Luxury Cruising Editorial - Luxury Cruising

Royal Caribbean Cruise Director Schedule 2025

April 28, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Royal Caribbean

Interested to see who’ll be your cruise director on your upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise?

Or maybe you have a favourite cruise director, and are planning your cruise to make sure you’re onboard at the same time as them.

Here’s a look at every Royal Caribbean ship, and their cruise director.

Adventure of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
JOHN BLAIR	02/07/2025	10/31/2025

John Blair is the current cruise director on Adventure of the Seas, having signed on in early July 2025. He will be leading the entertainment and activities onboard until the end of October 2025.

Adventure of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship, with a gross tonnage of 137,276 and accommodating up to 3,807 guests at full capacity.

Allure of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MERCEDES LAFUENTE	Mid-April 2025	TBA

Mercedes Lafuente is currently serving as cruise director on Allure of the Seas, having joined the ship in mid-April 2025. Her end date has yet to be announced, so guests can expect to enjoy her lively entertainment leadership for the foreseeable future.

Allure of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 225,282 and a maximum guest capacity of 6,780.

Anthem of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
RICKY MATTHEWS	07/04/2025	09/05/2025

Ricky Matthews is set to be the next cruise director on Anthem of the Seas, joining the ship in early July 2025. He will be entertaining guests and leading the onboard activities until early September 2025.

Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.

Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
KATHERYN FALCON	Now	05/10/2025

Kathryn Falcon — Credit: Kat Falcon/Facebook

Katheryn Falcon is currently the cruise director on Brilliance of the Seas, delighting guests with her energy and entertainment leadership. She is scheduled to remain onboard until early October 2025.

Brilliance of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,543.

Enchantment of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
SHEENAGH WALKER	12/20/2024	06/19/2025

Sheenagh Walker is currently the cruise director on Enchantment of the Seas, having taken over the role in December 2024. She will continue leading the entertainment programme onboard until mid-June 2025.

Enchantment of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 82,910 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,730.

Explorer of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MARK ROUS	03/02/2025	TBA

Mark Rous is scheduled to join Explorer of the Seas as cruise director in early March 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so guests can look forward to his entertainment leadership for the time being.

Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 137,308 and a maximum passenger capacity of 3,840.

Freedom of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
CAROLINE PETERS	Unknown	TBA

Caroline Peters is currently listed as the cruise director on Freedom of the Seas. Specific details about her sign-on and sign-off dates have not been confirmed, but she is expected to continue leading the entertainment onboard for now.

Freedom of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 156,271 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,515.

Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MARVIN WILSON	Unknown	TBA

Marvin Wilson is currently serving as the cruise director on Grandeur of the Seas. The details of his sign-on and sign-off dates are yet to be confirmed, but he continues to oversee the entertainment and activities onboard for the time being.

Grandeur of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 73,817 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,440.

Harmony of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MARIO ISLA	03/30/2025	TBA

Mario Isla joined Harmony of the Seas as cruise director at the end of March 2025. His sign-off date has yet to be determined, so guests can expect him to lead the onboard entertainment for the foreseeable future.

Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 226,963 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,687.

Icon of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
GEMMA HUGO	03/01/2025	TBA

Gemma Hugo joined Icon of the Seas as cruise director on 1st March 2025. Her sign-off date is yet to be announced, so she will be leading the entertainment and activities onboard for the time being.

Icon of the Seas is an Icon-class ship with a gross tonnage of 250,800 and a maximum passenger capacity of 7,600.

Independence of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
NATALIE ROSIE	Unknown	TBA

Natalie Rosie is currently listed as the cruise director on Independence of the Seas. While her exact sign-on date is unknown, she is expected to continue leading the entertainment team onboard for the foreseeable future.

Independence of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 155,889 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,560.

Jewel of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
THIAGO MOTTA	01/23/2025	June 2025
JAMIE FENTIMAN	June 2025	TBA

Jamie Fentiman — Credit: Thiago Motta/LinkedIn

Thiago Motta is currently the cruise director on Jewel of the Seas, having joined the ship in January 2025. He is set to remain onboard until June 2025, when Jamie Fentiman will take over the role. Jamie’s sign-off date has not yet been confirmed.

Jewel of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,501.

Liberty of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
TORNADO TANYA	01/24/2025	05/15/2025
TORNADO TANYA	07/07/2025	August 2025

Tornado Tanya is currently the cruise director on Liberty of the Seas, having joined in January 2025. She will remain onboard until mid-May 2025, before taking a short break. Tanya will return to the ship in early July 2025 and is expected to stay through until August 2025.

Liberty of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship with a gross tonnage of 154,407 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,960.

Navigator of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
DANIEL GILHAM	04/25/2025	TBA

Daniel Gilham is currently the cruise director on Navigator of the Seas, having taken over the role in April 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so guests can expect him to continue leading the entertainment onboard for now.

Navigator of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 139,999 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,000.

Oasis of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
ELVIS PINTO	03/08/2025	TBA

Elvis Pinto joined Oasis of the Seas as cruise director on 8th March 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been announced, so he is expected to oversee the ship’s entertainment programme for the foreseeable future.

Oasis of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 226,838 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,780.

Odyssey of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MEY LAU	03/16/2025	TBA

Mey Lau boarded Odyssey of the Seas as cruise director on 16th March 2025. Her sign-off date has yet to be confirmed, so she is expected to lead the entertainment onboard for the foreseeable future.

Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra-class ship with a gross tonnage of 167,704 and a maximum passenger capacity of 5,510.

Ovation of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
RICKY MATTHEWS	03/15/2025	05/15/2025
BRIAN LEAVITT	05/15/2025	TBA

Brian Leavitt — Credit: Ricky Matthews/Facebook

Ricky Matthews is currently the cruise director on Ovation of the Seas, having joined the ship in March 2025. He will remain onboard until mid-May 2025, when Brian Leavitt will take over the role. Brian’s sign-off date has not yet been confirmed.

Ovation of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.

Quantum of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
BAL GABOR	03/07/2025	TBA

Bal Gabor is currently the cruise director on Quantum of the Seas, having joined the ship in March 2025. His sign-off date has yet to be announced, so guests can look forward to his leadership onboard for now.

Quantum of the Seas is a Quantum-class ship with a gross tonnage of 168,666 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.

Radiance of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
BILL BRUNKHORST	02/15/2025	TBA

Bill Brunkhorst is currently the cruise director on Radiance of the Seas, having joined the ship in February 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so he is expected to continue leading the entertainment onboard for the foreseeable future.

Radiance of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,466.

Rhapsody of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MICHELE SCARPATO	Unknown	TBA

Michele Scarpato is currently the cruise director on Rhapsody of the Seas. While the exact date of his sign-on is unknown, he is expected to continue leading the entertainment programme onboard for the foreseeable future.

Rhapsody of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 78,878 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,416.

Serenade of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
TALITA LEONI	Unknown	TBA

Talita Leoni is currently the cruise director on Serenade of the Seas. Although the exact date of her sign-on is unknown, she is set to continue leading the ship’s entertainment and activities for the foreseeable future.

Serenade of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship with a gross tonnage of 90,090 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,476.

Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
BONNIE BAI	02/12/2024	TBA

Bonnie Bai is currently the cruise director on Spectrum of the Seas, having joined the ship in February 2024. Her sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so she is expected to continue leading the entertainment programme onboard for now.

Spectrum of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra-class ship with a gross tonnage of 169,379 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,905.

