pressure to bring back the paper Freestyle Daily, as Carnival eventually did with its FunTimes, remains to be seen.

For now, cruisers who prefer a printed copy can still request one – but the future of daily newsletters at sea may increasingly lie in the palm of your hand.

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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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Three Carnival-Owned Cruise Ships Undergo Major Dry Dock Renovations Ahead of Busy 2026-2027 Seasons

Three popular cruise ships from Carnival Corporation & plc brands – Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras, P&O Cruises’ Iona, and Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess – are each undergoing significant dry dock refurbishments and technical overhauls ahead of major deployments in 2026 and 2027.

Three ships undergoing drydock

The projects, taking place in shipyards across Europe and North America, reflect Carnival Corporation’s continued investment in maintaining and enhancing its global fleet – including upgrades to guest experiences, sustainability, and ship performance.

Mardi Gras Receives First Dry Dock in France

Carnival Cruise Line’s flagship Mardi Gras is currently in dry dock at Chantier Naval de Marseille in France – her first since entering service in 2021.

The image shows the Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship sailing through open ocean, leaving a light trail of wake behind it. The ship’s distinct red and blue hull stands out, with multiple decks featuring balconies, pools, and recreational areas. The clear blue sky and expansive sea emphasize the grandeur and luxury of the vessel on its journey.

The LNG-powered ship, which accommodates around 5,200 guests, arrived at the yard in late September following a transatlantic crossing from Port Canaveral.

Routine maintenance, class inspections, and general upkeep are being carried out, including a new coat of antifouling paint and a refreshed Carnival livery.

Minor updates to public spaces and onboard features are also expected, with brand ambassador John Heald teasing that more details will be revealed soon.

Once the work is complete, Mardi Gras will return to service on 16th October 2025, offering a 14-night repositioning voyage from Barcelona back to Port Canaveral.

The transatlantic sailing includes calls in Málaga, Cádiz, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, as well as a stop at Carnival’s new Bahamian destination, Celebration Key. From Florida, the ship will resume her popular six- to nine-night Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries.

Mardi Gras was the first of Carnival’s Excel-class ships built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, followed by Carnival Celebration (2022) and Carnival Jubilee (2023). Two more ships – Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale – are due in 2027 and 2028 respectively.

P&O Cruises’ Iona Undergoes First Major Refit in Rotterdam

P&O Cruises’ Iona is also in dry dock – her first since debuting in 2021. The 183,900-ton LNG-powered ship is currently undergoing technical maintenance and routine servicing at a shipyard in Rotterdam.

Iona Cruise

P&O has confirmed that Iona will return to service on 23rd October 2025, beginning a busy winter season featuring voyages to Northern Europe and the Canary Islands.

To accommodate the refit, two cruises originally scheduled for October 2025 were cancelled, with affected passengers offered full refunds and a £100 onboard credit for future bookings.

Following her return, Iona will operate a mix of short breaks and longer itineraries, including a 35-night Caribbean sailing departing Southampton in early 2026.

Destinations include St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, and two visits to Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Built at Germany’s Meyer Werft shipyard, Iona is part of Carnival Corporation’s shared Excel-class platform, used by multiple brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, and AIDA Cruises.

Sapphire Princess Debuts Two New Restaurants After Portland Dry Dock

Meanwhile, Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess has emerged from a two-week dry dock in Portland, Oregon, showcasing a refreshed interior and the introduction of two new specialty restaurants – Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill.

Sapphire Princess

The enhancements are part of Princess Cruises’ continued culinary evolution, bringing popular dining experiences from the Sun Princess and Star Princess to more of the fleet.

Makoto Ocean, replacing the former Internet Café on Deck 7, offers Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi, including truffle salmon, toro tartare, and snow crab temaki.

Crown Grill, taking over the Savoy Dining Room on Deck 5, serves premium aged beef, chops, and seafood – a Princess signature experience now priced at $60 per person, or included with the Princess Premier package.

Following the dry dock, Sapphire Princess will sail Mexican Riviera itineraries before repositioning to South America and Antarctica. She’ll then head to Europe for spring and summer 2026, before returning to North America for a Canada and New England season in autumn 2026.

