A 19-year-old male has been indicted by a US Attorney after a bomb hoax that took place in January 2024.
Joshua Darrell Lowe II, from Bailey, Michigan, sent an email to Carnival saying “Hey, I think someone might have a bomb on your Sunrise cruise ship.”
At the time, the ship had just left Miami on a cruise to Jamaica with over 4,000 people onboard.
Due to the email, the crew had to search over 1,000 staterooms on the ship, before she was then escorted to port by the Jamaican Marine Police for further inspections.
Now, Mark Totten, US Attorney for the Western District of Michigan, has announced that Lowe will face criminal charges for the hoax.
If he’s found guilty, he could face up to five years in jail along with a hefty fine to cover the costs of the hoax.
It’s not the first time a Carnival ship has been the victim of a bomb hoax – in 2010, a Florida woman made several calls to the Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office to claim that a terrorist was onboard the Carnival Fascination.
She later pleaded guilty and was jailed for 12 months.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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Tom Bridge, a British kitesurfer and Red Bull athlete, made a daring jump from the Resilient Lady, a Virgin Voyages cruise ship, on 25 September.
Credit: Alex Grymanis / Red Bull Content Pool
The ship was anchored in the Greek Isles. Bridge jumped from Deck 16, which is about 129 feet high, turning the ship into a kitesurfing venue.
After the jump, Bridge said it was “probably the most terrifying thing” he has done with a kite. He managed to travel about 700 to 900 feet downwind after landing.
“We’d been on the ship to recce three times and had lots of looks over the edge. And every time we’ve gone ‘Oh God, it’s high, isn’t it?’ Then, honestly, when I had the kite in my hands, and I put my feet in the straps, I didn’t look down. It was just ‘go.’ It just carried me, and next minute we’re on the water.”
Tom Bridge, Red Bull athlete
Tom Bridge is from Exmouth and has a strong background in kitesurfing.
In 2013, he joined a Guinness World Record event with Virgin Group Founder Richard Branson. They set a record for the largest group of kitesurfers completing a one-mile course. Bridge was only 12 years old at the time, making him the youngest participant.
“You’ve got to be both incredibly skilled, and have a lot of nerve to attempt such a boost – what an amazing achievement! I love kitesurfing at my home on Necker Island, so Tom successfully jumping from deck 16 of Resilient Lady is an epic achievement.”
Sir Richard Branson
The event was, of course, pre-agreed with the cruise line – guests aren’t allowed to kitesurf from the deck of a cruise ship whenever they want to!
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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 new study by cruise specialists Iglu Cruise has revealed that Norway is the most Googled cruise destination for travellers in 11 European countries, including the UK, Ireland, Spain, and…
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For some people, a cruise is an opportunity to escape from the grasp that the internet has over our daily lives. For others, the idea of a week (or longer) without access to emails and social media is a nightmare scenario.
Those people needn’t worry, because Royal Caribbean have some great Wi-Fi packages. These will help you stay connected during your voyage, whether you want to catch up on the news or stream your favourite movies from your stateroom.
Anthem of the Seas in Norway
And it gets better, too – Royal Caribbean is one of the early adopters of Starlink, bringing satellite internet to the fleet for some of the fastest speeds.
Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi Cost
The cost of Voom Wi-Fi packages on a Royal Caribbean ship can vary depending on a number of factors. Expect to pay around $20 to $26 per day for the package.
The pricing’s a little complicated, but first, let’s look at the internet package on offer and what you get.
Voom Surf + Stream Voyage
The Voom Surf + Steam Wi-Fi package is Royal Caribbean’s internet package. It’s a fast package that is designed to let you:
video chat
live stream on social media
access streaming services to watch video content or stream music.
There used to be two Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi packages you could choose from, with a more basic ‘Voom Surf’ package on offer that was a bit cheaper.
However, since the introduction of Starlink, there is now just one Voom internet package for guests: the Voom Surf + Stream option. The Voom Surf package is no longer available.
Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi Pricing Explained
Just like the price of Royal Caribbean drinks packages, the price of Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi changes all the time. It varies depending on the ship, the sailing and when you purchase it.
On average, the Voom Surf + Stream package costs $20 per day, but it can be a couple of dollars more or less than that. That’s the price if you pay for your full cruise. If you just want a 24-hour pass, you’ll have to pay a lot more.
As a rough guide, you should expect to pay somewhere in the region of $33 for the Surf + Stream Package.
But then it gets a little more confusing, because you can save money for additional devices. If you buy a family plan for five devices, you could save even more – bringing down the average Royal Caribbean Voom cost.
If you want the best deals, pre-book your internet access before you sail. Discounts will vary depending on your sailing, so I can’t tell you exactly what it’ll cost. But booking in advance on the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner will always be cheaper than buying it onboard the ship.
Do Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships Have Free Wi-Fi?
Generally, Royal Caribbean cruise ships don’t have free Wi-Fi access, and guests have to pay for it. The only exception is guests who have booked a Star or Sky Royal Suite Class suite, where each guest gets one free Surf + Stream package.
