Costa Cruises, one of eight cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation, has kicked off an early Labor Day Sale on cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Canary Islands.
Costa Toscana, the newest ship in Costa’s fleet. Photo: Cruise Fever
This latest sale from Costa Cruises offers free balcony upgrades for the price of ocean-view cabins if you book by September 13, 2026.
This offer is good on week-long sailings that depart from August 2026 through April 2027.
Featured itineraries are offered across six ships, including flagships Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda, as well as Costa Deliziosa, Costa Fascinosa, Costa Favolosa, and Costa Pacifica.
300 different sailings on Costa Cruises are included in this sale, including the following itineraries:
Costa Toscana departs roundtrip from Barcelona, Spain, to the western Mediterranean, visiting Palma, Spain; Palermo, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Savona, Italy; and Marseille, France.
Costa Smeralda departs roundtrip from Barcelona, visiting Cagliari, Palermo, Civitavecchia (Rome) and Savona, Italy; and Marseille.
Costa Favolosa departs roundtrip from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and calls at St. John’s, Antigua; Fort-de-France, Martinique; Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe; Basseterre, St. Kitts; and Philipsburg, St. Martin.
Costa Fascinosa sails roundtrip from La Romana, Dominican Republic, and calls at Catalina Island, Samaná and Puerto Plata, all in the Dominican Republic; Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos; and Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.
Costa Smeralda explores the Canary Islands, cruising roundtrip from Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de la Palma, with calls at Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Funchal.
Priscilla Reyes, head of sales for Costa Cruises North America, gave the following statement:
“Our Labor Day Sale delivers an elevated vacation at an exceptional value. Guests have the opportunity to experience Costa’s signature Italian-style cruising on itineraries that span some of our most popular regions. The Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Canary Islands are fantastic off-season destinations, offering ideal temperatures and less crowds, making now the perfect time to take advantage of Costa’s Labor Day Sale savings.”
Costa Toscana
This sale is open to residents of North America. For complete terms and details of Costa’s Labor Day Sale, contact your preferred travel advisor, visit CostaCruises.com, or call reservations at 800-462-6782.
Costa Cruises is an Italian-based cruise line, and they have been sailing for more than 75 years. They currently have nine ships in their fleet, offering cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and the United Arab Emirates.
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Cruisers are a friendly bunch… right up until someone saves six sunbeds with a pair of flip-flops and disappears for three hours.
Spend enough time at sea and you start noticing the little things people do that quietly drive everyone else mad. Some are annoying. Some are baffling. A few should probably be banned altogether, or at least that’s what people will say!
And while nobody likes to admit they complain onboard, cruise passengers can turn almost anything into a heated debate by day three…
1. Chair Hogs at Sunrise
There’s something that’s actually almost impressive about the dedication of cruise chair hogs!
While most passengers are still asleep, these determined early risers are already marching onto the pool deck at dawn, strategically placing towels, books and the occasional lonely flip-flop across an entire row of loungers.
The real frustration isn’t just the saved chairs – it’s that half of them stay empty until lunchtime. Because once they’ve reserved their loungers, those cruisers will nip back to bed, or go enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or even head ashore if the ship’s in port!
Cruise lines constantly threaten crackdowns, but the towel wars continue on practically every sailing. Nothing sparks passive-aggressive muttering faster than watching somebody stroll back to their “reserved” lounger four hours later with zero shame whatsoever.
Cruise ships somehow turn perfectly normal adults into people who abruptly stop in the middle of walkways like they’ve hit an invisible forcefield.
Maybe they’re checking the daily planner. Maybe they’re deciding where to eat. Maybe they’ve spotted a friend three decks away. Whatever the reason, there’s always somebody causing a human traffic jam outside the buffet entrance.
The problem gets even worse on mega ships where thousands of passengers are all trying to move around at once. Suddenly one family stopping side-by-side becomes the maritime version of a motorway pile-up.
Bonus annoyance points if they stop directly outside an elevator. Those guys are awesome…
3. Buffet Queue Jumpers
Cruise buffets can sometimes feel like fascinating social experiments. Most passengers politely shuffle along, waiting their turn for scrambled eggs or roast potatoes. Then there’s always one person who treats the whole thing like supermarket sweep.
Queue jumpers appear from nowhere. They squeeze into tiny gaps. They hover awkwardly beside trays waiting for fresh food to arrive before anyone else can grab it.
And somehow, despite buffet layouts being almost identical across cruise lines, there’s always confusion about where the queue actually starts.
I don’t actually mind a queue-jumper if they’re just nipping in for one or two items. After all, the queue for the bacon my stetch right past the mushrooms, so if you just want mushrooms, go for it. As long as you’re respectful and don’t aggressively push in!
4. Loud Balcony Neighbours
Balconies are supposed to be peaceful little private escapes. But there’s often a decent chance your neighbours will treat theirs like an all-night pub garden.
Some passengers genuinely seem unaware that sound travels incredibly easily between balconies. Conversations, phone calls, music and drunken late-night chats drift straight through the partitions.
Then there are the smokers who technically aren’t supposed to be smoking out there, but somehow think nobody notices. We do notice, though.
The worst offenders are the groups who decide midnight is the perfect time for balcony drinks and storytelling. Lovely for them. Less lovely for the people next door trying to sleep before an early excursion.
Cruise ship elevators bring out survival instincts nobody knew they had.
You’ll wait patiently for several minutes watching full lifts arrive one after another while people inside refuse to move an inch away from the buttons. Then finally one arrives with space for three people… and somehow eight still attempt to squeeze in.
There’s also an unwritten battle over whether to wait or simply take the stairs. On sea days especially, elevators become strangely emotional places.
And somehow there’s always one child repeatedly pressing every single deck button while their parents stare into the middle distance pretending not to notice.
One complaint that is definitely justified though – those people who try to cram into an elevator before letting people get off. Just wait 10 seconds!
6. Theatre Seat Savers
Saving one extra theatre seat for your partner? Fair enough.
Saving twelve seats with cardigans, handbags and cocktails while your entire group finishes dinner elsewhere? Straight to cruise jail.
The pre-show scramble in cruise theatres can get surprisingly intense, especially on newer ships with popular productions, or on ships where the theatres aren’t the biggest. People arrive ridiculously early to claim prime spots, only to defend entire empty rows like security guards.
It becomes even more irritating when late arrivals expect everyone to shuffle around mid-performance so their giant group can sit together. Or worse is when they don’t turn up, leaving the seats empty when others have had to miss out!
Nobody wants to become territorial over seats on holiday. And yet somehow cruise entertainment has a magical ability to turn grown adults feral.
7. Kids Treating the Ship Like a Playground
Most kids onboard are absolutely fine. You barely notice them. Then there are the ones sprinting through corridors at full speed at midnight while slamming cabin doors hard enough to shake neighbouring walls.
Cruise ships naturally give children freedom they don’t usually get at home, which is partly why families love cruising. But occasionally that freedom turns into total chaos while exhausted parents quietly give up trying to intervene. Or they just don’t seem to care at all in the first place.
Stairwells become playgrounds. Elevators become amusement rides. Hot tubs become unofficial swimming lessons.
Nobody expects children to sit silently all cruise long. But there’s definitely a line between “having fun” and “running completely wild across Deck 12”.
8. People Using Speakerphone by the Pool
For reasons science may never fully explain, some cruise passengers genuinely believe the entire pool deck wants to hear their video call.
Maybe it’s a friend back home. Maybe it’s somebody loudly discussing dinner plans. Either way, nobody relaxing beside the pool needs accidental front-row access to someone else’s conversation.
Music played through phone speakers is equally bad. Especially when several people decide to do it at once, creating a strange overlapping soundtrack of dance music, TikTok clips and muffled FaceTime calls.
Cruise ships already have enough background noise without passengers personally contributing to it through terrible phone speakers.
Headphones exist for a reason, people.
9. Unlimited Drink Package Behaviour
Drink packages can absolutely be worth it. Unfortunately they also inspire some truly fascinating behaviour by day two.
Suddenly passengers who barely drink at home become determined to “get their money’s worth” from sunrise cocktails onwards. Pool bars turn chaotic. Frozen drinks appear before breakfast. Somebody always ends up loudly insisting they’re “not even tipsy” while walking sideways.
Most people on a cruise handle drink packages perfectly responsibly. But every cruise has at least a few passengers treating the unlimited cocktails like an Olympic endurance challenge nobody asked for and it does spoil the fun a bit.
10. Cabin Door Slammers
Cruise cabin doors are surprisingly heavy, and this is something everyone discovers approximately once.
And then there’s those handful of passengers who just never seem to learn.
At all hours of the day and night, corridor silence is interrupted by enormous slams echoing deck after deck. Early risers heading for excursions. Late-night wanderers returning from the casino. Families repeatedly entering and exiting adjoining cabins every five minutes.
It’s one of those cruise annoyances that sounds minor until you’re trying to sleep and the cabin opposite appears determined to recreate a SWAT raid at 6am.
The strange part is that people often don’t realise they’re doing it. Meanwhile half the corridor quietly hates them by day four.
11. People Who Never Wash Their Hands
Cruise ships work incredibly hard to keep passengers healthy, which makes it so frustrating when some people completely ignore basic hygiene.
You know how some cruise lines actually pay people to stand outside a buffet and sing songs encouraging people to wash their hands? How have we got to a place where that person is needed?!
And still, some guests will just confidently stroll straight past. Others somehow leave public toilets without touching a sink once.
Then come the buffet horrors – grabbing pastries with bare hands, touching serving utensils after coughing, or letting children treat food stations like interactive exhibits. Yuck!