Star of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MIKE SZWAJKOWSKI	May 2025	TBA

Mike Szwajkowski is set to join Star of the Seas as the ship’s first cruise director in May 2025. His sign-off date has yet to be announced, and he will be leading the entertainment team as the ship makes its highly anticipated debut.

Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship, is set to launch in August 2025. She will offer approximately 250,800 gross tonnes and accommodate around 7,600 passengers, promising revolutionary experiences at sea.

Symphony of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
JOHN GRANTHAM	01/26/2025	May 2025
STEVE KNISLEY	May 2025	TBA

Steve Knisley — Credit: John Grantham/Linkedin

John Grantham is currently the cruise director on Symphony of the Seas, having joined the ship in January 2025. He will remain onboard until mid-May 2025, when Steve Knisley will take over the role. Steve’s sign-off date has not yet been announced.

Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of 228,081 and a maximum passenger capacity of 6,680, known for its vibrant onboard atmosphere and innovative amenities.

Utopia of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
MARC WALKER	03/17/2025	07/07/2025
DAN WHITNEY	06/30/2025	10/03/2025
MARC WALKER	10/03/2025	01/30/2026

Dan Whitney — Credit: Marc Walker/Linkedin

Marc Walker is currently the cruise director on Utopia of the Seas, having joined the ship in March 2025. He will remain onboard until early July 2025, when Dan Whitney will step in to take over until early October 2025. After that, Marc Walker is scheduled to return as cruise director from October 2025 through to the end of January 2026.

Utopia of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship with a gross tonnage of approximately 236,860 and a maximum passenger capacity of around 6,700.

Vision of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
DOMINIC RICHARD	03/29/2025	TBA

Dominic Richard is currently the cruise director on Vision of the Seas, having joined the ship at the end of March 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so guests can look forward to his leadership onboard for the foreseeable future.

Vision of the Seas is a Vision-class ship with a gross tonnage of 78,717 and a maximum passenger capacity of 2,514.

Voyager of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
DENNIS CHARLES	03/03/2025	TBA

Dennis Charles is currently the cruise director on Voyager of the Seas, having joined the ship in early March 2025. His sign-off date has not yet been confirmed, so he is expected to continue leading the onboard entertainment for now.

Voyager of the Seas is a Voyager-class ship with a gross tonnage of 138,194 and a maximum passenger capacity of 4,269.

Wonder of the Seas Cruise Directors

Cruise Director	Sign On	Sign Off
DAN WHITNEY	01/12/2025	09/12/2025
RICKY MATTHEWS	09/12/2025	11/28/2025

Dan Whitney is currently the cruise director on Wonder of the Seas, having joined the ship in January 2025. He will continue in the role until mid-September 2025, when Ricky Matthews will take over. Ricky is scheduled to remain onboard until late November 2025.

Wonder of the Seas is an Oasis-class ship, currently the largest cruise ship in the world, boasting a gross tonnage of 236,857 and accommodating up to 6,988 passengers.

What a Cruise Director Does

On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the cruise director plays a key role in shaping the onboard experience. Working closely with the hotel director, entertainment teams, and performers, they ensure that every guest enjoys a vibrant, memorable holiday at sea.

Royal Caribbean cruise directors are responsible for hosting a wide range of activities, from trivia and game shows to poolside parties and nightly events. They also keep guests updated with daily announcements and entertainment schedules, helping everyone make the most of their time onboard.

The cruise line employs a large number of cruise directors as they need to rotate between ships, cover leave periods, and ensure fresh energy across the fleet.

Contracts can vary significantly; some cruise directors might only step in for a few weeks to cover a gap, while others may remain with a ship for several months at a time.

Sometimes, cruise directors’ contracts will overlap. This allows a new director to join the ship while their predecessor is still onboard, providing time for a smooth handover and helping them settle in with the team.

Cruise Director Schedule Changes

Cruise director schedules can often change at short notice.

Whether due to personal circumstances, fleet movements, or other operational needs, Royal Caribbean works hard to ensure every ship always has a capable and energetic entertainment lead in place. And sometimes things are vague – you’ll notice a few TBAs in this guide.

This schedule is updated weekly, so you can stay informed about the latest cruise director assignments and any changes as they happen.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Directors on Social

Here are social media links for some of Royal Caribbean’s cruise directors:

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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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The Perfect Shoes For Every Cruise

April 28, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise News Packing

Packing the right shoes for a cruise can make or break your trip! I’ve seen it all — from people wobbling in sky-high heels on deck to sore feet after hours exploring in flimsy sandals.

After countless cruises, I’ve cracked the code: six versatile pairs that cover every occasion, from beach days to formal nights. Whether you’re setting sail for sunshine or a city break, these must-pack cruise shoes will keep you comfy and stylish!

painted toes resting on the balcony of a cruise ship

1. Comfortable Shoes For Shore Excursions

Depending on your shore excursion plans, you may find yourself walking for miles and miles, so you need some comfortable shoes that you can rely on not to hurt your feet.

When it comes to comfort, I know that Skechers won’t let me down. These lightweight walking sneakers are flexible with a bouncy sole. They come in over 25 different colours and are made of a breathable mesh that will keep your feet cool, even in the Caribbean sun. Some of the best cruise shoes for those who like to explore.

2. Water Shoes For The Beach

While you might imagine that beaches in the Caribbean have only soft white sand, that’s often not the reality. On most islands’ seabed, you’ll find some sharp rocks, sea creatures like crabs, starfish and sea cucumbers and sometimes even bottle caps and broken glass.

Packing a sturdy pair of water shoes is definitely a wise move, as you’ll then be able to paddle and swim without worrying about where you’re stepping. And if you plan to do an excursion like Dunn’s River Falls in Jamaica, then aqua shoes are an absolute must-have.

These unisex water shoes come in over 40 different colours and patterns. The older styles are often in the sale too, so be sure to check those out.

3. Flip-Flops For The Pool

Once you’ve tried these orthopaedic flip-flops with arch support, you’ll never go back to wearing completely flat flip-flops again! Approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these orthotic sandals are designed to improve your gait and lessen foot issues like Plantar Fasciitis. And let’s be honest, flip-flops are always going to be some of the best shoes for cruise ship lounging, right?

These cute and comfy sandals are water-resistant and come in over 20 different colours. I particularly like the glittery ones, which look smart enough to wear indoors on any luxury cruise ship as well as on the lido deck.

4. Dressy Evening Shoes

Most cruise ships have at least one formal night where you can put on your best suit or evening dress and enjoy a five-course meal followed by an evening of entertainment and dancing.

Most people find that wearing very high heels can be a little tricky on a cruise ship, especially if it’s rocking due to rough seas. Staying upright can be something of a challenge.

That’s why these 2-and-a-half-inch block heels are perfect. You’ll be able to walk confidently, while still looking elegant and stylish, thanks to the thousands of rhinestones that will adorn your feet.

There are seven colours to choose from. I like Champagne-coloured shoes as I find that they go with every colour of dress. If you need shoes for cruises that look a little glam, I highly recommend them.

5. Casual Evening Shoes

On most evenings of your cruise, the dress code will be casual so you’re free to wear whatever you feel comfortable in. You can dress up for dinner or relax in jeans – it’s your call.

I personally love these platform espadrilles as they go well with every outfit choice. They’re almost flat, so they’re really easy to walk in, but a platform and slight wedge give you some extra height. There are lots of colours to choose from, but I’m a huge fan of the leopard print.

