Carnival Cruise Line’s newest flagship, Carnival Jubilee, had an unexpected start to its latest voyage when a small boat accidentally collided with the ship while it was still docked in Galveston, Texas on 1st March 2025.
The 7-night Western Caribbean cruise had only just begun when the smaller vessel sailed directly into the side of the 182,800-gross-ton cruise ship, leaving a visible scratch near her bow.
Eyewitnesses captured the aftermath of the incident on video, with one person questioning how the boat failed to avoid the massive cruise ship.
“Honestly though, how do you hit that?” asked one onlooker, while another added, “He went straight into it…I think he curved, and then went straight into it.”
Weather conditions at the time were reported to be clear and calm, ruling out strong winds or rough seas as a cause.
Instead, a mechanical failure or human error aboard the smaller vessel is likely to have played a role.
After the collision, the boat’s mast briefly became lodged under Carnival Jubilee’s bow, requiring assistance from a local pilot boat to free it.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, and the smaller vessel remained afloat after the incident.
Cruise itinerary unaffected
Despite the unexpected encounter, Carnival Jubilee departed on schedule at approximately 4 pm CST en route to Roatan in the Honduras.
Her itinerary also includes Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and there are no expected disruptions to the voyage.
Cruise Director Kyndall “Fire” Magyar, who is on her final sailing before a break, confirmed via social media that everything onboard is running as usual, with guests enjoying the sailaway party without any interruptions.
While cruise ship accidents are rare, this is not the first time a small boat has collided with a much larger vessel.
In December 2024, a yacht crashed into Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas while it was docked in Nassau, Bahamas.
According to reports, the yacht lost power and drifted into the ship’s stern, sustaining a broken mast while the mega-ship remained undamaged.
Fortunately, the Carnival Jubilee incident appears to have resulted in only minor cosmetic damage, allowing guests to continue enjoying their holiday at sea without concern.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A cruise passenger was arrested in Oranjestad, Aruba, after attempting to bring a revolver aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, violating both cruise line policy and local laws. The…
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A group of nearly 1,500 cruise passengers who endured a terrifying voyage aboard P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Aria in May 2017 have won a $2.4 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit against Carnival Corporation.
The former Pacific Aria
The lawsuit, led by Debrah Jackson, accused the cruise line of knowingly sailing into the path of Cyclone Donna without offering guests the option to cancel or reschedule their trip.
On 27th February 2024, Justice Roger Derrington of the Brisbane Federal Court approved the settlement, marking a significant victory for the affected passengers.
The Pacific Aria, a 55,819-gross-ton vessel, set sail from Brisbane, Australia, on 5th May 2017, for a 7-night cruise to New Caledonia, with planned stops in Noumea, Lifou Island, and Port Vila.
However, Cyclone Donna had already begun forming in the South Pacific on 29th April, and by 3rd May, it had intensified to a Category 1 storm.
Two days later, as the cruise departed, Carnival Corporation maintained that the voyage could proceed safely.
But by 7th May, the storm had escalated into a Category 4 cyclone, with 145 mph winds and waves reaching 20 to 23 feet near Vanuatu and New Caledonia.
Instead of visiting tropical islands, passengers found themselves stuck at sea, navigating massive swells.
When the ship reached Noumea, the island was already on lockdown due to the storm.
The remaining port stops were cancelled, leaving guests trapped onboard in brutal conditions.
Reports from passengers described:
Severe ship listing for over an hour.
Furniture and tables sliding across rooms.
Flooding in some cabins and corridors.
Extreme seasickness, forcing guests to remain in their staterooms
Legal battle ends with compensation for passengers
Jackson filed the lawsuit in 2023, claiming that Carnival Corporation knew or should have known about Cyclone Donna and failed to act responsibly.
The cruise line denied any wrongdoing, citing its booking terms, which state that itineraries can change due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
However, rather than engaging in a prolonged legal battle, the company opted to settle.
As part of the $2.4 million agreement, each affected passenger will receive:
$944 AUD (the median cruise fare paid).
An additional $900 AUD in compensation.
Lead plaintiff Debrah Jackson will receive an extra $2,000 AUD for initiating the case.
In total, $1.2 million AUD will go directly to passengers, while legal fees are capped at $1 million AUD.
Justice Derrington acknowledged that the cruise “was not as desired” and that it “became a rather unpleasant experience.”
This case is not the first time passengers have taken a cruise line to court over extreme weather incidents.
In January 2018, a Norwegian Breakaway cruise from the Bahamas to New York sailed into a bomb cyclone, leaving passengers fearing for their lives as the ship endured severe flooding and massive swells.
That lawsuit, involving nearly 200 guests, remains ongoing.
For now, however, passengers of the Pacific Aria voyage can finally put their legal battle behind them, even if they’ll never forget their “cruise from hell.”
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A cruise passenger was arrested in Oranjestad, Aruba, after attempting to bring a revolver aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, violating both cruise line policy and local laws. The…
Cruise guests planning to visit Split, Croatia, will need to reconsider their outfit choices before disembarking, as the city has introduced fines of up to €150 (£128/$162) for wearing beachwear…
Carnival Cruise Line’s newest flagship, Carnival Jubilee, had an unexpected start to its latest voyage when a small boat accidentally collided with the ship while it was still docked in…
New research by independent travel agency Iglu Cruise has highlighted the cruise destinations experiencing the most significant growth in demand over the past six years. The research was carried out…
Cruise guests planning to visit Split, Croatia, will need to reconsider their outfit choices before disembarking, as the city has introduced fines of up to €150 (£128/$162) for wearing beachwear in public.
The new regulation, aimed at preserving the dignity of Split’s historic core, bans tourists from walking around in swimsuits, lingerie, or going shirtless, even in peak summer heat.
The same fine will also apply to public alcohol consumption, meaning a passenger strolling the streets in both a swimsuit and with a beer in hand could be fined €300 (£256/$324).