Nothing destroys your appetite faster than watching somebody sneeze into their hand before reaching for bread rolls. Cruise passengers love complaining about outbreaks onboard, but sometimes fellow guests are part of the problem.
12. Overcrowded Hot Tubs
Hot tubs onboard always look relaxing in promotional photos but there are never enough hot tubs to go around…
On sea days especially, hot tubs become mysteriously overcrowded from morning onwards. Sometimes they’re packed with loud groups clutching cocktails. Sometimes they’ve been unofficially claimed by children cannonballing endlessly while adults hover awkwardly nearby wondering whether to give up entirely.
And there’s always one person sitting directly beside the jets for two straight hours refusing to move. Which is worrying, when they’re often getting drinks.
How are they going to the bathroom? Oh.
13. Last-Minute Pier Runners
Every cruiser secretly loves watching pier runners. Nobody admits it, but it’s true. It’s properly fun.
There’s always a crowd lining upper decks filming late passengers sprinting dramatically toward the ship while security staff wait impatiently nearby.
To be fair, sometimes delays genuinely aren’t passengers’ fault. Traffic happens. Tours overrun. Ferry schedules collapse. But occasionally you can absolutely tell somebody ignored “all aboard” time because they wanted one final cocktail near the beach.
The reason people complain isn’t just the delay – it’s the stress. Nobody wants to wonder whether departure will be held up because someone lost track of time in Cozumel.
Still, everyone watches. And heaven forbid the pier runner acts like they don’t care. That’s when the booing starts!
14. The WiFi Complaints
Cruise WiFi has improved massively over the past few years, yet complaints about it somehow remain completely undefeated.
Guests expect flawless streaming in the middle of the ocean while thousands of other people attempt exactly the same thing simultaneously. Then outrage erupts when Instagram takes three extra seconds to load.
Older cruise internet packages were genuinely terrible, so some frustration is fair. But modern ships now offer speeds that would’ve seemed impossible not long ago.
Of course, that doesn’t stop people angrily testing connection speeds every hour before announcing to Facebook that “the WiFi onboard is unusable” using the very WiFi they claim doesn’t work.
15. People Wearing Swimwear in the Buffet
There’s always debate around cruise dress codes, but most passengers can agree on one thing – nobody really wants to see dripping swimwear beside the pasta station. This is another gross scenario and yet it happens!
Every sailing has at least a handful of guests wandering into the buffet barefoot and soaking wet straight from the pool deck. Sometimes without cover-ups. Occasionally without much else either.
It’s not about formal rules or being overdressed. It’s more the strange combination of wet swimsuits and self-service food areas that feels slightly chaotic. Crew rarely say much unless somebody pushes it too far, so the silent judging falls entirely to fellow passengers trying to enjoy lunch in peace.
16. Cruise Ducks Everywhere
Cruise ducks somehow became one of cruising’s strangest traditions. Some passengers absolutely love hiding tiny rubber ducks around ships for others to find. Families treat it like a floating treasure hunt. Kids get ridiculously excited spotting them tucked beside artwork or hidden near staircases.
Other passengers absolutely cannot stand them. To critics, cruise ducks are clutter. They create mess. They encourage people to crawl around public areas searching behind decorations like detectives in a crime drama.
The funniest part is how seriously both sides take it. Few cruise topics escalate faster online than innocent little rubber ducks mysteriously dividing the entire cruising community into opposing camps.
I’m fine with the duck craze, personally, though I won’t go out of my way to join in.
17. The Buffet Plate Pile-Up
Cruisers often behave very differently around “included” food, as if they’ve never been full before.
Even people who eat modestly at home suddenly return from evening shows carrying towering late-night buffet plates like they’re preparing for hibernation.
There’s always someone balancing pizza, chips, cake, noodles and ice cream simultaneously despite clearly only wanting half of it. Then tables end up abandoned with mountains of untouched food and melting desserts.
Part of it is excitement, just getting giddy at the variety of options available. Partly it’s the weird cruise mentality that encourages people to maximise absolutely everything. You have to get your money’s worth, right?!
Still, watching enormous amounts of wasted food being cleared away night after night can get surprisingly frustrating after a while. Especially when buffet queues are already packed.
Cruise line excursions regularly trigger the exact same conversation onboard.
“Yes, it’s expensive… but what if we miss the ship?”
Passengers know cruise-sponsored tours offer protection and convenience, but that doesn’t stop the sticker shock when prices appear in the planner. Suddenly a simple beach transfer somehow costs the same as a decent restaurant meal back home.
Then there’s the frustration when excursions feel rushed, overcrowded or overly commercialised once you actually arrive.
I use Shore Excursions Group, because their pricing is often much more competitive than the cruise lines’, and they’ll still always get you back to the ship. They have a guarantee – if you miss the ship, they’ll pay for you to meet it at the next port AND give you $1,000pp as an apology. Almost makes me want to miss the ship!
Save up to 40% on Cruise Excursions!
Choose from over 4,000 excursions with a return-to-ship guarantee
19. Tender Queue Chaos
Tender ports always sound lovely in theory. Small boats ferrying passengers ashore to picturesque destinations feels wonderfully old-school cruise travel.
Until you’re stuck in a giant queue at 8am holding a numbered ticket while hundreds of equally impatient passengers slowly lose morale around you.
Tendering works reasonably well on smaller ships, but on larger vessels it can become painfully slow. Weather delays make everything worse. Mobility issues complicate things further. And once frustration starts building, the atmosphere changes quickly.
The thing is, you just have to learn to be patient. Trust me, you’ll get plenty of time ashore. Try to let that frustration go!
20. Motion at Sea
Cruise ships are enormous these days, but they still move. That’s generally how boats work.
Even so, every sailing seems to include passengers acting personally betrayed whenever the ocean behaves like… ocean.
OK, on very rare occasions it can be pretty bad…
But on a more typical cruise, even light vibrations become dramatic conversations in elevators. Mild swaying inspires frantic weather Googling. Somebody inevitably declares they “never felt movement like this before” despite cruising annually.
To be fair, seasickness genuinely can ruin trips for some people. But there’s always a difference between understandable discomfort and passengers demanding perfectly still conditions in the middle of the Atlantic.
Cruise lines have mastered the art of selling absolutely everything possible once you step onboard. This varies depending on who you’re sailing with, as some are worse than others, but even on one of the better lines, it’s not always fun to be reminded of extras you’ve not yet paid for.
Speciality dining. Spa packages. Bingo. Art auctions. Photography packages. Premium desserts. VIP seating. Extra attractions. Better drinks. Faster internet. More exclusive sun decks.
Occasionally it feels like you can’t walk ten metres without somebody trying to upgrade something.
Some cruisers genuinely don’t mind it because ignoring sales pitches becomes easy after day one. Others find the constant upselling exhausting, especially when cruises already aren’t cheap holidays to begin with.
The irony is that most people complaining about onboard spending will still somehow return home with a surprisingly large bill anyway.
22. Influencer Photo Shoots
Cruise ships are beautiful places and so naturally people want photos.
But there’s a growing category of passengers turning entire public areas into full-scale social media productions complete with outfit changes, portable lighting and dramatic slow-motion posing.
You’ll spot them blocking staircases, monopolising infinity pools or spending 40 uninterrupted minutes attempting the exact same sailaway shot while everybody awkwardly waits nearby.
Most people taking holiday photos aren’t bothering anyone. It’s the extreme versions that become unintentionally hilarious.
Yes, I’m technically a cruise influencer, and I do use my phone a lot. I usually get up at silly-o’clock in the morning to go film what I need when the ship is dead, so that a) I’m not annoying other guests, and b) it’s easier to film without having people walking in front of my shot. It works so much better.
23. Complaining About the Food… Then Going Back for More
Passengers complain the buffet is repetitive while returning three times daily. They declare desserts disappointing moments before ordering another two. Somebody loudly announces the pizza is “terrible” while actively eating a fourth slice.
Of course, food is subjective and not every meal onboard will be brilliant. But cruise ships feed thousands of people every single day, which is honestly quite impressive when you think about it.
The funniest complainers are usually the ones behaving like unpaid restaurant critics despite clearing every plate entirely.
24. The “Everything Was Better Before” Cruisers
Every cruise has at least one veteran passenger explaining how cruising peaked approximately 15 years ago.
The food used to be better. The service was better. The entertainment was better. Formal nights were better. Passengers were classier. Buffets were quieter. Sunbeds were easier to find. Everything, apparently, has declined dramatically since 2009.
To be fair, some complaints are valid. Cruising absolutely has changed over the years. But certain passengers seem determined to spend entire holidays mourning the golden age of cruising instead of enjoying the one they’re currently on.
Ironically, complaining about modern cruisers has quietly become one of cruising’s most enduring traditions itself.
Cruise ships bring together thousands of people in a floating hotel with unlimited food, limited sunbeds and just enough cocktails to lower everybody’s patience levels slightly by day four. So honestly, it’s impressive things run as smoothly as they do.
Most of these annoyances are harmless, even if they inspire plenty of eye-rolling along the way. And the funny thing is, half the habits people complain about are probably things we’ve all done ourselves at some point – yes, even saving a theatre seat “just for two minutes”.
Still, if you can avoid slamming doors, hogging loungers and blasting TikToks by the pool, your fellow passengers will probably appreciate it.
And if not? At least you’ll give them something to complain about.
Four months ago, Royal Caribbean, the world’s largest cruise line, announced a new optional fee that will allow some guests who booked a guaranteed stateroom to receive their cabin assignment quicker than ever.
This new Early Assign program from Royal Caribbean officially kicked off yesterday for guests in eligible guarantee categories with available inventory.
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas
What Is Early Assign?
