Cruise guests booked on Carnival Liberty’s next sailing from New Orleans have had their summer plans upended, after Carnival Cruise Line was forced to cancel the ship’s 7-night Bahamas cruise just under two weeks before departure.
The reason? A labour stoppage in Europe has delayed the ship’s ongoing dry dock work and required a last-minute shipyard change, pushing back the vessel’s return to service.
In an email sent to guests on 23rd June 2025, Carnival explained that the ship had to be moved from its original dry dock location in Cádiz, Spain, to another facility in Marseille, France, in order to complete refurbishment work.
“This past weekend, we were forced to move the vessel to a new shipyard to complete our work because of a labour work stoppage at the prior facility,
“Regrettably, this situation will delay the ship’s departure from Europe by a few days, impacting its scheduled return to service.”
Carnival’s email to guests
Cancelled Sailing Details
The impacted cruise was a 7-night sailing departing 7th July 2025 from New Orleans, visiting Key West, Freeport, and Nassau.
While disappointing, the cruise line emphasised that full refunds will be processed automatically, including:
Cruise fare
Port fees and taxes
Any pre-paid packages (gratuities, internet, drinks, excursions)
Refunds will be issued to the original form of payment, with no action needed from guests.
Guests Offered Additional Compensation
Given the short notice of the cancellation, Carnival is also offering guests a 100% future cruise credit (FCC) based on their cruise fare – which can be applied to any Carnival sailing across the fleet.
The FCC:
Must be redeemed by 30th June 2026
Can be used on any ship, itinerary, or sailing date
Is not limited to bookings on Carnival Liberty
This gives affected guests a chance to reschedule their holiday – potentially on another ship, from another homeport, or even on a longer voyage.
Refurbishment Update and What’s Next for Liberty
The 110,400-gross-ton Carnival Liberty, a Conquest-class ship, last underwent a dry dock in October 2021, where she received Carnival’s striking red, white and blue hull livery and general maintenance.
The nature of the current refurbishments has not been disclosed, but dry docks of this scale often include:
Upgraded public areas
New or enhanced dining and bar venues
Updated cabin furnishings and décor
Technical upgrades and routine maintenance
Despite this setback, Carnival Liberty is still expected to return to service on 14th July 2025, for a Western Caribbean sailing to Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel – with no further delays currently anticipated.
While the situation was out of Carnival’s control, the timing is unfortunate for passengers looking forward to a summer cruise holiday.
Nevertheless, the future cruise credit and full refund offer a solid resolution, and Carnival Liberty is likely to return in refreshed condition – ready to sail from New Orleans with upgraded amenities.
Guests with questions about their booking are encouraged to contact Carnival or their travel advisor.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
It seems like every week there’s another cruise ship breaking free from the dock – and passengers are left wondering how on earth these floating hotels manage to slip away…
Antarctica may be the most untouched continent on Earth – but booming cruise tourism is starting to leave a destructive mark beneath the icy surface. A new scientific study has…
Some people will go to great lengths for an Alaska cruise – but for one man, the desire to set sail allegedly crossed the line into serious criminal territory. Enrico…
Cruise fans can look forward to a “wave” of enhanced experiences next year as Royal Caribbean has confirmed it will amplify three of its most beloved ships in time for…
The curtain has finally fallen on one of the most remarkable vessels in cruise history.
Belgian recycling company Galloo has purchased the 76-year-old Astoria – the world’s oldest surviving cruise ship – for recycling, after placing the sole bid at a public auction held in Rotterdam on 17th June 2025.
Galloo submitted a winning bid of €200,000 ($230,175) for the 16,144-gross-ton ship, which has been laid up in the Dutch port since the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
“We intend to recycle the vessel at our specialist facility in Ghent,” a Galloo spokesperson confirmed to local media.
A Ship Steeped in History
Built in 1948 as the Stockholm for the Swedish America Line, the ship’s legacy includes one of the most infamous maritime disasters of the 20th century.
On 25th July 1956, the Stockholm collided with the Italian liner Andrea Doria off the coast of Nantucket.
The Andrea Doria sank, but the Stockholm, despite severe damage to her ice-strengthened bow, was able to limp into New York with many of the Italian ship’s survivors aboard.
Over the decades, the vessel was rebuilt, renamed, and repurposed under various owners:
As Volkerfreundschaft, a trade union holiday ship in East Germany
As Italia Prima, a luxury cruise ship under Italian ownership
Later renamed Astoria, she operated cruises for UK-based Cruises & Maritime Voyages (CMV)
The ship was in operation until early 2020, when CMV ceased operations due to the global shutdown.
She was then sold to a group of US investors with the aim of preserving her as a historic attraction – a plan that ultimately failed to materialise.
Final Voyage: To the Scrapyard
Despite speculation in recent years that the Astoria might find new life as a museum ship or floating hotel, Galloo’s purchase confirms that she will now be dismantled and recycled.
The ship is expected to be towed to Ghent, Belgium, where the recycling process will begin at one of Europe’s most environmentally regulated ship-breaking facilities.
Galloo’s offer was the only bid received at the Rotterdam auction, highlighting the difficulty in finding a viable future for such an old vessel – especially one requiring substantial upkeep and retrofitting to meet modern safety standards.
While her active cruising days were over, maritime historians had hoped that Astoria might be preserved due to her historic value.
But the realities of maintenance, regulatory compliance, and the lack of commercial interest ultimately sealed her fate.
Although her hull will be broken down for scrap, Astoria’s story is far from forgotten. As the last surviving ship involved in the Andrea Doria disaster, and a rare example of post-war shipbuilding that remained in active service into the 21st century, she holds a unique place in maritime history.
The ship’s life spanned over seven decades, countless refits, and more than half a dozen names – a testament to resilience in an industry known for rapid evolution.
She may soon vanish from the water, but Astoria’s legacy will remain afloat in the pages of history.
TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!
Don’t miss these offers…
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Cruise guests booked on Carnival Liberty’s next sailing from New Orleans have had their summer plans upended, after Carnival Cruise Line was forced to cancel the ship’s 7-night Bahamas cruise…
It seems like every week there’s another cruise ship breaking free from the dock – and passengers are left wondering how on earth these floating hotels manage to slip away…
Antarctica may be the most untouched continent on Earth – but booming cruise tourism is starting to leave a destructive mark beneath the icy surface. A new scientific study has…
Some people will go to great lengths for an Alaska cruise – but for one man, the desire to set sail allegedly crossed the line into serious criminal territory. Enrico…
Virgin Voyages has shaken up the cruise world with its modern ships, adult-only experience, and no-nonsense pricing. But one area that’s gone a little under the radar is its loyalty programme: The Sailing Club.
Unlike some cruise line schemes that feel like they require spreadsheets to track, Virgin’s version is refreshingly simple. You don’t need to chase points, calculate cruise nights, or worry about how much you spent on board.
And there’s some very interesting news for anyone who is losing patience with their existing cruise line’s loyalty program (*cough* Carnival *cough*), and is considering a switch…
The Sailing Club Explained
Most cruise lines offer a loyalty programme, and on paper, they’re fairly similar: return guests earn benefits that get better over time.
The differences come down to how you qualify – and how much you need to cruise to unlock the good stuff.
Many lines use a nights-at-sea model. That means the longer your cruises, the more credit you earn. Some even add in multipliers based on cabin category or onboard spending.
On the more extreme end, reaching top-tier status with a mainstream line like Royal Caribbean or Princess could require 500–700 nights at sea.
Virgin Voyages has taken a simpler route: you earn status based on the number of completed voyages, not how long they are or how much you spend.
A 7-night cruise counts the same as a 14-night one, so you’re not penalised for picking shorter trips.
Here’s the key point: to reach Virgin’s highest loyalty tier, you only need five completed cruises. Depending on which itineraries you choose, that could be as little as 30–35 nights total, which is a fraction of what’s required on other lines.
The system is also binary: a cruise either counts, or it doesn’t. So you don’t need to track fine print about how many points a particular voyage earns or whether you’ve hit an earnings threshold. Just book, sail, and repeat.
Just like the cruise line as a whole, it’s a system that bucks some of the old trends and seeks to give cruisers “sailors” a simpler, better option.