You can get some free internet access if you’re a loyal Royal Caribbean cruiser. Guests who reach the Diamond or Diamond Plus tiers of the Crown & Anchor Society get one or two free days of internet, respectively. Anyone who manages to reach the very exclusive Pinnacle Club tier gets free unlimited access for one device throughout their cruise.
You don’t need an internet package for the Royal Caribbean app to work. It also won’t use your own mobile data, so you won’t have roaming charges. Just connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi to use the app for free.
Using the Royal Caribbean app
It’s wise to download the app well in advance of your cruise. You can add all of your details to make checking in much quicker and easier. It also has lots of useful info, so you can familiarise yourself with your ship before you embark.
The Royal Caribbean app is a really handy tool that has different features depending on your ship. You can use it to order food, make bookings for shows and shore excursions, and book your future cruise among other things.
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Is Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi Worth It?
It’s really difficult to say whether Royal Caribbean’s Voom Wi-Fi packages are worth the cost. It’s expensive, as is any cruise line’s internet access. Now that Starlink has been introduced, the speeds are usually reliable, depending on where you are in the world.
You’ll also spend a lot of time in port on most cruises, where you can either find free Wi-Fi or use your 4G or 5G connection on your phone. There may be roaming charges, but these could be less than the cost of the internet package.
If you’re someone who needs to be connected at all times, then Voom is one of the faster cruise line internet services available and is easy to set up. It’s worth it if you simply must have internet access.
But if you can manage without it – and on a Royal Caribbean ship, you will be busy – then it may be better to save the money. On my latest Royal Caribbean cruise, I didn’t buy the Wi-Fi package. I enjoyed having a digital detox during the sea days, then catching up once the ship docked at each port.
How To Connect to Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi
Getting set up with a Voom package is easy. All you need to do is open your device’s Wi-Fi settings and connect to the network ‘royal-wifi’.
Open up a browser, if it doesn’t do it automatically. It’ll then take you through the steps you need to get connected.
If you’ve already pre-paid for your internet package, then it will recognise that you have a package waiting to connect. Otherwise, you’ll have to choose which one you want, and the cost will be added to your onboard account.
Usually, it’s a really easy process, but sometimes gremlins can get into the system. If you do have any issues, just head to Guest Services and they’ll be happy to help you get connected.
Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi FAQs
Can you text on Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi?
Normal SMS messaging doesn’t use Wi-Fi – it uses your mobile signal. So you may get roaming charges if you try. If you want to use online texting apps like WhatsApp, iMessage or Facebook Messenger, you can do this on your Royal Caribbean cruise with a Voom Surf + Stream WiFi package.
Does Wi-Fi calling work on Royal Caribbean?
Wi-Fi calling will work on a Royal Caribbean ship, as long as you’ve paid for a Surf + Stream package. Connection speeds can vary though, even though it is generally good.
Can you use WhatsApp on Royal Caribbean?
You can use WhatsApp on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship if you buy a Voom Wi-Fi package. You can send voice notes and videos through WhatsApp too, as the internet is fast enough to handle them.
Can you iMessage with Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi?
You are able to use iMessage with Royal Caribbean’s Voom Wi-Fi packages. With only the Voom Surf + Stream option now available, you’ll have no trouble sending pictures or videos through the service.
Can you FaceTime on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
You can FaceTime friends and family from your Royal Caribbean cruise if you’ve paid for a Voom Surf + Stream Wi-Fi package. The connection quality may dip depending on where you are in the world, but it’s usually pretty good.
Can you use Zoom on a Royal Caribbean Cruise?
You can use Zoom on a Royal Caribbean cruise but you’ll need to pay for a Wi-Fi package. Zoom and other video call apps only work on the Voom Surf + Stream Wi-Fi package – if you haven’t bought one, you can’t connect.
Can you use Tik Tok on a Royal Caribbean cruise?
You can use TikTok on a Royal Caribbean cruise. It’s fairly reliable with the faster Starlink internet, but it may suffer if you’re in the middle of the ocean.
The Bottom Line
Voom is advertised as the fastest internet at sea, but it’s also one of the most confusing, since prices aren’t set in stone and can really vary. If the internet costs seem expensive, you might want to risk waiting until nearer to your sail date, but then they could go up even more.
The best advice is to only pay for it if you really need it. Otherwise, try to get by with your 4G or 5G signal when you’re in port, or ask the crew for tips on where to find free Wi-Fi access ashore. You’ll save a lot of money, and all those cruise photos can just be uploaded when you get home instead of live as they happen.
I didn’t have any Wi-Fi on this cruise to Norway and I survived!
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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.
Disney Cruise Line’s ship Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms, offering a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets.
To help you choose the best stateroom for your cruise on the Disney Wish, I’ve put together this detailed guide with information about each of the different stateroom categories.
When I cruised on the Disney Wish inaugural sailing, I was lucky enough to be able to visit lots of different staterooms and suites. I really got a feel for which were the best, and I’ll share that info with you now.