Early Assign is a new Royal Caribbean program that only affects guests who book guaranteed staterooms. The cruise line said this new program will deliver added convenience and confidence as guests prepare for their cruise.
Guaranteed cabins are the cheapest in each category of staterooms where guests are not allowed to choose their exact stateroom.
Cruise lines normally give guests who book this cheaper fare their cabin assignment a few days before the cruise.
Now, Royal Caribbean will allow guests to choose their cabin up to 85 days before their cruise for a one-time $30 fee. This will allow them to stay in cabins that are in more desirable locations on the ship.
Early Assign will be offered to eligible bookings during the following pre-sailing windows:
Cruises three to five nights: 25-70 days prior to the sailing
Cruises six nights and longer: 45-85 days prior to the sailing
How Does Early Assign Work?
How does Early Assign work? Guests booked in guaranteed cabins will receive communication from Royal Caribbean when Early Assign opens for their booking. If a cruiser decides to pay the one-time $30 fee, their stateroom assignment will be instantly confirmed as soon as payment is made.
A cabin on Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas. Photo: Cruise Fever
The $30 is a flat rate per cabin and is not charged to every guest staying in it.
One of the really nice features about Early Assign is that a guest can change their stateroom, as long as they move to another cabin within the same category, subject to availability.
This program is currently only available for U.S. FIT bookings in select guarantee cabins. Group bookings, individual-to-group transfers, and casino bookings are not eligible.
Eligible guarantee categories include WS, XB, XQ, XN, NQ, YO, YQ, ZI, and ZQ.
The $30 Early Assign fee is non-refundable, even if a stateroom change cannot be accommodated. Also, if a cruise booking is canceled, the Early Assign fee is forfeited and not refunded, regardless of cancellation timing.
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Norwegian Cruise Line has released its extensive Summer 2028 deployment, opening bookings for more than 450 voyages across 20 ships departing from 25 homeports worldwide. The programme features sailings to nearly 150 destinations spanning 51 countries, with 175 overnight stays and late departures strategically positioned across 53 ports.
The deployment represents one of the line’s most ambitious seasonal offerings, with almost 80 per cent of voyage time allocated to port stays rather than sea days. This structure reflects the cruise industry’s growing emphasis on destination immersion and extended port experiences, catering to passengers seeking more in-depth exploration of the regions they visit.
Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, emphasised the value of early booking opportunities. “It’s never too early to start planning your next vacation,” he stated. “With the Summer 2028 voyages now on sale, guests can take advantage of a greater selection of destination-rich itineraries with almost 80 per cent of voyages spent in port, more choice of preferred staterooms and exceptional value.”
He added that the season brings together some of the line’s most exciting voyages yet, with expanded opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in the destinations they visit.
Current Promotional Offers Drive Early Bookings
Norwegian Cruise Line is coupling the deployment announcement with its End of Summer Sale, which runs through 18th August 2026. The promotion offers 50 per cent off all cruises and up to $750 in onboard credit per stateroom on select sailings.
The sale combines with the line’s Free at Sea package, which bundles unlimited beverages, specialty dining meals, excursion credits and Wi-Fi access. These stackable offers represent a significant value proposition for passengers willing to commit to travel plans more than two years in advance, a strategy that has become increasingly common in the cruise industry as lines seek to lock in future revenue and gauge demand for new deployments.
Great Stirrup Cay And Waterpark Anchor Bahamas Programme
Norwegian’s private island destination in the Bahamas features prominently in the Summer 2028 deployment. Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Aura will all call at Great Stirrup Cay, providing passengers access to the Great Tides Waterpark scheduled to open on 4th September 2026.
Norwegian Aqua will spend her inaugural full summer season operating three- and four-night roundtrip Bahamas cruises from Miami. These short getaways cater to the growing market for brief escapes that allow passengers to sample cruise experiences without extensive time commitments, whilst also serving as an introduction to Norwegian’s newest vessels for first-time cruisers and those considering longer voyages.
The waterpark investment represents Norwegian’s continued enhancement of its private island amenities, competing with similar facilities developed by Royal Caribbean and other major cruise operators. Private island destinations have become crucial differentiators in Caribbean itineraries, offering controlled environments where cruise lines can ensure consistent quality experiences.
Caribbean Routes Feature Inaugural Calls And Resort-Style Destinations
Norwegian Aura will operate seven-day roundtrip Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami, visiting Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and Great Stirrup Cay. This combination offers passengers a mix of established cruise ports with shopping and beach experiences alongside Norwegian’s private island amenities.
In the Western Caribbean, Norwegian Prima returns to Galveston, Texas, with seven-day roundtrip itineraries featuring Harvest Caye, Belize – Norwegian’s resort-style destination that offers controlled experiences similar to Great Stirrup Cay but positioned to access Central American attractions and ecosystems.
Norwegian Luna will sail a special 10-day repositioning voyage from Miami to New York City in May 2028. The itinerary includes inaugural visits to Aruba, Curaçao and San Juan, Puerto Rico, marking the ship’s first calls to these destinations and offering extended time in ports typically visited on shorter Caribbean itineraries.
Norwegian Escape will offer alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip voyages from Orlando’s Port Canaveral, all including calls to Great Stirrup Cay. This deployment positions Norwegian to capture the substantial Central Florida market, where passengers can easily combine cruise holidays with theme park visits.
Norwegian Jewel Makes Morocco Debut With Atlantic Expansion
Norwegian Jewel will introduce new territory for the line with a 12-day Canary Islands roundtrip voyage from Barcelona, Spain, featuring debut calls to Casablanca and Agadir in Morocco. The itinerary also includes maiden visits to Arrecife in Lanzarote and Santa Cruz de Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands.
This deployment reflects Norwegian’s strategy to differentiate its Mediterranean and Atlantic offerings from competitors by venturing into ports less frequently visited by major cruise lines. Morocco has seen growing cruise interest as passengers seek North African cultural experiences, whilst the Canary Islands offer year-round temperate weather and volcanic landscapes distinct from typical Mediterranean destinations.
Norwegian Jewel will also operate an 11-day repositioning sailing between Barcelona and London’s Southampton in May 2028, along with a new nine-day roundtrip voyage from Southampton in September 2028. These sailings provide alternatives to traditional Mediterranean itineraries whilst positioning the ship for Baltic deployments.
Baltic Programme Features Capital Cities And Extended Itineraries
Throughout the Baltic season, Norwegian Jewel will offer seven-, nine- and 10-day voyages between London’s Southampton, Copenhagen in Denmark, and Helsinki, Finland. The ship will also operate five roundtrip sailings from Copenhagen with visits to celebrated capital cities including Tallinn in Estonia, Riga in Latvia and Klaipeda in Lithuania.
These itineraries cater to culturally-focused passengers interested in Northern European history, architecture and the distinct character of Baltic nations. The overnight stays and late departures included in Norwegian’s deployment allow for evening exploration and cultural performances typically unavailable during standard daytime port calls.
The Baltic region has emerged as a premium cruise destination, particularly during summer months when extended daylight hours and moderate temperatures create ideal touring conditions. Norwegian’s multi-port itineraries compete with similar offerings from competitors whilst the variety of embarkation points provides flexibility for European and North American passengers.
Norwegian Getaway Captures Midnight Sun Season In Northern Europe
Norwegian Getaway will sail 10- and 11-day Northern Europe itineraries between London’s Southampton and Reykjavik, Iceland, during the peak midnight sun season when extended daylight maximises shore exploration opportunities. The ship will visit destinations across Norway, Iceland, Belgium, the Netherlands and France.
Significantly, Norwegian Getaway will make inaugural calls to Grundarfjörður, Iceland, and Vik, Norway – the latter marking Norwegian Cruise Line’s first-ever visit to the destination. These maiden calls demonstrate the line’s commitment to introducing lesser-known ports that offer authentic experiences beyond the standard Northern European cruise circuit.
Later in the season, Norwegian Getaway will operate three Baltic Sea voyages of nine and 11 days, featuring the ship’s first turnaround in Helsinki and a maiden call to Klaipeda, Lithuania. This inaugural homeport usage in Helsinki provides new embarkation opportunities for Scandinavian passengers and those connecting through the Finnish capital’s international airport.
Mediterranean Itineraries Add Croatian And Italian Ports
For the first time, Norwegian Dawn will call to Zadar, Croatia, and Cagliari, Sardinia. Throughout Summer 2028, the ship will sail 10- to 11-day voyages featuring Lisbon in Portugal, Barcelona in Spain, and Rome’s Civitavecchia and Venice’s Ravenna in Italy as ports of call.
Zadar represents one of Croatia’s increasingly popular Adriatic destinations, offering Roman ruins, medieval churches and seaside promenades with fewer crowds than Dubrovnik or Split. Cagliari provides access to Sardinia’s distinctive culture, archaeology and beaches, representing a Mediterranean alternative to more heavily visited Italian ports.
Norwegian Viva will continue offering nine-, 10- and 12-day voyages connecting Rome’s Civitavecchia, Venice’s Ravenna, Barcelona and Istanbul in Turkey. Norwegian Pearl returns with seven-day Greek Isles voyages between Venice’s Ravenna and Athens’ Piraeus, providing efficient island-hopping itineraries.
Norwegian Epic will sail roundtrip from Rome’s Civitavecchia with nine- to 12-day Greek Isles itineraries, whilst Norwegian Star will traverse the British Isles and Northern Europe with calls to Belfast in Northern Ireland, Newhaven for Edinburgh, and Invergordon in Scotland. This deployment structure offers passengers varying itinerary lengths and embarkation points across Mediterranean and Northern European regions.