This move follows a similar policy in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s busiest cruise port, which introduced fines for swimwear-clad visitors in 2020.
The sheer volume of tourists – over 1 million cruise visitors in 2024, a 20% increase from the previous year – has prompted authorities to protect Split’s cultural integrity by ensuring tourists dress appropriately when away from the beach.
Bacvice Beach, the city’s most famous sandy shore, is just a short walk from the cruise port, making it a popular stop for passengers.
However, visitors heading to Old Town or other attractions post-beach must cover up to avoid penalties.
Cruise lines are advising passengers to wear swimsuits under their clothes or bring cover-ups to avoid unexpected fines.
Other European cities with dress code fines
Split is far from alone in enforcing strict dress codes for tourists. Other European cruise destinations have similar fines for inappropriate attire:
Venice, Italy – Fines for swimwear range from €25 to €500 (£21 to £427/$27 to $540).
Barcelona, Spain – Wearing swim attire away from the beach can result in a €300-€500 (£256-£427/$324-$540) fine.
Sorrento, Italy – Authorities have cracked down on skimpy bikinis and bare chests to maintain the town’s reputation.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain – Swimwear restrictions have been in place since 2014 to prevent excessive tourism-related disturbances.
Albufeira, Portugal – A newly introduced fine (up to €1,500/£1,280/$1,620) targets topless tourists or those in swimwear away from designated areas.
Beyond dress codes, cruise passengers should also be aware of unique local laws.
For example, in Barbados, camouflage clothing is illegal, even for children, as it is reserved for military use. Several Caribbean nations, including Jamaica, Antigua, St. Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago, enforce similar bans.
Cruise lines also have their own attire restrictions, particularly for dining areas and onboard venues.
Carnival Cruise Line, for instance, prohibits offensive clothing featuring nudity, profanity, violence, or inappropriate innuendo.
Most ships ban swimwear in restaurants, requiring passengers to change before entering indoor dining spaces.
Cruise passengers should review all pre-cruise materials provided by their cruise line to stay informed about local regulations and onboard policies – ensuring they enjoy their travels without any unexpected fines.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A cruise passenger was arrested in Oranjestad, Aruba, after attempting to bring a revolver aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, violating both cruise line policy and local laws. The…
A group of nearly 1,500 cruise passengers who endured a terrifying voyage aboard P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Aria in May 2017 have won a $2.4 million settlement in a class-action…
Carnival Cruise Line’s newest flagship, Carnival Jubilee, had an unexpected start to its latest voyage when a small boat accidentally collided with the ship while it was still docked in…
New research by independent travel agency Iglu Cruise has highlighted the cruise destinations experiencing the most significant growth in demand over the past six years. The research was carried out…
A cruise passenger was arrested in Oranjestad, Aruba, after attempting to bring a revolver aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, violating both cruise line policy and local laws.
The incident occurred on 26th February 2025, as the 226,838-gross-ton vessel, carrying 5,602 guests, was docked in Aruba’s capital city during an 8-night roundtrip sailing from Fort Lauderdale.
Reports from local news outlets state that Royal Caribbean’s security team uncovered the firearm during a routine screening process.
The unidentified male passenger was immediately detained, and local police were called to the scene, leading to his arrest and transport to a precinct for questioning.
Authorities are now investigating whether the firearm was brought aboard at the ship’s departure from Florida on 22nd February, or if it was purchased in Aruba during the ship’s 14-hour call.
Regardless of its origin, firearms are strictly prohibited aboard Royal Caribbean ships. The company’s policy explicitly bans rifles, shotguns, pistols, revolvers, and other dangerous weapons, stating:
“For security reasons, our company policy does not permit guests to carry firearms onboard during their voyage or otherwise secure weapons for anyone on our vessels or at the pier.”
Beyond corporate policy, Aruban law strictly prohibits importing or exporting firearms or ammunition without a proper licence.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) also warns travellers that bringing firearms to the Caribbean can result in severe penalties.
The minimum fine for arriving in Aruba with a firearm is $1,500 (£1,180/€1,380), while a loaded weapon carries a $3,000 (£2,360/€2,760) fine. Jail time is also a possibility.
Did the passenger reboard the ship?
It remains unclear whether the passenger was permitted to rejoin the cruise or if he was detained in Aruba pending further legal action.
However, the rest of the voyage continued as scheduled, with Oasis of the Seas departing Aruba and proceeding to its next destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, before returning to Port Everglades on 2nd March 2025.
This is not the first time a Royal Caribbean guest has been arrested for carrying prohibited items.
In April 2024, a Virginia man, Tyler Wenrich, was arrested in Turks and Caicos after two bullets were found in his bag while sailing on Independence of the Seas.
Despite claiming they were forgotten from a previous trip, Wenrich spent three weeks in jail and paid a $9,000 fine (£7,090/€8,280), narrowly avoiding a 12-year mandatory sentence after a US congressman intervened.
While the US State Department warns travellers about strict gun laws in Turks and Caicos, no similar official advisory exists for Aruba – though this latest arrest may serve as a stark warning to future cruise passengers.
Cruisers are urged to thoroughly check their luggage before boarding to ensure they are not carrying any prohibited items, especially firearms or ammunition.
As this case shows, even a simple oversight can result in arrest, jail time, and steep fines – a costly mistake for any holidaymaker.
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Cruise guests planning to visit Split, Croatia, will need to reconsider their outfit choices before disembarking, as the city has introduced fines of up to €150 (£128/$162) for wearing beachwear…
A group of nearly 1,500 cruise passengers who endured a terrifying voyage aboard P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Aria in May 2017 have won a $2.4 million settlement in a class-action…
Carnival Cruise Line’s newest flagship, Carnival Jubilee, had an unexpected start to its latest voyage when a small boat accidentally collided with the ship while it was still docked in…
New research by independent travel agency Iglu Cruise has highlighted the cruise destinations experiencing the most significant growth in demand over the past six years. The research was carried out…
Begin your unforgettable journey through the Baltic by setting sail from one of Northern Europe’s most captivating cities. Enjoy a trip filled with historic wonders, breathtaking landscapes, and enriching cultural experiences. This cruise offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation from vibrant cities to serene coastlines.
