Luxury Cruising Editorial - Luxury Cruising

How You Can Unlock The Benefits

May 22, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Holland America Line Money saving tips

Thinking about buying shares in Holland America Line to get shareholder benefits? There’s just one catch – you can’t. But that’s actually great news.

Holland America is part of the Carnival Corporation, the world’s biggest cruise company. So when you invest, you’re not just backing one cruise line – you’re opening the door to perks across multiple brands, including Carnival, P&O, Cunard and, yes, Holland America too.

Here’s how it works and exactly what you’ll get.

Shares and Benefits

As long as you have bought 100 shares of the Carnival Corporation or more, you’re entitled to claim the shareholder benefits on your next Holland America cruise. Those benefits are:

$250 or £150 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 14 days or longer
$100 or £60 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 7 to 13 days
$50 or £30 of onboard credit per stateroom on cruises of 6 days or fewer

It is only a benefit that applies per stateroom, so if both you and your partner decided to invest in the Carnival Corporation and you both had 100 shares separately, you couldn’t claim the benefit twice.

There are some other conditions that you need to be aware of as well. You can’t claim this benefit if you’re employed by the company, and it can’t be used in conjunction with any other shipboard offer for onboard credit.

Plus, there are a couple of things you can’t spend it on – namely, gratuities that have been added to your account or at the casino.

But the good news is that you can claim an onboard spend benefit on every single cruise you take – it’s not just the first cruise after you become a shareholder.

Also, the benefit applies to all cruise lines in the Carnival Corporation, although the value is different based on the currency on board.

The onboard credit you get is given to you in US dollars on sailings from the US with the following cruise lines:

Carnival
Cunard Line
Costa
Princess Cruises
Seabourn

You get the same sort of benefit on UK cruises with Cunard, P&O Cruises and any British cruises with Princess Cruises, but the values are in GBP and are £150, £60 and £30, respectively.

Cruises booked in Australia on P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival or Princess Cruises entitle you to the same number of Australian dollars as US dollars on American sailings. If you’re on a Costa or AIDA cruise in Europe that uses Euros as the onboard currency, the values are €200, €75 or €40.

Cruise Line	14+ Days	7-13 Days	Up to 6 Days
US Cruise Lines	$250	$100	$50
UK Cruise Line	£150	£60	£30
Australian Cruise Lines	$250	$100	$50
European Cruise Lines	€200	€75	€40

Since I mentioned the benefits of buying Carnival shares in my weekly email, I’ve had lots of people email me to say that they’ve also bought shares and are happy to receive the free onboard credit. Like this one…

“We took your advice and bought 100 Carnival shares which cost £550. Two Cunard trips gave us £250 each extra onboard spend and another gave us $200 (£175) total £675, also the shares have gone up £175. Best investment I’ve ever made, thankyou, keep up the good work.”

Robert and Veronica Dennehy

Of course, the Holland America share price (well, the Carnival share price) can go down as well as up, so remember it’s always a risk you’re taking.

How To Buy Carnival Shares

To buy shares in any company, you’ll typically need to use a stockbroker. This can be either a human being or an online platform. There are various fees involved with this, but an online platform is usually the cheapest and easiest way.

I can’t advise you which is the best, but I personally chose to buy my Carnival shares through an investing platform called eToro. I chose this one because it is one of the most popular platforms with 20 million registered users and has great reviews and low fees.

I’ve been very happy with my share-buying experience and found it really easy to do.

(eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.)

Read more: Should You Invest In Carnival Corp?

How to Claim Carnival Shareholder Benefits On Holland America Cruises

To claim your shareholder benefits on a Holland America cruise that you’ve booked, you need to ask for them. They aren’t automatic! But the Holland America shares benefits are worth claiming each time – it’s free money on your cruise.

You need to make your claim at least four weeks before you are due to sail, but the sooner the better. And you’ll need to provide:

Your legal name
Your booking number
Your ship and sailing date
Proof of your stock ownership

You won’t be able to claim if you miss your deadline, so try to be organised to provide this information as early as possible. And you have to go through this process every time you book a cruise with Holland America or any other cruise line in the group, so don’t forget on each new sailing.

Important – Whereas Holland America used to let you claim the credit via fax and then later email, now it’s all handled via an app called Stockperks.

You’ll need to download the app to your smartphone, then verify the stock you own by taking a photo of the key details.

Here’s a video showing you how the Stockperks app works:

You can get all the details you need from the shareholder platform you use – so eToro for me.

To Conclude

It’s really important to be clear that, any time you buy stocks or shares in a company, you’re taking a risk. The cruise industry is the same – just look at the global shutdown in 2020, and the effect that had on cruise line share prices, and you’ll see what I mean. There’s no guarantee that your money will be safe.

However, with that warning given, you might still want to invest in something, and a cruise company could be a great idea if you love cruising. Choosing Carnival Corporation shares also gets you the benefits with Holland America cruises and all other cruise lines in that company.

A person is seated at a desk, working on financial planning. They are writing in a notebook with a pen while using a calculator. The desk is scattered with coins, a pink piggy bank, dollar bills, and financial documents, all suggesting a focus on saving money and budgeting. The scene reflects a careful and organized approach to managing personal finances.

I’m no stockbroker or financial advisor, so I can’t tell you that it IS a good idea, but it might be. You have to use your own judgement or seek professional advice. And if you do buy 100 shares or more, your next Holland America cruise will have some free spends to enjoy – if you claim them.

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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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15 Buffet Etiquette Tips Every Cruiser Needs To Know

May 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Food and drink

Buffets at sea are legendary – piles of food, endless choice, and zero judgment when you go back for thirds.

But that freedom also means chaos if people forget their manners. And cruise buffets, as glorious as they are, aren’t a lawless land.

So here’s a refresher on how to enjoy the feast without being that person…

1. Wash Your Hands – Yes, Every Time

Before you even think about grabbing a plate, hit the sink or sanitizer station.

An automated hand washing station on a Costa cruise ship, featuring motion-activated soap dispensers and sinks, encourages hygiene with a convenient and contactless method, set against a backdrop of warm wood paneling.

We get it – you’re excited for pancakes. But a cruise ship can become a petri dish if you’re not careful- and skipping the soap is the fastest way to spread nasties like norovirus.

Keep yourself and everyone else healthy by scrubbing up like you mean it. It’s not optional, it’s hygiene 101.

2. Follow the Flow – Don’t Go Against the Grain

Buffets are set up like a one-way street for a reason.

A guest at a cruise ship buffet under the 'Family & Kids' sign, serving themselves from a variety of dishes. The buffet area is clean and well-organized, featuring a selection of fruits and warm foods, with a crew member in attendance.

The layout is designed to keep people moving, not weaving around like it’s a bumper car ride.

Going backwards, darting sideways, or cutting across stations just slows things down and irritates everyone else. Take a lap, figure out what you want, and stick to the path. Simple.

The only time I’d say different is if you’re just nipping back in for one specific thing, and you can see a gap. That’s OK. But don’t be darting in and out at different sections, bobbing and weaving like some kind of hungry boxer.

3. Don’t Hog a Giant Table If You’re Flying Solo

We’ve all seen it – one person sipping coffee at a six-seater table like they own the place.

If it’s busy, and you’re a party of one or two, try not to claim the largest table in the venue just because it’s got a nice view.

Especially if your friends “might join later” but actually won’t show up for another hour. Buffets get crowded. Be fair. Share the space.