Your First Step into Loyalty
Every sailor who completes an eligible cruise with Virgin Voyages is automatically entered into The Sailing Club as a ‘Joined Club’ member.
There’s no enrolment form to fill out or app to download – your status is tied to your profile as soon as you’ve finished your first sailing.
At this level, the perks are light but not meaningless.
Joined Club members receive early access to selected promotions, occasional exclusive offers, and a quarterly newsletter with sailing updates, future itineraries, and behind-the-scenes news.
Think of it as a gentle nod that you’re now part of the club – the benefits truly begin to stack up on your third voyage.
Blue Extras – Enhanced Perks on Your 3rd and 4th Voyages
After you’ve completed two eligible voyages, Blue Extras kick in on your third and fourth.
These are the stepping-stone perks designed to give returning sailors a smoother, slightly more pampered experience.
Cocktail Welcome Event
Blue Extras guests are invited to a private cocktail event onboard – a relaxed, informal gathering where you can mingle with crew and fellow return sailors over drinks.
It’s not a black-tie affair, but it’s a nice social touch that reinforces the “welcome back” vibe.
Dedicated Sailor Services Support
You’ll have access to a priority line at Sailor Services for both onboard and shore-based needs.
Whether you’re trying to change a shore excursion, book a spa treatment, or resolve a cabin issue, you’ll be able to do it more quickly with staff dedicated to helping returning sailors.
One Complimentary Laundry Bag per Voyage
A practical perk: one standard bag of laundry is included with your sailing.
It’s a good way to freshen up your essentials mid-trip, especially useful on longer voyages or if you’re packing light.
One Speciality Coffee Per Day
Blue Extras also includes one speciality coffee per day from onboard cafés.
These aren’t just basic brewed cups – we’re talking lattes, flat whites, iced macchiatos, and the like.
If you’re used to paying extra for decent coffee at sea, this perk is a nice everyday upgrade.
Deep Blue Extras – Top-Tier Perks from Your 5th Voyage Onward
Once you’ve completed four full-fare cruises with Virgin Voyages, you unlock Deep Blue Extras for your next cruise.
Like most (but not all) cruise line loyalty programs, once you reach Deep Blue Extras then it’s permanent, at least for now. It applies to all future cruises once earned – and the perks take a meaningful step up.
£100 Bar Tab Bonus
You’ll receive a complimentary £100 bar tab to spend on each Deep Blue voyage.
That can go a long way, given that so much is already included in the cruise fare. Whether it’s cocktails, Champagne, or that bottle of rosé you’ve had your eye on, it’s yours to spend as you wish.
Unlimited Premium WiFi
Unlike the standard onboard WiFi, Deep Blue sailors get unlimited access to the fastest tier of internet available, suitable for streaming, video calls, and staying connected without rationing megabytes.
Priority Boarding
Deep Blue status gives you access to priority embarkation, so you’ll be among the first on board – with more time to settle in, grab a bite, or head straight for a poolside cocktail.
Oh, and it applies for all of your cabinmates too, regardless of their status. Yay!
Two Speciality Coffees Per Day
The daily caffeine allowance doubles at this tier.
You’ll receive two included speciality coffees per day – great if you want a morning latte and an afternoon iced mocha without thinking twice about it.
Enhanced Laundry and Pressing
You’ll also receive a more generous laundry benefit: two pressed garments, one specialty-cleaned item (like dry cleaning or a delicate fabric), and a standard laundry bag per cruise.
This is especially handy for longer itineraries or for those travelling light and repeating outfits.
Legacy Loyalty: Sea‑Blazers and Sea‑Rovers
Virgin Voyages’ Sailing Club is not their first loyalty program. It’s a more recent revamp – and so the cruise line has made sure to also recognise its earliest cruisers with legacy status.
These categories are fixed and not open to new members, but if you sailed during the programme’s early years, you may already qualify.
Sea‑Blazers (that’s anyone who sailed with the cruise line in 2021) and Sea‑Rovers (those with at least two cruises in 2022 or 2023) automatically receive Deep Blue Extras through the end of 2025 or 2026, respectively.
In addition to the standard Deep Blue perks, they receive boosted bar tab bonuses: £125 (Sea‑Blazers) or £100 (Sea‑Rovers) when purchasing a £300 bar tab.
Status Match – Start with Perks Right Away
If you’ve earned status with another cruise line, Virgin offers a generous status match programme that lets you start your Virgin journey with perks already unlocked.
Cruisers with elite status on lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and even Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Gold can qualify for Blue Extras immediately – meaning you won’t need to wait until your third cruise to enjoy better coffee, laundry, or priority service.
The match is currently offered through 31 October 2025, though that date could be extended. No guarantees though – so don’t hang about if you’re considering trying Virgin. One cruise is all you need to lock-in your matched status.
It doesn’t apply to the lower tiers of many cruise line loyalty programs, though.
Here’s a list of the eligible members:
Azamara Circle (for Explorer, Discoverer, Discover Plus and Discover Platinum members)
Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club (for Platinum and Diamond members)
Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club (for Captain’s Club, Elite, Elite Plus and Zenith members)
Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Club (for Silver, Gold, Platinum and Pearl members)
Holland America’s Mariner Society (for 3-Star, 4-Star and 5-Star Mariner members)
Oceania Club (for Gold, Platinum, Diamond and President’s Circle members)
P&O Peninsular Club (for Mediterranean Tier, Caribbean Tier, Baltic Tier and Ligurian Tier members)
Princess Cruises’ Captain’s Circle (for Platinum and Elite members)
Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society (for Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club members)
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (for Gold members)
Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer (for Gold, Platinum and Beyond members)
Windstar Cruises’ Yacht Club (for One Star, Two Star, Three Star and Four Star members)
How many cruises to status match?
This varies a lot depending on the cruise line that you already have loyalty status with.
I was able to join the Virgin Sailing Club at Blue Extras Level using my Silver Disney Castaway Club status. You only need ONE Disney cruise to qualify for that, so don’t think that you always need a lot of cruises to quality.
However, my Atlantic Tier status with P&O Cruises wasn’t enough. I’ve done eight cruises with P&O, but you would need 101 nights at sea with the cruise line to quality for the Mediterranean Tier and be able to status match with Virgin!
A Few Things to Note
To qualify for Sailing Club status, your voyages must be full-fare bookings.
That means discounted Access Key sailings, gifted trips, or certain heavily reduced promotional offers do not count towards your total.
Always check the fare conditions when booking if you’re tracking your loyalty progress.
Perks are typically applied about 30 days after a cruise ends, so if you’re booking back-to-back voyages to trigger a new tier, allow time for the system to catch up.
At the time of writing, The Sailing Club runs through the end of 2026, and Virgin has hinted that more benefits – or even additional tiers – could be introduced in future.
So bear that in mind. Things could change. However it’s now a great time to get yourself into sailing with Virgin Voyages if you want to become a member of The Sailing Club – especially if you’re switching from another cruise line.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Virgin Voyages offers…
Final Thoughts
The Sailing Club may not be the flashiest loyalty programme in cruising, but it’s quietly one of the fairest.
You don’t need to sail for months on end to unlock perks, and the benefits – especially at the Deep Blue level – are genuinely useful. $100 of bar tab credit? Sign me up.
If you enjoy Virgin’s relaxed, adult-first take on cruising, it won’t take long to feel rewarded for sticking with them. Just five voyages gets you through the door – and the welcome drink is already waiting.
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
I don’t expect to convert the haters by the end of this guide, but maybe you’ll at least see that some of the reasons behind the change are reasonable…
1. Thinning Out the Top-Tier Members
The main reason Carnival decided to get rid of the VIFP loyalty program and replace it with Carnival Rewards is because there are just too many loyal Carnival fans reaching the upper tiers of the existing system.
It’s impossible to give special treatment to the Diamond cruisers when there are hundreds of them boarding a ship. In fact, there have been some cruises where it hasn’t been possible to offer priority disembarkation as there have just been too many people in the priority group, meaning everyone loses out.
“Priority boarding” just becomes, well, “boarding” by that point. And there were plenty of other perks where there are just too many people to properly accommodate them.
So yes, a lot of Platinum and Diamond cruisers are going to be very upset about the changes, as they eventually lose their status if they don’t spend the money to maintain it.
