Luxury Cruising Editorial - Luxury Cruising

Royal Caribbean Brings Back a Historic Name for Its Third Icon-Class Ship, Legend of the Seas

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News News

Royal Caribbean is making history by reviving a retired ship name for the first time, confirming that its third Icon Class vessel will be called Legend of the Seas.

The original Legend of the Seas debuted in 1995 as part of the Vision Class, a significantly smaller ship at 70,000 gross tons with a passenger capacity of around 2,000 guests. The new Legend of the Seas will be in an entirely different league, coming in at 250,800 gross tons with a maximum capacity of 7,000 passengers.

After more than two decades of service, the original ship was sold in 2017 to what is now Marella Cruises, where it was renamed Marella Discovery.

Now, Royal Caribbean is bringing the Legend name back – this time, on one of its most advanced and ambitious ships yet.

Set to launch in July 2026, Legend of the Seas will begin sailing in Europe, offering 7-night Western Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, Spain. This will be the first time guests can enjoy sailings on an Icon-class ship in Europe.

Ports of call will include some of the region’s most famous cities across France, Italy, and Spain, giving passengers the chance to explore historic landmarks and scenic coastal destinations.

Once the summer season wraps up, the ship will relocate to Florida in November 2026, where it will homeport from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.

From there, Legend of the Seas will operate 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean itineraries, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, as well as Aruba, Curaçao, and Jamaica.

Royal Caribbean’s Chief Marketing Officer Kara Wallace explained that selecting a name for the third Icon Class ship was no small task.

“The Icon Class as a name really sets a really high bar… so we needed a third name that really fit with that… Legend is, not only fitting of the class, but an homage to everything that came before it.”

The Icon Class has been a game-changer for Royal Caribbean, breaking records and redefining the cruise industry with Icon of the Seas and its upcoming sister ship Star of the Seas.

The demand for these ships has been off the charts, and Royal Caribbean expects Legend of the Seas to continue that momentum.

Wallace also noted that launching the ship in Europe first was a strategic move to meet the growing demand from international guests eager to sail on an Icon Class vessel.

“Our guests across Europe have been asking for an Icon Class ship to be based there, and this was the right time to bring it,

“The ship will come straight from delivery into Europe, taking what is going to be a legendary ship and bringing it to legendary destinations.”

What to expect on Legend of the Seas

While Royal Caribbean has not released full details about what will set Legend of the Seas apart from its predecessors, Wallace confirmed it won’t be an exact copy of Icon of the Seas or Star of the Seas.

“We’ll tweak things as we learn and as we go along to make them both fresh, interesting, but also deliver on the experiences that our guests are asking for,” she said.

One confirmed change is that the Supper Club venue will have a Hollywood theme, differing from the New York-inspired version on Icon of the Seas and the Chicago-themed version coming to Star of the Seas.

However, Legend of the Seas will not be larger than its sister ships.

Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider has previously stated that all Icon Class ships will remain 1,198 feet long, meaning Royal Caribbean won’t be making each successive ship slightly bigger as it has done with previous classes.

The build process for Legend of the Seas has been underway for more than a year.

The first steel was cut in January 2024, officially marking the start of construction, and the keel was laid in October 2024, a major milestone in the ship’s assembly.

Next steps will include the float out, where the ship touches water for the first time, followed by sea trials before its official delivery.

Since its launch in early 2024, Icon of the Seas has become a ground-breaking success for Royal Caribbean, setting new standards in cruise entertainment, dining, and family-friendly experiences.

According to Wallace, guest satisfaction scores for Icon of the Seas have been the highest in the company’s history – not just for Royal Caribbean, but across the entire hospitality industry.

However, this runs counter to the average review scores on independent websites, which place Icon of the Seas fairly low down the list when compared to other ships in the fleet.

Much of Icon’s appeal comes from its neighbourhood-based design, bringing innovative spaces such as Surfside, Thrill Island, and the AquaDome to life.

With Legend of the Seas now confirmed as the third Icon Class ship, Royal Caribbean continues to build on the success of its most ambitious cruise line expansion to date.

Sailings for Legend of the Seas will open for booking later this week, with Crown & Anchor Society loyalty members gaining early access before general bookings begin on 20th February 2025.

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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.

New Cruise Passenger Dock in Alaska Gets Green Light After Bill Passes

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

A nearly 60-year-old dock in Seward, Alaska is one step closer to a complete overhaul, thanks to a newly approved funding plan.

Seward Alaska cruise port with Royal Caribbean ship — Seward, Alaska. Lawrence Weslowski Jr | Dreamstime

On February 17, the Alaska House passed House Bill 65 which paves the way for a $135 million upgrade to the cruise passenger dock, which is very much in need of a facelift.

Built back in 1966, the Seward dock is well past its prime, and a new facility is needed to handle the growing cruise population that visits the port every year.