6. Running Shoes For The Gym

Cruise ships have some really amazing gyms and many also have free fitness classes, so it’s worth popping in. There’s often also a running track up on the top deck.

Even if you’re not a gym bunny, you may need training shoes for activities like rock climbing, zip-lining or laser tag. So be sure to pack some if you have an action-packed cruise planned.

These Under Armour running shoes come in lots of different colours and are lightweight and breathable, so they’re perfect for warm weather and won’t weigh down your luggage.

Final Word

So there you have it, the six pairs of shoes that you need for a cruise. I think that six is probably the most that you would ever need. But, if you plan to travel light, then you should easily travel in some running shoes and just pack a pair of evening shoes and something for the pool or beach.

That said, if you don’t need to take a flight to join your cruise, you won’t have any limit on how much luggage you can bring. So why not go crazy and pack a different pair of shoes for every day? I know some people definitely do that.

Now you have the shoes sorted, if you need some help with the rest of your outfits, I’ve written a guide to what to wear on a cruise that will help you with that too.

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Ship Captains And The Myth Of Marrying At Sea

April 28, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Choosing a cruise Cruise Lines Cruise News

The idea of a cruise ship captain binding two souls in matrimony, surrounded by the stunning vistas of the ocean, is a very romantic notion and one that’s often been popularised in books and movies.

A cruise ship captain officiating a wedding on a Celebrity Cruises ship

However, the reality of this idea is a little more complicated. Can ship captains really marry couples onboard their vessels?

The answer isn’t clear-cut, so let’s take a look at it.

The Legal Part

In most parts of the world, a ship’s captain does not have the right to officiate a wedding by default. However, many ship captains undergo the process to become ordained to give them the power to do so, although the legality of the weddings can also vary by jurisdiction.

Captains of ships are revered figures, commanding respect and authority. This respect often extends to the belief that they possess the power to officiate weddings. However, this belief largely stems from popular culture and the frequent portrayal of such scenes in movies and television shows.

In reality, most sea captains don’t have the power. But there are some exceptions. Japanese sea captains can perform weddings while at sea, but only between two Japanese citizens.

Relevant to cruising, three countries allow ship captains to perform weddings for people from any country. These are Malta, Bermuda, and the Bahamas.

That means that any ship registered in these countries is able to offer captain-officiated weddings, though not all cruise lines will. After all, the ship’s captain isn’t twiddling his thumbs for the majority of the cruise looking for weddings to officiate – he does have some pretty important work to do!

Certain Cruise Lines Offer Weddings Officiated By The Captain

The cruise lines that offer weddings officiated by the captain include Azamara Cruises, Carnival Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean. Other cruise lines offering weddings will normally use the onboard chaplain to perform the ceremony.

Azamara Cruises Weddings

Azamara’s ships are registered in Malta, and so can offer weddings officiated by the captain. It depends on the package you choose though, so if this is something you want, make sure you’re clear when booking the wedding (source).

Carnival Cruise Weddings

Some of Carnival’s ships are registered in the Bahamas and Malta, and these can offer wedding ceremonies that are officiated by the captain. Other ceremonies will use a local officiant or one of the senior officers onboard (source).

A venue you can use after the wedding ceremony onboard

Celebrity Cruises Weddings

Celebrity Cruises’ ships are registered in Malta, which offers two benefits for wedding packages – firstly, the captain is legally allowed to perform the ceremony, and this is included in all packages offered by the cruise line (source).

Secondly, Celebrity Cruises can also offer legal same-sex weddings, as they are legal in Malta (source). If you are a same-sex couple who wants to enjoy the idea of a captain performing a wedding at sea, Celebrity Cruises is the best choice.

Cunard Weddings

Cunard transferred the registration of the cruise line and ships to Bermuda in 2011, so the ships’ captains can now perform weddings. They won’t always, though – sometimes a senior officer will take their place, so guests need to discuss their plans with the cruise line when booking (source).

Princess Cruises Weddings

Ship captains for Princess Cruises can officiate weddings as the ships are registered in Bermuda. The cruise line offers three wedding packages, all of which include either an indoor or outdoor ceremony performed by the captain (source).

If you want to have your wedding performed on land during the cruise, then the cruise line can arrange this, but the captain can’t officiate it – it will be conducted by local officiants instead.

The cruise line also offers vow renewal packages, and the captain will officiate those ceremonies, too.

Royal Caribbean Weddings

While the Royal Caribbean wedding brochure only specifies that a “non-denominational wedding officiant” will perform the ceremony, the ship’s captain can perform the ceremony if they are available (source).

How to Get Married By a Ship’s Captain

If you want to have a ship’s captain marry you, here’s what you need to do:

1. Research Your Cruise Line

Cruise lines offer very different experiences, not just for their wedding packages but for the rest of the onboard experience, too. It’s no good choosing a cruise line for their wedding package if you won’t enjoy the rest of the cruise you’re on.

So, start by deciding which of the cruise lines is the best fit for you in terms of the entertainment and dining offered, the typical onboard experience, and the guests that typically cruise with each line.

You can check out all my guides to each of the above cruise lines here:

2. Check Suitable Dates And Itineraries

Once you’ve decided which cruise line you like, you need to pick a cruise. Not all cruises will be suitable for a wedding, so check the cruise lines’ wedding brochures online or read the terms. Usually, you need a 7-day cruise or longer that sails in international waters.

Most people treat the cruise as their wedding and honeymoon combined, so pick a dream vacation spot if you can.

3. Call The Cruise Line To Book

It’s best to book a wedding cruise directly with the cruise line since you need to arrange the wedding package at the same time.

Weddings aren’t always available (if a cruise already has other weddings, for example), so you don’t want to book the cruise independently and then try to add on the wedding package only to be told it isn’t possible.

Your travel agent may be able to arrange your wedding cruise, so you can speak to them if you prefer. But it’s important to make sure you’re clear that you want the captain to marry you – if you don’t mention this crucial detail at this stage, they might book a wedding despite only a senior officer being available.

4. Prepare Documentation

The cruise line will tell you all of the documentation that you’ll need to provide in advance of the wedding, and bring with you on the cruise itself.

This may be a little more in-depth than having a wedding in your home country, so give yourself plenty of time to plan and prepare. No documentation will mean no wedding, unfortunately!

5. Don’t Forget Your Regular Wedding Planning!

While you’re getting caught up in all of the cruise planning – getting the ceremony arranged, working out travel insurance, etc., don’t forget about all the regular wedding planning you need to do too, including shopping for dresses and/or suits, writing speeches, etc.

You don’t want to be too busy planning your cruise to forget something like the rings, after all!

Final Word

There is a romantic allure to the idea of getting married at sea, but it’s important to weigh this against the reality of maritime laws. While literature and cinema often portray ship captains marrying couples, the reality is far more complex.

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14 Must-Know Tips For The Perfect Carnival Honeymoon

April 28, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Carnival Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips

Your honeymoon isn’t just any holiday — it’s the start of your biggest adventure yet! You deserve more than just a “nice trip”… you deserve jaw-dropping views, mouthwatering food, and memories that will make every future anniversary even sweeter.

That’s why a Carnival cruise could be the perfect choice. But before you book, there are a few must-know tips that could make your honeymoon even more magical.