Alaska Deployment Features Weekend Departures And Glacier Viewing
Norwegian Cruise Line will deploy four ships to Alaska between April and October 2028, offering weekend departure flexibility from Seattle. Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy will sail seven-day roundtrip voyages departing from Seattle’s Pier 66 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, accommodating various work schedules and travel preferences.
Glacier sightings will feature on every sailing, including Norwegian Joy’s extended nine- to 11-day itineraries that allow for additional ports and more extensive Inside Passage exploration. The guaranteed glacier viewing addresses one of Alaska cruising’s primary attractions whilst the varied departure days differentiate Norwegian from competitors typically offering single weekly departures.
Norwegian Jade will return with seven-day voyages operating roundtrip from Vancouver, British Columbia, and Whittier, Alaska, featuring scenic cruising through either Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier. The dual embarkation points provide options for passengers accessing Alaska from different regions whilst the alternating glacier routes offer variety for repeat cruisers.
Alaska remains one of cruising’s most popular seasonal destinations, with Norwegian competing against numerous lines for market share during the compressed summer season when weather conditions permit Inside Passage navigation and wildlife viewing reaches peak activity levels.
Bermuda Programme Expands With Philadelphia Regional Debut
Norwegian Cruise Line will operate its fifth consecutive season from Philadelphia with the regional debut of Norwegian Gem in April 2028. The ship will offer seven-day Bermuda sailings featuring overnight calls at the Royal Naval Dockyard, allowing extended exploration of the island’s beaches, historic sites and cultural attractions.
Joining Norwegian Gem in Bermuda service, Norwegian Luna will sail five- and seven-day voyages from New York City, whilst Norwegian Breakaway returns with week-long sailings from Boston including additional calls to Halifax, Nova Scotia. The varied departure ports and itinerary lengths provide options for passengers throughout the northeastern United States and eastern Canada.
Bermuda’s proximity to East Coast ports makes it ideal for seven-day itineraries without excessive sea days, whilst the island’s infrastructure and attractions support extended stays. The overnight calls represent a key selling point, differentiating these itineraries from standard cruise patterns and allowing passengers to experience Bermuda’s evening dining and entertainment offerings.
Philadelphia’s inclusion marks Norwegian’s continued commitment to regional homeporting beyond traditional hubs, reducing travel requirements for Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware residents whilst utilising available berth capacity in secondary markets.
South Pacific Programme Continues Multi-Country Deployment
Norwegian Spirit will continue offering 11- to 13-day itineraries across the Pacific, homeporting in Sydney, Australia, Lautoka in Fiji, Papeete in French Polynesia, and Honolulu from April through October 2028. This extended deployment maintains Norwegian’s presence in the South Pacific year-round cruise market.
The multiple homeport strategy allows passengers to create custom itineraries by selecting embarkation and disembarkation points that align with broader travel plans, potentially combining cruise experiences with land-based exploration of Australia, New Zealand or Hawaiian Islands. The 11- to 13-day length accommodates the distances between South Pacific destinations whilst providing sufficient port time for meaningful exploration.
Norwegian Spirit’s South Pacific deployment serves a distinct market segment seeking tropical destinations, indigenous cultures and remote islands beyond Caribbean and Mediterranean offerings. The positioning also captures Australian and New Zealand cruise markets during their autumn and winter seasons, when domestic demand for warm-weather escapes peaks.
Princess Cruises has unveiled its most comprehensive Alaska deployment to date for the 2028 summer season, with eight ships operating 185 departures across 14 unique itineraries between late April and late September. The cruise line is offering voyages ranging from four to 16 days, departing from five West Coast cities and visiting 16 destinations throughout the Last Frontier.
The 2028 Alaska season represents one of Princess Cruises’ largest commitments to the region, building on nearly six decades of experience in Alaskan waters. Eight vessels from the line’s fleet will be positioned in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska throughout the peak summer months, providing guests with unprecedented choice in ship, itinerary length, and departure port.
Departures will commence in late April and continue through late September, capturing the full breadth of Alaska’s cruise season. This extended operational window allows the cruise line to accommodate travellers seeking early-season glacier viewing as well as those preferring late-summer wildlife spotting opportunities when salmon runs are at their peak.
The deployment spans five departure cities – Seattle, Vancouver, Whittier, San Francisco, and Los Angeles – offering convenient embarkation options for guests travelling from various regions of North America. Both roundtrip and one-way voyage configurations are available, with the latter providing opportunities for extended land-based explorations before or after the cruise portion.
Eight Ships Offering Varied Itinerary Options
Star Princess will operate seven- and nine-day itinerary options from Seattle and Vancouver, providing guests with medium-length voyage choices from two major Pacific Northwest cities. The vessel’s deployment represents a continuation of Princess Cruises’ strategy of positioning newer, larger ships in the Alaska market.
Discovery Princess will focus on seven-day one-way sailings between Vancouver and Whittier, with options for guests to combine back-to-back voyages into 14-day experiences. This configuration allows travellers to explore both the Inside Passage and Glacier Bay regions whilst enjoying the continuity of remaining aboard the same vessel.
Emerald Princess will offer the most diverse range of sailing lengths, including one four-day voyage from Vancouver, seven-day roundtrip Vancouver itineraries, and one 16-day Inside Passage roundtrip from Los Angeles. The extended 16-day voyage provides an opportunity for a more leisurely exploration of Alaska’s coastal regions with additional port calls.
Royal Princess will similarly operate one four-day sailing from Vancouver to Seattle, seven-day roundtrip Seattle cruises, and one seven-day voyage from Seattle to Vancouver. The shorter four-day option serves as an ideal introduction to Alaska cruising or a quick getaway for those with limited holiday time.
Coral Princess will concentrate on seven-day one-way sailings between Vancouver and Whittier, which can be combined for 14-day roundtrip voyages. This vessel has long been a favourite among Alaska cruisers due to its mid-sized profile, which allows for a more intimate experience whilst still offering comprehensive onboard amenities.
Crown Princess will operate seven-day one-way cruises between Vancouver and Whittier with combinations available for 14-day trips, plus one nine-day roundtrip sailing from Vancouver. The variety in itinerary length provides flexibility for guests seeking either a traditional week-long cruise or a more immersive extended voyage.
Island Princess will feature seven-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver as well as one-way options between Whittier and Vancouver that can be combined for 14-day itineraries. The ship’s smaller size relative to some fleetmates allows for a classic cruise experience reminiscent of Princess Cruises’ early decades in Alaska.
Ruby Princess will operate 10-day roundtrip sailings from San Francisco, offering California-based travellers a convenient departure point that eliminates the need for flights to Seattle or Vancouver. These longer voyages include additional days at sea and coastal cruising as the ship transits to and from Alaskan waters.
Sixteen Destinations Spanning Alaska And British Columbia
Princess Cruises’ 2028 Alaska programme will call at 16 different destinations, encompassing both popular ports and lesser-visited communities. The itineraries include Alaska’s most sought-after ports of call such as Icy Strait Point, Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, each offering distinct experiences ranging from cultural immersion to adventure activities.
Icy Strait Point remains a favourite for its authentic Tlingit heritage and exceptional whale-watching opportunities. The port, which is privately owned by the Huna Totem Corporation, provides guests with access to ZipRider, one of the world’s longest ziplines, as well as wildlife excursions and cultural demonstrations.
Skagway serves as the gateway to the historic Klondike Gold Rush region, with the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad offering one of North America’s most scenic rail journeys. Juneau, Alaska’s capital city, provides access to Mendenhall Glacier and numerous hiking trails, whilst Ketchikan showcases the world’s largest collection of totem poles alongside opportunities for salmon fishing.
In Canada, port visits are scheduled for Prince Rupert and Victoria, with specific calls depending on itinerary length, ship, and sailing date. Prince Rupert offers access to the northern British Columbia wilderness and First Nations cultural experiences, whilst Victoria provides a charming conclusion or beginning to voyages with its British colonial architecture and world-famous Butchart Gardens.
Glacier Bay And College Fjord Among Scenic Highlights
To offer guests prime sightings of tidewater glaciers, Princess Cruises has planned sailing days in Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Endicott Arm, and other key areas. These scenic cruising experiences represent highlights of Alaska voyages, with ships slowing or stopping to allow passengers optimal viewing and photography opportunities.
Glacier Bay National Park requires permits that limit the number of vessels allowed entry each day, making these sailings particularly valuable. The park encompasses 3.3 million acres of wilderness and features multiple tidewater glaciers that calve directly into the sea, creating dramatic displays of ice falling into the water.
College Fjord, located in Prince William Sound, features 16 glaciers named after prestigious American universities. The fjord provides opportunities to view multiple glaciers during a single sailing day, with Harvard Glacier at its head stretching five kilometres in width.
All itineraries and scenic cruising are subject to change based on weather and safety conditions. In March and April 2026, different cruise lines removed Tracy Arm Fjord from itineraries due to rockslide risk and geological instability, demonstrating how operational decisions prioritise passenger safety even when it means altering popular scenic elements.
Cruisetours Extend Experiences Into Alaska’s Interior
Guests seeking to spend additional time immersing themselves in Alaska will find Princess Cruises’ cruisetours particularly appealing. These pre- and post-cruise extensions provide opportunities to experience the state’s interior and culture beyond what can be accessed from coastal ports.
Depending on which cruisetour guests select, the land-based schedule includes visits to Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, coupled with stays in Princess-owned wilderness lodges. These properties are strategically located to provide access to Alaska’s most spectacular interior regions whilst offering comfortable accommodations and dining.
Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak, offers wildlife viewing opportunities including grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and moose. Kenai Fjords National Park provides access to the Harding Icefield and additional glacier viewing, whilst Wrangell-St. Elias National Park encompasses the largest protected wilderness in the United States.