The allure of cruising through the Baltic region is undeniable. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse cultures, the Baltic Sea offers an experience like no other. Starting your voyage with a cruise from Copenhagen, a city renowned for its architectural beauty and vibrant culture, sets the stage for an exciting adventure. As you navigate through these northern waters, each port unveils new stories and breathtaking sights.
Why choose a cruise from Copenhagen
Copenhagen is an ideal gateway to the Baltic region, blending convenience with charm. The city’s rich tapestry of history and modernity invites travelers to embark on their cruise journey easily. Whether you’re drawn to its historic streets or bustling harbors, starting a cruise from Copenhagen offers an effortless beginning to your adventure. Its accessibility from major international hubs makes it an attractive choice for global travelers.
The city’s vibrant culture is an added advantage for travelers. From royal palaces to innovative culinary scenes, Copenhagen provides a prelude to the captivating destinations awaiting in the Baltic. The city’s well-connected transport system ensures that every traveler can easily navigate. Remember, should you wish to explore beyond the city, it’s simple to rent a car at Copenhagen Airport.
Exploring the Baltic
A Baltic cruise opens doors to diverse destinations, each offering unique experiences. Imagine stepping into Stockholm’s archipelago or Helsinki’s design district—each stop unveils new facets of Northern Europe. St. Petersburg beckons with its opulent palaces and rich history, contrasting the modernity found elsewhere on your journey. These ports of call are not just stops; they are gateways to discovering distinct cultures and histories.
As you traverse these waters, prepare for experiences that defy expectations. From kayaking amidst rugged coastlines to exploring medieval towns that seem frozen, every moment promises something new. The diversity found in this region is unparalleled, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Onboard experience
While the destinations captivate, life onboard offers its enchantments. Modern cruise ships plying the Baltic have world-class amenities designed for comfort and entertainment. Indulge in dining experiences featuring regional delicacies or unwind at luxurious spas offering panoramic sea views.
Entertainment options abound—from live performances to interactive workshops, ensuring never dull moments at sea. For those seeking relaxation, serene lounges and pools offer respite as you glide through this scenic part of the world.
Excursions and sightseeing
Your Baltic cruise isn’t complete without engaging shore excursions tailored to all interests. In each port city, immerse yourself in local attractions like Stockholm’s Vasa Museum or Helsinki’s Temppeliaukio Church, carved directly into rock formations.
These curated experiences ensure deeper connections with each destination visited along your route—whether it’s guided tours through historical landmarks or adventurous outings into nature’s embrace.
Cultural immersion
The cultural richness encountered during a Baltic cruise cannot be overstated—it’s an opportunity not only to witness but also partake in local traditions firsthand! Discover regional cuisines while dining ashore; engage with artisans crafting traditional wares; learn about indigenous customs directly from locals themselves!
Planning your cruise
Booking this remarkable journey begins by selecting optimal travel dates that align with personal preferences. Explore various cruise line offerings catering to desired itineraries featuring extensive stops throughout captivating regions. A Baltic cruise commencing from Copenhagen is more than travel—an invitation into worlds waiting beyond horizon lines traced across azure seas! By embracing tradition and innovation aboard ship and ashore alike, uncover wonders awaiting discovery among shores, interwoven tales, and timeless beauty transcending physical and cultural boundaries! Start planning today to unleash the endless possibilities awaiting within. With magic journey promises, forevermore unforgettable adventures begin here now and onward forevermore!
A platform where you can watch everything from memes and skits to sci-fi documentaries and deep-dive conspiracy theories—you already know what YouTube is. But what you might not know is that it’s physically impossible to watch all the content this platform has.
In fact, 720,000 hours of content are uploaded to YouTube every day. It means it would take you around 82 years to watch just that, without sleeping, eating, or taking a break.
With that much content, the real challenge isn’t finding something to watch. Instead, it’s watching without constant interruptions that you experience because of ads. That’s where YouTube Premium comes in.
But is YouTube Premium actually worth it? Let’s break it down.
What is YouTube Premium?
YouTube Premium is a monthly or yearly subscription service that YouTube offers for an enhanced experience on the platform. There are three different models to choose from including:
Individual
Family
Student
It’s important to note that the price of each plan varies from country to country due to multiple reasons, such as currency differences and purchasing power.
Features of YouTube Premium for Cruise Travelers
Opting for YouTube Premium provides you with access to some very useful features that aren’t available on the free version of YouTube. These include:
Ad-Free Viewing
Arguably, the biggest benefit of using YouTube Premium is that it allows you to watch videos without annoying ads. You don’t see search ads, third-party banner ads, and video overlay ads before, during, or after any video. It allows you to stay focused on what you’re watching without breaking the flow.
Important Note: Even when you have YouTube Premium, you can still face embedded ads in the videos. That’s because content creators add these to their videos, not YouTube.
Background Play
With YouTube Premium, you have the option to turn on background play which enables you to listen to music, podcasts, or any other content while using other apps. You can simply start the video, minimize the app, and keep the audio playing. The same functionality also works when you’re using YouTube Music or YouTube Kids with a premium membership.
Background play comes in handy when you’re multitasking on your phone, like texting or scrolling through social media. Additionally, you can also take advantage of this feature while doing other tasks, such as working out or cooking.
Quick Note: If you primarily listen to music, you can opt for YouTube Music Premium, which is a standalone subscription plan designed specifically for the music app.