A major highlight comes in 2027, when Sapphire Princess and her sister ship Diamond Princess will reunite for a historic dual deployment in Japan – the first time the two Japan-built ships have operated together from Tokyo since their launch.

Continued Investment Across Carnival’s Global Brands

While each dry dock differs in scope, together they represent Carnival Corporation’s ongoing commitment to maintaining its diverse fleet across multiple brands – from large-scale technical work to carefully curated guest experience upgrades.

These enhancements also follow a wave of new ship orders and refurbishments across the company’s portfolio, as Carnival Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Costa, and AIDA continue to expand and modernise their offerings ahead of a packed 2026–2028 cruise calendar.

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8 Cruise Photography Tips for Stunning Vacation Photos

Ever tried snapping the perfect cruise photo, only for it to turn out blurry or too bright?

You’re not alone – cruise photography can be tricky with all that movement and sunlight bouncing off the sea.

That’s why I asked pro photographer CJ Ware and the experts at Cruise118 to share their best insider tips. From timing your shots just right to making the most of onboard lighting, these easy tricks will change the way you take photos at sea.

Ready to capture cruise memories you’ll actually want to frame?

Tip #1: Choose the Right Time to Shoot

All pictures, no matter what high-tech devices we have, depend on lighting. Early morning or late evening, so sunrise or sunset, are the best opportunities to snap those perfect shots.

Cruise118 commented: “Nothing quite tops that first sunset and sunrise you see on a cruise, being in the middle of the ocean poses the perfect backdrop for a holiday sunset picture so good you’ll want to frame!”

Expert photographer CJ Ware added, “Keep an eye on the sunset and sunrise times for each location you are in. On a cruise ship, you can get breathtaking shots of sunset and sunrise, you don’t want to miss it!”

on a cruise at sunset

Tip #2: Move Around

This is one of the most important travel photography tips to bear in mind – move your feet!

Instead of just going to the same favourite spot on the cruise ship, move around to multiple locations on the ship to make sure your collection of holiday snaps has some diversity to it.

The same applies when on excursions; instead of just turning up and taking some shots at the first picture opportunity, take a few minutes to get your bearings – walk around and see if there is a better frame or composition.

cruise to Athens

Tip #3: Pre-Plan Your Shots

Before going on your cruise, it’s a good idea to do some research on the tourist destinations you’ll be visiting, spending a few hours planning out your shot list of images you want to photograph, so you can come prepared.

Look at what each of the places you’ll be visiting on your excursions has to offer – make use of Google for inspiration on what to look out for to photograph. Doing this will help you nail the shots and give you more purpose and direction.

Tip #4: Take Too Many Rather Than Too Few

It takes a lot to get that perfect shot – that’s why professional photographers take hundreds of images to get that perfect one. It’s a good idea to take too many photos that you can sift through once the post-holiday blues kick in, rather than to get home and realise you didn’t get any good ones.

taking photos on cruise

If you’re using your phone, look for the ‘burst’ option, which will take numerous photos within one photo.

Tip #5: Don’t Miss the Unique Landscape Shots That You Only Get With a Cruise

Cruising offers the best opportunity to capture the perfect landscape shots. When pulling into a port, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to capture the full landscape of the destination – the type of shot you can only get on a cruise.

Koningsdam in Norway

Tip #6: Head to the Highest Deck

Take advantage of all vantage points of the ship, especially the highest deck. Make sure you get there in time for sunrise or sunset, as this will give you the best place to capture the beautiful moment the sun rises from, or meets, the sea.

CJ adds, “Cruising offers the opportunity to take unique photos that you aren’t able to get on land. Take full advantage of all of the decks and vantage points to get one-of-a-kind photos with out-of-this-world views.”

taking photos on top deck of a cruise ship

Tip #7: Know Your Lighting

The lighting on a cruise ship will vary dramatically throughout the day, so in order to get perfect pictures, it’s essential to get to grips with how the lighting affects your photos.

Your snaps can’t go wrong when taken during the sunset or sunrise, so make sure you make the most of golden hour!

CJ said, “If there’s one thing you bear in mind when taking photos on a cruise, it’s to not shoot directly in the sun”.

When you’re shooting outdoors, make sure your back is always to the sun – never in front of your camera. If you’re taking a selfie, the sun should be shining on your face; otherwise, you’ll have a lot of unflattering shadows.