Princess Cruises operates custom glass-domed railway cars that give guests stunning views of the landscape as they travel through Alaska. These specially designed carriages feature floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise visibility of the dramatic scenery passing by.
Those who want to be even closer to the scenery can step out onto open-air viewing platforms. These outdoor spaces allow for unobstructed photography and the opportunity to experience Alaska’s fresh air and natural sounds whilst travelling between destinations.
The railway journey forms an integral part of many cruisetours, connecting coastal cruise terminals with interior lodges and national parks. The leisurely pace of rail travel allows guests to appreciate the changing landscapes, from coastal rainforests to interior tundra and mountain regions.
Exclusive Excursions Range From Fishing To Rafting
As with cruise shore excursions, Princess Cruises’ cruisetours offer exclusive excursions such as salmon fishing, wildlife-spotting day cruises, historic tours, and rafting adventures. These activities are designed to provide hands-on experiences that create lasting memories beyond passive sightseeing.
Salmon fishing excursions allow guests to try their hand at catching Alaska’s famous fish species, with experienced guides providing instruction and equipment. Wildlife-spotting day cruises venture into remote waters where bears, whales, and seals can be observed in their natural habitats.
Historic tours explore Alaska’s gold rush heritage, indigenous cultures, and pioneer settlements, whilst rafting adventures offer adrenaline-pumping experiences on glacier-fed rivers. The range of activities ensures that guests of varying interests and activity levels can find suitable options.
Nearly Six Decades Of Alaska Experience
“Alaska is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations, and Princess has spent nearly 60 years helping guests experience it in a way few others can,” said Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer. “Our 2028 season brings together glacier-filled voyages, unforgettable wildlife and cultural experiences, Princess Wilderness Lodges and Rail, along with seamless cruisetours that take guests deeper into the Great Land – creating a complete Alaska vacation.”
Princess Cruises’ extensive history in Alaska dates back to the late 1960s, making the line one of the longest-serving cruise operators in the region. This experience has allowed the company to develop relationships with local communities, refine itineraries based on seasonal patterns, and invest in land-based infrastructure that competitors cannot easily replicate.
The cruise line’s commitment to Alaska extends beyond ship deployments to include ownership of wilderness lodges and railway cars, creating a vertically integrated vacation experience. This approach allows Princess Cruises to control quality throughout the entire guest journey whilst offering unique experiences unavailable on other cruise lines.
With bookings now open for the 2028 season, guests interested in experiencing Alaska with Princess Cruises are encouraged to reserve early. Alaska sailings traditionally fill quickly, particularly for peak summer departure dates and specific ship-itinerary combinations, making advance planning essential for those with specific preferences.
Disney Cruise Line has accelerated delivery of two newbuild vessels, with both now scheduled to enter service during 2029 instead of being staggered over consecutive years.
The revised timeline was disclosed during the Walt Disney Company’s recent earnings call, marking a significant shift in the cruise line’s expansion strategy.
The delivery acceleration affects the first two ships of a new class that Disney ordered from Meyer Werft in mid-2024.
Originally, the German shipyard was scheduled to deliver the prototype vessel in 2029 and the second ship in 2030, with a third sister vessel planned for 2031.
Documents released during the Walt Disney Company’s presentation now show both the first and second ships arriving in 2029.
The third vessel in the series has also been moved forward, now expected for delivery in 2030 rather than 2031.
This represents an ambitious timeline compression that will see Disney Cruise Line welcome three newbuilds within a single calendar year in 2029, rather than spreading deliveries across three consecutive years as initially planned.
Smaller Vessel Design Focuses On Intimate Guest Experience
The new class represents a departure from Disney’s recent trend towards larger ships.
These vessels are believed to measure approximately 105,000 gross tonnes, making them substantially smaller than the cruise line’s latest newbuilds.
Guest capacity is expected to reach around 3,000 passengers, offering a more intimate cruising experience compared to the mega-ships that have dominated recent orderbooks across the industry.
The smaller size may enable Disney to access ports that cannot accommodate its larger Wish-class vessels, potentially opening new itinerary opportunities.
Meyer Werft’s construction of these vessels at its German facilities continues the cruise line’s long-standing relationship with the renowned shipbuilder.
The yard has proven expertise in delivering Disney’s specialised requirements, including the intricate theming and entertainment spaces that distinguish Disney ships from conventional cruise vessels.
Disney Believe Arrives In Late 2027 As Fourth Wish-Class Ship
Beyond the new smaller class, Disney Cruise Line continues to expand its fleet of larger vessels.
The Disney Believe, the fourth ship in the Wish-class series, remains on schedule for delivery by Meyer Werft in late 2027.
At 140,000 gross tonnes, the Disney Believe matches the substantial size of her sister ships.
The vessel will feature the signature design elements and innovative attractions that have defined the Wish class since the debut of Disney Wish in summer 2022.
Disney has promised to reveal additional details about the Disney Believe later this year.
Cruise enthusiasts are particularly eager to learn about the ship’s deployment plans and which signature attractions and themed spaces will appear onboard.
The Wish class has introduced groundbreaking features to the Disney fleet, including the AquaMouse water attraction, immersive Star Wars dining experiences, and elaborately themed districts that transport guests into Disney storytelling worlds.
Industry observers expect the Disney Believe to build upon these innovations whilst introducing new surprises.
Disney Cruise Line Japan Prepares For 2029 Launch
A significant development in Disney’s global expansion comes through Disney Cruise Line Japan, which is preparing to launch operations with its first dedicated vessel.
The Japan-focused cruise line represents a partnership between the Walt Disney Company and Oriental Land Co. (OLC), the operator of Tokyo Disney Resort.
The unnamed Wish-class vessel destined for Japanese service was ordered from Meyer Werft in 2024.
Current plans call for delivery in late 2028, with the ship making its operational debut in early 2029.
This vessel will sail exclusively from Japanese ports, marking Disney’s first permanent deployment in Asian waters.
The full-time Japan presence reflects the enormous popularity of Disney properties in the country and the cruise line’s confidence in the region’s cruise market potential.
Unique Partnership Structure For Japanese Operations
The operational structure of Disney Cruise Line Japan breaks new ground for the brand.
The venture will be operated through a partnership between OLC and the Walt Disney Company, leveraging OLC’s deep understanding of Japanese consumer preferences and operational expertise.
The NYK Group, one of the world’s largest shipping companies with extensive cruise experience, will serve dual roles as ship manager and business consultant.
This arrangement brings maritime expertise and local market knowledge to support the venture’s success.
OLC’s involvement is particularly significant given the company’s track record of operating Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea to standards that consistently exceed their international counterparts.
The partnership suggests Disney Cruise Line Japan may set new benchmarks for cruise operations in Asian markets.
The Japan-based Wish-class ship will require customisation to serve Japanese passengers, including dining concepts, entertainment programming, and service standards tailored to local preferences whilst maintaining Disney’s signature guest experience.
Disney’s revised delivery schedule underscores an extraordinarily aggressive expansion phase.
The cruise line, which operated just four ships until recently, is in the midst of doubling and then tripling its capacity within less than a decade.
The Disney Wish entered service in June 2022 as the first of the new generation.
The Disney Treasure followed in late 2024, with the Disney Destiny scheduled to debut in late 2025.
The Disney Believe will arrive in 2027, followed by three ships in 2029 and another in 2030.
This expansion will transform Disney Cruise Line from a boutique operator into a mid-major cruise company with global reach.
The fleet growth supports Disney’s strategy of capturing family cruise market share whilst maintaining the premium positioning and distinctive guest experience that command higher fares.
Industry analysts have noted that Disney’s cruise operations deliver some of the highest per-passenger revenues in the industry.
The combination of premium pricing, high onboard spending, and strong occupancy rates makes fleet expansion particularly attractive for Disney’s overall business performance.
Strong Financial Performance Drives Continued Investment
The Walt Disney Company’s latest earnings results demonstrate robust performance across its parks and cruising businesses.
For its fiscal third quarter, the company reported net income of $2.8 billion on revenues of $22.7 billion.
Revenues from parks and cruising businesses increased by ten percent, driven by strong demand at resort destinations and aboard Disney’s cruise ships.
The cruise line’s contribution to this segment has grown substantially as newer, larger ships have entered service.
Disney’s willingness to accelerate newbuild deliveries reflects confidence in sustained demand for cruise holidays.
The company is making substantial capital commitments at a time when other cruise operators are proceeding more cautiously with orderbook expansion.
The financial strength demonstrated in these results provides Disney with the resources to execute its ambitious fleet expansion whilst continuing to invest in parks, resorts, and entertainment content.
For cruise operations specifically, the performance validates the strategy of premium positioning and family-focused product development.
Industry Implications And Future Outlook
Disney’s accelerated delivery schedule has broader implications for the cruise industry and shipbuilding sector.
Meyer Werft will need to manage an intense construction timeline to deliver multiple Disney ships within compressed timeframes whilst also fulfilling orders for other cruise lines.
The decision to bring forward deliveries may reflect Disney’s desire to capitalise on strong demand conditions sooner than originally planned.
Alternatively, shipyard scheduling adjustments or construction efficiencies may have created opportunities to advance completion dates.
For cruise passengers, the expanded fleet promises greater choice in sailing dates, itineraries, and departure ports.
Disney has historically struggled to meet demand with limited inventory, often selling out popular sailings well in advance.
Additional ships will improve availability whilst potentially moderating the premium pricing that currently characterises Disney cruises.
The introduction of a smaller ship class also signals strategic flexibility.