With about 190,000 cruise visitors coming to Seward annually, the town of just over 2,000 sees a major change in population during the cruse season.

This new dock could be a game-changer. It’ll be big enough and modern enough to welcome larger cruise ships, bringing more visitors and revenue to the region. The newer facility will also enable passengers to disembark more efficiently.

So, who’s paying for all this?

The project is being funded through a public-private partnership between the Alaska Railroad Corporation and Royal Caribbean Group. Royal Caribbean has committed to a 30-year lease, and the revenue generated from the dock’s operation will cover the cost of the bonds used for construction. This means the project will not draw on state general funds.

Representative Frank Tomaszewski, a strong advocate for the project, expressed his enthusiasm for the new dock, noting its potential to further boost Alaska’s tourism industry.

“This is a win-win,” he stated. “It’s good for Seward, it’s good for Alaska, and it’s good for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of our state.”

Construction is anticipated to begin soon, with the new dock expected to be operational in the near future.

Carnival Luminosa will be the first cruise ship to visit Seward this April, and May will see five other cruise lines pull into port with Viking Venus, Grand Princess, Silver Nova, Celebrity Summit, Radiance of the Seas, and Viking Orion calling on Seward.

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Viking Extends Sale on Cruises to All Seven Continents

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

Viking, the world’s leading ocean and river cruise line, has extended their ‘Explorer Sale’ through the end of the month.

Viking ocean cruise ship

Viking’s ‘Explorer Sale’ includes cruises to all seven continents on some of their most popular itineraries. The sale has been extended through February 28, 2025 and offers discounted fares and additional perks.

Viking’s ‘Explorer Sale’ includes the following:

Cruise fares starting at $1,999 per person*
Up to free international airfare on select itineraries
$25 cruise deposits on any voyage
Additional savings for new and returning guests

*Included in all Viking fares are taxes/port fees, WiFi, one shore excursion in every port, drinks during meals, and all dining options.

Viking’s cruises visit more than 500 ports around the world in 85 countries. Here’s a look at some of their most popular itineraries.

Pharaohs & Pyramids – This 12-day trip through Egypt includes several days in Cairo and a river cruise on the Nile River. You can read about Cruise Fever’s experience on this sailing here.

Viking Homelands – This 15-day ocean cruise starts in Stockholm and ends in Bergin, Norway. The sailing visits the Baltic, Scandinavia and fjords in Norway.

Ancient Mediterranean Treasures – An eight day cruise in the Mediterranean where you start in Istanbul, Turkey and end in Athens, Greece. You will visit the ancient city of Ephesus as well as the Greek Isles.

Danube Walz – This is an eight-day cruise from Budapest to Passau on the Danube River that includes a stop in Vienna.

Antarctic Explorer – This is a 13-day expedition trip that takes you to the Antarctic Peninsula where you can see icebergs, glaciers and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing.

Cities of Lights – A 12-day cruise that takes you from Paris to Prague, this voyage sails on some of the most iconic rivers in Europe.

America’s Great River – You don’t have to leave the country to take a cruise on Viking. The cruise line offers a 15-day sailing on the Mississippi River that starts in St. Paul and ends in New Orleans.

Many of the ocean and river cruises offered by Viking can also be done in reverse order from the embarkation/debarkation cities listed.

To see the complete terms and conditions of this sale from Viking, visit Viking.com or contact your preferred travel professional.

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Royal Caribbean Shareholder Benefits Explained

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Money saving tips Royal Caribbean

The Royal Caribbean Group – the company that owns Royal Caribbean International – is one of the biggest travel companies in the whole world. And you could become a part owner if you decided to invest in shares in the company.

Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas

You’d then also be able to enjoy Royal Caribbean stockholder benefits whenever you cruised with the company. They’re not really of enough value to justify investing unless you cruise very regularly, but they are a nice bonus to have as a perk of being an owner of stock.

So let’s take a look at what the Royal Caribbean shareholder benefits are, and what you need to do to claim them.

Do Royal Caribbean Stockholders Get Discounts?

Owners of Royal Caribbean stock do not get a direct discount on their cruise fares. Instead, stockholders are able to claim onboard credit for their cruise, which varies depending on the length of the sailing. This could qualify as a discount if it saves you spending your own money on-board.

But to be clear, it doesn’t apply to everyone. You can’t just buy a single share in the company and then start claiming credit – that would hardly be fair. Instead, this offer applies to anyone who owns 100 shares of Royal Caribbean Group stock or more.

The Royal Caribbean stock ownership benefits that you can claim are:

$250 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 14 nights or more
$100 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings from 6 to 13 nights
$50 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 5 nights or fewer

And there’s some more good news as well – because Celebrity Cruises falls under the banner of the Royal Caribbean group, you can claim the same benefit when you book a sailing on that cruise line too.