4. Keep a Close Eye on the Kiddos

Buffets are a sensory playground for kids – shiny trays, unlimited desserts and grab-friendly finger foods. But they need supervision.

That means helping them through the line, making sure they don’t grab food with their hands, and making sure they don’t get so excited that they atart running!

It keeps everyone safer and avoids dangerous collisions with people carrying hot soup.

5. Use the Serving Utensils – No Hands, Ever

This one should be obvious, but you’d be surprised.

Always use the provided tongs, spoons, or ladles. Don’t touch anything with your fingers, even if it’s “just a roll.”

It’s not your kitchen, it’s a shared space. Touching food with bare hands, even for a second, is a fast-track to spreading germs – and grossing everyone else out.

6. Don’t Mix Up the Tongs

Every set of tongs or utensils is there for a reason.

Using the same pair on multiple dishes might seem harmless, but it’s a nightmare for people with allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions.

Think about the vegetarian behind you before you use the bacon tongs for the eggs. Just… don’t.

7. Be Sensible With Portions

Yes, you’re technically allowed to take 12 slices of French toast. But should you? Probably not.

Cruise buffets are generous, and food will be replenished. Take a little of what you want, try it, and come back if you love it.

Overloading your plate just to scrape half of it into the bin is wasteful – and honestly, a little rude.

8. Grab a New Plate Each Time

Going back for seconds (or thirds) is part of the buffet charm – just do it with a clean plate.

Reusing your dirty dish might seem like you’re saving effort or being eco-conscious, but it risks transferring germs to the buffet line.

Fresh plate, fresh start. The same goes for your glass.

9. No Sampling While You Wait

We know the temptation is real – especially if something smells amazing.

But snacking before you’ve even reached your table isn’t a good look.

For hygiene reasons (and basic manners), wait until you’re seated before digging in. You’re not at a supermarket tasting booth – you’re at a shared buffet.

10. Queue Like a Civilised Human

Patience is a virtue, especially in a buffet line.

If someone’s taking forever deciding between scrambled eggs or an omelette, just wait your turn.

Or if you really need to reach something quickly, ask politely – don’t just barge through. A little courtesy makes the whole experience smoother for everyone.

11. Don’t Hang Around After Closing Time

Cruise buffets tend to stay open a long time – most of the day, in fact. But if the food is being removed, and staff are wiping things down, that’s your sign: it’s over.

Hovering while the buffet is being packed up is awkward for everyone – especially the crew, who want to reset for the next meal. Respect their schedule. There will be another buffet. Always.

12. Skip the Buffet If You’re Feeling Unwell

If your stomach’s off, you’re coughing, or you’re just not feeling right, stay in your cabin – or at the very least, skip the communal dining.

A sick lady onboard wearing a black face mask while rubbing her achy head

Most ships have room service or alternate dining options that don’t involve touching the same serving spoons as 500 other people.

You’ll recover faster, and you’ll keep everyone else safe.

13. Speak Up About Dietary Needs

Most cruise buffets do a decent job labelling allergens and offering options for various diets, but they’re not mind-readers.

If you’re unsure whether something is gluten-free, low sodium, or nut-safe, just ask.

Staff are trained for this and will usually go out of their way to help – but only if you speak up.

14. Don’t Treat It Like a Game Show

This isn’t a timed challenge or an all-you-can-grab supermarket dash.

You’re allowed to go back. You’re encouraged to try new things. So slow down. Breathe.

You don’t need a bit of everything on your plate all at once. (And no, you don’t need three bread rolls – they’ll still be there in ten minutes.)

15. Don’t Rock Up In Swimwear or a Robe

Swimwear, your PJs or bathrobes don’t belong in the buffet.

Middle aged man on a cruise in swimwear in the buffet

I know it can be tempting to just pop in for a quick snack while you’re by the pool, or you just aren’t feeling that desire to get properly ready before breakfast. But that doesn’t mean you get to flaunt the rules on dress code.

You need to be dressed in actual clothes for a reason – it’s more hygienic than having your bits almost hanging out.

Plus, it’s basic respect for others to be a little bit presentable. Some cover-ups are fine, it doesn’t have to be your Sunday best. But you’re not in your own home – you’re in a restaurant, even if it’s a casual one. Dress like it.

Final Word

I know it’s a long list of ‘rules’ to follow but, really, are they any more than just common sense?

Unfortunately I know that a lot of cruisers don’t seem to follow all of these rules, and it can be quite frustrating for others.

So, make sure you stick to these. Be hygienic, be respectful, and you’ll have no trouble enjoying as much food as you want.

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Juneau-Alaska-cruise-ships-docked-in-port-cable-car.jpg

Plan to Limit Cruise Ships in Alaska Fails to Get Enough Signatures to Make Ballot

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

A plan to limit cruise ship traffic in Juneau, Alaska won’t appear on the fall 2025 election ballot. The “Cruise Ship Limits” petition, which wanted to cap daily passenger numbers and shorten the cruise season, didn’t collect enough signatures by its May 19 deadline.

Juneau Alaska cruise ships docked in port cable car — ID 16193214 | Cruise © Linda Bair | Dreamstime.com

Petition Falls Short

The petition fell short of the 2,720 valid signatures needed from registered voters. This push by local groups to control the growing cruise ship industry in Alaska’s capital has been brewing for years. Juneau’s population is around 31,000.

The proposal included the following limitations in Juneau:

A daily limit of five cruise ships.
A yearly limit of 1.5 million cruise visitors.
Daily visitor limits of 16,000 on most days and 12,000 on Saturdays.
A shorter cruise season, from May to September (currently April to October).

Voters previously rejected a “Ship Free Saturday” idea, which aimed to ban large cruise ships on Saturdays. About 59% of Juneau voters said no in the October municipal election.

The recent petition that failed had proposed limiting cruise ship passengers to 12,000 a day on Saturdays. Only this number would be allowed to get off ships and enjoy the port. The only exception was for smaller ships with fewer than 200 people.

The plan to limit cruise ships in Juneau also wanted to make the cruise season much shorter, running only from May 1 through September 30. Currently, ships visit from mid-April to mid-October.

The petition noted that fewer ships come in the early and late parts of the season, so their effect on the city is already small. Unlike the previous effort, this petition didn’t try to ban ships on Saturdays.

Another Alaskan Port Faces Limitations

While Juneau’s latest attempt to limit cruises through a public vote has stopped, another city in Southeast Alaska, Sitka, is now facing similar questions.

Sitka is holding a special election, with early voting ending May 28. This vote looks at limiting cruise ships over 250 passengers, stopping them from visiting before May 1 and after September 30, and capping daily visitors at 4,500 people.

It also wants to limit visitors to 300,000 visitors per season and would limit ships to six days a week. The plan also includes rules for scheduling, permits, reporting, and making sure rules are followed.

The results in both Juneau and Sitka show the ongoing debate in many Alaskan port towns as Alaska remains one of the most popular cruise destinations on the planet.

As the discussion continues, both residents and local businesses who rely on cruise traffic are searching for good ways to manage tourism from cruise ships.

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What To Expect & The Best Alternatives

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Choosing a cruise Cruise Lines Cruise News First time cruisers

A lot of people like to spend some of the winter months on a cruise, especially around Christmas – it’s nice to escape the cold weather at home, and get away from the stress of a hectic time.