These 105,000-tonne vessels can access destinations where the 140,000-tonne Wish-class ships face limitations, potentially enabling Disney to offer European, Mediterranean, or exotic itineraries that require port flexibility.
As Disney Cruise Line approaches the end of this decade with a dramatically expanded fleet, the brand’s influence on family cruising and premium market segments will only grow stronger.
The combination of established Disney intellectual property, innovative ship design, and expanding global presence positions the cruise line for continued success in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
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Celebrity Cruises has unveiled an unprecedented European deployment for 2028–2029, featuring four of its Edge-class vessels in the region simultaneously for the first time.
The announcement, made on 10th August 2026, marks the cruise line’s most extensive European season to date whilst also expanding itineraries across all seven continents.
Unprecedented Edge-Class Deployment Reshapes European Strategy
The deployment of Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent, and Celebrity Apex throughout Northern Europe represents a significant strategic shift for the premium cruise line.
This marks the first time Celebrity Cruises has positioned such a substantial portion of its newest and most advanced vessel class in European waters during a single season.
Celebrity Beyond’s inclusion is particularly notable, as the 141,420 gross-tonne ship has not visited European shores since 2023.
Her return follows a comprehensive dry dock overhaul scheduled for November 2026, which will introduce new onboard venues including the Mediterranean restaurant Bora and the Celebrity Pool Club.
These enhancements position the vessel to compete more effectively in the premium European cruise market, where dining and outdoor spaces are increasingly important differentiators.
The Edge-class ships, known for their outward-facing design philosophy and innovative features such as the Magic Carpet cantilevered platform, offer a modern interpretation of luxury cruising that has resonated particularly well with contemporary travellers.
By concentrating four of these vessels in Europe, Celebrity is making a clear statement about the region’s importance to its overall commercial strategy.
Northern European Itineraries Span Iceland To Norway’s Fjords
Celebrity Beyond will anchor the Northern European programme with 14-night itineraries exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
These voyages will call at Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri, and Seydisfjordur, offering guests comprehensive access to the island nation’s geological wonders, from geothermal areas to volcanic formations.
The vessel will subsequently navigate through Norway’s legendary fjords, visiting Geiranger, Alesund, Flam, Nordfjordeid, and Bergen.
These Norwegian itineraries have become increasingly sought-after amongst cruise enthusiasts, with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geiranger fjord remaining one of the most photographed natural attractions in Scandinavia.
Celebrity Summit, measuring 91,003 gross tonnes, will later complement these offerings with round-trip voyages from Reykjavik.
This positioning allows guests to spend additional time exploring Iceland’s capital whilst using the ship as a floating hotel, a deployment strategy that has proven successful for cruise lines seeking to maximize time in destination rather than transit.
Scandinavian And British Isles Programmes Expand Regional Coverage
Celebrity Apex will undertake 12-night Scandinavian voyages encompassing Oslo, Skagen, Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki, and Copenhagen.
These itineraries provide a comprehensive survey of Baltic capitals, each offering distinct cultural experiences from Stockholm’s island architecture to Tallinn’s medieval old town.
The vessel will also operate 12-night British Isles cruises visiting England, Scotland, and Ireland.
British Isles itineraries have experienced renewed popularity in recent years, driven partly by passengers seeking English-language destinations and partly by the region’s rich maritime heritage and dramatic coastal scenery.
This dual deployment strategy for Celebrity Apex maximizes the vessel’s utilization during the European season whilst offering two distinct product offerings.
Passengers interested in Nordic culture can select the Scandinavian itineraries, whilst those drawn to Celtic heritage and British history have an alternative option aboard the same ship class.
Mediterranean Deployments Feature Three Edge-Class Vessels
Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent, and Celebrity Eclipse will concentrate on Mediterranean itineraries ranging from seven to 11 nights.
These voyages will encompass Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, Greece, and Turkey, providing access to some of the world’s most historically significant destinations.
The Mediterranean has long represented the backbone of European cruise deployment, with the region’s combination of favourable weather, cultural attractions, and well-developed port infrastructure making it ideal for cruise operations.
Celebrity’s decision to position three ships in this region reflects both passenger demand and the market’s capacity to absorb additional capacity.
Celebrity Constellation, measuring 90,940 gross tonnes, will complement these deployments with 10- to 11-night voyages through Italy and Croatia.
Croatia has emerged as one of the Mediterranean’s fastest-growing cruise destinations, with ports such as Dubrovnik and Split offering well-preserved historic centres and stunning Adriatic coastal scenery.
Year-Round European Presence Includes Return To Egypt
Celebrity Infinity will maintain a year-round European presence, extending Celebrity’s regional footprint beyond the traditional summer season.
This deployment includes the cruise line’s first visits to Egypt since 2023, reopening access to one of the world’s most historically significant destinations.
Egypt’s return to Celebrity’s programme signals renewed confidence in the region’s stability and infrastructure.
The country’s ancient monuments, particularly those accessible from Mediterranean ports, represent some of the most sought-after shore excursion opportunities in cruising.
Visits to Egyptian ports typically feature excursions to archaeological sites that have captivated travellers for centuries.
Year-round deployment also allows Celebrity to capture shoulder season demand, when travellers seeking milder temperatures and fewer crowds often find optimal conditions for cultural exploration.
This strategy has become increasingly important as cruise lines work to extend their operating seasons and improve vessel utilisation rates.
Global Deployment Spans Alaska To Antarctica
Beyond Europe, Celebrity Cruises has detailed comprehensive global deployments for 2028–2029.
In Alaska, Celebrity Edge will return for a fifth consecutive season, establishing the vessel as a mainstay in the region.
She will be joined by Celebrity Equinox, which at 121,878 gross tonnes will undertake her inaugural Alaska season with seven-night Vancouver to Seward voyages.
Celebrity Millennium will offer round-trip Alaska sailings from Vancouver, providing an alternative for passengers who prefer not to arrange positioning flights to different cities.
Alaska cruising has experienced consistent growth, with the region’s glaciers, wildlife, and indigenous culture drawing increasing numbers of visitors each summer season.
“We’re delighted to give our guests more ways than ever to experience the world’s most extraordinary destinations in 2028 and 2029,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.
“From the breathtaking fjords of Norway to the untouched beauty of Antarctica, these itineraries offer endless opportunities to explore.”
South Pacific And Asian Itineraries Expand Destination Portfolio
Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice will operate 23 sailings across the South Pacific, departing from Sydney and Auckland.
These deployments cater to the Australasian market whilst also attracting international travellers seeking to explore the region’s island nations and coral reef systems.
Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium will subsequently explore Asia, offering diverse itineraries across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and China.
Asian deployments have become increasingly important for cruise lines, with the region’s growing middle class and improving port infrastructure creating new opportunities for growth.
A particular highlight includes Celebrity Millennium’s overnight stay in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve.
Overnight port calls allow guests to experience destinations more thoroughly, including evening entertainment and dining options that day calls cannot accommodate.
Hong Kong’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display over Victoria Harbour provides an especially compelling reason for the extended stay.
South American And Antarctic Voyages Offer Expedition-Style Experiences
Celebrity Equinox will operate 12- to 16-night voyages across South America and Antarctica, spanning five countries.
These itineraries will feature local cuisine, wildlife exploration, and a special 16-night holiday sailing through Antarctica over New Year’s Eve.
Antarctic cruising represents one of the industry’s premium offerings, with limited vessel capacity and high operating costs resulting in higher per-passenger revenues.
The continent’s pristine wilderness, penguin colonies, and dramatic ice formations create experiences that passengers often describe as life-changing.
The South American components of these voyages provide cultural context for the Antarctic exploration, with ports in Argentina and Chile offering distinct culinary traditions and landscape diversity.
This combination of cultural immersion and natural wonder has proven particularly appealing to experienced cruisers seeking destinations beyond traditional Caribbean and Mediterranean routes.
Industry Context Reflects Growing Cruise Demand
Celebrity’s expansive 2028–2029 deployment comes against a backdrop of robust industry growth.
According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s 2026 State of the Cruise Industry Report, global cruise passenger volume reached 37.2 million in 2025, demonstrating cruising’s increasing appeal as a holiday format.
European cruising has particularly benefited from this growth, with multiple cruise lines expanding their regional offerings.
The continent’s combination of cultural attractions, diverse port options, and well-developed tourism infrastructure makes it especially suitable for cruise deployment.
Additionally, European itineraries typically command higher per-passenger revenues than Caribbean voyages, making them financially attractive for premium cruise lines.
Celebrity’s expansion also reflects confidence in the broader economic environment and consumer spending on travel experiences.
The deployment of newer, larger vessels suggests the cruise line anticipates sustained demand through the end of the decade.
Fleet Expansion Supports Increased Global Presence
Celebrity Cruises has steadily expanded its global presence in recent years.
The cruise line’s newest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, debuted in November 2025 as reported by industry observers, adding significant capacity to the fleet.
The cruise line is scheduled to introduce Celebrity Xcite, its sixth Edge-class ship, in 2028.
Construction of the vessel began with a steel-cutting ceremony in October 2025, marking another milestone in Celebrity’s fleet modernisation programme.
The Edge-class ships have proven commercially successful, justifying continued investment in the design platform.
This fleet expansion enables Celebrity to increase deployment across multiple regions simultaneously without reducing presence in core markets.
The ability to position four Edge-class ships in Europe whilst maintaining comprehensive programmes in Alaska, Asia, and other regions demonstrates the operational flexibility that a larger, more modern fleet provides.
Marella Cruises has unveiled a significant expansion of its non-alcoholic drinks portfolio, adding 28 new zero-alcohol options across its entire fleet from August 2026.