Strangely though, the offer is not extended to Silversea, the third cruise line owned by the Royal Caribbean Group. Silversea has been 100% owned by Royal Caribbean since 2020 and yet the shareholder benefit has yet to be extended.

It has been acknowledged by Silversea, with the company releasing a statement to confirm they are looking at ways they can partner with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises more, with shareholder benefits being one of the options they are looking into.

How To Buy Royal Caribbean Shares

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

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

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

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

Read more: Should you invest in Royal Caribbean shares?

How To Claim Royal Caribbean Shareholder Benefits

In order to get your Royal Caribbean stock benefits, you need to make a claim before you sail. It’s not automatically applied, so don’t assume that you can get the benefit without asking for it.

It’s handled by a completely separate team to the regular customer service department, so if you forget, don’t assume that Guest Services onboard will be able to rectify it, even if you happen to have your details with you on the ship.

Instead, you need to make a claim by providing a list of your details, including:

Your name
Your address
Your booking confirmation number
Your ship and sailing date for your cruise
Proof of your share ownership in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd

There are four ways you can send this to the cruise line.

The easiest way is to do it by email or online form, but if you are someone who prefers to send them by mail or fax then those options are still available. You just need to make sure your claim reaches Royal Caribbean no later than 3 weeks before you are due to sail.

Things To Know About Royal Caribbean Stock Benefits

There are a few terms and conditions that you need to be aware of regarding the Royal Caribbean shareholder benefits.

Firstly, it’s available on every cruise you take with Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises, except for any chartered sailings, or cruises to the Galapagos Islands.

The benefit is available ‘per stateroom’. So you aren’t able to buy 200 shares, transfer 100 to your partner, and then both claim the benefit if you’re staying in the same stateroom. However, the good news is that solo travellers only need 100 shares – you don’t need twice as many just because you’re a solo occupant.

The onboard credit isn’t available to any employees of the Royal Caribbean Group, or anyone booking a cruise on a Royal Caribbean Group Friends & Family rate.

The benefit can’t be transferred either. It has to be used by the shareholder, and only on the cruise they claim it for. You can’t claim it and then roll it over to your next cruise.

That covers most things but if you do have other questions, you can get in touch with the dedicated team at [email protected].

To Conclude

It’s always risky buying stocks and shares – there’s no guarantee your stake will retain its value. And cruise might be a huge industry, but just look at how share prices fell during the shutdown. Hopefully, nothing like that will ever happen again, but you need to be prepared to lose some of your funds if you risk buying stock.

Yet, the Royal Caribbean stock holder benefits for anyone who cruises with Royal Caribbean or Celebrity on a regular basis are a nice bonus to have. If you were to claim on a 2-week cruise every year for a decade, that’s $2500 you’d get in on-board credit for free. So it may be worth it, if you’re thinking of investing anyway.

Read more: Should you invest in Royal Caribbean shares?

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…

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The Best Cruise Destinations For Families

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Caribbean Choosing a cruise Cruise Lines Cruise News Destinations Europe Kids

When planning a family cruise, choosing the best destination is just as important as choosing the best cruise line and the best ship.

After all, you’ll get off the ship most days to explore a port of call, so it’s worth investing a little bit of time into researching the best destinations for your family cruise.

This article highlights some of the most popular cruise destinations for families with children.

1. The Mediterranean

Europe is known for its beautiful beaches, great museums and fascinating history.

A cruise holiday can be a great way to educate older children with trips to famous European landmarks such as the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Acropolis. For younger ones, a sandy beach with buckets and spades may be all they need.

When to Cruise

You can enjoy a cruise in the Mediterranean all year round, but it’s most popular between April and October when the weather is best.

You’ll find a huge selection of ships to choose from for Mediterranean cruises in the summer months. In October, many cruise ships head transatlantic to spend the winter in the Caribbean, returning to the Med for the summer in April.

Where to Depart

You can cruise to the Mediterranean from the UK port of Southampton, heading around Spain and towards Italy. As cruise ships average around 23 miles per hour, a round trip will take approximately two weeks.

If you only have a week for your cruise, a good option is to fly to somewhere like Barcelona, Venice or Rome where you can join your cruise ship. This also means that you’re more likely to have good weather throughout the cruise.

If you’re flying into Rome you should definitely spend a few days exploring before or after your cruise. You’ll find so many things to do with kids in Rome so it’s a good idea to plan your itinerary for each day before you go.

2. Caribbean

Families with younger children will love spending time on the pristine white sandy beaches of the Caribbean, building sandcastles and hunting for shells. Older kids will love the watersports and snorkelling, looking at the tropical fish and turtles.