But for those that do spend that money, they should find that their rewards perks feel a lot more like a perk, something that’s special for them.
It’s a tough balance. But when a “loyalty” system gets too crowded at the top, it stops feeling like a reward and starts feeling like something everyone gets just for turning up.
The new program gives Carnival a way to better control numbers at the upper tiers, while still offering a path to reach them – just with a bit more effort (or money) required.
2. Big Spenders Will Love It
Let’s be honest – some cruisers spend a lot of money. They book the best balcony cabins, splash out on shore excursions, order drinks by the bucket, and hit the spa without blinking at the prices.
Under the old system, those people weren’t rewarded more than someone who booked a cheap interior cabin and didn’t spend a penny onboard.
Now, with Carnival Rewards, spend is rewarded. If you’re someone who loves a bit of luxury and is happy to treat yourself, you’ll climb the loyalty ladder faster and get more back in return.
It’s a loyalty program that finally recognises value, not just volume.
And yes, that will upset the inside cabin bookers who can’t afford to spend all those extras onboard. I sympathise with those people.
They do have to remember that their existing status will remain in place for at least a couple of years though.
And if you remove the emotion from the situation, can you blame a company for wanting to reward the people who spend the most money with them?
3. It Can Be Faster to Rise Up the Tiers
One of the biggest surprises for new cruisers is just how long it used to take to move through the VIFP tiers. Unless you were doing multiple cruises a year, progress could be painfully slow.
With the new Carnival Rewards system, there’s a real chance to rise through the tiers much quicker – if you’re spending the money.
Since you earn three stars for every eligible dollar you spend, the more you invest in your cruise experience, the quicker you unlock benefits.
And you don’t need to wait until the end of a two-year cycle to enjoy your upgraded status – as soon as you hit a new tier, you get those perks right away.
For newer cruisers who want to build status quickly, this is a major improvement.
4. More Opportunity to Tailor Your Own Perks
One of the clever things about the new program is that it separates rewards (points) from status (stars).
That means you’re not just working toward a fixed tier – you’re also earning points that you can spend however you like.
Fancy a steakhouse dinner? Use your points.
Want an internet package, or a bottle of bubbly for sailaway? Use your points.
It’s not just about climbing the status ladder. You can get little wins along the way, and that helps the program feel more rewarding – even if you’re only an occasional cruiser.
5. The Best Status Perks Remain in Place
Despite the drama, it’s worth pointing out that many of the most-loved perks from the old system are still available – you just have to earn them under the new rules.
Platinum and Diamond members still get things like priority boarding, dedicated support, complimentary laundry, and Captain’s events (for Diamond only).
If you make it to those tiers, the benefits do still feel valuable – maybe even more so now that fewer people will be there with you.
And with tier matching in place for the first two (or six, for Diamond) years, past cruisers aren’t being completely cast aside. There’s a grace period to adjust and show Carnival you still deserve those perks.
6. Casino Players Can Get Triple Perks
If you enjoy spending time in the casino while you cruise, then Carnival Rewards could be a huge win – because you’re now earning three different types of rewards from a single activity.
For every point you earn through the Carnival Players Club – the cruise line’s casino-specific rewards program – you’ll also earn a Rewards Point (which you can spend on drinks, excursions, internet and more), and a Status Qualifying Star (which helps move you up the Carnival Rewards tiers).
So you’re essentially getting triple perks from the same casino play:
Carnival Players Club points – used for offers like free drinks while you play, discounted (or even free) cruises, and other casino-specific benefits
Carnival Rewards Points – which can be spent on all sorts of onboard extras
Status Stars – which help you reach higher status tiers and unlock broader perks
And the best part? The Carnival Players Club is staying exactly as it is – it hasn’t been replaced or watered down.
So casino guests now have more ways to earn and enjoy rewards than ever before. If you’re a regular in the onboard casino, this change really works in your favour.
7. It Encourages People to Try Other Cruise Lines
This one might sound strange in an article about why Carnival’s new loyalty system is a good thing, but hear me out.
When loyalty is permanent and status never drops, there’s less reason to try other cruise lines. You might feel “locked in”, even if you’re a bit bored of the same ships or itineraries.
But now that status is temporary and spend-based, there’s less to lose by broadening your horizons.
If Carnival Rewards feels harder to maintain, some cruisers might decide to explore Royal Caribbean, MSC, NCL, or others – and that could be a good thing. It adds variety, and you might even find another line you love just as much (or more).
I have some guides that will help you compare the Carnival experience to that with other cruise lines…
MSC and Virgin Voyages in particular are proving to be very popular amongst the social media chatter about Carnival Rewards, because of their Status Match.
You don’t have to start from scratch with those cruise lines and their loyalty programs, if you already have earned your way up the VIFP ladder.
Loyalty should reward you, not trap you. And Carnival Rewards might nudge people into rediscovering their freedom to cruise how they want.
Final Word
It’s easy to see why so many Carnival fans are upset about the changes to the loyalty program. Losing lifetime status, spending thresholds, and the complexity of earning periods have all triggered strong reactions – and understandably so.
But there is another side to the story.
Carnival Rewards brings in more flexibility, more personalisation, and better recognition for those who spend more on their cruises. For big spenders, casino players, and newer guests, this new system could actually offer more tangible benefits than VIFP ever did.
No loyalty program is perfect – and this one might still evolve based on feedback – but for the right kind of cruiser, Carnival Rewards could be a very rewarding change.
And now I’ll dip back down below the parapet.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
A new vessel is making a return to the more classic age of maritime travel, using the power of the wind with its huge 328-foot (100-meter) masts.
Photo: Orient Express Sailing Yachts
This groundbreaking ship, the Orient Express Corinthian, has recently debuted in France with an official launch. While its sheer size—722 feet (220 meters) long—puts it in the league of many traditional cruise ships, it’s officially the world’s largest luxury sailing yacht.
This 26,000 gross ton vessel is set to offer inaugural voyages in mid-2026.
This project comes from a partnership between the legendary train brand, Orient Express, and the French hotel group, Accor.
Another Vessel on the Way
The Corinthian is just the first of two vessels, with its sister ship, the Orient Express Olympian, planned for 2027, launching Orient Express into ocean cruising in a big way.
Accor Group’s Chairman and CEO, Sébastien Bazin, has stated the yachts aim to “reinvent movement and comfort on the water” while redefining what “ultra-luxury” means.
Luxury at Sea
The Corinthian was constructed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. The yacht is designed for a very select group of travelers – just 110 passengers in 54 suites. The goal is to provide an exclusive experience, focusing on adventure and comfort.
The suites themselves are quite generous, ranging from about 484 to 2,475 square feet (45 to 230 square meters). Their interiors will feature materials like wood, leather, and marble, crafted by highly skilled artisans.
Some suites will even be two-story duplexes, and certain configurations can accommodate up to four guests, with special family-friendly voyages in the works.
The Orient Express Corinthian’s first sailings, starting in May 2026, will take guests along the French and Italian Rivieras, through the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas on two- to eight-night voyages.
Destinations like Monte-Carlo, Portofino, and Saint-Tropez are included. Exclusive shoreside experiences are also planned, such as private access to Pompeii or dinner at the Peggy Guggenheim Museum in Venice.
After its Mediterranean season, the yacht will sail across the Atlantic to spend the winter soaking up the sun in the Caribbean.
Powered by Wind and Cutting-Edge Tech
What truly sets this sailing yacht apart is the obvious: its sails. The vessel has three towering masts, standing about 328 feet (100 meters) tall, supporting a total of nearly 48,500 square feet (4,500 square meters) of rigid sails.
This “SolidSail” technology, developed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, allows the yachts to be propelled by wind alone at speeds up to 17 knots. The sails can even fold up like an accordion when not in use, making them highly efficient. The design prioritizes true sailing performance.
While wind is the primary power source, there’s also a hybrid engine that runs on the latest generation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for backup, with a future goal of using clean-burning hydrogen.
Sustainability is a focus too, with state-of-the-art technology applied to every system. This includes energy recovery from the engines, used to help power things like heating the onboard pools, and careful waste management practices.
For environmental protection, the yacht incorporates an artificial intelligence (AI)-based detection system to reduce the risk of mammal collisions.