But what about cruising over Christmas itself? Is that a good idea?

I once spent Christmas on P&O’s newest ship Arvia, and we had an incredible time – but I know it’s not for everyone, too. In fact some people made that quite clear on the ship…

Christmas Is a GREAT Time To Go on a Cruise

Christmas is a fantastic time to go on a cruise. Everyone onboard is in the festive spirit, and the ships are beautifully decorated. You get to enjoy a fantastic meal with no stress or clean-up, and there are lots of fun activities you can take part in.

Cruise lines tend to go all-out for Christmas, so here’s a look at what makes it such a special time to cruise:

Beautiful Decorations That Will Wow You

One of the best things about Christmas is the way that everything looks so pretty when decorated – whether that’s your own home, your street, or your town. But trust me, you ain’t seen nothing until you’ve seen a cruise ship decked out for the festive season.

Cruise lines hire specialist teams to come on board and decorate their fleet, typically towards the end of November. The end results are spectacular, with all the public areas made to look stunning and really bringing that festive spirit onto the ship.

The highlight is always the tree, which is typically placed in the atrium and acts as a fantastic centrepiece. You’ll just love walking around your ship and taking all the decorations in.

Cruise ships don’t just have one tree though, they have hundreds! In fact, you can pretty much always see a tree, wherever you look. There was even a real, potted mini tree in every cabin!

Dine On Incredible Food

Is it really Christmas if you don’t enjoy some delicious festive fare, both on the run-up to the day itself and for a delicious Christmas dinner? Well, you won’t be disappointed on a cruise ship.

Expect a selection of themed treats to enjoy throughout your cruise, such as special holiday cookies, and then on Christmas Day you’ll be able to head to the Main Dining Room for a traditional turkey dinner, with most cruise lines offering some excellent vegetarian alternatives that still remain very much in the spirit of classic Christmas meals.

This is what my vegan Christmas dinner looked like…

And the best part? You don’t have to lift a finger – no starting early on peeling all the veg, and no clean up. Bliss.

Enjoy Festive Entertainment Programmes

Cruise ships are already a great place to unwind with entertainment, but it all gets a Christmas twist on these special itineraries.

Movies (in the onboard cinema or screened on the giant pool deck screens) will include Christmas classics, while any quiz nights will usually become Christmas-themed. Depending on the cruise line there may also be carol singers, holiday-themed theatre shows and more.

My son enjoying the magic show on Christmas morning

The kids will get to enjoy special Christmas crafts and storytime events, and Carnival does a fantastic performance featuring the kids onboard and the decorations they make in the kids clubs – a charming and sweet event that families won’t want to miss.

Jovial Christmas Spirit

Part of the reason to book a Christmas cruise is just to soak up the Christmas spirit. While the crew will be working hard to make sure you have an incredible time, it’s also the rest of the guests onboard who contribute to a special atmosphere.

My family Spending Christmas on a Cruise and meeting Wallace and Gromet

Make sure you pack your Christmas jumpers/sweaters, as it’s always fun to walk around a ship where everyone is wearing theirs, greeting each other with a smile and well-wishes. Christmas cruises can just feel a little more like a community than a regular cruise, and it’s lovely to be a part of it.

Meet Santa Onboard

While Santa Claus has a lot of very busy work around Christmas, including his epic journey on Christmas Eve night, he does make time to visit the cruise fleets around the world to make sure that everyone onboard doesn’t miss out.

Kids Spending Christmas on a Cruise with Santa

Depending on the cruise line, Santa may appear on the days leading up to Christmas or on the actual day itself, handing out gifts and being available for special photo opportunities.

On some ships, you can even see him abseiling down the funnel!

Cruise line Santas tend to be pretty authentic too – these aren’t the Santas you’d meet in a shopping centre where you can spot the fake beard from a mile away. It all makes for a more magical experience for the kids (and the big kids) in your group.

Experience New Cultures

An exciting part of cruising over Christmas is the melting pot of traditions and cultures that come together. Everyone has their own Christmas traditions that they do every year, and on a cruise ship you’ll see elements of those everywhere as you get chatting with other guests, or see the events taking place onboard.

It might be trying traditional Panettone on an MSC ship or American-style Pecan Pie on a Carnival ship. Or there may be craft activities that you’ve never tried but that other families are delighted to see on the ship as it’s something they always do together.

Kids Spending Christmas on a Cruise with gingerbread houses

Cruise lines will also typically have special Hanukkah events running alongside Christmas so if you’re on a longer cruise that crosses the Jewish festival as well as Christmas, you can take in the lighting ceremonies, sample the traditional foods, and enjoy themed craft activities on some ships.

Make Special Memories

I’ve had some wonderful Christmases with my family and friends, but my Christmas cruise will always hold a special place in my memories – it was something different, it was a lot of fun, and we enjoyed some great activities.

I think that’s part of what makes a Christmas cruise worth trying – you get to break from the norm and try something different, while still preserving the spirit of what makes Christmas such a wonderful time of the year.

Add in the rest of the vacation memories you’ll make – the great food on the other days, the entertainment, and the destinations you visit – and you’ll have an experience to treasure.

Religious Services Are Available

If you are religious, then you don’t need to worry about a cruise preventing you from taking part in traditional services and celebrations.

Cruise ships tend to offer religious services throughout the year anyway, but will add additional events for the Christmas season so that guests can properly partake in their worship at this meaningful time of year.

People Hide a LOT of Ducks!

Cruising Ducks is a tradition that happens all year round. People hide little ducks and when you find one, you can keep it or rehide it.

We might see one or two ducks on a regular cruise, but on our Christmas cruise there were hundreds! Many of them were handmade and they came with little Christmas messages to say where they came from.

This is such a fun tradition and the kids love it. If you don’t have the time to knit your own (who does?) then you can get lots of cute Christmas ducks on Amazon.

A Christmas cruise isn’t for everyone

A Christmas cruise isn’t the best choice for everyone, though. While there are certainly a lot of reasons to consider a Christmas cruise, you have to bear these downsides in mind, too…

Christmas Cruises Are Pricey

Unfortunately, all of the little extras you get as part of a Christmas cruise – the special dinners, the gifts, the additional entertainment – don’t come free. You can expect a Christmas cruise to be a little more pricey than a cruise during the rest of the year, since it’s seen as such a special event.

And, of course, the festive season is often expensive enough without a cruise holiday. So you do have to bear the cost in mind. It’s best to book a Christmas cruise early, so that you give yourself as much time as possible to spread the cost.

And then if anything goes wrong on your cruise, people can sometimes kick up a bit of a fuss because of the higher cost.

There were definitely some unhappy people on our Arvia sailing over the length of time it took to have dinner served, but we were fine just going with the flow.

Time Away From Loved Ones

One of the best parts of Christmas for many people is the opportunity to come together with friends and family, and spend some quality time together. That’s something you will likely have to sacrifice for a year if you book a Christmas cruise, or at least reschedule to before or after you sail.

The alternative is to try to convince your loved ones to all cruise with you – now wouldn’t that be a special way to celebrate? Maybe start planting the seeds of the idea this Christmas to get everyone onboard with the idea (pun intended).

Loss Of Family Traditions

Like I already said, everyone has their own traditions related to Christmas, and when you’re on a cruise you might not be able to keep those up.

Maybe you watch The Muppets Christmas Carol every Christmas Eve before bed. Or you have to have turkey curry on Boxing Day. Or you insist on breakfast being in your PJs.