Downloads for Offline Use
Another excellent feature of YouTube Premium is that it allows you to download your favorite videos and songs to your device. This feature is especially useful for those who are always on the go and don’t have access to the internet all the time.
To make things even more convenient, YouTube also offers an invaluable feature called Smart Downloads. When it’s turned on, it automatically downloads recommended videos and songs to your device for offline use.
Continue Watching
The “Continue Watching” feature enables you to, well, continue watching videos from where you left off. For example, if you’re watching a documentary on your phone while commuting, you can switch to your laptop or TV when you get home and resume exactly where you stopped.
How Much Does YouTube Premium Cost?
As mentioned earlier, the cost of a YouTube Premium subscription varies by country. For example, the individual plan costs $13.99 per month in the US and €14 per month in most European countries.
However, there are countries where you can buy YouTube Premium for less than $2 per month. Yes, you read that right. For instance, the monthly plan starts at only $1.80 in Turkey.
What if we told you that it’s possible to get YouTube Premium at a cheaper rate, even if you’re not in a country where it costs less? The easiest way to achieve this is to use a reliable VPN tool.
It’ll allow you to connect to a server in a country where YouTube Premium is available at a lower price. Doing so will make you appear on YouTube as a user from that country and subscribe at the local rate. If you want a detailed tutorial on how to get YouTube Premium cheaper with a VPN, you can use this guide by VPNpro.
Final Verdict: Is YouTube Premium Worth It for Cruise Travelers?
If you’re a heavy YouTube user, you can benefit from YouTube Premium greatly because of the convenience its features offer. However, depending on your country, its price can be a deal breaker, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
But worry not, because you can still get YouTube Premium at a lower price using a VPN. Just make sure to opt for a reliable VPN tool that can get the job done.
Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas are both Royal Caribbean Oasis-class ships. If you’re considering a cruise on one of these ships, you might be wondering which is the best…
Whilst the two ships were originally very similar when they were launched in 2009 and 2010, Oasis of the Seas has since undergone an extensive $165 million refurbishment which has seen the addition of many new and exciting facilities.
And it’s taken some time, but Allure of the Seas is finally catching up…
Allure and Oasis: sisters, but not identical twins
Allure and Oasis of the Seas are sister ships, but they are not exactly the same. Allure of the Seas is 5 cm (2 inches) longer, and they don’t quite have exactly the same features onboard.
The Allure of the Seas capacity is the same as Oasis – 6,780 passengers at maximum capacity.
Royal Amplification
The ‘Royal Amplified’ program aimed to refurbish ten of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships over a four-year period, adding innovative new features at a cost of more than $1 billion.
Oasis of the Seas Amplification
Oasis of the Seas was refurbished in November 2019, with a whole host of features added, including the ten-storey Ultimate Abyss slide, a new Caribbean-style pool deck, The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides and some new bars and restaurants.
Allure of the Seas Amplification
Allure of the Seas was set to be amplified in March 2020, but unfortunately, due to the global pause in cruising, the refurbishment was postponed until further notice.
Instead, the ship received only technical repairs to the propulsion system in May 2020.
The good news is that Allure of the Seas has finally got the upgrade she needs with a refurbishment in March 2025. It was a long time coming, but she now offers an experience much closer to that of Oasis – perhaps even slightly better, depending on your preferences.
Differences between Allure and Oasis of the Seas
For a long time, the main differences between these two sister cruise ships were due to the fact that Oasis of the Seas has been extensively refurbished and Allure of the Seas had not.
But that’s now changed – and so the list of differences between the two ships is much smaller.
Pesky Parrot Bar – Allure
The Pesky Parrot is a vibrant, Caribbean-inspired bar that offers a laid-back paradise atmosphere. Enjoy tropical cocktails made with rum, tequila, and gin, along with refreshing frozen drinks.
This bar made its debut on Utopia of the Seas when she first set sail in mid-2024, so Allure of the Seas is only the second ship to feature the venue.
Mason Jar Restaurant – Allure
Mason Jar is a Southern-inspired restaurant and bar aboard the Wonder of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas and now Allure of the Seas.
Expect a warm, homespun vibe and a delicious take on American Low Country and Bayou classics.
Savour tender BBQ, smoky meats, and bold flavours, alongside brunch favourites like Breakfast Biscuits with sausage gravy or Sweet-Tooth Cinnamon Rolls. In the evening, enjoy comfort food like Gran’s Fried Chicken and Lobster ‘n’ Crawfish Gumbo.
Portside BBQ – Oasis
Whereas Allure got Mason Jar, Oasis has Portside BBQ, which offers authentic, slow-cooked barbecue favourites, featuring tender brisket, pulled pork, burnt ends, and turkey legs.
Pair your meal with crave-worthy sides like homemade cornbread and macaroni cheese. Don’t forget to save room for desserts like the indulgent Banana Dream and Chocolate Brookie for the perfect finish to your BBQ feast.
Amplification features the ships now share
Most of the features that Oasis of the Seas got in the 2019 Amplification are now shared with Allure of the Seas following her 2025 renovation. Of course, everything will feel a bit newer on Allure, since she got all of these features 5.5 years after her sister:
Enhanced Adventure Ocean
Both ships now have a bigger and better kids’ club where children can choose their own adventures. The enhanced Adventure Ocean area has a kids’ theatre, a science lab and an impressive new teen area with its own outdoor deck.
Water Slides
Each ship has three waterslides – Cyclone, Typhoon and Supercell. Collectively, these are known as The Perfect Storm.
Kids’ Water Park
Both ships now benefit from the Splashaway Bay water park which has two giant tipping buckets, three small water slides and a selection of fountains and water cannons.
New Pool Areas
The new pool areas on Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas are really nice, with a funky tropical theme and the addition of day beds, hammocks and cabanas. Here is where you’ll also find the new Lime & Coconut bar.