A great way to spend the day as a family is to head off together on a glass-bottomed boat ride. For something really special, you could even swim with dolphins or go scuba diving. A Caribbean cruise can be as chilled or energetic as you want to make it.

When to Cruise

The Caribbean is a great place to find winter sun. The most popular time of year to cruise to the Caribbean is between December and April.

The hurricane season in the Caribbean is between June and November. Cruises are cheapest at this time, but you run the risk of missing ports or your cruise being cancelled due to bad weather.

If you’re travelling from the UK and want to spend some time in Florida, you may wish to time your cruise to miss the US summer break.

Where to Depart

Most Caribbean cruises depart from Florida, from ports such as Miami, Port Canaveral and Port Everglades. You can also cruise from other US ports such as New York, New Orleans and Galveston.

You can depart from ports within the Caribbean such as San Juan, St Lucia or Bridgetown, Barbados. If you don’t like to fly and have the time, you could even take a round-trip cruise from the UK.

3. Northern Europe

There’s so much for kids of every age to enjoy on a European cruise. Many of the ports of call are cities, so you’ll find lots of history and culture. While many people assume that the Med is where you’ll get the best European cruises for families, Northern Europe has loads to offer as well.

Before you cruise, you should be sure to look up the best museums and family-friendly attractions to visit in each port.

When to Cruise

You can cruise to Northern Europe all year round. Cruises in the winter are the cheapest, but you’ll need to wrap up warm.

The best time to go is arguably in the summer when you’ll have the best chance of enjoying the warm weather and can make the most of being outdoors.

Where to Depart

If you live in the UK, cruising from Southampton is a really convenient way to start your cruise. From here you’ll find a great choice of mini cruises or week-long holidays visiting some exciting ports of call in Europe.

4. Norwegian Fjords

Whilst you may think that a Norwegian Fjords cruise is all about sitting back and admiring the scenery, that’s not necessarily the case.

You’ll find plenty of hiking and kayaking excursions to choose from. Whilst many of these are only suitable for older children, there are some good options for younger ones too, such as funicular railway rides and pushchair-friendly hiking trails.

The ports often have great play parks too, and sometimes the best family cruise destinations are simple in that way.

The prices of food, drinks and accommodation in Norway can be eye-wateringly expensive, with a hamburger or sandwich at a café costing around £20 and beer costing £8. A standard hotel room in a central location can easily cost upwards of £200 per night. A cruise is the cheapest way to see Norway, as once you’ve paid for the cruise you’ll have very little else to shell out for.

When to Cruise

If you cruise to the North Cape between May and July you’ll be able to experience the midnight sun. Cruise between September and March and you may experience the Northern Lights.

Where to Depart

You’ll find lots of Norwegian Fjords cruises departing from Southampton and the other UK cruise ports. You could also choose to cruise from European ports such as Amsterdam or Copenhagen.

5. The Bahamas

Most Popular Cruise Ports in the Bahamas

May of the cruise ports in the Bahamas are islands which are privately owned by cruise lines and are only accessible by cruise ships.

Read more: The best cruise line private islands

When to Cruise

The Bahamas can be rainy, particularly in summer, but it’s driest in late winter and early spring.

The hurricane season lasts from June to November, which is the cheapest time to go, but you do run the small risk of cruise ports being missed due to high winds.

Read more: How hurricanes can affect cruises

Where to Depart

Most Bahamas cruises depart from Florida. You may wish to combine a cruise to the Bahamas with a few days at Orlando’s theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios.

The Best Cruise Destinations For Families

Choosing the best cruise destination for your family will depend on the age of your children and what you like to do. That said, most places have great options for children of all ages from babies to teens.

It’s a good idea to plan each day in advance to get the most out of your time ashore. For a hassle-free experience you can excursions offered by your cruise line, or you can plan your own days to save money and personalise your trip.

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A Weekend In Malacca – Travel Guide For A Quick Getaway

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Tips

Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from Singapore. With its rich history, vibrant street markets, and delicious local cuisine, this charming city offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Malacca has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff or a foodie.

In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about travelling from Singapore to Malacca by bus, booking bus tickets online, navigating the border crossing, and making the most of your trip.

Getting to Malacca: Choosing the Right Bus Operator

Traveling by Singapore to Malacca bus is one of the most convenient and affordable options. The journey takes approximately 4–6 hours, including immigration clearance at Singapore and Malaysia borders. The duration of travel may change based on traffic and weather conditions. Several bus operators provide comfortable rides with various amenities to ensure a smooth trip.

Best Bus Operators for Singapore to Malacca

Transtar Travel – Premium coaches with spacious seats, onboard entertainment, and meals.
707 Inc. – Reliable service with multiple pick-up and drop-off points.
KKKL Express – Affordable and comfortable, with reclining seats and ample legroom.
Starmart Express – Well-known for punctuality and frequent departures.