Here’s everything you need to know to make your Carnival honeymoon cruise truly once-in-a-lifetime…

a couple on honeymoon on a Carnival cruise ship

1. Carnival Lets You Set Up A Gift Registry For Your Cruise

Carnival doesn’t offer special honeymoon cruise packages – they focus more on those that include a wedding ceremony instead. But one cool thing they do is let you set up your own cruise registry on their Carnival Wishes website.

Here, you can add a list of gifts tailored to your cruise, and send it to your wedding guests. They can then pay for things on your registry directly, meaning that when you set sail, you’ll be able to enjoy a host of little extra touches without having to pay for them yourself.

There are lots of options too – you can set up contributions towards shore excursions, ask for drinks packages, speciality dining reservations, or even just let people pay towards the cost of the cruise itself.

If you don’t have a specific list of gifts that you want for your wedding, a Carnival Wishes registry is a great way of making your honeymoon even more special.

a couple enjoying dinner on honeymoon on a Carnival cruise

2. You Can Pre-Order Gifts For Your Stateroom With Carnival

If you don’t want to set up a registry, or you’ve got other wedding gifts in mind, then you can still pay for your own little extras to make your honeymoon cruise go perfectly. Visit the Carnival Funshops site and you can pre-order all kinds of added extras.

You might just want some drinks to be waiting for you in the room, or even a cake – they do a special six-inch honeymoon cake shaped like a heart that is available in chocolate or vanilla, or in sugar-free options of both flavours too.

Just to give you an idea of the scale of options available, there are over 150 items you can pre-order from the food and beverage section alone. So you don’t have to settle – you’ll find something special that you’ll both love.

a couple inside their room on a Carnival cruise ship

3. Buy A Drinks Package So You Can Fully Relax

Nobody wants to go on a cruise and spend the entire time worrying about their budget. And that’s especially true on a honeymoon. If you’re having to do the math while you’re staring at the drinks menu to see whether you can comfortably afford the beers you wanted to buy, then something’s not right.

Instead, consider paying for the Cheers package. That way, you can really relax and just enjoy the time with your partner, having as many drinks as you want (within reason).

Even if you don’t drink, there are packages that will let you and your partner enjoy as many non-alcoholic beverages as you want, so you can try something a little more unusual – an alcohol-free cocktail can really make that tropical cruise feel extra special.

a couple holding a drink while having fun on honeymoon on a Carnival cruise

4. Consider Upgrading To A Suite

Upgrading to a suite is a surefire way of making your entire cruise feel so much more special.

It’s not just about the extra space, although that is a nice bonus. Having a more roomy cabin and a larger balcony will help you to really have that VIP feeling during your cruise.

But there are also a host of Carnival suite perks that you get when booking one of these special accommodation options, including things like priority boarding, free laundry services, the best service and depending on your chosen suite, access to exclusive areas of the ship as well.

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a couple relaxing on the balcony of a Carnival cruise ship's suite

5. Choose One Of The Newer Carnival Ships For The Best Experience

While you will no doubt want to spend some time exploring the ports that you visit, and also just relaxing by the pool, you’ll want to keep yourself busy during your cruise with the various entertainment and dining options too.

So, make sure to choose one of the newer Carnival ships if you want the best choice of experiences. The newer ships are the biggest, and they are packed with some of the most exciting features to make every night a new and unique date night during your honeymoon.

And it’s not just about the things to do, being on a bigger ship means you’ve got more space to unwind together and just watch as the world sails by.

Read more: Carnival Cruise Ships By Size

However, bigger isn’t necessarily better for everyone. If you’d prefer your cruise to be a little more laid back and put more value on visiting interesting destinations and enjoying great service, then you may actually prefer one of the smaller Carnival ships.

Take a look at this list of the best Carnival cruise ships according to reviews to help you make your decision.

6. Plan Your Days Ashore In Advance

When you book a honeymoon cruise, you’ll have the advantage of being able to see multiple destinations in one vacation. But you don’t get a huge amount of time ashore, and the best excursions may book up in advance.

While you will no doubt be spending time planning your wedding, don’t forget to plan your cruise too, and that includes looking at where you’ll be getting off the ship, and working out what you want to do in advance.

Otherwise, you might miss some key experiences or, worse, you could get caught up and distracted and miss your return time for the ship.

My first-ever cruise was for our honeymoon and we left for the airport straight from the wedding reception! I was so busy planning the wedding that I didn’t plan the cruise at all. We had no excursions planned and had to book them on the ship, which wasn’t ideal as it was the most expensive way to do it.

a couple enjoying their honeymoon on an excursion in the Caribbean

7. Don’t Wear Pineapple Print During Your Cruise!

A small tip, but a vital one – you shouldn’t wear pineapple print during your cruise.

You might like the idea of getting some tropical outfits together if you’re sailing to a destination like the Caribbean for your honeymoon, but pineapple print is best avoided as some people believe pineapples (especially upside-down pineapples) to have a hidden meaning – being a code for swinging or wife-swapping.

Of course, if you’re into that lifestyle, then feel free, especially if you or your partner are the new ‘wife’ to be swapped.

Also, bear in mind that pineapples are not a definitive code, so don’t assume that someone else wearing a pineapple is also up for joining you!

8. Treat Yourself (And Your Partner) To Speciality Dining Reservations

Carnival cruises are not all-inclusive; while many things will be covered by your cruise fare, not everything is. One of the things you’ll need to pay extra for is dining in a speciality restaurant.

Suggested read: 5 Best All-Inclusive Honeymoon Cruises

That doesn’t mean you should avoid it, as these restaurants are normally quieter (ideal for a honeymoon) and they have a more premium menu. The main dining room menu is still excellent, but at these restaurants, you can sample some truly special options that are befitting a honeymoon cruise.

honeymooners eating at Speciality restaurant on a Carnival ship

9. You Can Get a Portrait Photo To Commemorate Your Honeymoon

There are official photographers on any cruise that will offer to take your photo for you – you need to pay for the service, but at least you get a professional-quality photo to commemorate your cruise.

So why not pay the extra to enjoy this on your honeymoon? The photos will make a great appendix for your wedding album, after all.

10. There Are Couples’ Massages Available for Shared Experiences

What’s better than treating your partner to a luxurious massage at the spa, where they can truly relax and have their stresses almost pushed out of them by a trained masseuse? Joining them for one at the same time, of course.

Couples’ massages are available at the spa on any Carnival cruise, meaning you don’t need to spend time away from your new spouse while you both benefit from the soothing experience. You both deserve it, so why not?

couple having a massage on a Carnival cruise ship

11. Room Service Is Available 24/7

Sometimes on a honeymoon, you don’t want to get dressed and go exploring the ship – and that’s fine. Sometimes you might just prefer to take it easy in your stateroom and enjoy some quiet, quality time together.

So it’s good to know that room service is available 24/7 for your Carnival cruise right up to the last night. Have a lazy start to the day and order breakfast in bed, or order a bottle of fizz for your cosy evening together. It’s your honeymoon, so do it your way.

couple having breakfast in bed on honeymoon on a Carnival cruise

12. Carnival WiFi Can Be Expensive – Which Might Be A Good Thing

It can be tempting to always stay connected to the outside world through the internet. Especially once you’ve just got married, you might want to check in to see which photos your guests have been posting of your big day.

But to be honest, Carnival WiFi can be pretty expensive, since you need to pay for it for the entire cruise. It’s not the most expensive of any other cruise line – compared to others, it’s not too bad – but you might not want to pay $100+ to get online during your cruise.