Escape Room
Oasis of the Seas features an escape room game called Mission Control: Apollo 18, and Allure of the Seas has one called Apollo 18: Lunar Landing. This is Royal Caribbean’s newest escape room game and both are suitable for guests ages 12 and over.
The Ultimate Abyss
The tallest slide at sea has been added to Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. Not for the faint-hearted, guests can slide down ten decks at a rate of nine miles per hour.
Other facilities on both ships
Features you’ll find across both Oasis and Allure include:
Zip line
Rock climbing wall
Arcade
Mini golf
Ice skating
Flow Rider surf simulators
Merry-go-round
Pools and whirlpools
Sports court
Table tennis
Casino
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Restaurants
There are some differences in the restaurants on board the two ships. The table below shows which dining venues you can expect on Allure and Oasis of the Seas.
Dining venue
Allure of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas
150 Central Park*
YES
No
Cafe Promenade
YES
YES
Chef’s Table*
YES
YES
Chops Grille*
YES
YES
Coastal Kitchen**
YES
No
Dog House
YES
YES
El Loco Fresh
YES
YES
Giovanni’s Table*
YES
YES
Izumi Hibachi & Sushi*
YES
YES
Johnny Rockets*
YES
YES
Main Dining Room
YES
YES
Mason Jar*
YES
No
Park Cafe*
YES
YES
Portside BBQ*
No
YES
Room Service*
YES
YES
Sabor*
YES
No
Sorrento’s Pizza*
YES
YES
Starbucks*
YES
YES
Sugar Beach*
No
YES
Vitality Cafe
YES
YES
Windjammer
YES
YES
* denotes a speciality restaurant (these cost extra) ** denotes a restaurant only available for Pinnacle Club members
One much-talked-about highlight is El Loco Fresh. This Mexican fast-food restaurant is included in your cruise fare.
And the key difference is the speciality venues – Oasis of the Seas has Portside BBQ while Allure of the Seas now has Mason Jar.
Bars & lounges
Oasis of the Seas has more bars than Allure of the Seas. The table below shows which bars and lounges you’ll find on each ship.
Bar
Allure of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas
Bionic Bar
No
YES
Boleros
YES
YES
Champagne Bar
YES
YES
Dazzles
YES
No
Diamond Club*
YES
YES
English Pub
YES
YES
Lime & Coconut
YES
YES
Pesky Parrot
YES
No
Playmakers
YES
YES
Pool Bar & Sand Bar
YES
No
Rising Tide Bar
YES
YES
Schooner Bar
YES
YES
Solarium Bar
YES
YES
Suite Lounge
YES
YES
Trellis Bar
YES
YES
Vintages
YES
YES
Wipeout Bar
No
YES
* this bar is only for Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club Crown & Anchor® Society members
The Bionic Bar is a must-visit, with robot bartenders mixing the drinks. The new Lime & Coconut bar is also a popular choice for poolside drinks.
Booking a cruise on Allure of the Seas?
For a long time, Oasis of the Seas had quite the advantage over Allure of the Seas. The refurbishment Allure needed was delayed for several years, and while she still had a ton of exciting features, she fell some way behind the other Oasis-class ships.
But as of early 2025, things are completely different, and because she’s only just been refurbished, she’s arguably one of the best ships in the class.
Both Oasis and Allure are now packed with amazing bars, restaurants and entertainment – so with barely any differences between them, you can focus on choosing the one offering the best itineraries for you.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The suites on any Oasis Class ship with Royal Caribbean are pretty spectacular – including some of the biggest and most feature-packed accommodations you’ll find on any ship in the world.
While suites aren’t suitable for everyone’s budget, if you want a cruise holiday that’s even more special (or you just enjoy having more space to relax and get ready) then you may want to consider one of these incredible rooms. Let’s break down the various suites on-board Harmony of the Seas.
There are plenty of suites to choose from!
There are 188 suites on Harmony of the Seas, including 10 different types of suite. Of those, 86 are Junior Suites, and 46 are Grand Suites. There are also some specialist suites including the Royal Loft Suite and Villa Suite, with only one of each.
There are a couple of other websites that I’ve seen that say there are 189 or 190 suites, but I’ve checked the deck plans and counted them – twice – to make sure. Here’s a rundown of all the different suites available to book on Harmony of the Seas:
Suite type
How many?
Deck location
Sleeps up to
Suite size (sq ft)
Balcony size (sq ft)
Total size (sq ft)
Royal Loft Suite
1
17/18 (two floors)
6
1524
843
2367
Villa Suite
1
12
14
1140
480
1620
Star Loft Suite
2
17/18 (two floors)
4
722
410
1132
Crown Loft Suite
27
17/18 (two floors)
4
545
114
659
AquaTheater Suite – 1 Bed
6
11, 12, 14
4
555 – 605
245 – 630
800 – 1235
AquaTheater Suite – 2 Bed
6
8, 9, 10
8
675 – 820
610 – 770
1285 – 1590
Owner’s Suite
12
10, 11, 12, 14
3
556
243
799
Grand Suite – 1 Bed
42
6 to 14
4
370 – 435
115 – 360
485 – 795
Grand Suite – 2 Bed
4
9, 10
8
580
238
818
Junior Suite
86
6 to 14
4
290
80
370
Want some help with choosing the best suite for you on Harmony of the Seas? Grab a copy of my free checklist:
Harmony of the Seas suite costs – don’t expect a bargain
Harmony of the Seas suites prices vary depending on the specific suite, the time of year, the length of your cruise, and how many guests you travel with. Expect to pay around $4,000 total for a Junior Suite, and $20,000 for the Royal Loft Suite, for 7 nights.
You’ll pay more per person if you don’t fill a room – so a Junior Suite with two occupants might cost $2,000 while it drops to $1,500 for four occupants. It’s still overall more expensive for all four of you, but if you’re travelling with friends then booking a suite can be a good way to split the cost since it’s less for each person to have to spend.