Booking Your Bus Tickets Online

It’s recommended that you book your bus tickets online through platforms like redBus to secure the best seats and avoid last-minute hassles.

Online booking allows you to compare prices, choose your preferred seat, and receive instant confirmation.

Navigating the Border Crossing

When traveling by bus from Singapore to Malacca, you’ll need to go through two immigration checkpoints:

Woodlands Checkpoint (Singapore) – Exit immigration, where you’ll scan your passport and luggage.
Johor Bahru Immigration (Malaysia) – Enter Malaysia and get your passport stamped.

Tips for a Smooth Border Crossing:

Keep your passport and necessary documents ready
Ensure your visa (if required) is arranged beforehand
Avoid carrying prohibited items
Follow your bus driver’s instructions to avoid missing your bus

Arriving in Malacca: Pick-up and Drop-off Points

Most buses drop passengers off at Melaka Sentral, the main bus terminal in Malacca. You can take a taxi or Grab to your hotel or tourist attractions. Some luxury coaches also offer direct drop-offs at hotels in the city center.

Pick-up Points in Singapore:

Golden Mile Complex
Bugis MRT
Boon Lay
Queen Street Terminal

Drop-off Points in Malacca:

Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal
Hatten Hotel
Swiss-Garden Hotel

Things to Do in Malacca for a Weekend Getaway

1. Explore Jonker Street Night Market

A trip to Malacca is incomplete without visiting Jonker Street Night Market. This bustling street comes alive in the evening with food stalls, souvenirs, and live performances. Don’t miss out on trying chicken rice balls, cendol, and satay celup!

2. Visit A Famosa & St. Paul’s Hill

A Famosa, the remains of a Portuguese fortress, is one of Malacca’s most iconic historical sites. Just a short walk away, St. Paul’s Hill offers panoramic city views.

3. Cruise Along the Malacca River

Take a Malacca River Cruise and enjoy scenic views of the city’s colonial buildings and murals. The cruise is lovely at night when the city lights reflect on the water.

4. Discover Dutch Square

Also known as Red Square, this area is home to Christ Church, Stadthuys, and the Queen Victoria Fountain. It’s a great spot for history lovers and photographers.

5. Experience the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Learn about the unique Peranakan culture at this well-preserved museum showcasing traditional architecture, artifacts, and antiques.

Where to Stay in Malacca

Luxury Stay:

Majestic Malacca
Casa del Rio

Mid-Range Hotels:

Hatten Hotel
The Pines Melaka

Budget Options:

Jonker Boutique Hotel
Heeren Inn

Conclusion

A weekend in Malacca perfectly blends history, culture, and relaxation. You can make the most of your quick getaway with an easy and comfortable Singapore to Malacca bus journey, hassle-free bus tickets online, and a well-planned itinerary. Whether indulging in delicious street food or exploring centuries-old landmarks, Malacca promises a memorable escape.

Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to explore the charm of Malacca!

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Delta Air Lines Crash Landing At Toronto Pearson Airport

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Tips

Earlier today, a Delta Air Lines flight experienced a severe crash landing at Toronto Pearson Airport. Exclusive video footage reveals the aircraft skidding upon touchdown and erupting into a fireball, ultimately flipping upside down. The scene was marked by urgency and chaos, with initial reports and eyewitness accounts highlighting the swift response from emergency services.

The Flight and Its Journey

Delta Flight 4819 was a routine service from Minneapolis to Toronto, carrying 80 passengers and crew members. The flight began uneventfully but took a perilous turn as it approached its destination. What was intended to be a short and uneventful trip became a harrowing experience, underscoring the unpredictable nature of air travel.

The Crash Landing

Upon attempting to land, the aircraft skidded across the runway, losing one of its wings before stopping upside down. The sequence of events leading to the crash was captured in a video that has gained widespread attention. This footage provides a stark visual of the incident’s severity, drawing significant public interest and concern.

Aftermath and Response

Emergency response teams acted with commendable efficiency to evacuate all passengers and crew. Remarkably, despite the crash’s severity, everyone on board survived. The swift and effective response of the emergency services was crucial in ensuring the safety of those involved, highlighting the importance of preparedness and training in crises.

Investigation and Future Implications

An investigation into the crash is currently underway, with initial findings expected to shed light on the causes of the incident. This crash has prompted discussions about airline safety and regulations, with potential implications for future safety measures. As the investigation progresses, the aviation industry and regulatory bodies will closely monitor the findings to enhance safety protocols and prevent similar occurrences.

In related Cruise News, travelers are reminded of the importance of safety and preparedness in all forms of travel, including air and sea. For those planning cruise vacations, staying informed about the latest Cruise Tips, Cruise Deals, and Cruise Line Reviews can enhance travel experiences and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

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Royal Caribbean’s First Beach Club Moves to Next Phase of Development

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

Royal Caribbean, the world’s largest cruise line, is opening their first Royal Beach Club later this year on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.