A special dynamic positioning system also means they can hold their place without dropping anchors, protecting ocean floors from damage.
These renderings from Orient Express reveal the Corinthian’s elegant indoor lap pool (left) and inviting outdoor pool deck (right) (Credit: Orient Express)
Onboard Amenities
Once onboard, guests will find five restaurants, including one by multi-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno.
For relaxation, there’s a spa, two pools (one a 54-foot lap lane), a full-service salon, a barber, and a gymnasium. For entertainment, guests can enjoy a marina, a 24-seat cinema, and even an onboard recording studio. A bespoke suit tailor will also be available for custom fittings.
Bookings for the Orient Express Corinthian’sinaugural season are now open.
Get the latest cruise news, tips, and deals sent straight to your inbox with our free newsletter: Sign Up Now
Even rival cruise lines can step up to help each other out when it comes to the safety and well-being of cruise passengers. After all, not everything goes according to plan, especially with the many variables involved in shore excursions.
A recent shore excursion to Germany highlighted just that when an elderly couple was left behind, simply because they didn’t hear the time change for the bus returning to port.
A Rough Start to the Day
For passengers on Norwegian Dawn, which is currently on an 11-day sailing from Stockholm to Copenhagen, things got a bit bumpy at the start of a shore excursion in Port Warnemunde-Rostock.
A Reddit user, who shared the whole story in a post titled “Shout out to MSC for helping NCL passengers”, stated,
“The weather was hot, our tour bus arrived late because they didn’t have one available so the tour company swapped out a city bus without AC or windows that open.”
According to the post, it was a 90-minute ride and people quickly ran out of water.
“We drank up what water we brought with us. People were yelling to get another bus for the trip back and that we needed water,” the Reddit user recounted.
It’s worth noting that while cruise lines try to offer a great experience on shore excursions, they don’t typically own the tour buses used. They partner with local operators. And sometimes a bus is simply not available or has to be switched out at the last minute.
In this situation, the tour guide decided to move up the departure time for the way back but didn’t quite get the message to everyone. That’s where the problem began for two cruise passengers.
An elderly couple, enjoying their time in the castle gardens, completely missed the memo about the schedule change. They showed up at the bus stop before the originally scheduled time. But the bus had already left.
The original poster said the couple tried to call the cruise line for help but were not able to get anywhere.
MSC Lends a Hand
But MSC Cruises also had a ship in port that day and was more than willing to help the couple out.
According to the post, when they saw the NCL couple stranded, they didn’t hesitate. MSC staff generously offered them a ride back to the ship and, just as importantly, gave them all the bottled water they needed.
“MSC was also in port, they had tours going and they took the couple back. Gave them as much bottled water as they needed too,” the Reddit user shared. “I have to thank MSC for taking care of NCL passengers when NCL wouldn’t.”
Community Comments
The whole story led to hundreds of upvotes and dozens of comments. Many praised the Reddit user for sticking up for the couple.
Others chimed in with their own frustrations about customer service when on recent cruises.
But ultimately, the story highlighted how important it is for people to help each other out, especially when traveling. As another Reddit user shared from a different experience, “I would love to think that if I were in a situation like that someone would help out.”
Get the latest cruise news, tips, and deals sent straight to your inbox with our free newsletter: Sign Up Now
Sometimes cruise lines announce a new feature or change to their policies and the reaction is more mixed than they hoped. But to call the reaction of Carnival’s new loyalty program, Carnival Rewards, “mixed” would be extremely generous.
“Overwhelmingly negative” feels a bit more accurate.
And there are plenty of reasons people are expressing that anger across social media – let me tell you why.
1. Long-Time Loyalty Is Being Wiped Out
One of the biggest issues people have with Carnival Rewards is how it will, eventually, wipe out many years of loyalty that people have built up with the cruise line.
Many people commented on how they’d been sailing with the cruise line for 20+ years, and had reached Platinum or Diamond status, but now wouldn’t be able to maintain it.
You can read my explainer on Carnival Rewards if you want to get all the detail of how it works, but in summary – you no longer maintain your status level for life.
Under the new program, you earn your status every two years – and then it resets.
Tiers are being grandfathered into the system, but for Gold and Platinum that’s only for 2 years. Diamond members get more, with 6 years of status protection.
But that means, if you’re a Platinum VIFP member, you’ll enjoy Platinum status from June 2026 to May 2028, while starting at zero to earn your status for the June 2028 to May 2030 period.
A lot of long-time fans aren’t happy about this because they don’t have the money to spend to maintain their status (and more on that later in the list). So they feel like the ‘work’ they’ve put in to remain loyal to Carnival is being wiped out.
And it is, essentially.
There are two very different mindsets here of course. The people who are upset believe that their loyalty deserves rewards and status.
And there are those who believe that they’re just paying for a cruise holiday, and any loyalty benefits are a nice bonus to have.
The former group are the ones who are upset, even though the actual cruise experience isn’t changing – minus a few extra perks that those guests will lose.
2. Cruisers Will Need To Spend More
Another key complaint with the new Carnival Rewards system is that it clearly incentivises spending more money – not just cruising more often.
Previously, under the old VIFP program, you earned loyalty status based on cruise nights – so the more time you spent on a Carnival ship, the better your status. It didn’t matter how much you spent onboard or how much your cruise fare cost.
Now, your status is based on how much money you spend – whether that’s cruise fare, shore excursions, drinks, spa treatments, or other onboard purchases. Even a casino flutter counts (and earns you both points and stars).
So, if you’re a budget cruiser who loves the Carnival experience but doesn’t splash out on extras, you’ll find yourself falling behind. Meanwhile, someone who cruises less frequently but spends big when they do will climb the tiers faster.
To many, that feels less like a loyalty program and more like a spending competition.
3. The Credit Card is Now More Important
Then there’s the credit card angle.
Under the new Carnival Rewards system, the Carnival Mastercard has become a much more important tool for earning points – although it doesn’t help you earn stars for status.
Still, it means that cardholders can build up points to spend on rewards like drinks or excursions, even without cruising regularly.
On the surface, that might seem like a good thing. But to many guests, it feels like a shift towards rewarding financial products over actual cruising loyalty.
Worse still, this benefit isn’t even available to everyone…
4. The New System Favours US Guests
One of the most frustrating aspects for international cruisers is that the Carnival Mastercard is only available to US residents.
So while American guests can rack up points with everyday spending – even between cruises – guests from Canada, the UK, Australia and beyond are at a clear disadvantage.
That means fewer points to spend on rewards, and less flexibility to build value within the program.
Carnival might be a US-based cruise line, but they have a huge international following – and this change makes those guests feel like second-class citizens.
Again, it’s important to clarify that the credit card can only be used on Rewards Points, not on Status Qualifying Stars.
And it’s not new – the Carnival World Mastercard already exists, and lets people earn FunPoints. Not a huge amount is really changing here.
But, because it’s all being bundled together under this new umbrella of Carnival Rewards, it does make some people from non-US countries feel like they’re not being considered.
5. The Spend Numbers Needed for Higher Tiers Are Big
Let’s talk about the cost of loyalty under the new system.
To reach Platinum status, you’ll need to earn 50,000 stars in a two-year period. That’s the equivalent of spending $16,667 on eligible purchases with Carnival.
Diamond status? You’ll need to spend over $33,000 within two years.
For frequent cruisers, those numbers might be just about achievable. Especially if you’re a casino player. But for many loyal Carnival fans, especially those on a budget or retired guests cruising more modestly, that level of spend is completely out of reach.
And because your stars reset every two years, this isn’t a one-time hurdle – you have to hit that same spending target again and again to maintain your tier.
6. Perks Are Being Removed
It’s not just that the program is changing – in some cases, guests are outright losing perks they previously enjoyed.
Many of the benefits that came with higher VIFP tiers are now harder to earn, or gated behind a higher spending threshold.
For example, complimentary laundry services – you still get it at Platinum level, but not as much. And Diamond isn’t completely unlimited either.
The Platinum and Diamond party? Gone.
The pin badge for reaching Gold status? Also gone.
The loyalty gifts are gone too, as is the Chocolate Delight treat that Platinum guests would get to try once for free.