That’s not to say you can’t do these on a cruise – though it would be frowned upon if you went to the buffet or dining room without getting properly dressed. But they’re examples of some traditions that might be harder to uphold.

There are always workarounds though, or compromises that are worth making because of how special a Christmas cruise is. We ordered room service for breakfast on Christmas Day so that we could enjoy it in bed with our presents.

It Complicates Gift Giving (Especially With Kids)

One of the biggest headaches with a Christmas cruise, especially if you’re sailing with kids, is what to do about gifts.

Nobody wants to cart all of the Christmas presents onboard with them. Sure, if you’re on a no-fly cruise, you’re technically able to bring as much luggage as you want, including gifts. We took a whopping six suitcases for the four of us, and one was stuffed with presents!

If you’re flying, you could bring only small presents and save any larger items for when you get home. It helps to extend the magic when you return home to all the gifts under the tree. My kids were thrilled to see that Santa had left a foosball table by the tree at home!

Alternatives to Christmas Cruises

If you’re not sure about cruising over Christmas Day itself, here are some other options to explore:

Pre-Christmas Cruises

A cruise in December in the run-up to Christmas is still an exciting experience, but lets you enjoy the day itself at home with your loved ones and your normal traditions. You’ll still get to see all the decorations and try some of the festive food and activities, and the price won’t be as high either.

Me and My Friends on a pre-Christmas cruise.

You will miss out on some of the magic of being onboard for Christmas Day itself, though. Plus it means you (or someone else) still has to do all the food prep and cleaning – there’s no crew at home to do all that for you.

But this is a good option if you want a taste of a Christmas cruise without splashing out.

Christmas Markets Cruises

Another great option is a Christmas Markets cruise. These take place from November onwards, and incorporate festive ports of call that have some wonderful Christmas markets. Here you can sample local delicacies and buy all kinds of trinkets and ornaments to give your loved ones as their Christmas gift.

Ocean cruises tend to focus more on Northern Europe, particularly Belgium and the Netherlands, for these cruises.

For the best markets, you should try a river cruise on the Rhine – the German Christmas markets are famous the world over, and in ports such as Cologne, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Bonn you’ll sample the best of them.

New Year Cruises

A New Year cruise lets you get Christmas at home out of the way first, and then escape for a fantastic cruise. If you’re the kind of person that loves Christmas but finds the cooking and the organisation a bit stressful, this is a great option – you can have all the Christmas fun, but then get away from it all to recharge your batteries.

There are some great New Year’s Eve parties onboard cruise ships too, if you like to see in the 1st January with a glass of fizz and a dance. The party onboard Arvia was honestly the best New Year’s Eve party we’ve ever been to!

It’s also wonderful to watch the sun set on a year – literally – from the deck of a ship in the calm ocean waters.

The Bottom Line

I’d really recommend a Christmas cruise, having sailed on one myself and had a fantastic time. It’s something everyone should try at least once – even if you go back to your traditional Christmas the following year.

There’s definitely a little touch of magic in the air when you’re on a cruise ship at Christmas. Even if you’re a cruise regular, you’ll notice how it just feels a little different – and it’s something I’d suggest you try.

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Royal Caribbean’s Next New Ship Hits the Open Ocean for First Time

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

Royal Caribbean’s next new cruise ship, Star of the Seas, headed out to the open ocean for the first time to begin sea trials.

Star of the Seas sea trials

During sea trials, all technical areas of the ship are tested to make sure the vessel is sea worthy before entering service.

Sea trials a series of rigorous performance tests on the cruise ship’s systems, machinery and engines. This will be done by more than 2,000 specialists that will conduct hundreds of tests onboard.

Star of the Seas will be pushed to the limit on propulsion, navigation, engine performance, and more.

Royal Caribbean released a short behind the scenes video of the ship’s sea trials that can be seen below.

Star of the Seas reached speeds up to 25 knots during the first few hundred miles of sea trials.

The cruise ship departing on sea trials marks a significant milestone in the vessel’s construction. Star of the Seas is currently under construction at a shipyard in Turku, Finland.

Star of the Seas will debut in August 2025 and homeport at Port Canaveral, Florida. The ship will sail seven-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean will all cruises visiting CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas. (View Prices)

Star of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship in the world and is part of the revolutionary Icon class. It offers vacations to families of all ages.

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Carnival Celebration Suites Are Stunning

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Carnival Choosing a cruise Cruise Lines Cruise News

The Carnival Celebration is an incredible ship, and if you’re considering her for your next cruise then you’re certain to have an amazing time.

Newest Carnival ship - Carnival Celebration

But you can make your experience even more exciting by booking a suite – the question is, which one? After all, there are plenty of options, with nine different suite categories for you to choose from.

Carnival Celebration is one of the newest Carnival ships and so every suite is modern and beautiful – but some offer different perks, and they’re different sizes too – plus you need to consider the location on the ship.

It’s a lot to think about, and could lead to an expensive mistake if you make the wrong choice…

If you’re also keen to learn about the different staterooms on Carnival Celebration as well as the suites, I have a guide for that too here: Carnival Celebration Staterooms Guide.

To help you avoid these worst cabins on Carnival Celebration, I’ve created a cabin checklist that you can get for free. Just enter your email address below and you’ll receive it in your inbox straight away.

The 9 Different Suites on Carnival Celebration (Best to Worst)

There are nine different suite types to choose from on Carnival Celebration, here’s an overview of each to help you decide which to choose…

1. Excel Presidential Suites

Sleeps: Five guests. There are two twin beds that convert to a king-size, a double sofa bed and one upper bed.

Size: 1120 square feet. The interior is 476 square feet and the balcony is 646 square feet.

Category: SV

Suite Numbers: 17209, 17210

Why Choose: Carnival Celebration’s Excel Presidential Suites are the largest suites you’ll find on any Carnival cruise ship. These luxurious suites feature huge balconies with an outdoor hot tub and shower, a day bed, loungers, an outdoor dining table and enough space for your to invite all of your friends over for a party.

When you stay in the Carnival Celebration Presidential Suite, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to the Havana Pool and the Spa’s Thermal Suite.

How much is the Presidential Suite on Carnival Celebration?

A stay in the Presidential Suite on Carnival Celebration costs from $3,675 per person for a seven-night Caribbean cruise. However, on popular itineraries, you can expect to pay $10,000 per person or more.

2. Excel Aft Suites

Sleeps: Two to five guests. In the bedroom, there are two twin beds that convert to a king-size. In the living room, some suites have a single sofa bed, some have a double sofa bed and some also have an extra Pullman bed that comes down from the ceiling.

Size: 861 square feet. The interior is 463 square feet and the balcony is 398 square feet.

Category: LS

Suite Numbers: 9503, 9506, 10502, 10503, 11509, 11514, 12510, 12515, 14506, 14525, 15486, 15525

Why Choose: If you don’t manage to get a Presidential Suite, then the Carnival Celebrartion Excel Aft Suite is the next best choice. In fact, some may even prefer it as it has views over the wake of the ship, whereas Presidential Suites are forward-facing.

When it comes to space, the interior area of the Excel Aft Suite is almost identical to the Presidential Suite and you’d barely notice the difference in size. The wraparound balcony is pretty large too, with almost all of the same facilities, except for the outdoor shower.