Royal Suite Class Deals
I recommend booking with luxury specialists Panache Cruises for the best service.
As well as the upgraded accommodation, suite guests on Harmony of the Seas get access to VIP areas such as the Suite Sun Deck, Suite Lounge and the Coastal Kitchen as well as a host of extra perks.
Suites are, of course, the most expensive of the Harmony of the Seas rooms. If a suite is out of your budget, don’t forget that there are other room types available, including Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony.
Coastal Kitchen
Harmony of the Seas’ 2-Bedroom Suites
Harmony of the Seas does have two-bedroom suites, including Grand Suites and AquaTheater Suites. The Royal Loft Suite also has two bedrooms, while the other Loft suites are designed to convert the lower floor into a second bedroom.
They aren’t the suites with the most bedrooms though – that’s the Villa Suite. This massive suite has four full bedrooms, and when you also add in the convertible sofa beds in the living area it has a total capacity of 12 guests, which is enormous.
Harmony of the Seas’ most common suite – Junior Suites
Harmony of the Seas has 86 Junior Suites, which are similar in design to a Balcony Stateroom but with extra space, and a number of extra suite perks too. They’re the smallest of the suites on Harmony of the Seas, but definitely worth considering.
Junior Suites are a good option if you don’t need a huge room, but you like the idea of the overall suite experience and the benefits that come with it.
The largest suite on the ship
The largest suite on Harmony of the Seas is the Royal Loft Suite. The interior floor space is 1,530 square feet, while the balcony is 850 square feet, for a total of 2,380 square feet. The Royal Loft’s balcony alone is bigger than two Junior Suites combined.
Despite its epic size, the Royal Loft Suite is designed for only six people. This isn’t a suite for huge groups, but instead is designed for anyone who wants more space to relax and potentially host parties, but with a spacious room to relax in once everyone has moved on.
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The 10 types of suites on Harmony of the Seas
Let’s take a closer look at each of the Harmony of the Seas suites, from largest to smallest…
Royal Loft Suite
The Harmony of the Seas Royal Loft Suite is the largest of the two-storey suites on the ship. And it is huge. The lower floor has a large living area that includes a grand piano, as well as a separate dining area, along with a bedroom and bathroom. It’s also where you’ll find the wraparound balcony, including multiple seating areas and a hot tub.
Upstairs is the master bedroom, with a walk-in wardrobe, and the master bathroom which includes a large bathtub, a two-sink vanity and a bidet.
The Royal Loft Suite is a Star Class suite, which means it benefits from the service of a Royal Genie, as well as other typical Royal Caribbean suite perks.
While not the largest suite at sea, the Villa Suite is the one with the highest occupancy. Up to 14 guests can share this outstanding suite, with four separate bedrooms. If you’re a couple of families travelling together, this could be absolutely ideal.
As well as the four bedrooms (and four bathrooms), there’s a spacious living area and a long balcony with an extended outdoor dining table and a hot tub.
The Villa Suite is another Star Class suite, so guests will enjoy the service of a Royal Genie.
Star Loft Suite
The Star Loft Suite on Harmony of the Seas isn’t quite as spacious as some of the other loft suites, but it still has plenty of room for its four passengers. The lower floor has a large seating area that can be converted into a bedroom and a spacious balcony with seats and loungers.
Upstairs, the loft holds the master bedroom with an oceanview window and a second bathroom. The Star Loft suite is another in the Star Class with Royal Genie service.
Crown Loft Suite
The smallest of the two-storey suites, the Crown Loft Suite on Harmony of the Seas looks almost like a regular (but spacious) balcony stateroom on the lower floor, with a bathroom and a living area that opens onto a balcony that has room for loungers.
Up the stairs is the master bedroom with a separate desk and wardrobe area, and a master bathroom with a bathtub.
There are accessible Crown Loft Suites available for guests in a wheelchair to book – these are slightly larger and have a wet room.
AquaTheater Suite – 1 Bedroom
The AquaTheater suites are so-named because they sit on the aft corners of the ship, with wraparound balconies that overlook the – you guessed it – AquaTheater. These amazing suites offer spacious accommodation and plenty of storage space, but the main benefit is those balcony views – ideal for shows.
AquaTheater Suite – 2 Bedroom
These suites are almost identical to the one-bedroom version, except that they’re slightly larger and have a second bedroom. These are located on lower decks than the one-bedroom version – on Decks 8, 9 and 10.
Owner’s Suite
Photo credit: SBW-Photo
The Owner’s Suite is normally a name reserved for the top one or two suites on a ship, but Harmony of the Seas isn’t an ordinary ship, nor are her suites ordinary. The Owner’s Suites are still amazing, offering a lot of inside and balcony space.
They have one bedroom, though the living area easily converts into a separate bedroom thanks to curtain dividers, while the master bathroom has a bathtub, a separate shower cubicle, twin vanity and a bidet.
Grand Suite – 1 Bedroom
Photo credit: SBW-Photo
The Grand Suites onboard Harmony of the Seas are available on multiple decks, and offer spacious accommodation similar to the Owner’s Suites (hence the same photo), although missing a couple of features – primarily in the bathroom, which has a shower over bath instead of both separate, and no bidet. But it does have the twin vanity still.
The bedroom can be curtained off again to create two bedrooms, and the balcony is spacious enough to have two seats along with two loungers.
A larger version of the Harmony of the Seas Grand Suite, just four of these are available. There are two separate bedrooms as well as the living area which can convert into a third bedroom, and there are two bathrooms. Neither has the twin vanity, but one has a shower cubicle, and another the bathtub with a shower over.
The balcony is slightly larger again, meaning it can accommodate four chairs and two loungers.