These may sound small but they all add it, and that’s a bitter pill to swallow – especially for those who felt their past loyalty had “earned” them a level of treatment that now vanishes overnight.
7. People Feel They Aren’t Being Listened To
Finally, one of the biggest sources of frustration is the perception that Carnival isn’t really listening to its guests.
Yes, Brand Ambassador John Heald has acknowledged the backlash. And yes, there have been vague suggestions that Carnival might tweak the program based on feedback. But for many guests, that simply isn’t enough.
The announcement went ahead despite clear and immediate criticism. And even though there’s nearly a year until the new system takes effect, there’s no concrete indication that any changes will be made in response.
Carnival’s reasoning – that the old system couldn’t keep up with the number of guests reaching higher tiers – might make sense from a business point of view.
But for many cruisers, the new program feels like a betrayal of the loyalty they’ve shown over years, even decades.
Final Word
There are always growing pains when a major loyalty program changes, but Carnival’s rollout of Carnival Rewards has struck a nerve with many guests.
While some may adjust and adapt to the new system, others are left wondering if their loyalty was ever truly valued – or just a number on a spreadsheet.
The coming year will be crucial for Carnival. Whether they listen, adjust, and respond to the criticism, or stay the course, could make a real difference in how loyal their most dedicated fans choose to remain.
What do you think about these changes? Please do share your view in the comments below.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related Posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
It seems like every week there’s another cruise ship breaking free from the dock – and passengers are left wondering how on earth these floating hotels manage to slip away like runaway balloons.
Well, I’ve spoken to a real port pilot to find out exactly what’s going on behind the scenes. Let’s break it down.
It’s Windier Than You Think
When cruise ships dock, they’re secured with a very specific arrangement of ropes (called mooring lines). But even with multiple lines holding them in place, a sudden gust of wind can push with tons of force. Literally.
“The pressure on the side of the ship rises exponentially with wind speed,” the pilot explained.
Here’s a rough idea of how much force the wind can apply on a huge cruise ship like Icon of the Seas (365 metres long):
Force 3 (Gentle Breeze – 8 knots): 21 tons
Force 6 (Strong Breeze – 25 knots): 128 tons
Force 8 (Gale – 37 knots): 449 tons
That’s right — a bit of extra wind can turn into hundreds of tons of sideways force. The bigger the ship, the bigger the target for the wind.
The size of the ship makes a bit difference too. Take a look at this table which shows how much more pressure is placed on bigger cruise ships compared to smaller ones…
Ship
Gentle Breeze (Force 3 – 8 knots)
Strong Breeze (Force 6 – 25 knots)
Gale (Force 8 – 37 knots)
Icon of the Seas (365m long)
21 tons
128 tons
449 tons
Serenade of the Seas (294m long)
13 tons
128 tons
284 tons
Silver Moon (212m long)
8 tons
79 tons
174 tons
As ships have grown bigger, the forces involved have grown too, making even a short burst of wind enough to overwhelm carefully planned mooring setups.
Recent Scary Incidents
Let’s take a closer look at some of the incidents we’ve seen recently…
Celebrity Edge — Juneau, Alaska (16 June 2025)
Severe weather hit as passengers enjoyed their port day in Alaska. Gusts of up to 60 mph snapped the mooring lines, and Celebrity Edge drifted into open water. The crew quickly regained control, but not before giving everyone a good scare.
MSC Seascape — Ocean Cay, Bahamas (31 May 2025)
MSC Seascape faced its own drama while docked at Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas.
A sudden squall snapped the lines, dropped the gangway into the water, and injured a guest who was disembarking. Thankfully, they were treated onboard and rejoined the cruise shortly after.
Norwegian Epic — Catania, Italy (30 May 2025)
In Sicily, strong winds ripped Norwegian Epic’s mooring lines free, sending parts of the dock flying. Two passengers fell into the water when the gangway collapsed, but were rescued quickly with only minor injuries.
Westerdam — Ketchikan, Alaska (30 May 2025)
Westerdam broke loose in Ketchikan after sudden 60-knot winds caused the ship to shift dramatically. Passengers caught the moment on camera as the gangway dangled before plunging into the sea.
How Do Ships Normally Stay Tied Up?
Here’s a super simple version of how cruise ships stay put:
Headlines & stern lines: these pull the ship forward and backward to keep it snug against the dock
Breast lines: these hold the ship close to the dock sideways
Spring lines: these prevent the ship from surging up and down along the dock.
“A typical big cruise ship might use something like six or seven lines forward, six or seven lines at the stern, and two or three spring lines at each end,” the pilot told me. “We always err on the side of caution, especially with larger vessels.”
So with all these lines in place, how can things still go wrong?
It’s All About Balance
For mooring lines to do their job, the tension needs to be perfectly balanced. If one line takes too much strain, it can snap. And when one line goes, the extra load shifts to the others — which can also fail in quick succession.
“Lines are most likely to break if they are not tensioned evenly – and sometimes it’s obvious when that happens,” the pilot said.
It’s not just about the ropes either. The metal posts on the dock where the lines are secured (called bollards) also have their limits.
“I’ve seen bollards rated up to 200 tons, but many are much lower,” the pilot added. “That’s why we always try to spread the lines across multiple bollards.”
The Equipment Matters Too
Most cruise ships use drum winches, which require the crew to manually adjust line tension. Some cargo ships use self-tensioning winches that automatically adjust as tides rise or winds shift.
“Self-tensioning winches are very effective – but even they can be overwhelmed if a sudden squall hits and the wind pressure exceeds the setting,” the pilot explained. “That’s when you see them paying out – and that’s when you lose your gangways.”
In other words, even the best equipment can’t always keep up when Mother Nature throws a tantrum.
“Tending the moorings whilst a ship is alongside is vital,” the pilot stressed.
The crew monitor the tension continuously, making adjustments as conditions change – but some storms escalate so fast that there’s little time to react.
When It’s Just Too Dangerous
When bad weather is forecast, captains and port pilots have tough decisions to make. Sometimes that means calling in tugboats to push the ship against the dock. Other times, they may choose not to dock at all.
“In extreme cases, if offshore winds are forecast, we’ll employ tugs to push up,” the pilot said. “But sailing early or aborting the call completely is often the safest option.”
The Bottom Line
Cruise ships breaking free from the dock might seem like freak accidents, but there’s a lot of science behind why it happens. When strong winds hit these giant floating hotels, even dozens of heavy-duty ropes and powerful winches can struggle to keep them in place.
So next time you’re relaxing on board in port, spare a thought for the crew – and the port pilots – who are constantly watching the skies, calculating forces, and making sure your cruise ship stays exactly where it’s supposed to.
Related Posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Antarctica may be the most untouched continent on Earth – but booming cruise tourism is starting to leave a destructive mark beneath the icy surface. A new scientific study has…
Some people will go to great lengths for an Alaska cruise – but for one man, the desire to set sail allegedly crossed the line into serious criminal territory. Enrico…
Cruise fans can look forward to a “wave” of enhanced experiences next year as Royal Caribbean has confirmed it will amplify three of its most beloved ships in time for…
Cruising to Alaska is all about dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and natural wonders. But in 2025, travellers might get more drama than expected. Mount Spurr, an active volcano located around 80…
I know how tempting it is to overpack, but the truth is that when you take a cruise, you don’t always need to pack enough clothes to last for your whole trip.
If you’re taking a long cruise or travelling with kids, you’ll definitely want to check out the laundry options on your ship and make a plan before you pack.
I’ve found that kids can get through at least four outfits per day with day clothes, swimwear, evening clothes and nightwear. And it’s rare that anything is clean enough to be worn twice!
My son enjoying a cake on his cruise
So, rather than packing 56 changes of clothes per person for a two-week cruise, it’s definitely a good idea to find out how to do laundry on a cruise ship. Especially as it varies by cruise line sometimes.
Also I’ve got one amazing free laundry hack to share with you…
You Can (Almost Always) Do Laundry On Your Cruise
Almost all cruise ships offer laundry services with washing, pressing and dry cleaning available for a fee.
In addition, many cruise ships also have self-service launderettes with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. These may be complimentary or have a small charge. Another option is to wash clothes in the sink in your room.