So maybe don’t? It’s up to you, but a honeymoon cruise is the perfect time to disconnect and just enjoy each other’s company.

13. Take Time To Unwind In The Serenity Retreat

The one important thing to consider when choosing Carnival for your honeymoon cruise is that this is a family-friendly cruise line, and so there might be a lot of kids running around and enjoying their break too.

But every ship in the Carnival fleet has a Serenity Retreat, which is an adults-only space where you can escape for a little while if things do get a bit noisy. It’s definitely the place to be on a honeymoon.

If you’re among the 66% of cruisers who want kids banned from hot tubs, then the Serenity area is just perfect for you!

14. Your Waiters Might Sing To You At Dinner

Just a heads up – some people have reported that their waiting staff have sung to them when they’ve discovered it’s their honeymoon. You might think this is cute, or you might be mortified – so be careful who you tell!

happy couple on honeymoon on Carnival ship

The Bottom Line

Knowing these tips and details about honeymoon cruises will help you have the best time when you sail with Carnival. You’ll get married, have the best day ever, and then have an incredible cruise waiting to receive you.

But have you considered other cruise lines as well? You might have assumed Carnival was the best, but there may be others that could be a great choice too. It’s definitely worth checking those out before you make your decision.

If you’re not 100% set on a Carnival cruise, I suggest that you check out my next article – 5 Amazing Cruise Lines For The Perfect Honeymoon Getaway.

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Everything You Need To Know About Cordelia Cruises

April 27, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cordelia Cruise Lines Cruise News

Cordelia Cruises may not be the most famous name in the world of cruising, but it might just be one of the most interesting new cruise companies to have started operating in the last few years.

Based in India, Cordelia is carving out a unique space with coastal adventures around India and Sri Lanka, and a growing fanbase that’s only getting stronger.

They may be new, but their ambitions are big – and their future looks seriously exciting for anyone craving a different kind of cruise.

Cordelia Cruises’ Ships – The Fleet Is Growing!

Cordelia Cruises launched with just one ship, but things are changing! They’re a relatively new company and the first sailing of a Cordelia Cruise ship was in September 2021.

The Cordelia Cruise ship is known as ‘Empress’ but it had another life before becoming the first ship in the Cordelia fleet.

The ship was first launched in 1990 by Royal Caribbean International and was named Nordic Empress before being rebranded as Empress of the Seas.

Nordic Empress was the first mainstream cruise ship designed specifically for the 3- and 4-day cruise market and this ties in nicely with the short holidays that are being offered by Cordelia Cruises.

Empress of the Seas was purchased by Cordelia Cruises in December 2020. As well as changing the name to simply Empress, the ship underwent an extensive refurbishment and now has a huge Cordelia Cruises logo on her hull.

The next ships

While the Cordelia Cruise fleet is currently just one ship, the company has intentions to expand in the near future. They originally announced plans to invest over US$ 1 billion by 2025 in order to acquire at least another three cruise ships.

However, things shifted slightly, but in April 2025 it was announced that the cruise line had paid for two ships on a long-term charter, assumed to lead to an outright purchase. These are Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, which will join the fleet in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

The company hopes to take advantage of huge projected growth in the cruise industry over the next decade and has plenty of opportunities for expansion given that India has the world’s 3rd-largest coastline of over 7500 km (4660 miles).

Cordelia was the first Indian cruise brand to set sail internationally when it first sailed to Sri Lanka in June 2023. Cordelia has positioned itself as a direct competitor to Costa Cruises, the Italian cruise line that homeports annually in Mumbai.

It plans to take advantage of India’s huge coastline and turn the country into a global cruise destination and has already announced new routes to Dubai and the Middle East.

Cordelia Dining

When you travel with Cordelia Cruises, the fare includes complimentary dining for all of your meals in either of the main restaurants on the ship – Starlight and Food Court. Both of these restaurants offer more than 15 types of cuisine.

The food onboard is tailored to the primarily Indian clientele and is designed with the tastes and preferences of Indian travellers in mind.

All food served on board is Halal and no beef or pork is cooked on the ship. There are also vegetarian options and Jain food at all of the restaurants.

If you want to eat at the specialty dining restaurants – Chopstix & International Grill – you will need to pay extra.

To see what lunch is like on Coredial Cruises, take a look at this video…

Drinks are not included

Drinks are not free on Cordelia Cruises. You will need to pay for your own drinks whether they are alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

In your cabin, you’ll be given some complimentary bottles of water. How many you get will depend on the ticket that you have purchased. Standard passengers get 1 litre of water included per person per day while Upper get three 500ml bottles each day. Premier passengers can enjoy four 500ml bottles of water each day.

If you need more water than this you can buy bottles of water for Rs.100 or drink the desalinated water provided free in the restaurants.

Departure Ports

Most Cordelia Cruises depart from Mumbai but it’s also possible to travel from Chennai, Kochi and Goa.

The most frequent voyage you can take with Cordelia Cruises leaves from Mumbai. The ship will call at places like Lakshadweep, Kochi and Goa.

At certain times of the year (June-September), the Empress relocates to Chennai where it embarks on International cruises to Sri Lanka.

Itineraries

At the moment you are able to visit various ports in India on a Cordelia Cruise, as well as take a trip to Sri Lanka. Some of the places that you can visit include:

Lakshadweep is a beautiful archipelago of coral atolls and islands nestled in the Arabian Sea. This tropical paradise is known for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and rich marine life.

The islands are great for activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking. The rich marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes make Lakshadweep a diver’s paradise.

Kochi (Cochin) is a vibrant city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It’s a melting pot of cultures, with eclectic architecture that has been influenced by its colonial past.

You’ll find ancient churches, synagogues, and Portuguese and Dutch-inspired buildings alongside bustling markets and modern infrastructure.

Goa, on the western coast of India, is famous for its vibrant beach parties, rich culture, and laid-back atmosphere.

This stunning coastline along the Arabian Sea boasts a mix of pristine beaches, historic temples, and bustling markets.

Hambantota is a bustling port city on the southern coast of Sri Lanka it is the perfect place for Cordelia Cruises to visit thanks to having one of the largest and busiest deep-water ports in Sri Lanka.

The city has some really interesting temples, ruins and traditional festivals. It’s also surrounded by natural beauty, with picturesque beaches, lush wetlands, the famous Yala National Park where you can spot diverse wildlife, including leopards and elephants.

Trincomalee is a coastal city situated on the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its stunning natural harbour, one of the largest and deepest in the world, and its pristine beaches, such as Nilaveli and Uppuveli.

The city has some ancient temples, including Koneswaram Temple, which is right by the sea. The warm waters of Trincomalee are good for water sports, whale watching, and dolphin spotting.

Since June 2024 Cordelia Cruises began a series of cruises to Dubai and the Middle East. These cruises will sail from Mumbai initially but there will also be the opportunity to take short round-trip cruises from Dubai visiting places like Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, Oman, Bahrain, and Qatar.

If you fancy a longer cruise there will be a 12-day option that departs from Dubai, sails down the west coast of India, visits Sri Lanka and ends its voyage in Chennai.

Cordelia Cruises Owners

Cordelia Cruises is owned by Waterways Leisure Tourism Private Ltd. This is a private company registered in Delhi, India.

The directors of Waterways Leisure Tourism Private Limited are listed as Nilesh Madhukar Chandole and Aditya Gupta.

Mr. Jurgen Bailom is the President and CEO of Waterways Leisure Tourism. He has a wealth of experience in the cruise industry which he has used to successfully launch a new cruise experience in India.