When nighttime comes, it can be tempting to use a flash. However, this has the potential to ruin images and definitely won’t do your magical setting justice. Instead, try to use the ambient lighting of the moon and soft deck lighting.

taking photos at night

Tip #8: Avoid Camera Shake

Camera tripods can be great for when you’re on land, but if you’re trying to capture a perfect shot on board, they may not work so well due to the slight movement of the ship.

Taking a photo without blur on board a cruise is notoriously tricky. Instead, invest in a selfie stick that can securely attach to your phone.

Cruise118.com added: “Selfie sticks are an absolute must when you’re on a cruise, especially if you’re a couple on your own, as you’ll want both of you to be in the photos”.

If you don’t have a selfie stick, the safest way to hold your phone to avoid camera shake (and dropping it) is to hold your device with both hands and use your thumbs to turn it around.

If you’ve recently come back from a trip and managed to capture some Insta-worthy snaps, make sure to share them on social media with the hashtag ‘#lightscameracruise’ for an extra entry!

Final Word

Cruise photos aren’t just pictures – they’re memories you’ll treasure long after you’ve stepped off the ship.

Whether it’s a golden-hour selfie on deck or a breathtaking sunrise at sea, a few smart tricks can turn “just another holiday snap” into something truly frame-worthy.

So grab your camera (or phone), chase that perfect light, and don’t be afraid to take too many. After all, when it comes to cruise memories, you’ll want every moment captured.

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Crystal Announces Construction Milestones for First New Ship in 25 Years

Luxury cruise line Crystal has confirmed two key milestones in the construction of its first new ship in a quarter of a century, marking an exciting new era for the brand under Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG) ownership.

Crystal New Ship Render

The new vessel, scheduled for delivery in May 2028, represents Crystal’s return to shipbuilding after 25 years.

The steel cutting ceremony – traditionally the first step in the construction process – will take place in May 2026, followed by the keel laying in December 2026 at Fincantieri’s shipyard.

These milestones officially launch the next chapter in the company’s storied legacy and its commitment to redefining the standard for luxury at sea.

“Behind the scenes, our teams have been working diligently on every element of this extraordinary project – from design and craftsmanship to technical innovation,”

“These milestones represent more than construction progress; they are a testament to our shared commitment with Fincantieri to deliver the most exceptional ship at sea, on schedule and with an unparalleled attention to detail.”

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group.

The name of the ship will be revealed soon, with additional details about inaugural voyages and new suite categories expected by the end of the year.

The inaugural 2028 season will go on sale in spring 2026, with a waitlist opening beforehand.

A New Era for a Legendary Luxury Brand

Crystal’s announcement marks a significant step in the continued revitalisation of the brand since it was acquired by Abercrombie & Kent in 2022.

The acquisition included the line’s two existing vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, both of which were extensively refurbished and relaunched under the banner “Exceptional at Sea.”

For over three decades, Crystal has been synonymous with award-winning voyages, personalised service, and elevated design.

Now, with support from its parent company, the cruise line is building on that heritage to reimagine modern luxury cruising.

Crystal Cruises Casino de Monte Carlo

Today’s Crystal ships feature:

  • Spacious suites with artisanal finishes and almost a one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio
  • Exclusive partnerships, including the first Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea in collaboration with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM)
  • World-class dining, featuring Umi Uma® by Michelin-starred chef Nobu Matsuhisa and the only Beefbar at sea, curated by restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi
  • Comprehensive wellness offerings at the Aurōra Spa
  • Broadway-standard entertainment and immersive shore excursions via Abercrombie & Kent’s renowned global network

With its newbuild project now officially underway, Crystal is reaffirming its place among the top tier of luxury cruise lines, combining artisanal design, bespoke itineraries, and a focus on authentic travel experiences.

This is definitely one to keep your eye on if you want to enjoy luxury cruising at its finest!

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I recommend booking with luxury specialists Panache Cruises for the best service.

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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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Storm Halts Cruise Departures From New York, Delaying Thousands of Passengers

A powerful storm sweeping across the US Northeast has forced multiple cruise lines to postpone sailings from New York-area ports, leaving thousands of passengers unexpectedly docked as heavy rain, rough seas and strong winds battered the region.