The UK cruise line will offer 18 alcohol-free cocktails, six zero-percent ABV spirits, four alcohol-free wines, plus non-alcoholic beer and cider alternatives as part of its All Inclusive package.
The enhancement comes after Marella Cruises reviewed customer feedback and identified gaps in its existing beverage programme.
Luke Saunders, food and drink development manager at Marella Cruises, confirmed the line had listened carefully to guest requests for more sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives.
“We are pleased to be expanding our non-alcoholic drinks menus onboard across our ships,” Saunders said.
“After listening to customer feedback and reviewing the gaps in our menu, we want to enhance a customer’s experience onboard and cater to those who would prefer a non-alcoholic alternative.”
The move reflects a broader industry trend towards inclusivity in cruise ship beverage programmes, acknowledging that growing numbers of passengers are reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining entirely.
This shift mirrors consumer behaviour globally – not just in the cruise sector – where health-conscious travellers increasingly seek premium zero-alcohol alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or sophistication.
All Inclusive And Premium Package Enhancements Detailed
With the changes, all passengers sailing with Marella Cruises will benefit from an expanded selection of non-alcoholic beverages included within the line’s standard All Inclusive offering.
The base package will now feature zero-percent red, white, rosé and sparkling wines, alongside Heineken 0 percent beer and Somersby 0 percent cider.
Additionally, Marella has confirmed it will introduce gluten-free Estrella beer to its All Inclusive drinks selection, addressing another frequently requested dietary accommodation from guests.
This addition demonstrates the cruise line’s commitment to catering for diverse dietary requirements beyond just alcohol-free preferences.
Guests who upgrade to Marella’s Premium All Inclusive package will enjoy access to an even more extensive selection, including six premium zero-percent ABV spirits from the acclaimed Lyre’s range and 18 specially crafted alcohol-free cocktails.
This tiered approach ensures all passengers have access to quality non-alcoholic options whilst providing enhanced choices for those seeking the premium experience.
Lyre’s Premium Spirit Range Joins Marella’s Bar Programme
The Premium All Inclusive package will feature six distinct zero-alcohol spirits from Lyre’s, a brand recognised globally for producing non-alcoholic spirits that closely replicate the taste profiles of traditional liquors.
The selection includes Lyre’s London Dry Gin, American Malt Bourbon, White Cane Rum, Agave Blanco Tequila, Coffee Originale and Lyre’s Italian Spritz.
Lyre’s has established itself as a leader in the non-alcoholic spirits category, with products available in more than 70 countries worldwide.
The brand’s inclusion in Marella’s offering signals the cruise line’s commitment to sourcing premium, recognised names rather than generic alternatives.
These spirits provide the foundation for Marella’s expanded cocktail menu, enabling bartenders to create sophisticated zero-alcohol versions of classic cocktails.
The spirits can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or mixed into any of the 18 signature alcohol-free cocktails now available fleetwide.
Eighteen Crafted Alcohol-Free Cocktails Debut Across Fleet
Marella’s new alcohol-free cocktail menu features 18 specially developed drinks designed by the cruise line’s beverage development team.
These cocktails utilise the Lyre’s spirits range combined with fresh ingredients to deliver complex flavour profiles that rival their alcoholic counterparts.
Signature offerings include the “Grapefruit Refresher”, which combines Lyre’s London Dry with pink grapefruit and soda for a crisp, refreshing drink.
The “Nojito” reimagines the classic mojito using Lyre’s White Cane rum alternative with fresh mint, lime and soda.
For guests seeking more complex flavours, the “Summer Sour” blends Lyre’s London Dry with lemon, soda, mint and basil, whilst the “Gentle Fashioned” offers a zero-alcohol take on the Old Fashioned, using Lyre’s American Malt with bitters and orange peel.
Each cocktail has been crafted to provide visual appeal and taste sophistication without the alcohol content.
The inclusion of these cocktails in the Premium All Inclusive package means guests can experiment with different flavour combinations throughout their voyage without additional charges.
This represents considerable value for passengers who might otherwise face premium pricing for speciality cocktails.
Marella’s All Inclusive Model Continues To Evolve
Marella Cruises operates an All Inclusive pricing model that distinguishes it from many competitors in the UK cruise market.
The line’s standard package includes meals across multiple dining venues, selected drinks throughout the day, and gratuities, providing guests with predictable cruise costs.
The Premium All Inclusive upgrade extends the beverage selection to include premium spirits, branded drinks, and now this comprehensive zero-alcohol range.
This tiered structure allows Marella to cater to different passenger preferences and budgets whilst maintaining the simplicity of inclusive pricing.
By incorporating these new non-alcoholic options into existing packages rather than charging separately, Marella reinforces its commitment to the All Inclusive philosophy.
Passengers selecting alcohol-free options receive the same value proposition as those consuming alcoholic beverages, eliminating any sense of penalty for choosing not to drink.
This approach contrasts with some cruise lines where premium non-alcoholic options carry additional charges, potentially discouraging guests from selecting them.
Marella’s inclusive model removes this barrier entirely.
Industry Context And The Mindful Drinking Movement
The cruise industry has witnessed significant growth in demand for quality non-alcoholic beverages, reflecting broader societal trends around mindful drinking and wellness-focused lifestyles.
Research indicates that younger generations particularly are consuming less alcohol than previous cohorts, with many adopting “sober curious” approaches to social drinking.
This demographic shift has prompted hospitality businesses globally to enhance their zero-alcohol offerings, moving beyond basic soft drinks to include sophisticated alternatives that allow non-drinkers to participate fully in social experiences.
Premium hotels, restaurants and bars have invested heavily in developing non-alcoholic drink programmes to meet this demand.
Cruise lines have been somewhat slower to respond to this trend compared to land-based hospitality venues, making Marella’s comprehensive expansion particularly noteworthy.
The decision to include 28 new options represents one of the most significant non-alcoholic beverage enhancements announced by a UK-focused cruise line.
Additionally, many passengers choose not to drink for health, religious, or personal reasons unrelated to wellness trends.
Pregnant women, designated drivers returning from port excursions, and those taking medication all benefit from having appealing alternatives to alcoholic beverages throughout their cruise.
Implementation Timeline And Fleet Coverage
The enhanced non-alcoholic drinks programme will roll out across Marella’s entire fleet from August 2026, ensuring consistency of offering regardless of which ship passengers choose.
This fleetwide implementation requires coordination across multiple vessels and training for bar staff to prepare the new cocktails to standard specifications.
Marella currently operates five ships: Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, and Marella Voyager.
These vessels serve predominantly UK passengers with cruises departing from British ports including Southampton, Newcastle, and Dover, alongside fly-cruise itineraries from Mediterranean and Caribbean homeports.
The August 2026 timeline provides Marella with adequate lead time to procure stock, train crew members, and update menus and promotional materials across all vessels.
It also allows the cruise line to market this enhancement to guests booking cruises for late summer 2026 onwards.
Luke Saunders expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming launch: “We are looking forward to our new and returning customers trying out 0 percent cocktails for when they are next onboard.”
This statement suggests Marella anticipates the new options will appeal both to loyal repeat passengers and first-time cruisers.
Competitive Positioning In The UK Cruise Market
Marella’s beverage enhancement strengthens its competitive position within the UK cruise market, where it competes primarily with P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Ambassador Cruise Line for British passengers.
Each line takes different approaches to beverage pricing and inclusivity, with Marella’s All Inclusive model representing a key differentiator.
P&O Cruises traditionally operates on a pay-as-you-go beverage model, though it has introduced drinks packages in recent years. Ambassador Cruises is similar – drinks packages are available, but entirely optional.
Cunard similarly charges for most beverages beyond basic options.
By expanding its non-alcoholic range significantly, Marella addresses an underserved segment of the market whilst reinforcing its value proposition.
The enhancement provides tangible benefits to existing customers and offers a compelling talking point for sales and marketing efforts targeting new guests.
The timing also positions Marella favourably as consumer interest in wellness travel continues to grow.
Cruise lines increasingly compete on lifestyle and experience factors beyond traditional measures like ship size or destination variety, and a comprehensive zero-alcohol programme aligns well with wellness positioning.
Free cruises sound like the ultimate travel hack – and for some people, they’re very real. Not through loyalty points or casino perks, but by sharing something they already love doing.
From teaching bridge to leading photography walks at sunrise, cruise lines regularly bring guests onboard to run sessions, workshops, and talks.
And the surprising bit? Many of these roles don’t require you to be a world-famous expert. But there’s a catch most people don’t hear about until much later.
What “Teaching Onboard” Actually Means
Cruise lines often run enrichment programmes – think of them as a timetable of activities that go beyond quizzes and pool games. On longer sailings especially, there’s demand for structured, engaging sessions that give passengers something to learn or immerse themselves in.
That’s where guest hosts come in. Instead of being full crew members, they’re usually passengers with a skill to share. In return for hosting sessions – whether that’s a daily class, a few talks across the voyage, or informal meet-ups – they may receive a free or heavily discounted cabin.
The exact deal varies wildly, which is where things get interesting.
Who Can Get Free Cruises By Teaching On A Cruise?
1. Bridge And Card Game Instructors
Bridge is a cruise staple, particularly on longer voyages and more traditional lines. A dedicated bridge instructor will typically organise daily sessions, tournaments, and beginner lessons.
It’s not just about knowing how to play – you need to be able to teach it clearly and keep a group engaged over multiple sea days. Some instructors travel almost full-time this way, moving from one sailing to another. On certain lines, it’s one of the more established “free cruise” routes, but competition can be surprisingly high.
2. Clergy And Faith Leaders
Many cruise lines – especially those with a large British or American passenger base – will have a clergy member onboard for Sunday services and pastoral support.