Royal Beach Club Nassau

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is located on 17 acres on Paradise Island, a stone throw away from where cruise ships dock when visiting Nassau.

The project moved to its next phase of development this week with Royal Caribbean asking local Bahamian businesses to submit proposals to become part of the experience.

Royal Caribbean wants to create opportunities for local businesses to be a part of the Beach Club. This includes everything from landscaping to music/entertainment to medical services.

The cruise line is also added a new signature venue, The Bunker. Local Bahamians with the winning bid will create The Bunker, an immersive experience unique to The Bahamas.

The world’s largest swim-up bar will be located at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

Philip Simon, President, Royal Caribbean Bahamas, gave the following statement:

“Our call for proposals from Bahamian businesses and artisans is a crucial next step in the Royal Beach Club’s development and ultimate success. This initiative underscores our dedication to creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs and supporting the Bahamian community by ensuring the beach club is a space for Bahamians to thrive.”

Each proposal will be assessed for scalability, ability to meet Royal Caribbean’s quality standards, commitment to the company’s six environmental pillars, consistency, timeliness and pricing.”

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is scheduled to open in late 2025 and is the first of two Beach Clubs being built by Royal Caribbean.

Guests on Royal Caribbean cruise ships visiting Nassau will be able to book an excursion to the Beach Club. Included in the price will be a short water shuttle to the club, and all food and drinks.

It will have the world’s largest swim-up bar, adults only areas, and areas for families.

Bahamians will own a 49% equity in the Beach Club that’s part of a public-private partnership.

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Where Should I Park? Best Miami Cruise Parking Guide

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

Plan on parking at PortMiami for your next cruise? You should know there are a ton of parking options. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through all of them so you can save money, park conveniently, and just enjoy a worry-free cruise.

Luckily finding a place to park while you take your cruise isn’t as painful as you may think it is. To help you out, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about cruise parking near PortMiami.

miami cruise parking

Most Convenient Parking for Miami Cruise Passengers

If convenience is what you’re looking for, PortMiami offers the best cruise parking for passengers. They’re located right by the cruise ports and they offer both covered and uncovered parking with high security. They’ll also provide you with a shuttle to take you, your luggage, and anyone in your group to and from your terminal.

All lots have handicap accessible parking at standard rates. Free parking is available to any vehicles that require use of specialized equipment (ramps, lifts, foot/hand controls, etc.), display a State of Florida disabled veterans license plate, or display a Florida Toll Exemption permit.

The only downside to parking onsite is the price. Rates for overnight parking is $22 per night, and if you have an oversized vehicle longer than 20 feet you’ll pay $44 per night. Royal Caribbean’s Terminal A charges $25 per night.

Off-Site Cruise Parking in Miami

If you’re looking for something with lower rates, there are a few businesses that offer parking for cruise passengers in Miami at a fraction of the price that the official port parking charges.

Safe Cruise Parking

Safe Cruise Parking is located just 5 minutes from the port and charges passengers roughly $14 a night per vehicle with fees and taxes, and you can book as many nights as you need.

You can find them at 155 SW 3^rd St, and once you park, they’ll provide a free shuttle to take you and your luggage to and from the cruise terminal. The shuttle runs every 15-30 minutes between 8am and 2:30pm, so be sure to arrive within that time if you wish to take advantage of it.

JetPort Park & Ride Center

This is another great budget-friendly parking option for Miami cruise travelers. Rates start at $9.99 per night and provide complimentary round-trip shuttle service for up to 4 people ($5 extra for each additional person).

JetPort is a secured parking lot with 24/7 surveillance so your car will always be safe. The shuttle runs from 8am to 3pm taking passengers to and from the cruise terminal.

You must reserve your parking online. Once you do, they’ll send you directions to the garage. When you arrive, you’ll receive an entry ticket, then once you park, you’ll go to the customer service desk to show your entry ticket and reservation, and there you’ll wait for the shuttle.

Premier Cruise Parking

This multi-level parking garage is just a mile from the ports and provides free shuttle service that can take you to the cruise terminal on cruise day and will bring you back upon your return.

Rates run about $10-$12 per day, plus taxes and fees. No oversized vehicles are allowed, so if you’re bringing an RV or camper, you’ll have to park somewhere else.

The earliest you can park there is 10:30am. Shuttle service starts at 11am and runs to 3:30pm. They do not allow any parking after 3:30pm, so be sure to plan accordingly if you decide to reserve a spot here.

Best Cruise Parking

At just $9.99 per night ($10 during peak season), Best Cruise Parking is another favorable option for saving on your trip budget. They are located at 221 NW 1^st Street. Reservations must be made online, or you can give them a call at 1-833-568-7101.