Royal Caribbean wifi

The severe weather temporarily suspended pilotage services in New York Harbor – which are mandatory for all ship arrivals and departures – effectively grounding operations until conditions improve.

Multiple Major Ships Affected

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise ships, remains docked at Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey.

The 228,081-gross-ton ship, which can accommodate more than 5,500 guests, had been due to depart on 12th October 2025 for a 7-night Bahamas cruise calling at Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Instead, the ship is staying in port until the harbour and coastal conditions are deemed safe for departure.

The visits to Port Canaveral and Nassau have been cancelled, and once the ship departs it will sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay only before returning to New York.

Guests have been told that they will receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equivalent to the first two nights of their cruise fare, and were also offered discounted drinks on the second day of the cruise.

Letter sent to Symphony of the Seas guests about delays

Anyone who had booked a Deluxe Beverage Package instead received a $35 onboard credit, in lieu of the discounted drinks.

Across the river, MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia – which carries up to 5,642 passengers – has also been affected.

The 171,598-gross-ton ship had been scheduled to depart Brooklyn Cruise Terminal the same day for a Bahamas sailing visiting Port Canaveral, Nassau, and Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island.

Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway, docked at Manhattan Cruise Terminal, was also set to leave on 12th October for a 7-night New England and Canada cruise.

The ship, which can host around 3,900 guests, will now depart on 14th October, with a revised itinerary that skips Newport and Boston. The ship will instead sail directly to Bar Harbor once conditions improve.

Guests affected by the change have been promised automatic refunds for cancelled shore excursions, according to a letter from Norwegian Cruise Line.

European Ships Also Impacted

Luxury German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS Europa, which had just completed a 21-night East Coast voyage with 400 passengers, was scheduled to depart New York for Hamburg on 13th October.

That transatlantic repositioning cruise now appears to be delayed as well.

Another German ship, Mein Schiff 1 operated by TUI Cruises, is also in port for an overnight stay with nearly 4,000 guests. The vessel is not set to sail until late on 14th October and may avoid major disruption if conditions ease by then.

Several ships have opened their gangways to allow guests to explore New York City, turning the unexpected delay into an impromptu bonus day ashore.

Widespread Storm Disruption

The powerful coastal storm has brought winds of over 60 mph (97 km/h), waves of up to 15 feet, and several inches of rain across New York, New Jersey, and parts of New England.

Beaches along the New Jersey Shore have suffered significant erosion, while some low-lying areas have experienced overnight flooding.

Both New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency through the evening of 13th October as high tides and flooding risks peaked.

The storm has also caused delays for ships at other East Coast ports, though the system is now moving away from the region.

Once seas calm and pilotage resumes, affected vessels are expected to depart on 14th October, allowing itineraries to proceed – albeit slightly shortened – after an unplanned but necessary pause for passenger safety.

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Smoking on a Cruise Ship: What You Can Get Away With

If you’re a smoker heading on a cruise, you’ve probably wondered whether you can sneak a cigarette onboard – or what really happens if you’re caught.

The truth? The only way to get away with it is to stick to the rules. I know, not the most rebellious answer! But with cameras, sensors, and crew everywhere, there’s no hiding behind the bike sheds at sea.

Girl smoking with cruise ship on background

The good news is, every cruise ship has designated smoking areas – and on many ships, there are actually quite a few of them, including some indoor spots.

Stick to Smoking Areas – It’s the Best for Everyone

Smoking is allowed on cruise ships, but it’s only permitted in designated areas. These areas will vary depending on the ship, but to find out where these are, you can consult the deck plan.

This will have all the smoking areas marked so you can make a mental note of where these areas are for when you crave a cigarette. 

As you might expect, a lot of smoking areas are located in outdoor areas, but there will generally be indoor smoking areas as well. Depending on the ship, this may be an unglamorous smoking shelter, or you might be able to light up in a cigar bar or the casino.

Smoking area on Anthem of the Seas

Cruise ship smoking areas are a good place to chat with your fellow guests, and you might see the same people often, particularly if you head there at the same time each day, such as after dinner.