3. Excel Corner Suites

Sleeps: Two to four guests. Depending on which Excel Corner Suite you choose, there will be space to accommodate two, three or four guests. Some suites come with a single sofa bed, some have a double sofa bed and some have a single sofa bed with an upper Pullman bed.

Size: 710 square feet. The interior is 398 square feet and the balcony is 312 square feet.

Category: KS

Suite Numbers: 9210, 9211, 10209, 10210, 11211, 11212, 12211, 12212, 14210, 14211, 15209, 15210

Why Choose: Located on the forward corners of Carnival Celebration, the Excel Corner Suites offer huge wraparound balconies at a more affordable price. You won’t get a Jacuzzi on your balcony, but there is a lounge chair, patio chairs and a dining table for two.

You might want to avoid the Excel Corner Suites on deck 15, these have a split balcony due to the presence of a structural support.

4. Excel Suites

Sleeps: Two to five guests. There are various bed configurations with a combination of sofa beds and upper Pullman beds. The Suites on Deck 10 are fully-accessible and feature king beds that do not convert to twins.

Size: 615 square feet. The interior is 410 square feet and the balcony is 205 square feet.

Category: DS

Suite Numbers: 9357, 9361, 10363, 10367, 11359, 11363, 12363, 12367

Why Choose: Excel Suites on Carnival Celebration are twice the size of Extended Balcony Staterooms with space for a four-seater dining table and two loungers on the balcony.

If you want the Carnival Celebration Excel Suite perks (more on those later in this guide), then this is the cheapest type of suite that will get them. It’s also the only Excel Suite that has a wheelchair accessible option for disabled guests.

5. Havana Cabana Corner Suites

Sleeps: Two guests. There are two twin beds that convert to a king-size bed.

Size: 511 square feet. The interior is 350 square feet and the patio cabana is 161 square feet.

Category: HU

Suite Numbers: 8209, 8210

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IU8CDJ_T8qc

Why Choose: Havana Cabana Corner Suites feature a large patio cabana. There’s a walkway between the cabana and the edge of the ship and the view is obstructed by a steel railing. However, the hammock makes the cabana a nice place to relax and you’ll also get exclusive access to the Havana Pool area.

These suites aren’t good options for families as they only sleep two people and children under 12 years old are not allowed.

6. Havana Cabana Suites

Sleeps: Two or three guests. There are two twin beds that convert to a king-size bed. One suite also has a single sofa bed.

Size: 426 square feet. The interior is 308 square feet and the patio cabana is 118 square feet.

Category: HS

Suite Numbers: 8250, 8251, 8256, 8257

Why Choose: Located on Deck 8, Havana Cabana Suites have a large cabana area with a lounger and comfy chairs. There’s a walkway between the patio and the edge of the ship though, so you won’t get the best views of the ocean. But, you do get access to the exclusive Havana Pool and Bar.

If you want a Havana Suite with three guests, this is your option as one of the suites has a sofa bed with a privacy divider between it and the bedroom area. However, kids under 12 are not allowed.

7. Cloud 9 Spa Suites

Sleeps: Two guests, with two twin beds that convert to a king-size bed.

Size: 341 square feet. The interior is 287 square feet and the balcony is 54 square feet.

Category: SS

Suite Numbers: 17229, 17233, 17258, 17267, 17284, 17293

Why Choose: Cloud 9 Spa Suites are located on Deck 17 of Carnival Celebration, close to the spa area and come with exclusive spa perks. These suites are the same size as Ocean Suites, but with relaxing decor and upgraded ELEMIS in-suite toiletries.

8. Ocean Suites

Sleeps: Two to five guests. Various bed configurations are available in addition to the twin beds that convert to a king-size. Some suites have a single sofa bed and an upper bed, some have a double sofa bed and some have a double sofa bed and one upper bed.

Size: 341 square feet. The interior is 287 square feet and the balcony is 54 square feet.

Two of the suites are fully-accessible, these are larger at 410 square feet with a 205-square-foot balcony to accommodate wheelchair users.

Category: OS, OT

Suite Numbers: 9284, 9286, 9288, 9289, 9290, 9291, 9292, 9293, 9294, 9295, 9296, 9297, 9298, 9299, 9300, 9301, 9302, 9303, 9304, 9305, 9306, 9307, 9308, 9309, 9310, 9311, 9315, 9317, 9405, 9407, 9409, 9410, 9411, 9412, 9414, 9415, 9416, 9417, 9418, 9419, 9420, 9421, 9422, 9423, 9424, 9425, 9426, 9427, 9428, 9429, 9430, 9431, 9432, 9433, 9434, 9435, 9436, 9437, 9438, 9439, 9440, 9441, 9442, 9443, 9444, 9445, 9446, 9447, 9448, 9449, 9450, 9451, 9452, 9453, 9454, 9455, 9456, 9457, 9458, 9459, 9460, 9461, 9462, 9463, 9464, 9465, 9466, 9467, 9468, 9469, 9470, 9471, 9472, 9473, 9474, 10276, 10287, 10302, 10315, 10401, 10402, 11282, 11283, 11308, 11309, 11409, 11414, 12278, 12291, 12304, 12315, 12410, 12415, 14277, 14280, 14303, 14306, 14410, 14429, 15266, 15279, 15292, 15301, 15390, 15407, 16250, 16253, 16276, 16279

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_op1Z7Hsvg

Why Choose: Ocean Suites are the most popular suite type on Carnival Celebration and also the most affordable. Staying in an Carnival Celebration Ocean Suite is the best way to get Carnival’s suite perks without the hefty price tag of some of the larger suites.

Each suite has a privacy curtain to divide the bedroom from the living area where the extra beds are found. There are three closets for lots of storage space and two TVs.

On Carnival Celebration, some Ocean Suites have larger balconies than others. If you want a big balcony, then avoid the Ocean Suites on Deck 9 and choose one of the higher decks where the balconies are larger.

9. Family Harbor Ocean View Suites

Sleeps: Five guests. There are two twin beds that convert to a king-size along with a double sofa bed and one upper bed.

Size: 312 square feet. These suites do not have a balcony.

Category: FP

Suite Numbers: 4330, 4332, 4370, 4376, 4388, 4394

Why Choose: For families who want space to relax but do not want the worry of a balcony with young kids, Family Harbor Ocean View Suites are ideal. Instead of a balcony, there’s a large picture window with a window seat to look out and admire the view.

Each Family Harbor Ocean View Suite on Carnival Celebration sleeps five people with a privacy curtain between the bedroom and sitting area. There are two bathrooms – one with a shower, toilet and sink and one with a small bathtub and sink.

Suite Perks

While suites offer extra space compared to staterooms, it’s not all about the square footage. Carnival Cruise Line’s suites come with a whole host of extra benefits and amenities that will make you feel like the VIP that you are.

The perks differ depending on which suite you choose, so I suggest that you now take a look at my Guide to Carnival Suite Perks before you finalise any decisions about the best accommodation for your cruise on Carnival Celebration.

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Lucky Cruise Guests Get Private Escort After Missing Last Tender Back To Ship

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Two very lucky cruise guests managed to avoid being stranded in port after being rescued by the local port authorities.

Cruisers miss last tender Norwegian Pearl

TikToker Claire Stoddard (@clairestoddard0) shared the ordeal in a now-viral video that has garnered over 321,000 views since it was posted on 15 May 2025.