Cruise Ship Laundry Costs
Self-service laundry on a cruise ship is often free, but there may be a charge of up to $3.50 to use the machines and $2 for detergent, depending on the ship.
If you send your clothes away to be professionally cleaned, the fees range from $1 for small items to be washed and pressed up to $20 or more for a three-piece suit to be dry cleaned.
Further down in this guide, there’s a table with the prices for washing and pressing, washing and folding, pressing only, dry cleaning and self-service laundry on every cruise ship.
3 Ways to Do Laundry on a Cruise Ship
The best way to do laundry on a cruise ship depends on what items you have to be cleaned, how much laundry you have, and your budget. Here’s an overview of your options…
(It’s important to note that not all options will be available on every cruise ship, but if you scroll down towards the end of this guide, you’ll see a list of what there is on each cruise line.)
1. Laundry Services on Cruise Ships
When it comes to getting clothes professionally cleaned on a cruise you usually have three options – washing and pressing, pressing only or dry cleaning.
Sometimes, wet cleaning is used as a safe and environmentally-friendly alternative to dry cleaning. And sometimes, washing and folding may also be an option.
If professional laundry services are available on your cruise (and they are on pretty much every ship), you should find a price list in your room and there may also be a laundry bag ready for you to use.
On a cruise, laundry can take up to two days to be delivered back to you. It’s usually collected before 9 am and returned to you the following evening. However, if you’re in a hurry, you’ll often be able to request an express service for an extra fee of around 50%.
If you need your clothes to be cleaned but don’t want to waste time doing laundry during your holiday, then professional laundry services can be a great idea.
Some people only use the laundry service for certain items, such as if they spill soup on a tie. However, others like to get all of their clothes cleaned before the end of a cruise so that they can be transferred straight to the closet at home, avoiding the dreaded post-cruise laundry pile!
Some cruise ships offer laundry packages where you can get unlimited laundry done for the duration of your cruise. This perk is also sometimes given for free to guests staying in the best suites or who have achieved a high loyalty status.
2. Self-Service Laundry Rooms on Cruise Ships
Self-service laundry rooms on cruise ships can be really handy as they offer a cheap (or sometimes free) way to wash, dry and iron your clothes. But, they’re only found on around half of all cruise ships.
Some smaller cruise ships have just one laundry room for everyone, whereas others will have one on almost every deck. Check out the deck plan to find where they are on your ship.
The laundry rooms on cruise ships can get very busy, especially on sea days and the day of a formal evening. As you aren’t allowed to bring your own iron on a cruise ship, you’ll probably find that there’s quite a queue to use the communal ironing equipment in the hours before formal night.
To avoid the queues, I’d recommend putting your laundry in the machine before breakfast and then returning straight after breakfast to put it in the dryer.
Take care not to leave your laundry unattended in the machine for too long, as if someone else is waiting to use the washer, they’ll probably take your wet washing out and dump it on the side.
If you plan to use the self-service launderette on your cruise, it’s a good idea to take your own 2-in-1 detergent and fabric conditioner tablets. While you can buy these on board, you can save a few dollars and possibly a trip to the onboard shop or guest services if you pack your own.
3. Handwashing Clothes on a Cruise
Handwashing clothes on a cruise can be tricky as the only option is to use the shower or sink in your room. Cruise ship bathrooms are usually pretty compact, with no bath and only very small sinks and shower cubicles.
The easiest way to wash your swimsuit at the end of each day is to get in the shower with it as you would do in a hotel. However, if you want to wash anything larger or have clothes with stains that need scrubbing out, this isn’t ideal.
The Best Way to Handwash Clothes on a Cruise Ship
I’ve recently discovered a fantastic solution to cruise laundry called the Scrubba Washbag. This genius handwashing bag makes it so quick and easy to wash clothes on a cruise ship!
Here’s what my Scrubba washbag looks like…
My Scrubba washbag
I’ve only heard of this clever device recently and I wish that I’d bought one sooner. That said, my kids still manage to cover themselves in ice cream every single day on a cruise so I’m sure I’ll get a LOT of use out of it in the years to come.
The Scrubba washbag is basically a pocket-size portable washing machine. It allows you to wash your clothes in under five minutes – which is about how long it would take to walk to the ship’s laundry room (if there is one on your ship).
Here’s what the bag looks like when it’s unfolded…
I think that using the Scrubba bag is the easiest way to wash clothes on a cruise ship.
Here’s how to use it:
Put the clothes in the bag
Add a little water and travel wash
Roll down and clip the top
Turn the valve to let out the air
Rub the clothes for a couple of minutes
Tip out the water
Rinse with clean water inside the bag
Remove the clothes and hang up to dry
Here’s what the bag looks like with clothes inside…
The Scrubba Washbag has some really clever features – like the internal washboard with nobbly bits that help to rub the dirt out of your garments.
I like how the valve makes it easy to expel all of the air and the top clip makes the bag watertight so there’s no need to worry about water going everywhere.
If your clothes have bad stains (as let’s face it most kids’ clothes will do), then you can hang the bag in your bathroom with water and use it to soak the clothes until you’re ready to wash them. This keeps your sink free for washing hands and whatnot.
This is also really handy for any clothes that you wouldn’t want to leave stinking out your suitcase, such as gym clothes or kids’ underwear if they’ve had an accident.
When I’m not using my Scrubba washbag for washing clothes, I’ll keep it in my day bag to put wet swimsuits in, so they don’t make everything else damp. The washbag only weighs as much as a small apple and it folds up really neatly so it takes up no space at all.
How To Dry Clothes on a Cruise
Most cruise ships have retractable clotheslines in the shower where you can hang clothes to dry. Hanging clothes and towels on the balcony isn’t allowed, but you can drape items over the backs of chairs while the ship is in port.
After washing your clothes, wrap each item in a bath towel and squeeze it tightly to remove any excess water before hanging it up.
A clever solution to the problem of drying clothes on a cruise is to invest in a couple of strong magnetic hooks. The walls of cruise cabins are made of metal so it’s easy to rig up a clothesline across your room.
You can’t rig a washing line on your cruise ship balcony, but if you do it indoors just next to the sliding balcony doors you’ll get better airflow. Just remember to close the balcony doors when you leave the room.
For small items like socks and underwear, you may be able to dry them quickly using a hairdryer on a low setting. Just take care that they don’t overheat and set on fire!
Of course, if your cruise ship has a self-service launderette you’ll be able to put everything in a tumble dryer and get it dry quickly and easily.
How To Iron Clothes on a Cruise
Irons aren’t provided in cruise ship cabins and it’s almost always forbidden to bring your own travel iron or clothes steamer. However, there are many ways you can get the creases out of clothes during your cruise:
Send your clothes to be professionally pressed
Use the iron in the self-service launderette
Use hair straighteners
Pack crease release spray
Steam clothes in the bathroom while you take a hot shower
Spray with water to dampen before drying with a hairdryer
Many cruisers swear by wrinkle remover spray that you can get on Amazon. You just spray your clothes and the wrinkles will disappear, as if by magic!
I purposefully choose dresses that don’t crease to take on a cruise. If something looks creased in the shop, I simply won’t buy it!
When shopping for cruise dresses online, look out for man-made fabrics like polyester and nylon rather than cotton and linen which are naturally prone to creasing.
Find What Laundry Services Are Available on Your Ship…
If you’d like to know what laundry facilities to expect on your next cruise, you’ll find the info for every cruise line below…
Azamara
Laundry services on Azamara cruises
Laundry, pressing and dry cleaning are available on Azamara cruise ships for an extra cost. Prices range from $1 for a pair of socks to $10 for a suit to be dry-cleaned. Items are usually priced individually, but special offers are often available so you may be able to get a bag of laundry cleaned and pressed for around $30.
Guests staying in suites get one free bag of laundry per stateroom per week, as do Azamara Circle members at Explorer level or above.
You can see a full Azamara laundry price list here.
Self-service laundry facilities on Azamara
Self-service laundry facilities are available on all Azamara cruise ships. You’ll find the launderette on Deck 7, midship. It’s open from 8 am until 9 pm and detergent is provided free of charge.
In the laundry room, you’ll find a number of washing machines and tumble dryers plus two irons and ironing boards.