Suggested read: 5 Wild Rumours I Heard From The Smoking Area On A Cruise

Smoking on Cruise Ship Balconies

Your own balcony might seem like the perfect place to sneak a cigarette – it’s private, it’s outdoors, and you might think, “Who’s going to know?”

But balcony smoking is banned on almost every cruise ship for good reason. A single cigarette that isn’t properly extinguished can start a fire, and anything tossed overboard can harm marine life. Because of that, most cruise lines have strict no-smoking rules for balconies, with heavy fines if you’re caught.

If you can’t imagine a cruise without lighting up on your balcony, Costa Cruises remains the only major line that still permits it. Fred. Olsen did too – but that policy ended on 1 April 2025.

If you are on any other ship I wouldn’t recommend that you try and get away with it. Many balconies are overlooked by other decks or by CCTV and of course, the smoke can waft to your neighbours.

Smoking on cruise

They might not enjoy your second-hand smoke and will most probably report you to the ship’s authorities. So, there is a decent chance that your secret smoke wont be as secret as you had hoped.

Some cruise ship security teams are much stricter than others when it comes to smoking outside of the smoking areas.

One man recently commented in a Carnival cruise Facebook group that his wife had reported people smoking on the balcony and the security team didn’t do anything about it.

FYI my wife is currently on the Miracle with her sister and she told me she can’t even enjoy their Balcony because of all the marijuana smell.  Security said they can’t do anything unless they observe it themeselves. So much for tightening up the rules

Getting Caught!

As I have mentioned above, all cruise ships have designated smoking areas. If you stick to these spaces you will have no problems.

Smoking area on Anthem of the Seas

But your rebellious side might be wondering whether it is worth taking a risk and having a smoke outside of the designated areas. Will you just be asked to put it out and move on, or are there any serious repercussions? 

Well, in most cases, the first time you get caught, you will get away with a warning. But any further offences could mean that you get kicked off the ship. This is a pretty serious repercussion.

You have spent thousands on your dream cruise, do you really want to jeopardise that for a quick cigarette? 

If you are caught smoking in your room, you may well have to pay a cleaning fee, even the first time that you get caught.

A lot of people don’t like the smell of smoke, so this is fair enough, and since fire is one of the biggest risks on a cruise ship, it is something that the ships take very seriously. With the number of smoke alarms on board, there is a good chance that you will get caught.

How to Get Away With Smoking in Your cabin

If you really want to smoke in your room then the best way to get away with it is to stick to the rules. You might think that there is no way you can ever smoke in your cabin and it be permissible. Well, you’d be right unless you are willing to consider using electronic cigarettes. 

Daily program with details of where the smoking areas are

There are no cruises that allow traditional cigarettes in the room. Costa Cruises does allow e-cigs to be vaped in the cabin and also allows cigarettes to be smoked on private balconies. [Source] 

So, if smoking in your room is a big deal for you then the best and only way to get away with it is to take a cruise with Costa.

The majority of cruise liners treat e-cigarettes in the same way as traditional cigarettes, and vaping on a cruise is restricted to the same designated smoking areas and is forbidden in all other areas (including your cabin and balcony). 

Smoking Weed Is Never Allowed!

Smoking weed is forbidden on all cruise ships. This is true even when you are departing from a port where cannabis is legal. The ban even extends to marijuana that has been prescribed for medical use, so you are not allowed to smoke weed on board, even if it is for health reasons. 

No smoking on cruise

So, can you get away with it? Maybe, but I don’t recommend that you try.

If you are smoking it, the smell is a massive giveaway, and it’s not likely to go unnoticed.

Bringing cannabis on a cruise in a form that doesn’t need to be smoked is less likely to be noticed, but don’t forget that your bags are likely to be searched and scanned when you board, and drugs are one of the things that you can’t take on board a cruise. 

If you are caught, then you might get kicked off the ship, arrested or banned from cruising for life. 

While this wasn’t smoking, a passenger was given a Carnival lifetime ban for trying to bring CBD gummies onboard.

Cruise ship security guard

Basically, it’s not with the risk. And don’t be tempted to get high when on a shore excursion either, as most cruise liners have a marijuana policy that also applies to shore excursions and time at terminals. Admittedly, they are unlikely to know what you have been up to whilst on land, but it is still a risk. 