They provide complimentary round-trip shuttle service for 4 passengers; additional persons are $5 each. Your shuttle driver will give you a set of flags to use to alert him to your presence when you return.

They do not, however, provide service to Bimini Fast Cruise, or do they allow parking of oversized vehicles.

Miami Quick Park

Quick Park at Miami Cruise Port Parking is owned and operated by another cruise parking company with multiple locations on the east coast. This is the first Miami location they’ve built.

Housed in an old Alamo car rental facility, they have 400 outdoor parking spots available, an air-conditioned waiting lounge, and staff willing and able to help with luggage and shuttle transportation. Up to 4 passengers can ride the shuttle for free, and it’s $10 for each additional person.

Quick Park rates start at $8.00 per day, but during the holidays it’s $9 per day.

Park at Miami International Airport

Even if you’re not using the airport, you can still park there, and it’s cheaper than parking at the Port of Miami. The airport is only about 9 or 10 miles from the cruise terminal. They charge $17 per day and you can park there for a maximum of 60 days.

Just like the official port parking, handicap vehicles can park in accessible parking areas and will be charged the regular rate. Those with special equipment, FL State disabled veterans license plates, or a Florida Toll Exemption permit will be exempt from parking fees.

Also, since the Port of Miami frequently offers shuttles to and from the airport, you shouldn’t have any problems getting a ride to the cruise port.

Hotels in Miami with Free Parking

Many of the hotels near the PortMiami cater to cruise passengers by offering free or discounted parking and shuttle services. Some will even have a “Park & Cruise” package which that you can purchase when you book your stay.

If you prefer arriving the night before cruise day, you might want to consider staying at one of those hotels to save on some of your travel costs. We’ll start with the hotels closest to the port and go from there.

Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Grand Biscayne Bay

1717 N Bayshore Dr, Miami FL 33132 | 1.1 miles from port

This 4-star hotel is the closest that offers services to cruise passengers. Their Park & Cruise Package provides complimentary valet parking for up to 8 nights, as well as shuttle service for 2 to the cruise port.

Hilton Miami Downtown

1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami FL, 33132 | 1.9 miles from port

The Hilton has a Park & Go package with free parking and shuttle service to and from the cruise port, as well as the Miami International Airport.

Hampton Inn Coconut Grove/Coral Gables

2800 Southwest 28^th Terrace, Miami FL 33133 | 6.3 miles from port

Hampton Inn’s Stay & Cruise package costs $15 above standard rates and provides a shuttle to the port, and free 7 day parking.

Red Roof Plus Miami Airport

3401 NW Lejeune Road, Miami Springs, FL 33134 | 7.9 miles from port

Red Roof has a Snooze & Cruise deal that allows you to park for up to 14 days. You’ll also get a coupon for 15% off the nearby food truck and a shuttle to the port.

Runway Inn

656 East Drive, Miami Springs, FL 33166 | 3.5 miles from port

Runway offers cruise packages to their guests with free parking and free transportation to the cruise port. Upon returning, they’ll pick you up and take you back to the hotel for $10 per person.

EB Hotel Miami Airport

4299 NW 36^th Street, Miami Springs, FL 33166 | 8.7 miles from port

In addition to the free 7-day parking and one-way shuttle to the port, EB Hotel will upgrade you for free to a Deluxe or Business suite if you book the Stay Park & Cruise package.

Quality Inn Miami Airport

3959 NW 79^th Ave, Miami, FL 33166 | 11 miles from port

Quality Inn Miami has a Park & Snooze package which gives you free 7-day parking and a shuttle to the port.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Miami West

3590 NW 74^th Ave, Miami, FL 33122 | 11 miles from port

You’ll free parking for up to 7 days and a shuttle to the cruise port. Just select their Park & Go package when booking your stay.

InterContinental At Doral Miami

2505 NW 87^th Ave, Doral, FL, 33172

Though this hotel is the furthest one from the port, it’s one of our top recommendations if you plan to stay overnight before your cruise leaves. You get free parking for up to 14 days, and they’ll give you a complimentary $30 Uber gift card to cover transportation to the cruise port.

In addition to all of that, when you book with their cruise package, you’re automatically upgrade to the club floor, and you get a full breakfast buffet for two.

The package is for up to 2 people, any additions will cost an extra $15 per person.

PortMiami Information

PortMiami is the largest passenger port in the world, serving over 5 million customers per year. It is also one of the largest cargo ports in the United States.

If you’ve chosen Miami as your cruise port, you may want to know a few things about the port and terminals so you can plan your trip accordingly.

Terminals

The Miami cruise port has some of the most modern terminals in the world, all of them designed to move passengers quickly and efficiently from land to sea and back again. There’s convenient parking (as we’ve noted early in this article) for all terminals, and the entry ways allow for easy check-in and boarding.