This photo of the launderette on Azamara Journey is courtesy of Tripadvisor
Carnival
Laundry services on Carnival cruises
Carnival cruise ships offer a valet laundry service with options for washing and pressing, pressing only or dry cleaning. Laundry typically takes 48 hours, although there are next-day and same-day service for an extra fee.
Laundry prices on Carnival cruises begin at $2 for small items to be washed and pressed and cost up to $8 for a suit to be dry cleaned. Pressing only is 80% of the price of washing and pressing. You can pay 50% more to get your items back the same day.
Carnival often has laundry specials where you can get a whole bag of laundry washed and folded for $15 or five bags for $50. You can also get 12 items pressed for $20 or 24 items for $30.
Guests who are platinum and above in the VIFP loyalty scheme also get some laundry done for free. This also applies when the cruise line switches its loyalty program to Carnival Rewards in June 2026.
Dry cleaning is only available on these Carnival ships: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Dream, Carnival Freedom, Carnival Glory, Carnival Horizon, Carnival Liberty, Carnival Magic, Carnival Miracle, Carnival Panorama, Carnival Radiance, Carnival Spirit, Carnival Splendor, Carnival Sunrise, Carnival Sunshine, Carnival Valor, Carnival Vista and Mardi Gras.
You can see a full Carnival laundry price list here.
Self-service laundry facilities on Carnival cruises
Most Carnival cruise ships have self-service launderettes which have two or three washing machines and dryers plus an iron and ironing board. However, on Carnival Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, no washing facilities are provided, only ironing rooms.
Ironing room on Carnival Celebration
The cost for self-service laundry on Carnival cruises is $3.50 per washer load and $3.50 per dryer load. Detergent and softener cost $2.00 per box.
On most Carnival ships, the washing machines and dryers are paid for using your cruise card. However, on Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Elation, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Sensation, the machines are coin-operated. You can get change at guest services if needed.
This photo of the launderette on Carnival Fantasy is courtesy of Tripadvisor
Celebrity Cruises
Laundry services on Celebrity Cruises
The fees for laundry services on Celebrity Cruises start at $3 for a pair of socks or underwear to be washed and pressed and go up to $21 for a suit to be dry-cleaned. You can get four items dry-cleaned for $28. During your Celebrity cruise, there may be special offers on laundry, such as $50 per bag.
On Celebrity Cruises, Captain’s Club members get free laundry, depending on how many points you have. Classic members get 10% off laundry services, Select, Elite and Elite Plus members get some free laundry, pressing and dry cleaning, whereas Zenith members get free laundry throughout the cruise.
You can see a full Celebrity Cruises laundry price list here.
Self-service laundry facilities on Celebrity cruises
Celebrity Cruises does not offer self-service laundry facilities on any of its ships. Instead, laundry, pressing and dry cleaning are available for a fee.
Costa Cruises
Laundry services on Costa Cruises
On Costa cruises, you can send off your laundry to be washed, pressed or dry cleaned. It costs from $1.50 for small items up to $16 for an evening dress, with a 50% surcharge if you require a same-day service and a 50c surcharge if you want your clothes folded rather than on hangers.
On some Costa cruises, you may be able to get a bag of laundry done for around $20, but this isn’t always available.
You can see a full Costa Cruise laundry price list here, although it’s from 2012 so the prices will be out of date but it should give you some idea.
Self-service laundry facilities on Costa Cruises
There are no self-service laundry facilities on any Costa cruise ships. Instead, guests are invited to use the laundry, pressing and dry cleaning service for an extra fee.
Cunard
Laundry services on Cunard
On Cunard cruises, you can arrange for your clothes to be professionally washed, pressed or wet cleaned (an environmentally-friendly alternative to dry cleaning for delicate and non-washable garments).
Cunard laundry prices start at $3 for underwear and socks to be washed and go up to $20 for a specialist clean for a two-piece suit.
Laundry generally takes two days, although you can request a same-day service for a 50% surcharge.
You can see a full Cunard laundry price list here although those prices may now be a little out of date.
Self-service laundry facilities on Cunard
Cunard cruise ships have self-service launderettes on board with washing machines, tumble dryers, irons and ironing boards. Washing powder is provided free of charge, although you may bring your own if you prefer. The launderettes are open from 7.30 am until 9 pm.
You’ll find launderettes on the following decks:
Queen Elizabeth – Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Queen Victoria – Decks 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Queen Mary 2 – Decks 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11
Queen Anne – Decks 1, 4, 7, 8, 10
This photo of the laundry room on the Queen Mary 2 is courtesy of Tripadvisor
Disney Cruise Line
Laundry services on Disney cruises
Laundry and dry cleaning services are available on all Disney Cruise Line ships. Laundry is priced per item, ranging from $1.20 for a handkerchief to $4.80 for a blouse. Dry cleaning starts at $3 for a tie to $13.20 for a three-piece suit.
The laundry is returned the next day. However, you can request a same-day service for a 50% surcharge or get your laundry back in just three hours for a 100% surcharge. Pressing only is 50% of the dry cleaning price.
You can see DCL’s laundry price list in the photo below.
Self-service laundry facilities on Disney cruise ships
Each Disney cruise ship has a self-service laundry room with washers, dryers, irons and ironing boards. Use of the washers and dryers is $2 each, while detergent and use of the ironing equipment are free of charge. Payment is made using your cruise card.
The laundry rooms on Disney cruise ships are open 24 hours per day. You’ll find them on the Disney Wonder and Disney Magic on decks 2, 6 and 7, and on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy on decks 2, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.
On Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, you instead get one centralised laundry room instead of lots of smaller ones. It’s located on Deck 8 and has 26 washing machines, 30 dryers and 8 ironing board stations.
Fred. Olsen
Laundry services on Fred. Olsen cruises
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers laundry, pressing and dry cleaning services which are charged per item. Prices start at £1.15 for small items like socks and handkerchiefs and go up to around £3.50 for a shirt and £6.20 for a jacket. Dry cleaning ranges from £2.50 for a tie to £12.95 for an evening dress.
Items sent to the laundry before noon are returned the next day. Alternatively, you can request a same-day service for a 50% surcharge.
You can see a full Fred. Olsen laundry price list below. I took this photo on my cruise on Borealis in 2023, so prices may have slightly increased since then.
Self-service laundry facilities on Fred. Olsen cruises
Each Fred. Olsen cruise ship has at least one laundry room on board where you’ll find self-service washing machines, tumble driers, irons and ironing boards. Laundry costs £2 (inclusive of detergent and softener). You’ll need to buy a token at guest services.
Holland America Line
Laundry services on Holland America Line cruises
Each ship in the Holland America Line fleet offers a full laundry, pressing and eco-friendly dry cleaning service. You can pay by the item (from $2), by the bag (from $20) or buy an unlimited laundry package for the duration of your cruise (from $7 per day).
Laundry is charged at $25 per bag in North America and $30 per bag in Europe. The unlimited laundry and pressing package costs $8 per stateroom per day in North America and $9 in Europe. If you book ahead of time, you can get the $8 rate in Europe too.
Self-service laundry facilities on Holland America Line cruises
Self-service launderettes are only available on board two ships in the Holland America Line fleet – Amsterdam and Maasdam ships. There is a charge to use the washing machines and dryers and these are coin-operated. Irons and ironing boards are provided at no cost on these two ships.
This photo of the laundry room on Maasdam is courtesy of Tripadvisor
Marella
Laundry services on Marella Cruises
Guests cruising with Marella can get clothes professionally cleaned and pressed on board. The price is £16.95 for a bag of laundry or you can pay per item. Prices range from 95p for underwear to £4.40 for a dress to be washed and folded, with an additional charge for pressing.
Guests staying in suites with ‘Premier Service’ get free pressing of up to three items per person in the first 24 hours on board.
There is no dry cleaning available on Marella cruise ships.
You can see a full Marella laundry price list below, though it’s a little out of date now – prices are between 10p and 50p more per item. It still gives you a good idea of what you’ll pay.
Self-service laundry facilities on Marella Cruises
Marella cruise ships do not have any self-service laundry facilities on board. This is because the ships were originally built for Royal Caribbean – a cruise line that doesn’t offer self-service laundry.