Final Thoughts

I hope that you have enjoyed reading this post and have now realised that there is actually no need to try to get away with smoking on a cruise. It’s allowed!

All you have to do is smoke in the proper place, and you will have no problems. You won’t have to look over your shoulder to see if anyone is watching or flap about near the smoke detector to stop it from going off. You can just sit back and enjoy your cigarette in the designated place!

Having said that, if you are a keen smoker, you will find it easier to stick to the rules if you are on a cruise that has more comfortable smoking areas.

A good option is Costa Cruises, which allows you to smoke on your balcony or vape in your bedroom. MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean will allow you to smoke in certain parts of the casino, which, let’s face it, is more enjoyable than being huddled in a bland smoking shelter.

Family-friendly Disney cruise ships only have one or two smoking areas, but even then, you can still find somewhere to light up when you need to.

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Just How Huge Is Star of the Seas? (World’s Biggest Cruise Ship)

Calling a ship “the biggest cruise ship in the world” sounds impressive, but until you’re stood next to it in port you still can’t really get a sense of what that means.

Star of the Seas

Even better if you can see the ship docked alongside a smaller ship. That’s when you really are blown away by the size difference.

Star of the Seas shares the title of biggest ship in the world with her sister ship, Icon of the Seas. And hopefully, with the help of some stats, I can help you understand just how mighty she is.

Star of the Seas Size Explained

Star of the Seas matches her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, in terms of sheer scale.

Star and Icon of the Seas side by side at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Both ships boast an internal volume of 250,800 Gross Tonnes and measure 1,198 feet (365 metres) in length.

With 20 decks in total, 18 of which are open to guests, these vessels currently stand as the largest cruise ships in the world.

To put that size in perspective, Star of the Seas is about the length of three and a half football pitches. A stroll from one end to the other can easily take a quarter of an hour. Rising through 20 decks, she even surpasses the Eiffel Tower in height when measured from keel to funnel.

The ship features eight distinct neighbourhoods, housing more than 2,800 cabins and suites. Onboard guests can choose from over 40 dining and drinking venues, including 23 concepts that Royal Caribbean debuted on Icon of the Seas.

Despite accommodating thousands of passengers, Star of the Seas has been designed to spread the crowds.

Facilities include seven swimming pools, six headline-grabbing waterslides, and dedicated splash areas for young children and infants, ensuring there is space for relaxation as well as high-energy fun.

Aerial view of Thrill Island on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, bustling with excitement and featuring a colorful array of water slides, including The Blaster aqua coaster, a wave pool, and a sports court against the backdrop of the open sea.

When Icon of the Seas entered service, she overtook Wonder of the Seas to become the world’s largest cruise ship by both tonnage and capacity, and edged out Harmony of the Seas in overall length.

Star of the Seas continues that legacy. Interestingly, the ships have been built to the same specification.

Previously when Royal Caribbean launched a new ship in the Oasis-class, the previous biggest ships in the world, it would typically add a couple of inches with each new ship, so that they could always talk about the new biggest ship in the world.

But with the Icon Class, they’ve decided against that. The ships can share the title!

Read more: Icon Class Vs Oasis Class

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Star of the Seas Specs

The best way to appreciate the size of Star of the Seas is to see how she measures up against other cruise ships.

Star Legend Icon of the Seas

Within Royal Caribbean’s own fleet, that means comparing her not only with Wonder of the Seas, one of the Oasis-class ships and former record holder before Icon came along, but also with Spectrum of the Seas, the largest vessel in the Quantum Ultra Class.

Star of the Seas Wonder of the Seas Spectrum of the Seas
Class Icon Class Oasis Class Quantum Ultra Class
Gross tonnage (GT) 250,800 236,857 169,379
Length (feet) 1,198 1,188 1,139
Width (feet) 219 210 162 
Total decks 20 18 18
Passenger decks 18 16 16
Maximum guest capacity 7,600 6,988 4,905
Crew capacity 2,350 2,300 1,551

It’s also worth setting Star of the Seas alongside the flagships of rival cruise lines to get the full picture.