The short clip shows Stoddard and her friend on a small port authority boat approaching a Norwegian Cruise Line vessel, with overlaid text reading: “POV: You miss your cruise by 30 minutes and start planning your new life at the port. Just as all hope is lost… Port Authority pulls up like: Get in. We’re saving your vacation.”

In a follow-up video posted the next day, Stoddard explained what went wrong.

She and her friend had misread the ship’s printed itinerary, mistaking the departure time for the final boarding time.

“We saw 8:30 pm on the little printed schedule handout. So we were like: Cool! Be there by 8:30 pm,” she said.

The pair arrived at the port at 8:15 pm, only to discover they had missed the last tender back to the ship – and that the area was completely deserted.

Stoddard and her friend were sailing on a 7-night Greek itinerary, and while they didn’t confirm the exact ship, it’s likely they were on board Norwegian Pearl, which operates similar sailings each spring.

@clairestoddard0 Won’t do that again #cruise #vacation #goodkarma #cruiserunner #cruising #greece #travel #traveltok #fyp #norwegiancruise #cruiseship #highlyfavored ♬ original sound – SHOTTAWORLD🌍🩸

Dubrovnik is a tender port, meaning ships must anchor offshore and ferry passengers to and from the town via smaller boats. Once the final tender departs, there’s usually no way back without a major logistical effort – or divine intervention.

A Rescue Against the Odds

In what can only be described as a stroke of luck, port authority officials noticed the stranded pair.

One officer attempted to help by contacting someone on board to retrieve their passports, which had been locked in their cabin safe.

Surprisingly, crew members were able to deliver the passports, and a second official soon arrived with a boat to ferry the guests back to the cruise ship.

@clairestoddard0 Replying to @Alicia Hicks Story time on how we almost got left behind on day one of our cruise to Greece #storytime #vacation #cruise #cruiserunners #fyp #foryoupage #norwegiancruise #travel ♬ NOKIA – Drake

The pair boarded via a crew gangway and were escorted directly to the captain.

While many would expect disciplinary action or even denial of re-entry, the guests were let off with a warning – and a story they’ll never forget.

A Lesson in Tender Port Timing

This story stands out because it breaks the usual narrative. Most guests who miss the final boarding time are left behind and must make costly arrangements to catch up or return home.

Cruise lines typically stress the importance of returning well before the posted final boarding time.

It’s generally recommended that guests return at least 30–60 minutes early to allow for unexpected delays – especially in tender ports where weather or logistics can affect transport.

Had this been a port with no sympathetic officials or if the ship had already weighed anchor, the outcome could have been very different.

“We’ll Never Make That Mistake Again”

Commenters on TikTok were stunned by the pair’s luck. “As a travel agent, I’m disappointed you missed it but impressed that you made it on,” wrote one viewer. “This is so rare, we need to know more,” added another.

Stoddard acknowledged her gratitude to the Croatian port authority and Norwegian Cruise Line for the unexpected second chance, saying they’ll never cut it that close again.

While this ended in relief rather than regret, it’s a cautionary tale for cruise travellers everywhere: don’t just check your itinerary – double check the tender schedule.

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At What Age Should Kids Explore Cruise Ships Alone? Parents Weigh In…

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips Kids

There are some wildly different opinions on the appropriate age to let your kids roam around a cruise ship on their own.

It’s already a sensitive subject when you’re at home and you’re thinking about what age you’ll let them walk to the park or the shop without supervision. Add in some of the risks of a cruise ship? The debate can get feisty, fast.

There’s plenty of wild opinions here, so buckle in…

Cruise Line Rules

Before we get into the whole mess of what some cruisers have to say on the subject, let’s start with the cruise lines’ rules on kids onboard.

You aren’t going to see any rules on the ages that kids can walk around a ship unoccupied, because it’s not exactly an easy thing for them to monitor.

A child could be going to the bar for a drink while the parents are watching from a few feet away, they could have freedom to roam the whole ship, and it’s hard to tell as an onlooker.

Of course, if a crew member sees an unattended toddler, they’re probably not just going to ignore them…

But with kids aged seven and up, crew are unlikely to ask where their parents are unless the kids are causing trouble.

What we do know is the age at which cruise lines allow kids to sign themselves in and out of the kids’ clubs onboard…

Two children pose happily with certificates in front of a large LEGO sailor statue at an MSC Cruise Kids' Club. The boy on the left holds colorful streamers and a "Congratulations" certificate, while the girl on the right, wearing a Minnie Mouse hoodie and a face mask, holds a similar certificate and streamers. The background features bright colors and playful decorations, enhancing the fun atmosphere.

That’s a good guideline to use on the ages that cruise lines are happy with children having some level of independence. Here’s a summary of those rules for the main family-friendly cruise lines:

Cruise Line	Kids’ Club Sign-Out Age (No Prior Permission)	Kids’ Club Sign-Out Age (Parent Approval)
A-ROSA	No age limit	No age limit
Carnival	12+ years old	9+ years old
Celebrity Cruises	10+ years old	10+ years old
Disney Cruise Line	11+ years old	8-10 years old
Marella Cruises	12+ years old	12+ years old
MSC Cruises	12+ years old	7+ years old
Norwegian Cruise Line	13+ years old	10+ years old
P&O Cruises	13+ years old	13+ years old
Princess Cruises	13+ years old	8+ years old
Royal Caribbean	12+ years old	9+ years old

On the majority of family-friendly cruise lines, the kids’ clubs are split into different age groups, and they’ll usually have their own dedicated spaces with age-appropriate facilities and entertainment.

Read more: Cruise Kids’ Club Age Groupings Guide

And it’s those brackets that will typically play a part in the ages that kids can sign themselves out of the clubs independently. Usually once a child reaches 12/13 then they’re free to sign out as they please.

That’s because the teen clubs aren’t always staffed. Usually, crew members are there. But sometimes the teen club is just a room where teenagers can meet their friends with no supervision or organised activies.

Teens club room on Princess Cruise Line, featuring comfortable beige sofas, a ping pong table, and a large Connect Four game. The room includes a TV area with a modern entertainment setup and offers a relaxed space for teenagers to socialize and enjoy various activities.

There are cameras though, so if the teenagers start behaving inappropraitely then it won’t be long before the security team are on their way.

But then for the group one step down from that, a lot of cruise lines will let children sign out if they get parental permission first – usually part of the registration form you’ll fill in when you sign your child up for the club at the start of the cruise.

On some cruise lines that’s as young as 7 years old! But typically it’s 8 or 9 years old.

Suggested read: Cruise Kids Club Age Groupings Guide

What Parents Say

It’s tough to make the call on what the right age is to let your child explore alone – so I asked my Facebook fans what their thoughts were.

And if you browse the full list of comments on that post, you’ll see that opinions vary wildly!

1 in 3 parents wouldn’t let 17-year-olds explore alone

The majority of responses were actually those of people who wouldn’t let their children explore independently. Nearly 20% of respondents said that 18 would be a suitable age, and another 12.5% said 21. That’s a third of people who think children should never explore on their own!

When I was 17 I moved to live in another country without any adults for two months, so I find it pretty wild to think that some teenagers of that age wouldn’t be allowed out of their parent’s sight on a ship.