Marella Cruises is one of the few cruise lines that allows guests to bring a travel iron on board. However, the website states that if the divide is determined to post a hazard it will be removed.
MSC Cruises
Laundry services on MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offer a washing, ironing and dry cleaning service. You can request your laundry to be returned folded or on a hanger, with a next-day or same-day service.
On MSC Cruises ships, laundry is priced by item and costs from €2 for small items to be washed and ironed up to €15 for a suit to be dry cleaned. There’s a 50% surcharge for express delivery.
The image below shows the laundry price list from my most recent MSC cruise on board MSC Virtuosa.
Self-service facilities
MSC Cruises ships do not offer any self-service laundry rooms. Instead, guests are invited to send their clothes to be professionally cleaned for a fee.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Laundry services on Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a valet laundry service on board its fleet of ships. The price per item ranges from $1.95 for underwear to be cleaned to $19.95 for an evening dress to be dry cleaned. Pressing only is around half the price of laundry.
Your items will be returned the next day, or you can request an express same-day service for a 50% surcharge,
Midway through the cruise, NCL usually has a special offer where you can fill a paper bag of clothes and it will be laundered for around $25.
Members of the Latitudes Rewards loyalty programme may get free or discounted laundry. Gold members get 50% off one bag, whereas Platinum, Platinum Plus and Ambassador members each get one free bag of laundry per person each cruise.
Self-service laundry facilities on Norwegian Cruise Line
There are no self-service laundry facilities on Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Instead, guests are invited to send their dirty laundry to be professionally cleaned on board. You can, however, request to borrow an iron and ironing board by telephoning guest services. This will be delivered to your stateroom and you can use it for an hour.
P&O Cruises
Laundry services on P&O Cruises
A washing, pressing and specialist wet cleaning service is available on all P&O cruises ships.
The price is per item and begins at 50p for socks and handkerchiefs to be washed and pressed, going up to £16.50 for an evening dress to be specially cleaned. Trousers cost £4.40 to be washed and pressed, £5.50 to be especially wet cleaned or £3.30 for pressing only.
Laundry is returned within two days and there’s no option to request an express service. You can use any onboard spending money you may have to pay for laundry and specialist cleaning.
You can see a full P&O Cruises laundry price list below…
Self-service laundry facilities on P&O cruises
Each P&O Cruises ship has several self-service launderettes where you’ll find washing machines, dryers and ironing stations that are open from around 8 am until around 10 pm. You will need to provide your own detergent or you can buy Bold 3-in1 for £1 per tablet from the onboard shop.
On P&O Cruises the launderettes are in the following locations:
Arcadia – Decks C, D & E
Aurora – Decks A, C & F
Azura – Decks Riviera, A, B, C, D, E & P
Britannia – Decks A, B, C, D, E, F & G
Ventura – Decks Riviera, A, B, C, D, E & P
Iona – Decks 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14 & 15
These photos of the laundry room on board Iona were kindly provided by Sanna from VeganCruiser.co.uk
Princess Cruises
Laundry services on Princess cruises
Princess Cruises offers a professional laundry service with clothes washing, pressing and dry cleaning. The price is per item and varies from $1 for a handkerchief to be washed to $11.50 for an evening dress to be dry cleaned. Laundry is returned the next day, or you can request a ‘Presto’ same-day service for a 50% surcharge.
You can see a full Princess Cruises laundry price list below.
Self-service laundry facilities on Princess cruises
Princess Cruises’ ships each have self-service launderettes with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. It costs $3 to use each machine, while soap, bleach and fabric softeners cost $1.50 each. You use your Medallion to purchase tokens for the machines. There is no charge to use the ironing equipment
These photos of the laundry room on board Royal Princess were kindly provided by Sanna from VeganCruiser.co.uk
Royal Caribbean
Laundry services on Royal Caribbean cruises
Royal Caribbean International offers washing, pressing, steaming and dry cleaning services. This is charged per item with prices ranging from $1.99 for underwear and socks to be washed and pressed through to $14.99 for a suit to be dry cleaned.
Most cruises also have ‘wash and fold’ special offers mid-way through the voyage. With this deal, you can send a bag of laundry to be cleaned for $34.99.
On Royal Caribbean cruise ships, laundry is returned the next day, although you can request an express same-day service for a 50% supplement.
You can see the full Royal Caribbean laundry price list here.
Self-service facilities
There are no self-service laundry facilities onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships and irons are neither provided nor allowed on board. Instead, guests have the option to use the professional laundry and pressing service for a fee.
Virgin Voyages
Laundry services on Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages offers a full laundry service with options for wash and fold, wash and press, press only or eco cleaning (which is similar to dry cleaning).
Laundry prices on Virgin Voyages are $4 per item for pressing only, $5 for wash and fold, $6 for wash and press or $7 for eco cleaning. Alternatively, you can have a full bag of laundry washed and folded for $30.
The set pricing per item means that you pay the same whatever the item is – so you’ll pay $5 to have an evening dress washed but also $5 for a pair of socks. If you have lots of small items, the ‘by the bag’ option definitely works out to be cheaper.
Clothing send to the laundry on Virgin Voyages ships will be returned by 5.30 pm the next day. However, you can request a same-day service for an extra $20.
You can see a full Virgin Voyages laundry price list here.
Self-service facilities
Virgin Voyages does not offer any self-service laundry facilities. If you need clothes washing or ironing, there is a laundry service available for a fee.
How Do Cruise Laundry Prices Compare?
Here’s a table that compares the laundry prices for each cruise line. The cheapest cruise lines for laundry are Princess Cruises, Disney Cruise Line and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. The most expensive are Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises.
Cruise Line
Wash & Press (per item)
Pressing only (per item)
Wet/Dry Cleaning (per item)
Wash & fold (per bag)
Self-service machines
Detergent
Azamara
$1 to $7
$2 to $5
$2 to $10
not available
Free
Free
Carnival
$2 to $8
£1.25 to $6
$3 to $11
$15
$3.50
$2
Celebrity Cruises
$3 to $17.50
$4 to 14
$5 to $19
not available
not available
not available
Costa Cruises
$1.50 to $16
$1 to $9
$1.50 to $14
$20
not available
not available
Cunard
$2 to $8
$1.50 to $11
$2.50 to $15
not available
Free
Free
Disney Cruise Line
$1.20 to $4.80
$1.50 to $6.60
$3 to $13.20
not available
$2
Free
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
£1 to £5.50
£1 to £5
£2 to £10
not available
£2
Free
Holland America Line
$2 to $6.50
$2 to $6.50
$3 to $10.50
$25 to $30
Only on two ships
Free
Marella Cruises
£3.60 to £7.60
£1.20 to £3.60
not available
£16.95
not available
not available
MSC Cruises
£1.90 to £10.90
50p to £7.50
£2.90 to £13.90
€15 to €40
not available
not available
Norwegian Cruise Line
$1.95 to $11.95
$2.95 to $6.95
$4.95 to $19.95
$19.95
not available
not available
P&O Cruises
50p to £4.40
£1.65 to £8.80
£3.30 to £16.50
not available
Free
£1
Princess Cruises
$1.25 to $4.50
$2.20 to $9.20
$2.75 to $11.50
not available
$3
$1.50
Royal Caribbean
$1.99 to $8.99
$1.99 to $14.99
$3.99 to $14.99
$34.99
not available
not available
Virgin Voyages
$6
$4
$7
$30
not available
not available
The Bottom Line
Doing laundry on a cruise ship is sometimes a necessity, especially if you’re cruising for two weeks or more, taking back-to-back cruises or are cruising with a baby.
If money is no object, the easiest way to get your clothes clean on a cruise ship is to send everything off to be professionally cleaned. However, laundry fees can be incredibly expensive, so unless this is thrown in as a free perk, you’ll want to be mindful of the cost of this.
If you plan to use the self-service laundry on board, you’ll want to time your trip for when you can least expect a queue. Laundry rooms close in the evening and reopen again in the morning so as not to disturb those sleeping in cabins nearby. A good time to visit is as soon as it opens.
I do most of my laundry by handwashing it in the cabin. This task is made so much easier by the use of a Scrubba washbag. These nifty portable washing machines also come in handy for camping, caravan holidays or anywhere else where you may need to wash clothes quickly and easily.
Related Posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