Junior Suite
There are a lot of Junior Suites available on Harmony of the Seas across multiple decks, each of which is essentially a more spacious balcony cabin with extra Junior Suite perks. There is no separate bedroom or living area here, but you do still have a walk-in wardrobe and a bathtub with a shower over in the bathroom.
There are a couple of accessible Junior Suites available, which are wider and have a wet room instead of a standard bathroom.
Which suite to choose?
The big question right? With so many amazing suites to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you?
For a lot of people, it comes down to two things – occupancy, and budget. If you’re a family of four, there’s no point booking the Villa Suite, because even having a double bed each isn’t worth the extra money you’ll pay.
The Star Class suites do have the benefit of the Royal Genie, but consider whether you’ll use them, or if you would be better served saving the money. One cruise in a Star Class suite often costs the same as two (or more) cruises in a lower-class suite.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
While Hurtigruten isn’t one of the most famous ocean cruise lines, its cruises are still very popular thanks to the incredible range of discovery voyages that take you deeper into Norwegian culture. Hurtigruten also offers exploration cruises to exciting destinations around the world.
Whether it’s the beauty of the Norwegian Fjords, or the incredible sights of Antarctica, a Hurtigruten cruise can get you closer than ever – but how good are the ships? Do they offer plenty to see and do during the times at sea, or are these cruises purely about the destination?
Let’s find out by taking a closer look at all of Hurtigruten’s cruise ships…
Hurtigruten ships
There are currently 15 ships in the Hurtigruten fleet. More than half of these ships sail under the Hurtigruten brand, while five of them sail under the Hurtigruten Expeditions brand (rebranded as HX in December 2023)
The company actually has three distinct brands, although only two of these are related to cruising.
Hurtigruten offers sailings along the Norwegian coastline. A cruise on one of these ships could take you to beautiful port towns overlooked by majestic mountains, or right into the heart of Northern Lights territory.
Hurtigruten Expeditions (HX) cruises are also aptly named, as they offer itineraries to some of the more exotic locations on the planet, including the Panama Canal and the Antarctic as well as Norway and Northern Europe.
The third brand, Svalbard, is Hurtigruten’s land holidays brand that offers exciting expedition breaks around the Svalbard region.
Hurtigruten ships by size
Compared to many other ocean cruise lines, Hurtigruten ships are not big at all. The biggest ships sailing for the cruise line have a gross tonnage of less than 10% of that of the world’s largest cruise ships, while the ship with the highest guest capacity can hold just 822 passengers.
Hurtigruten is not a cruise line that is going to be breaking records for the biggest ships in the world. That is not their focus at all. Instead, they look to sail to destinations those larger ships can’t reach – hence the smaller size.
Here’s a look at every Hurtigruten ship sailing for the cruise line, listed from biggest to smallest by gross tonnage (a measure of internal volume).
Ship Name
Type
Gross Tonnage
Length
Decks
Guest Capacity
Crew Capacity
MS Fridtjof Nansen
HX
20,889 GT
140 m
9
528
150
MS Roald Amundsen
HX
20,889 GT
140 m
9
528
150
MS Midnatsol
Hurtigruten
16,161 GT
136 m
7
528
75
MS Trollfjord
Hurtigruten
16,140 GT
136 m
7
822
75
MS Otto Sverdrup
HX
15,690 GT
139 m
7
526
150
MS Fram
HX
11,647 GT
114 m
7
250
75
MS Nordkapp
Hurtigruten
11,386 GT
123 m
6
590
76
MS Nordnorge
Hurtigruten
11,384 GT
123 m
6
590
70
MS Polarlys
Hurtigruten
11,341 GT
123 m
6
619
64
MS Richard With
Hurtigruten
11,205 GT
122 m
6
590
70
MS Kong Harald
Hurtigruten
11,204 GT
122 m
6
590
70
MS Nordlys
Hurtigruten
11,204 GT
122 m
6
590
70
MS Spitsbergen
HX
7,334 GT
100 m
6
180
65
MS Vesteralen
Hurtigruten
6,261 GT
109 m
7
490
50
MS Santa Cruz II
HX
2,664 GT
72 m
5
90
50
The smallest ships in the Hurtigruten fleet are absolutely tiny when you compare them with many of the largest ships sailing for cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC and Carnival. They offer a completely different experience. With as few as 90 guests during your voyage you could get to know everyone on board.
The two largest ships in the fleet are HX ships, but then so is the smallest. The larger ones can sail more guests in comfort, while the smallest ships offer the chance to get so much closer to unique destinations.
Hurtigruten ships by age
The newest ship sailing for Hurtigruten is the MS Fridtjof Nansen, an Expedition ship that was built for the cruise line in 2020. She is the sister ship to the MS Roald Amundsen, a ship that launched a year earlier in 2019.
The age of the Hurtigruten fleet varies, but the cruise line has worked to make sure that all ships are refurbished to modern standards. While some of the ships may be old, they do offer a range of modern comforts.
Here’s a look at all the Hurtigruten cruise ships from newest to oldest:
Ship Name
Type
Year Built
Year Joined Hurtigruten
Last Refurbished
MS Fridtjof Nansen
HX
2020
2020
N/A
MS Roald Amundsen
HX
2019
2019
N/A
MS Spitsbergen
HX
2009
2009
2025
MS Fram
HX
2007
2007
2025
MS Midnatsol
Hurtigruten
2003
2003
2021
MS Otto Sverdrup
HX
2002
2002
2020
MS Santa Cruz II
HX
2002
N/A*
2019
MS Trollfjord
Hurtigruten
2002
2006
2023
MS Nordnorge
Hurtigruten
1997
2006
2016
MS Nordkapp
Hurtigruten
1996
2006
2016
MS Polarlys
Hurtigruten
1996
2006
2016
MS Nordlys
Hurtigruten
1994
2006
2019
MS Kong Harald
Hurtigruten
1993
1993
2016
MS Richard With
Hurtigruten
1993
1993
2018
MS Vesteralen
Hurtigruten
1983
1983
2019
*MS Santa Cruz II technically has never joined the Hurtigruten fleet. She is a ship owned by the Metropolitan Touring Company, offering sailings around the Galapagos Islands. Hurtigruten charter the ship so regularly that they list her as one of their own on their website.