This role is often more about presence than packed schedules. Services might only take place once or twice during a sailing, but the expectation is that the clergy member is available to passengers throughout. In return, they’re typically offered a complimentary cabin, sometimes for themselves and a partner.
3. Guest Lecturers And Enrichment Speakers
If you’ve got a deep knowledge of a subject – history, wildlife, politics, even true crime – guest lecturing can be one of the most rewarding ways to cruise.
These speakers are particularly common on expedition cruises or itineraries with a strong destination focus. Think talks on Norwegian fjords before sailing through them, or wildlife briefings ahead of an Antarctic landing. Cruise lines usually look for credible experience or professional backgrounds, but you don’t always need to be an academic – engaging delivery matters just as much.
4. Arts And Crafts Hosts
From watercolour painting to knitting circles, arts and crafts sessions are hugely popular with passengers looking for a slower-paced activity.
Hosts might run daily workshops or drop-in sessions, helping people complete small projects over the course of the cruise. It’s a sociable role, often with repeat attendees, and it suits people who are patient and happy to guide beginners. Materials are sometimes provided by the cruise line, but not always – and that’s one of those small details worth checking upfront.
5. Photography Experts
Photography hosts often wear a few hats. They might run classroom-style sessions on composition or editing, host photo walks in port, and offer informal advice throughout the sailing.
With so many people keen to improve their holiday photos, this is a popular enrichment area. Cruise lines tend to favour those with a strong portfolio or teaching experience, but enthusiasm and approachability count for a lot. Early mornings and late evenings can be part of the deal if you’re chasing the best light.
6. Dance Instructors
Ballroom and Latin dance are cruise classics, especially on ships with dedicated dance floors. Instructors usually host classes ranging from absolute beginner to more advanced sessions, often leading into evening dances.
Some roles are filled by professional couples, but solo instructors can also be brought onboard. It’s a fairly visible position – you’re not just teaching, you’re helping to create a lively atmosphere onboard. Energy levels matter here just as much as technical skill.
7. Language Teachers
On longer or more culturally focused itineraries, basic language sessions can be a hit. Think “Italian for travellers” or simple conversational Spanish before a series of port stops.
These aren’t formal classes – they’re designed to be fun, accessible, and immediately useful. You don’t necessarily need to be a qualified teacher, but you do need to keep things light and engaging. Passengers aren’t looking for homework – they want confidence to order a coffee or ask for directions.
8. Fitness And Wellness Coaches
Yoga, Pilates, meditation, even posture workshops – wellness has become a big part of cruise programming in recent years.
Some ships already have dedicated fitness staff, but guest instructors may be brought in for specific styles or themed sailings. Sunrise yoga on deck is a common highlight. It’s worth noting that this can be one of the more demanding roles physically, with multiple sessions and high expectations around professionalism.
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9. Music And Performance Coaches
This is a slightly lesser-known one, but some cruises bring onboard vocal coaches, choir leaders, or even amateur theatre directors.
Passengers might rehearse throughout the sailing and then put on a small performance at the end. It’s a great way to build a sense of community onboard, but it does require organisation and confidence managing groups. Not every cruise line offers this, but it’s more common than people think.
10. Cookery And Food Demonstrators
Food-focused sessions can range from simple demonstrations to interactive workshops. Think knife skills, regional dishes, or even chocolate-making.
These roles are sometimes filled by guest chefs or specialists rather than professional instructors. On certain itineraries, there’s a strong link to destinations – local cuisine, wine pairings, that sort of thing. It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and keeping things entertaining as well as informative.
11. Technology Tutors
Not everyone onboard is confident with smartphones, tablets, or cameras – and that’s where tech tutors come in.
These sessions can be surprisingly popular, covering everything from organising photos to using social media or video calling family back home. Patience is key here, as skill levels vary massively. It’s less glamorous than some roles, but often in steady demand.
12. Wine And Drinks Experts
Wine tastings, cocktail workshops, whisky appreciation – these sessions can be a real highlight for guests.
Cruise lines usually look for formal qualifications or industry experience here, particularly for wine. Sessions might be ticketed rather than included, which changes the dynamic slightly. It’s not just about knowledge – presentation and storytelling play a big role in making these events memorable.
13. Special Interest Hosts (From Genealogy To Astronomy)
This is where things get really varied. Genealogy experts helping passengers trace family roots, astronomy guides leading stargazing sessions at sea, even hobbyists running niche interest groups.
If there’s a genuine audience for it, there’s a chance it could work onboard. These roles tend to pop up on themed cruises or longer voyages where passengers are looking for something a bit different.
What Cruise Lines Expect In Return
This isn’t a free holiday where you occasionally show up for an hour. Cruise lines expect commitment, reliability, and a polished experience for guests.
You’ll usually be given a schedule in advance – sessions, meet-and-greets, possibly even social hosting duties in the evenings or helping out on excursions.
You’ll likely have to provide your own resources, such as art supplies or musical instruments.
You’ll be epresenting the cruise line, so professionalism matters. It’s closer to a working holiday than a traditional break.
How You Actually Land One Of These Roles
There’s no single application portal for this, which is where many people get stuck.
Some cruise lines work with agencies that specialise in guest speakers and enrichment hosts. Others recruit directly, particularly for niche skills. Networking can play a surprisingly big role – having a visible profile in your field, even at a local level, helps.
A clear proposal outlining what you can offer – including session ideas and how they’d benefit passengers – can go a long way. It’s not just about what you know, but how you’d translate that into an onboard experience.
Not Actually “Free”
Here’s the bit most people don’t realise: “free” rarely means everything is covered.
You might get a complimentary cabin, but still need to pay port taxes, gratuities, flights, or even some onboard expenses. Internet access and drinks packages aren’t always included either.
And then there’s the time commitment. You’re not free to do whatever you like all day – your schedule comes first. That said, you still get to experience the ship, visit ports, and enjoy the journey in a way most crew can’t.
Final Word
Getting a free cruise by teaching your hobby isn’t a myth – but it’s not quite as effortless as it sounds either. For the right person, though, it’s a brilliant way to travel with purpose. You’re not just ticking off destinations, you’re adding something to the experience for other passengers too.
And if you’ve got a skill people genuinely want to learn? You might be closer to your next cruise than you think.
September can be one of the best months to cruise. School holiday crowds begin to disappear, prices often become more attractive and temperatures remain pleasant in many parts of the world.
But it’s also a month when some destinations face their biggest weather challenges of the year.
From hurricane-prone islands to rough Atlantic crossings, there are a few itineraries that deserve a little extra thought before you hit the book button.
Here are the cruise destinations we’d avoid in September.
1. The Eastern Caribbean
If there’s one destination that stands out above all others in September, it’s the Eastern Caribbean.
September is typically the most active month of the Atlantic hurricane season. Islands across the region can experience tropical storms, heavy rainfall and periods of rough seas.
Cruise lines are experts at adapting. Ships will change course long before a storm becomes a safety concern. However, that often means altered itineraries and missed ports.
If you’ve got your heart set on visiting specific islands, September probably isn’t the month to take the risk.
2. The Western Caribbean And Gulf Of Mexico
The Western Caribbean faces many of the same challenges as the Eastern Caribbean during September.
Destinations in Mexico, Belize and Honduras can all be affected by tropical weather systems. The Gulf of Mexico is also particularly vulnerable during the peak of hurricane season.
Again, the main concern isn’t safety. It’s the increased likelihood that your carefully planned itinerary could look very different by the end of the week.
Some cruisers are happy to go wherever the captain points the ship. Others prefer a little more certainty.
3. Japan
September is one of the most active months of the Pacific typhoon season.
Typhoons are essentially the same type of weather system as hurricanes, just with a different regional name. While cruise lines monitor conditions carefully, storms can lead to itinerary changes and occasional port cancellations.
Japan remains an extraordinary cruise destination, with fascinating cities, beautiful scenery and outstanding food. But September isn’t always the easiest month to experience it.
Travellers seeking calmer conditions may find spring or late autumn more appealing.
4. Bay Of Biscay Crossings
Not every cruise challenge comes from tropical storms.
The Bay of Biscay, located between western France and northern Spain, has a reputation among experienced cruisers for producing some lively sea conditions.
September marks the start of a more unsettled weather pattern across parts of the North Atlantic. While plenty of crossings remain perfectly smooth, the chances of rough seas begin to increase compared with the height of summer.
If you’re prone to seasickness, this is one route that deserves careful consideration.
This might be the most controversial destination on the list.
September is actually a very popular time to cruise Canada and New England, particularly as autumn colours begin appearing across the region.
The issue is that Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t stop at the Caribbean. Occasionally, tropical systems move northwards and affect parts of the US and Canadian coastline.
Most sailings operate without any problems at all, but the risk of weather-related disruption is higher than many travellers realise.
6. Alaska In Late September
Alaska’s cruise season is drawing to a close by late September.
Temperatures are lower, daylight hours are noticeably shorter and rainfall becomes increasingly common. Wildlife remains active, but some shore excursions and seasonal attractions begin winding down as the season ends.
The scenery is still spectacular, but conditions are much less reliable than they are during midsummer.
For first-time visitors especially, earlier sailings usually provide a better introduction to Alaska.
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Final Word
September sits in an awkward position on the cruise calendar.
In some destinations it’s one of the best months to travel. In others, it’s right in the middle of storm season or the start of worsening weather conditions.
That doesn’t mean you should automatically avoid every destination on this list. Plenty of September cruises operate without a hitch. But understanding the seasonal risks before you book can help you choose an itinerary that’s more likely to deliver the holiday you’re hoping for.
Sometimes the best cruise decision isn’t choosing where to go – it’s choosing when.