People had some VERY strong opinions on the matter:

"- " KID'S " Shouldn't Be Running Around a Cruise Ship EVER !!!! - Most Adults KNOW Where Their Kids Are .... Some Think THEIR Kids Are Responsible And Well Behaved , Some AREN'T !!!! - Been on 27 Cruises, Seen It ALL When it Comes to Cruise's .... Their ARE Many Dangerouse Posibilities Out There !!!! - Just Say'in !!!!! -"

A lot of people are worried about the various dangers of a cruise ship (more on those in a bit), but at the same time I’m surprised so many people would wait until their child was an adult.

There are a lot of people who seem to have negative opinions of children in general. Several said they shouldn’t be cruising at all, and some believed that child behaviour was an issue on ships:

"This one kills me, too many people believe their children behave better than they actually do. Most solo kids in the 12-15 range act like total A-holes as soon as they are away from their parents."

At the other end of the spectrum, quite a few parents suggested that 10 was a fine age.

People replying to Facebook saying that 10 is the acceptable age to let a child explore alone

There were hardly any other comments that suggested a younger age than that – beyond a few joke ones (I assume!) that said babies/toddlers were allowed to roam so that the parents could relax a bit!

I did laugh at this one – a clever way of keeping behaviour in check:

"10 and I had them thinking they were being watched. Funny this is I wasn’t watching them BUT some how would always see them making friends."

Of the parents who did allow children to explore on their own, 12-15 was the age range that most agreed with.

It seems like, to most people, that 12-13 age is the time when parents will consider it – and once they’re comfortable with the ship themselves, they will allow it:

"Ours were 13 in April and we did Iona to the fjords they loved going off and getting food, going to the cinema to play games etc. realistically when they are old enough to come back to a meeting place at a certain time as if no internet it’s hard ro find them again. As no contact x"

One important thing to consider is whether the ship makes it easier to keep tabs on your kids.

For this reason, Princess Cruises is a brilliant option. Everyone in your party is given a Medallion, and this does a lot of clever things – one of which is acting as a tracker.

"Princess with the medallion maybe 13. Others maybe not til 15. But only for a period of time not like the entire trip."

You can use the Princess app on your phone to see where everyone in your travelling party is.

If kids don’t have a phone, they can use the screens around the ship to find you. This relies on their map reading skills and ability to know which is the front of the ship and which is the back, so you’ll want to practice this a bit before you let them run free!

A lot of parents will feel more secure knowing that they’re able to get an idea of where their child is when they’re off exploring.

If you aren’t sailing with Princess Cruises, then signing everyone up for the WiFi package and using a messaging service like WhatsApp is the best way to keep an eye on them/stay in touch for emergencies.

Also some cruise lines such as NCL and Royal Caribbean have free chat functionality that you don’t need paid WiFi for – but be aware you won’t always get notifications when you’ve got a message. You usually need to manually check.

Finally, I think this comment best sums it all up – there really isn’t one fixed age that should apply to everyone:

"I think it depents on how mature your child is. Some 12 years olds are more mature and sensible than 17 year olds for example. You know how responsible your child is. If it feels right then let them enjoy the freedom. Make planscto meet up at certain times"

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Safety Tips for Kids Onboard

There are some critical safety tips that you’ll want to go over with your kids before you do let them roam on their own. Here’s what you should consider.

1. No Climbing Balconies, Ever

Balconies on a cruise ship might look fun to explore, but they’re not safe for climbing. Make sure your child know never to climb on railings or stand on balcony furniture

This is a strict safety rule – balconies can be dangerous, and it’s important they understand the risks involved. A good time to reinforce the conversation around peer pressure too – if they have friends doing it, that doesn’t mean they should do it too.

2. Siblings Stick Together

If your child is travelling with siblings, remind them to stick together while exploring. There’s safety in numbers, and it’s easier to keep track of each other. Whether they’re heading to the pool or checking out the kids’ club, siblings can look out for each other and stay close.

3. Make Sure They Know Their Cabin Number and Can Find It

It’s important that your child knows their cabin number and can easily find it if they get separated. Make sure they understand how to read the ship’s deck plans and point out landmarks near your cabin. If they feel lost or confused, they should know where to go for help.

4. No Trusting Strangers

Teach your child that while cruise staff are there to help, they should never go off with someone they don’t know – whether it’s another guest or a crew member not wearing a uniform. Remind them to be cautious of anyone offering something that feels too good to be true or trying to lure them away from public areas.

5. Being Careful Around Pools

The pool area can be a lot of fun, but it’s also where accidents can happen. Remind your child to always be careful around the water – whether it’s slipping on the wet floors or avoiding rough play.

6. Knowing How to Find Crew if They’re Stuck

Make sure your child knows who to approach if they need help. Cruise staff members wear uniforms and are there to assist. Teach your child how to identify a crew member and show them the key locations where they can find help – like the kids’ club or reception.

7. Know the Ship’s Muster Drill

Before your child starts exploring, make sure they know where the muster stations are and what to do in an emergency. These stations are where everyone gathers for safety instructions, and it’s important your child is familiar with the area. Attend the muster drill together so they know where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.

8. No Running in Public Spaces

Encourage your child to walk, not run, when moving through public areas on the ship. The deck and corridors can get crowded, and running could lead to accidents – whether they slip on a wet floor or bump into someone. Remind them to be mindful of their surroundings and take their time getting from one place to another.

The Good Behaviour Conversation

I know that every parent (well, most parents) believe that their child is extremely well behaved. But that doesn’t mean you should assume they will automatically be at their absolute best when on a cruise ship – especially if they’re getting some independence that they might not normally enjoy at home.

Child throwing clothes over a cruise balcony

So, regardless of how much of an angel your child may be when you’re around, still have the conversation with them about behaving properly when they’re alone on a ship.

There are a few specifics to remind them of – things like they should avoid running down cabin corridors (they’ll be louder than they realise), they shouldn’t mess with any door decorations or ‘Do Not Disturb’ signs, and they should be respectful when they’re close to adults-only spaces on the ship, and avoid being loud near them.

Still – encourage them to have fun! If you’re on a cruise ship with your kids then that means your kids have been welcomed onboard – not to pretend to be adults, but to be kids!

This means they’re allowed to laugh and joke with friends, splash around (safely), and just have fun.

There’s a chance they’ll encounter some grumpy cruisers who are adamant kids should be seen and not heard, or that they shouldn’t even be on cruise ships at all (even when it’s clearly a family-friendly ship!)

Just remind your kids to keep volume levels respectable, and if they still get harassed by someone, they can report it to a crew member who can step in and help if you’re not around.

Leaving Your Child Onboard While You Visit Port

Some cruise lines don’t just let you leave your child in the kids’ club – they give you permission to leave them on the ship while you go ashore!

It’s not something that every cruise line will allow, and I know that a lot of parents might not be comfortable with it.

We left our kids onboard while we went ashore and got quite a lot of backlash because of it!

It’s fair to say that this caused a bit of a stir on Facebook, and a lot of people felt the need to tell me and Matt what they thought of our parenting approach…

I understand that parents have their worries but we were never at risk of missing the ship (we wouldn’t have put ourselves in that position), and we knew that the staff onboard were more than capable of keeping the kids safe. They weren’t allowed to leave the kids club.

If we had been hit by a bus when exploring ashore, then I’d rather the kids were in the kids club for that, to be honest!

I’m not saying every parent should cruise exactly like we do, and I get why some people get anxious.

But the option is there, if you feel comfortable with it. And we were, and it was a lovely day.