Hurtigruten cruise itineraries
Hurtigruten ships depart from a number of different ports, depending on their destination. Most Coastal Express cruise ships depart from Bergen or Kirkenes, but there are other Norwegian itineraries that also begin in Oslo.
HX cruises vary more, as they sail to different parts of the world. There are cruises that depart from the picturesque town of Longyearbyen to Iceland, while Panama Canal cruises often depart from Colon.
Cruises to Antarctica sail from Chile or Argentina, while itineraries around the north-east coast of North America often depart from Halifax. There are plenty of choices when it comes to Expedition cruises.
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Do Hurtigruten Ships Sail From the UK?
Some Hurtigruten cruise itineraries depart from ports in the UK, with cruises in the past departing from Liverpool, Glasgow, Portsmouth and Dover. Cruises from Liverpool, Glasgow and Portsmouth tend to be UK exploration cruises, while those from Dover sail to Norway.
If you don’t like flying but want to try a taste of the Hurtigruten cruise experience, then a cruise around the UK might be ideal – you’ll have the chance to visit cities that you may never have experienced and learn a huge amount about their history and cultural relevance.
Life onboard Hurtigruten cruise ships
Now we know how big and how old the Hurtigruten ships are, what’s life like when you’re sailing on board? Here’s a guide to some of the most important info you’ll need.
Many of the Hurtigruten ships don’t have balconies, especially the older ones – they often have only inside and outside cabins. A few ships have Suites with balconies, while the MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen have Balcony Cabins as well as Suites with balconies.
The ships that have Expedition Suites with balconies are MS Fram, MS Midnatsol, MS Otto Sverdrup and MS Spitsbergen. The MS Trollfjord has Suites, Grand Suites and Owner’s Suites although not all have balconies.
Hop-on and hop-off
You can hop on and off Hurtigruten ships if you want to spend more time exploring ports with some hotel stays. The itineraries are constant, and you can choose to pay for part of an itinerary if you only want to see some of the ports.
Hurtigriuten’s HX cruises work more like a traditional cruise – you book for the full itinerary. So you can’t hop on and off these itineraries.
The currency used onboard
The official currency of a Hurtigruten cruise is the Norwegian Kroner, although most major currencies including British Pound Sterling and US Dollars can be exchanged on board. Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted, too.
If you’re sailing on a HX cruise, remember that you might need to carry local currency for your destination ports too – especially as some of the smaller, more unique destinations may not accept credit cards.
Hurtigruten drinks prices
Drinks on a Hurtigruten ship are very expensive compared to other cruise lines – mainly because prices for drinks in Norway are also high compared to other countries. Expect to pay around £48 ($56) for a bottle of wine, or £10.50 ($12.50) for a bottled beer.
Hurtigruten does offer a drinks package, but it is only for drinks with dinner – you’ll need to book a Platinum fare, although you do get a number of extra benefits, including all speciality dining also being included.
Hurtigruten drinks packages
Gratuities are not included on a Hurtigruten cruise. On Hurtigruten sailings, there is a no-tipping policy – you don’t need to tip. On HX voyages, a tip of 80 NOK per passenger per day is suggested.
That works out at around £6 per person per day, or $7.20, at the time of writing. That’s quite low compared to the recommended gratuities on other cruise lines – tipping is not seen as a huge part of the culture in Norway. It’s worth noting that the NOK fell drastically in value between 2022 and 2023, so could recover in the future and increase the GBP/USD rates.
Hurtigruten WiFi
WiFi is available on Hurtigruten ships, but it is only free if you book on a Select or Platinum fare. If you book a Basic fare, you’ll have to pay to use the WiFi onboard. Some cruises travelling to remote locations may not offer WiFi throughout the cruise.
Because the ships often sail to destinations away from major cities and ports, a regular WiFi signal can’t be guaranteed. It’s a good idea to approach a Hurtigruten cruise as a chance to switch off for a while, since you may find that you don’t have a good internet signal for much of the voyage.
Hurtigruten gyms
Despite being smaller vessels designed for destination cruises, the majority of Hurtigruten ships have a gym of some kind. Some of the gyms are quite small, and guests may need to wait their turn to use their preferred machines.
The best gyms are those features on the MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen, the newest ships in the fleet. These are panoramic rooms with amazing views, the perfect place to keep fit and healthy with breathtaking scenery to entertain you.
The Hurtigruten ship that does not have a gym is the MS Nordstjernen.
And the best ship(s)…
Currently, the best Hurtigruten ships are the two newest – the MS Fridtjof Nansen and MS Roald Amundsen. They’re the newest in the fleet and offer some beautifully-appointed facilities, including great accommodation choices and plenty to see and do during your voyage.
However, the refurbishment of some of the ships, including MS Fram and MS Spitsbergen, may give them a run for their money – this is one of the largest refurbishments in Hurtigruten’s history, with a complete makeover for some of the accommodations and public areas to bring them right up to modern standards.
To conclude
Cruising with Hurtigruten feels quite unique when compared to many of the other ocean cruise lines. She has the same size ships as some of the ultra-luxury lines, but don’t expect to be spoiled with six-star service here.
Instead, you’ll enjoy a holiday of mental enrichment – the chance to visit unique destinations and be educated on them by Hurtigruten’s exceptionally knowledgeable crew. Service may not be six star, but you will be well looked after.
Just don’t expect ships to be packed with things to entertain you – there are some facilities, but you have to approach a Hurtigruten cruise as one where you can escape the excitement of modern life and embrace the sense of adventure.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