Star of the Seas Carnival Jubilee (Carnival) Iona (P&O) MSC World America (MSC) Norwegian Encore (NCL)
Gross tonnage (GT) 250,800 183,900 184,089 215,863 169,116
Length (feet) 1,198 1,130 1,130 1,093 1,094
Width (feet) 219 138 137 154 158
Total decks 20 18 18 20 20
Passenger decks 18 15 16 16 16
Maximum guest capacity 7,600 6,500 5,206 6,762 3,998
Crew capacity 2,350 2,000 1,762 2,138 1,735

These comparisons make it clear just how far ahead Star of the Seas and her sister, Icon of the Seas, stand.

Wonder of the Seas already gave Royal Caribbean a comfortable lead in terms of scale, yet the Icon-class design has widened that gap even further.

Star of the Seas

That said, size isn’t everything. For some travellers, a ship on this scale can feel overwhelming, both in terms of passenger numbers and sheer space to navigate.

There’s also the practical side to consider, since vessels of this magnitude cannot call at every port.

Smaller ships still have the advantage when it comes to reaching quieter harbours and more off-the-beaten-track destinations.

More on Gross Tonnage and What It Means

Star of the Seas is only the second cruise ship in the world to break the 250,000 gross tonne barrier.

Gross tonnage is often misunderstood as weight, but it actually measures internal volume – essentially, how much usable space a ship contains.

AquaDome Star of the Seas

That makes it the most reliable way to compare the overall size of cruise ships, as it factors in length, width and height in a single figure.

At 250,800 GT, Star of the Seas is around 5% larger than Utopia of the Seas, newest and largest of the Oasis-class ships.

Five percent may sound modest, but it translates to roughly 13,000 GT of extra space.

To put that into context, the combined gross tonnage of the world’s ten smallest cruise ships is just under 10,000.

In other words, Star of the Seas carries the equivalent internal space of more than ten of those smaller vessels, on top of what Utopia of the Seas already offered.

Length of the Ship

Star of the Seas measures 1,198 feet from bow to stern, placing her about ten feet longer than Harmony of the Seas, which previously held the record for the longest cruise ship.

Star of the Seas Aerial View

In the context of her overall scale, an extra ten feet may not seem dramatic, but the real difference comes from her additional decks, which add far more usable space than length alone could achieve.

Guest Capacity

Star of the Seas carries 5,610 guests at double occupancy, with a maximum capacity of around 7,600 when every berth is filled.

What’s striking is that she manages this despite having roughly 70 fewer staterooms than Utopia of the Seas.

The reason lies in her cabin design.

Surfside Family Suite Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has introduced a wide range of family-friendly accommodation, such as Surfside Family Suites and Family Infinite Balcony staterooms, which are intended to house three, four, or even more guests in a single room.

This allows the ship to welcome far larger numbers overall without dramatically increasing the number of cabins.

Read more: Star Of The Seas Cabins To Avoid

Star of the Seas also has the highest crew number of any cruise ship at sea, with 2,350.

So the total maximum capacity, if completely full, is 9,950 – just 50 shy of 10,000.

I don’t know if Royal Caribbean will look to break that figure with one of the upcoming Icon-class ships. Maybe, or maybe they want to avoid it so that the ships don’t sound overcrowded.

20 Decks to Explore

Star of the Seas rises through 20 decks, with 18 open to passengers and two set aside for the crew’s living quarters and essential operations.

That’s two decks more than the Oasis-class ships which are already huge.

She isn’t the first cruise ship to be built with 20 decks, but she is one of the only ones where guests can explore as many as 18 of them.

Star of the Seas

Remember too that Star of the Seas has fewer cabins than some of the Oasis-class ships, despite that extra two decks worth of space.

The difference comes from the design: staterooms are larger on average, and more space has been devoted to dining, entertainment and leisure facilities, giving guests plenty to do beyond their accommodation.

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Final Word

Even armed with all this statistical information, it’ll be impossible for you to fully appreciate the scale of Star of the Seas until you stand alongside her.

Even those familiar with the largest cruise ships in the world will find she takes that sense of awe to another level.

Sailing from Port Canaveral, she is impossible to miss, dominating the skyline long before you step aboard.

Star of the Seas is every bit as impressive as her sister, and while she now shares the crown for the world’s biggest cruise ship, her place in cruising history is secure.

These Icon-class vessels are set to define what “big ship cruising” means for years to come.

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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.

Read more about me


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