He played an important role in the selection of the first ship, its refurbishment, and developing an experience tailored to the needs of Indian travellers. For example, cruises include celebrations of Navratri and Diwali on board the Empress, along with cuisine and entertainment tailored to Indian tastes.

Accommodations Onboard

There are a few different room types on a Cordelia Cruise. Of course, they come with different price tags attached. Here is a quick overview of the different types of room that you can choose onboard the Empress…

Interior Stateroom

The Interior Staterooms are the most budget-friendly option but include everything you need with a bathroom, television, safe and twin beds that can be converted to a queen size bed.

Oceanview Stateroom

These private and cosy cabins are similar to the Interior Stateroom but have an all-important sea view! If you worry about feeling claustrophobic in a windowless room, then paying extra for a window can be worth it.

Mini Suite

This room is a bit more luxurious with a private balcony for you to sit back and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean. There are no standard balcony cabins on Cordelia Cruises ship, so if you want outside space, then a Mini Suite is the entry grade.

Suite

Things take a step up in luxuriousness with the Suites and Chairman’s suite. Both of these come with a range of extra perks:

Priority embarkation and disembarkation
Porter services
Sparkling wine and fruit basket
Complimentary WiFi
Complimentary laundry
Reserved section at the theatre
Complimentary Bridge Tour
Butler service
Breakfast & lunch at the specialty restaurant
Evening cocktais with the Captain

The Chairman’s Suite is the best room on the ship with a living room, a private dining area, a private sun-deck balcony and even a Jacuzzi!

Cordelia Cruises – Cost

The cost of a Cordelia Cruise will vary depending on the length of the cruise that you choose to go on and on the class of cabin. At the time of writing, it’s possible to take a 2-night cruise for Rs 52,496 (approx 630 USD). This price covers two people so it’s around $150 USD per person per night.

It’s always worth keeping an eye out for the latest offers which you can find on the Cordelia Cruises promotion page.

They have a wide range of deals like kids go free, 5 nights for the price of 4, and free room upgrades so it’s worth having a look at what kind of deals you are able to take advantage of.

How to Book Cordelia Cruises

The best way to book Cordelia Cruises is directly with the company itself. They have an easy-to-use website that allows you to search upcoming cruises based upon a number of handy filters like departure location, date or destination.

It’s also possible to book using various travel agents like Thomas Cook India or Akbar Travels. It’s always a good idea to compare prices from a few different places before committing to purchase your cruise.

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Most people who have travelled with Cordelia Cruises have enjoyed their experience. From over 1,100 Google reviews, the cruise liner gets an average of 4 out of 5 stars.

People generally enjoy the atmosphere on board, like the food and feel that the experience is luxurious.

The most common complaints are to do with the lack of free water, the fact many onboard activities are chargeable, the expensive internet or to do with itinerary changes. Some people also feel that the ship is showing its age.

Bottom Line

So there you have it! Hopefully, this post has told you all you need to know about Cordelia Cruises. It’s an exciting new cruising option and they clearly have big plans for expansion in the future.

It’s great to see new areas of the world opening up to cruise ships and Cordelia Cruises offers a particularly good cruise option for anyone who lives in India.

Cordelia Cruises has only been going for three years but has quickly expanded its route option and it seems like the next few years will see even more options added.

So, If you have ever wanted to explore India’s coast by cruise ship then Cordelia Cruises may well be the way to go.

Medical Staff Are Required On Most Ships

Any cruise line that is a part of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is required to have medical staff on board that meet the guidelines of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP).

medical check-up with doctor on cruise ship

This only applies if the ship has more than 100 passengers, though – otherwise, it is not a requirement. In most cases, even small ships will have someone medically trained on board, particularly as they often sail to more remote destinations.

The requirements also state that medical care must be available 24/7 and that the medical staff must be proficient in the dominant language spoken on the ship.

So, all cruise ships with at least 100 passengers on board will have a doctor trained in emergency care. Smaller ships can vary, but most will still employ at least one medical professional, as they have a duty of care to their passengers.

To put it bluntly, it would cost a cruise line a lot more money if they were sued for negligence than it would to employ a doctor, which is why most small ships will still have a doctor or nurse on-board.

But larger ships will have a team of doctors to keep everyone on board safe.

There Won’t Be An Extensive Team

Typically, a cruise ship will have two doctors onboard, or at least one doctor and one nurse. A senior doctor will be primarily responsible for the passengers, while a junior doctor or nurse will care for the staff and cover the senior doctor when needed. Larger ships may have more doctors.

Not every cruise line publishes the exact number of doctors on board, but Royal Caribbean is a good guideline since they own the largest ships in the sea. The cruise line states that there will be one to three doctors on board, as well as three to five nurses.

Doctors are available 24/7, but as you’d expect (especially on ships with only one doctor), they won’t always be found in the medical station. They need to sleep, too! Typically, a doctor will have two open-door surgeries during the day, one every morning and one every afternoon.

For the rest of the time, they’ll be on call. You’ll be able to speak to a member of the crew who will be able to page the doctor, and they will return to the medical station to see you.

If you, unfortunately, fall very ill and you can’t leave your stateroom, the doctor will be able to visit you.

Cruise Ship Doctors Are on Call 24/7

On one of my cruises, my mum suffered an injury and needed to see an emergency doctor at 11 pm. The waiter who was first on the scene called the medical department, who called the ship’s night-time supervisor.

When she arrived, she called the on-call paramedic, who was woken up and arrived with a wheelchair.

Once we were taken to the medical centre, the paramedic assessed the wound and called for the doctor, who was also asleep at the time. They warned us beforehand that there would be an extra charge as it was out of hours.

Don’t Expect a Full Hospital Onboard

There is no such thing as a cruise ship hospital, really. The ships will have a medical area but it will be one or two rooms at most. If a guest is seriously injured, they will be airlifted off the ship to be transported to a hospital.

Otherwise, if a guest is unwell but doesn’t need emergency hospital treatment, they’ll be asked to remain in their cruise stateroom until they can be disembarked for transport to hospital on land.

airlift to hospital from a cruise ship — Photo: Gary Bodenham

The Types of Doctors Onboard

Doctors on cruise ships are classified as emergency physicians. This means they are trained in emergency care, but they will also cover family and internal medicine. Ships that allow children will also employ doctors certified in paediatric care.

Cruise ship doctors are certainly talented – they aren’t the typical doctor you would see for regular appointments. As well as diagnosis, they must also be trained in cardiovascular treatments (including advanced trauma life support), sedation, and minor surgery too.

This makes them closer to the doctors who would treat you in an emergency department of a hospital.

There’s a lot that can happen at sea, and you might be a few days’ travel from the nearest hospital. But you can’t be expected to be airlifted to land for a minor to medium injury – that’s only for patients whose life is at risk.

This means cruise ship doctors must be capable of a lot of treatments to keep you safe.

What Cruise Doctors Do

Cruise ship doctors have a number of responsibilities, including diagnosing passengers who have a bacterial or viral infection (and recommending quarantine if needed), minor surgical procedures, stabilization, emergency trauma treatment and more.

There’s no ‘typical’ day for a cruise ship doctor. One day, they might see five people complaining about seasickness, and the next, there might be a passenger with a medical emergency like a heart attack or stroke that requires urgent care until they can be transferred to the hospital.