Final Word

Ultimately, the decision of when to let your kids roam a cruise ship alone is a deeply personal one, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

The cruise line guidelines give a decent starting point, but parents must consider their child’s maturity, the layout and safety measures of the ship, and their own comfort level. It’s about finding the right balance between giving your child independence and ensuring they are safe.

Most importantly, open communication with your child is key. Set clear expectations, teach them the safety guidelines, and be sure they know how to reach you if anything feels off.

It’s always a good idea to start small – such as letting them go to get an ice cream and bring it back, or leaving them playing football for 15 minutes – before you give 100% freedom in a new environment.

Whether you allow your child to explore the ship at 10, 12, or later, what matters most is ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to enjoy their freedom safely.

After all, a cruise is meant to be a fun, stress-free experience for both parents and kids alike!

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Tragedy Strikes As Young Child Passes Away Mid-Cruise

May 20, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

A Western Mediterranean cruise aboard Costa Toscana ended in heartbreak for one family, as a two-year-old boy tragically died mid-voyage between Civitavecchia and Savona.

The young child, travelling with his parents, collapsed unexpectedly on board the 6,554-guest cruise ship on the evening of 17th May or early morning of 18th May 2025.

Despite the best efforts of the ship’s medical team, the toddler could not be revived, even after hours of emergency care.

Italian news outlet Notizie reported that the boy appeared to be in good health and had been playing when he suddenly collapsed.

His parents, Chinese nationals residing in France, later shared that he had undergone heart surgery in the past.

While they believed he was recovering well, early indications suggest he may have suffered a fatal cardiac event linked to a pre-existing condition.

While it is not confirmed whether a medical evacuation was requested, there was no interception by a rescue aircraft during the voyage.

The ship’s medical centre would have been well-equipped with advanced emergency equipment, including defibrillators, oxygen, and cardiac monitors.

Sadly, even with swift and professional intervention, the child could not be saved.

The parents were given a private space to remain with their son until the ship arrived in Savona at approximately 8:30 am on 18th May.

Authorities Board in Savona

Upon arrival, local authorities boarded Costa Toscana to conduct standard investigations, which occur any time there is a death at sea.

Interviews were held with the family, medical personnel, and any witnesses to the event. The child’s body was removed from the vessel and will be repatriated to France.

While the family’s holiday ended in unimaginable sorrow, the itinerary for the ship and her other guests remained unchanged.

The cruise line has not released an official statement, and out of respect for their privacy, the family has not been publicly identified.

Another Loss at Sea on the Same Weekend

This tragic news comes just as Princess Cruises confirmed the sudden death of one of its most experienced captains.

Captain Michele Bartolomei passed away from a medical emergency aboard Diamond Princess on 19 May, while the ship was docked overnight in Keelung, Taiwan.

Captain Bartolomei was nearing 30 years of service with Princess Cruises and was widely respected by his colleagues and guests alike.

His passing was announced to passengers the next morning.

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MSC Cruises Orders Two More Mega-Ships in $4 Billion Expansion

May 19, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

MSC Cruises is showing no signs of slowing down as a new order has been announced to increase the fleet size by two ships.

Today, the company confirmed this expansion with an order for two additional World Class ships, World Class V and VI, from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France.

MSC World America in PortMiami — MSC World America. Photo: Cruise Fever

New Ships Coming in 2029 and 2030

These new ships, set for delivery in 2029 and 2030, represent a €3.5 billion (approximately $3.95 billion USD) investment and will each carry about 6,762 passengers.

The completion of this new order will bring MSC’s fleet from 23 to 27 vessels by 2030 (including two ships already ordered and soon to be delivered), helping to meet the cruise line’s goal to bring annual passenger count from 2.5 million in 2024 to 5.7 million by 2030.

The 5^th and 6^th ship in the popular World Class will add about 13,524 new berths to MSC’s capacity. The move also reinforces its 10% share of the global cruise market.

These ships are also designed with liquefied natural gas (LNG) propulsion and cutting-edge environmental technologies.

The World Class series now includes the following ships with two yet to be delivered:

MSC World Europa (2022)
MSC World America (2025)
MSC World Asia (2026)
MSC World Atlantic (2027

World Class Ships

Each World Class vessel is roughly 216,000 gross tons in volume, has 22 decks and about 2,760 cabins.

Features found across the series include those introduced on the very first World Class ship, MSC World Europa. This ship includes a 702-foot World Promenade, a spacious outdoor area, along with the MSC Yacht Club and several distinct districts, including a family-friendly water park and ropes course.

MSC World America

MSC World America, which began operations in April 2025, is the latest World Class ship, and Cruise Fever had the privilege of enjoying a three-day preview sailing.

Key features of the ship include a water park, the Family Adventura District (housing waterslides and the Cliffhanger swing), LEGO activities, and the MSC Sportplex (an indoor basketball court). The ship also features a smoke-free main casino.

MSC World America is sailing out of the brand new terminal in PortMiami, offering seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises that include a visit to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island.

Pricing for cruises on MSC World America starts at less than $100 per person, per day, including taxes and port fees, with promotions for children occasionally available.

First look at the world’s newest cruise ship that just arrived in Miami, MSC World America.

Posted by Cruise Fever on Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Boosting Capacity with the New Order

The order for World Class V and VI shows the company’s faith in both their own growth strategy and the cruise industry in general.

Each of these new ships will offer the same impressive scale of the World Class series, accommodating 6,762 passengers. This means a combined capacity boost of 13,524 passengers. To put that in perspective, this increase alone matches the capacity of five to six of MSC’s smaller ships, like MSC Armonia (2,520 passengers).

MSC’s new World Class ships have a focus on sustainability, primarily using Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to reduce emissions. This new order strengthens MSC’s position as the world’s third-largest cruise line.

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To Conclude

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1. Wash Your Hands – Yes, Every Time

2. Follow the Flow – Don’t Go Against the Grain

3. Don’t Hog a Giant Table If You’re Flying Solo

4. Keep a Close Eye on the Kiddos

5. Use the Serving Utensils – No Hands, Ever

6. Don’t Mix Up the Tongs

7. Be Sensible With Portions

8. Grab a New Plate Each Time

9. No Sampling While You Wait

10. Queue Like a Civilised Human

11. Don’t Hang Around After Closing Time

12. Skip the Buffet If You’re Feeling Unwell

13. Speak Up About Dietary Needs

14. Don’t Treat It Like a Game Show

15. Don’t Rock Up In Swimwear or a Robe

Final Word

TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!

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Beautiful Decorations That Will Wow You

Dine On Incredible Food

Enjoy Festive Entertainment Programmes

Jovial Christmas Spirit

Meet Santa Onboard

Experience New Cultures

Make Special Memories

Religious Services Are Available

People Hide a LOT of Ducks!

A Christmas cruise isn’t for everyone

Christmas Cruises Are Pricey

Time Away From Loved Ones

Loss Of Family Traditions

It Complicates Gift Giving (Especially With Kids)

Alternatives to Christmas Cruises

Pre-Christmas Cruises

Christmas Markets Cruises

New Year Cruises

The Bottom Line

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5. Havana Cabana Corner Suites

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Suite Perks

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Cruise Line Rules

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1 in 3 parents wouldn’t let 17-year-olds explore alone

Get Help Booking Your Family Cruise

Safety Tips for Kids Onboard

1. No Climbing Balconies, Ever

2. Siblings Stick Together

3. Make Sure They Know Their Cabin Number and Can Find It