Terminal AA/AAA

This is newest terminal at PortMiami and the largest cruise terminal in the world. This terminal is home for MSC Cruises and their ships.

Terminal A

This is Royal Caribbean’s terminal at PortMiami and can accommodate their largest ships.

Terminal B

Terminal B is home to Norwegian Cruise Line.

Terminal C

Terminal C is used by different cruise lines.

Terminal D/E

Terminals D and E are used by Carnival Cruise Line.

Terminal F

Carnival Cruise Line recently renovated and enlarged this terminal so their Excel class ships can use it.

Terminals G/H

Terminals G and H have the iconic sails on the roof and are used by different cruise lines.

Terminal J

This is the port’s smallest “boutique” cruise terminal, built and designed for smaller vessels like those from Oceania and Regent Seven Seas.

Terminal V

Terminal V was custom built for Virgin Voyages and it’s the first terminal at the port.

Conclusion

Parking in Miami doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Any of the options listed above would be great choices, depending on what your preference is.

The best option for convenience and for handicapped visitors is to park on-site at the port. However, this is also the most expensive option. If there are budget restraints, Miami has various other parking options for far less, and many of them also offer shuttle service.

If you’d rather arrive a day or two before, we’ve included nearby hotels with Park & Cruise packages that provide free parking and shuttle service to the port. A few will even upgrade your room for free, which is an extra bonus.

Wherever you decide to park or stay while visiting Miami, we hope you have fun and enjoy your cruise.

Note: This article was updated in February 2025.

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Carnival Cruise from Norfolk Postponed Due to High Winds, Port Visit Cancelled

February 18, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Diplomacy

An 8-day round trip cruise out of Norfolk, Virginia on Carnival Sunshine has been delayed due to weather. Originally scheduled to depart on Sunday, February 16, the sailing is now scheduled to depart from the port on Monday around 6:00 a.m.

Carnival Sunshine in Nassau cruise port — Carnival Sunshine in Nassau, Bahamas

Strong, gusty winds up to 55 mph and high waves were forecast for Sunday, leading to the announcement of the delay on Saturday.

Carnival Cruise Line sent out an email about the delay, letting passengers know that they would still be able to board the ship on Sunday, even though the vessel would stay overnight in Norfolk.

“We were looking forward to delivering the itinerary we had planned and share your disappointment for this weather-related change but trust you will understand that your safety is a priority. While we are docked in Norfolk, all activities and events will continue as planned, but the casino and shops must remain closed,” the email said.

In addition to a later than expected departure, one port visit has also been cancelled. Princess Cays will no longer be on the itinerary. The 8-day voyage visits two other ports on the schedule: Grand Turk and Amber Cove.

But because of the cancellation of Princess Cays, Carnival decided to let passengers spend some extra time in the two ports remaining on the itinerary.

After Carnival Sunshine’s move from Charleston to Norfolk, this is only the second sailing for the ship out of the Virginia port.

The ship is scheduled to arrive back in Norfolk on February 24 when a 6-day sailing to The Bahamas will begin.

Passengers are encouraged to check the Carnival Cruise Line website or app for the most up-to-date information regarding their sailing.

Carnival Sunshine, at 102,853 gross tons, can accommodate about 3,000 passengers and has a crew of around 1,150.

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Getting to Malacca: Choosing the Right Bus Operator

Best Bus Operators for Singapore to Malacca

Booking Your Bus Tickets Online

Navigating the Border Crossing

Tips for a Smooth Border Crossing:

Arriving in Malacca: Pick-up and Drop-off Points

Pick-up Points in Singapore:

Drop-off Points in Malacca:

Things to Do in Malacca for a Weekend Getaway

1. Explore Jonker Street Night Market

2. Visit A Famosa & St. Paul’s Hill

3. Cruise Along the Malacca River

4. Discover Dutch Square

5. Experience the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum

Where to Stay in Malacca

Luxury Stay:

Mid-Range Hotels:

Budget Options:

Conclusion

The Flight and Its Journey

The Crash Landing

Aftermath and Response

Investigation and Future Implications

Most Convenient Parking for Miami Cruise Passengers

Off-Site Cruise Parking in Miami

Safe Cruise Parking

JetPort Park & Ride Center

Premier Cruise Parking

Best Cruise Parking

Miami Quick Park

Park at Miami International Airport

Hotels in Miami with Free Parking

Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Grand Biscayne Bay

Hilton Miami Downtown

Hampton Inn Coconut Grove/Coral Gables

Red Roof Plus Miami Airport

Runway Inn

EB Hotel Miami Airport

Quality Inn Miami Airport

Homewood Suites by Hilton Miami West

InterContinental At Doral Miami

PortMiami Information

Terminals

Terminal AA/AAA

Terminal A

Terminal B