Accidents are rare at sea, but can sometimes happen at port – especially if you take part in any active shore excursions and don’t heed the safety advice! So, cruise ship doctors might also offer treatments for sprains and minor fractures.

And when we say that cruise ship doctors are required for minor surgery, this doesn’t mean anything big – examples from job descriptions include the removal of foreign objects and the stitching of cuts.

Oh, and it’s worth pointing out that senior doctors on a cruise ship are officers – and so another duty is to attend gala parties and other officer-level events as they are able to. That doesn’t mean you can walk up to them and ask about your ingrown toenail at a party though!

Cruise Doctor Costs

You do have to pay to see a doctor on a cruise ship. Essential treatment is normally covered by your travel insurance, but it’s important that you check your policy for any exclusions. Normally, you have to pay upfront for treatment and then claim it back from your insurance.

This can be stressful since you might get a large bill, but it’s the way it works with most medical insurance. The cruise line will assist you if you need to speak to family members or your bank to arrange a loan in the case of serious treatment that costs a lot.

My Recommendation

My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.

These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.

What You Should Expect To Pay

Costs to see a doctor vary by cruise line, but expect to pay around $100 for a consultation during office hours. You may pay more for a visit outside of opening times and more again for a visit to your stateroom. Treatments then cost more, too.

Cruise ships do have a pharmacy on board, stocked with various medications that you can purchase if they are needed. Some cruise ships will give out anti-seasickness medication for free (although you may need to pay for the consultation with the doctor first if you need the seasickness injection).

If you just need seasickness tablets, you can get these from the medical centre on board. There may be a small change, but in rough seas, the seasickness medication is usually given out free of charge.

Medical treatments on cruise ships can be costly – if you need an x-ray, it will likely cost between $100 and $150.

Life-saving treatment can cost thousands of dollars, and if you need to be airlifted to a hospital, expect it to cost around $20,000, or even into six figures if you’re somewhere remote.

Helicopter Ambulance — Photo: Gary Bodenham

And unfortunately, payment is expected upfront for a lot of these, or at least immediately after treatment, even if your bill rises into the thousands. You can then claim it back from your travel insurance or health insurance (or a combination of both), depending on where you live and where you are treated.

No cruise ship would allow someone to die or be seriously ill without treating them, but if you can’t pay immediately then they will start to ask you for payment information as soon as you are recovered/stable.

Antibiotic Prescriptions

Cruise ship doctors can prescribe antibiotics, so if they deem you have an infection then they can provide you with the medication immediately. If you are already taking antibiotics but lose your tablets, you can get replacements from the ship’s medical centre but expect to pay for a consultation and your tablets too.

One common illness that requires antibiotics and can seriously ruin a vacation is a tooth infection or abscess. And while cruise ships don’t have a dentist on board, a doctor can at least prescribe the antibiotics needed to kill off the infection, ready for you to receive the necessary treatment after your cruise ends.

How To Become a Cruise Ship Doctor

If you want to become a cruise ship doctor, you’re going to need at least three years’ experience as a doctor, including experience working in primary and emergency care, with some anaesthetics experience too.

The best background would be an emergency doctor, but if you’ve only worked in primary care then you can seek to gain the necessary experience in emergency and anaesthetics through other means too.

If you have the experience, then it’s worth getting in touch with cruise lines directly. They will advertise positions on their own websites, but with medical positions being rare, it’s a good idea to register your interest early – the cruise line will normally then contact you first when a position opens up.

Learn more about cruise ship doctor salaries and benefits here, and if you want to apply then start contacting those cruise lines!

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Massive Brawl Breaks Out In Cruise Terminal After Caribbean Cruise

April 27, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines

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A massive brawl broke out at the Galveston Cruise Terminal today as first reported by the Crew Center. Reports indicate the fight began in the luggage pickup area, where guests disembarked from the cruise ship, Carnival Jubilee. It has just returned from a 7-day round-tip cruise to the Western Caribbean.

Disturbing Cruise Terminal Fight Footage

The footage available shows a large group of people actively chasing after another group of at least two men, as kids and other passengers are nearby watching the violent scene unfold. A security officer is seen running accross the terminal but, is almost helpless due to the size and choatic movement of the crowd. As we reviewed the footage you can seem him shouting at the crowd, without also becoming a victim himself. What appears to be two police officers are seen approaching the opposite side, also attempt break up the fight but, are visibly pushed back during the scuffle, actively attempting to gain contol of the situation as best they can.

The number of people involved is overwhleming due to them all being active participants, even if they are only using their bodies to create a circle and shielding the active participants who are actively punching and kicking the victims, who appear to be on the floor later in the video.

It May Have Started Onboard

Cruise Center reported that fellow passengers had posted in the Facebook group “COPs – Cruisers Opinion Page,” where one guest stated that altercations had already occurred during the cruise. These reportedly had happened on both Decks 4 and 10 of the Carnival Jubilee, with mention of property damage on Deck 10.

It is not known, if the people in this cruise terminal video footage are the same individuals involved in the onboard disturbances.

We have not found any official statement from local authorities regarding any arrests or injuries from the incident.

Watch the video of the massive brawl at the Galveston Cruise Terminal here:

Sadly, this is the second violence related cruise story recently. Yesterday we reported that, “Man Violently Beaten Unconscious After Requesting Teens Stop Jumping Elevator“.

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Cruise Passenger Gives Warning After Only Just Making It Back To Her Ship

April 26, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

A packed day of sightseeing and shopping almost ended in disaster for two cruise passengers who found themselves racing against the clock to avoid missing their ship in Vietnam.

Cruise influencer shares story of almost missing the ship

TikTok creator Ali Smith (@alismithhhh) shared a two-minute video with her 413,400 followers on 22nd April 2025, capturing the frantic moments she and her friend Sam scrambled to return to Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas before it departed.

The clip, which has now been viewed over 234,000 times, begins with the pair running frantically and Ali exclaiming, “Oh, we might not make it back to the port!”

In a recap, Ali explained how their day took a turn for the stressful. Sailing aboard the 4,905-passenger ship, the pair had docked in Ho Chi Minh City on 15th April 2025.

With the ship scheduled to leave at 8 pm – and passengers required to be back aboard by around 7:15 pm to 7:30 pm – they assumed they had plenty of time for an excursion into the city.

After a 90-minute car journey inland, they spent the day exploring, shopping, and sampling local cuisine. However, when 4:30 p.m. rolled around, instead of beginning their return trip, Ali and Sam opted to continue shopping.

@alismithhhh Replying to @Yuna I always said I would NEVER be a pier runner!! 🤡🤡 #royalcaribbean #cruiseship #vietnam #hochiminh #travelvlog #cruisetips #cruisehack #cruisevlogs #cruisevlog #cruisetok #royalcaribbeanaunz #anthemoftheseas #pierrunner ♬ original sound – Ali Smith

This decision quickly led to panic. Their GPS soon showed that, due to heavy traffic and an accident blocking a key road, the journey back to the port would now take almost two hours – far longer than they could afford.

Thinking quickly, Ali found an alternative route for their driver to bypass the worst of the congestion. They managed to board a shuttle bus back to the port and arrived just in time, alongside other late-running passengers.

Reflecting on the experience, Ali admitted, “In hindsight, this was a very bad decision… we will never cut it that close again.”

Responses to the video were mixed, with some commenters warning that relying on private transport instead of official cruise excursions carries significant risk.

Anthem of the Seas: Wrapping Up an Era in Asia

Ali’s near miss came during a particularly notable voyage: one of the last times Anthem of the Seas would sail in Asia before repositioning to North America.

The 168,666-gross-ton ship set off from Singapore on 13th April 2025 for a 12-night itinerary, visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Keelung in China, and Jeju Island in South Korea, before finishing in Tokyo on 25th April.

Following disembarkation in Tokyo, the ship will immediately begin a repositioning cruise, calling at three more Japanese ports before crossing the Pacific Ocean to Seattle, Washington.

There, Anthem of the Seas will operate cruises through the Pacific Northwest until September 2025, after which it will reposition once again to Australia for the 2025–26 summer season.

Unknowingly, Ali’s adventure took place during a historic moment, marking the ship’s farewell to Asia for the foreseeable future – making the experience even more memorable despite the last-minute stress.

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Thousands of cruisers booked on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore for spring 2026 received disappointing news this week: their voyage has been cancelled to accommodate a newly scheduled dry dock. The…

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MSC Cancels Cruise After Scheduling New Dry Dock

April 26, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Thousands of cruisers booked on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore for spring 2026 received disappointing news this week: their voyage has been cancelled to accommodate a newly scheduled dry dock.

The 4,500-guest Seaside EVO-class ship, which first entered service in 2021, will undergo a two-week maintenance period beginning in late March 2026, the cruise line announced in a notice to guests.

The cancelled voyage, originally scheduled to depart 5th April 2026, from Port Canaveral for the Bahamas, falls within the dry dock period.

The 170,412-gross-ton MSC Seashore will complete a 3-night Caribbean and Bahamas cruise on 29th March, 2026, before heading into shipyard maintenance, and is expected to return to service for an 11-night sailing departing 19th April 2026.

“Due to the scheduled maintenance, it is with deep regret that we inform you that your sailing has been cancelled,

“We understand how disappointing this news is, especially since you were looking forward to your vacation with us. Please accept our sincere apology for this cancellation and the disruption to your travel plans.”

MSC communication sent to passengers

Guests impacted by the cancellation have been offered two options: a full refund of the cruise fare paid or the opportunity to transfer their booking to another MSC Cruises voyage.

Travellers are allowed to choose any sailing to any destination, with no change fees applied, although replacement sailings could carry higher fares.

More Options for Port Canaveral Cruisers

Guests looking to sail from Port Canaveral still have plenty of choices.

MSC Cruises recently announced that the 4,800-passenger MSC Grandiosa will homeport at Port Canaveral for the winter 2025-26 season – the ship’s first deployment in North America.

The vessel will offer 7-night itineraries to both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, expanding the line’s Florida-based offerings.

MSC Seashore’s deployment to Port Canaveral in 2023 was notable as the first time a Seaside EVO-class ship had been based at the Central Florida port, a key gateway to Orlando’s popular theme parks.

Advance Notice Gives Guests Time to Rebook

While cruise cancellations are always frustrating, the nearly year-long notice for MSC Seashore’s dry dock gives guests ample time to adjust travel plans, rebook flights, or explore other cruise options.

This contrasts sharply with a more recent disruption: MSC Cruises recently cancelled the 11th May 11 2025 sailing of MSC Meraviglia from New York’s Brooklyn Cruise Terminal with just three weeks’ notice, citing urgent propulsion system repairs.

In that case, passengers were offered refunds, onboard credits, and future cruise credits as compensation.

Dry docks are a routine part of cruise ship operations, allowing for structural maintenance, refurbishments of public spaces, updates to guest accommodations, and upgrades to mechanical systems. But typically, cruise lines will schedule them and then make sure not to offer cruises for those dates.

Guests returning to MSC Seashore after her dry dock can expect refreshed dining and lounge venues, updated staterooms, and overall enhancements to the shipboard experience.

Bookings for MSC Seashore’s post-dry dock voyages, including her 19th April 2026 sailing, remain open.

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Man Violently Beaten Unconscious After Requesting Teens Stop Jumping Elevator

April 26, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines

On April 25, 2025, a violent incident occurred aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas, leading to the arrest of an 18-year-old passenger, Michael White, from Siler City, North Carolina. This event, which occurred during a cruise to the Bahamas, has raised significant concerns aboat passenger safety while cruising.

Details of the Assault

The altercation involved Michael White and a group of others who assaulted another passenger, leaving the victim unconscious.

According to local news reports and the Broward Sheriff’s Office, the incident took place last Thursday while Liberty of the Seas was at sea.

The Broward County Sheriff’s Office arrest report detailed a violent encounter in and around an elevator aboard Liberty of the Seas. During an elevator ride, a couple of passengers asked a group of teenagers and young men to “stop jumping up and down on the elevator” which was causing it to sway while in motion.

The report indicated this caused the group to reply, “Bitch, who are you talking to?”

When the elevator reached the eighth floor and stopped, the couple tried to exit the elevator but were assaulted

“Once (the victim) got out, he said he started getting struck by individuals in the face area, causing him to stagger backward. After staggering backward, he fell to the floor and that’s when he started getting kicked. Also, at this point, (the victim) said he blacked out and the next thing he knew, he woke up in a pool of blood on the floor.”

CUFFED AFTER CRUISE: A North Carolina man is facing a felony charge in South Florida after they said he joined others in beating and bloodying a fellow cruise passenger to the point of unconsciousness over an elevator dispute. https://t.co/0HgG5Dbkj5

— WPLG Local 10 News (@WPLGLocal10) April 23, 2025

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

Upon the ship’s return to Port Everglades, Broward County police boarded the vessel and arrested Michael White, charging him with aggravated battery causing bodily harm, which is a felony charge.

The Broward County Sheriff’s Office records indicate he was released from jail sometime this past Saturday on a $5,000 bond.

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Adventure of the Seas Cruise Directors

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1. Comfortable Shoes For Shore Excursions

2. Water Shoes For The Beach

3. Flip-Flops For The Pool

4. Dressy Evening Shoes

5. Casual Evening Shoes

6. Running Shoes For The Gym

Final Word

TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!

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The Legal Part

Certain Cruise Lines Offer Weddings Officiated By The Captain

Azamara Cruises Weddings

Carnival Cruise Weddings

Celebrity Cruises Weddings

Cunard Weddings

Princess Cruises Weddings

Royal Caribbean Weddings

How to Get Married By a Ship’s Captain

1. Research Your Cruise Line

2. Check Suitable Dates And Itineraries

3. Call The Cruise Line To Book

4. Prepare Documentation

5. Don’t Forget Your Regular Wedding Planning!

Final Word

TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!

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1. Carnival Lets You Set Up A Gift Registry For Your Cruise

2. You Can Pre-Order Gifts For Your Stateroom With Carnival

3. Buy A Drinks Package So You Can Fully Relax

4. Consider Upgrading To A Suite

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5. Choose One Of The Newer Carnival Ships For The Best Experience

6. Plan Your Days Ashore In Advance

7. Don’t Wear Pineapple Print During Your Cruise!

8. Treat Yourself (And Your Partner) To Speciality Dining Reservations

9. You Can Get a Portrait Photo To Commemorate Your Honeymoon

10. There Are Couples’ Massages Available for Shared Experiences

11. Room Service Is Available 24/7

12. Carnival WiFi Can Be Expensive – Which Might Be A Good Thing

13. Take Time To Unwind In The Serenity Retreat

14. Your Waiters Might Sing To You At Dinner

The Bottom Line

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