Disney Wish Stateroom Categories
Each stateroom or suite on the Disney wish is assigned a category number. These start at 1A for the exclusive Tower Suite, all the way down to 11C for the cheapest inside cabins.
The table below shows all of the different room categories on the Disney Wish, along with how many people can sleep in each room and the size, including the balcony.
Room
Categories
Sleeps
Size in square feet(square metres)
Concierge Wish Tower Suite
1A
8
1,966 (182)
Concierge 2-Story Royal Suite with Verandah
1B
6
1,759 (163)
Concierge 1-Story Royal Suite with Verandah
1C
6
1,507 (140)
Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Extended Verandah
2A
5
1,031 (96)
Concierge 1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah
2B
5
608 (56)
Concierge Family Oceanview with Verandah
3A
5
296 (27.5)
Concierge Family Oceanview
3B
5
357 (33)
Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah
4A, 4B, 4C, 4E
4
284 (26)
Deluxe Oceanview with Veranda
5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6B, 7A
4
243 (22.5)
Deluxe Family Oceanview
8B, 8C
5
237 (22)
Deluxe Oceanview
9A, 9B, 9C, 9D
4
218 (20)
Standard Inside
11A, 11B, 11C
4
169 (15.7)
On any cruise ship, some rooms are less desirable than others. If you’re choosing a stateroom on the Disney Wish, I recommend you grab a copy of my free checklist that will help you avoid any rooms in bad locations:
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of the different rooms on Disney Wish that you have to choose from.
Disney Wish Tower Suite
Category 1A
The top suite on the ship is the Disney Wish Tower Suite. Unlike anything that’s gone before, this gorgeous suite is located inside the funnel, which gives it the nickname of Disney Wish Funnel Suite.
There’s only one Tower Suite on the Disney Wish, and it’s in high demand. The price of a cruise in this suite varies depending on the sailing and how many people are staying in it. But you can expect to pay somewhere between $30,000 and $100,000 for a three- or four-night cruise.
Due to its unusual location inside the ship’s funnel, the Tower Suite doesn’t have a balcony. However, it does have two main bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, a large two-storey living area, a dining room, a library, a pantry, a bar and a grand spiral staircase.
On the other side of the funnel is a large TV screen. The Slide-a-saurus Rex slide begins from within the funnel, and the AquaMouse slide passes right through. These are demonstrated below by myself and Donald Duck…
The Funnel Suite sleeps eight people comfortably. The two main bedrooms each have king-size beds, there’s a children’s bedroom with bunk beds, and another queen-size bed comes down from a wall in the library.
The Tower Suite has five televisions, motorised blackout blinds, and real feather duvets with a choice of pillow options. Guests will enjoy the use of robes and slippers as well as free Wi-Fi for the whole cruise. The decor is inspired by the movie Moana.
Disney Wish Royal Suite
Category 1B (2-Story Royal Suite) and Category 1C (1-Story Royal Suite)
Disney Wish has two types of Royal Suite: a two-storey option and a single-storey option. There are two of each category on the ship, each with decor inspired by the classic elegance of Sleeping Beauty.
The 2-Story Royal Suites are located right at the front and top of the ship on Decks 13 and 15, next to the Concierge Private Sun Deck. Suite 13000 is the Princess Aurora Royal Suite, while 13500 is the Briar Rose Royal Suite.
These are arguably the best suites on the ship. Each has two main bedrooms, three full bathrooms, a large living area, an open dining room, pantry, wet bar and a large verandah with a whirlpool tub.
The single-storey Royal Suites are around 14% smaller than the 2-Story Royal Suites. However, some would say that the location at the aft corners of Deck 10 is better, with less wind and swaying to contend with.
10666 is the Briar Rose Royal Suite, and 10166 is the Princess Aurora Royal Suite. 10166 is an accessible suite so it has wide doors, a ramped threshold to the balcony, and other facilities to assist guests with limited mobility or other special needs.
The 1-Story Royal Suites have all of the same amenities as the double-storey Suites, including that all-important hot tub on the balcony!
To help you choose your cabin on Disney Wish, I’ve created a cabin checklist that you can get for free. Just enter your email address below, and you’ll receive it in your inbox straight away.
Disney Wish 1-Bedroom Suite
Category 2A (1-Bedroom Suite with Extended Verandah) and Category 2B (1-Bedroom Suite with Verandah)
There are 18 1-Bedroom Suites on the Disney Wish, of which two have the extended verandah. While the regular 1-Bedroom Suites are rectangular, the Extended Verandah 1-Bedroom Suites are oddly shaped with a huge verandah at the front of Deck 12.
Each 1-Bedroom Suite sleeps five guests. They have a separate bedroom with king-size bed, a living area with a double convertible sofa bed, and a single bed that pulls down from the wall.
Each Suite has two full bathrooms, a living room, a wet bar, luxurious decor inspired by Tangled, two TVs, robes, slippers and 100MB of free Wi-Fi.
For guests needing accessible accommodation, Suite 13510 is the one to go for, while 12026 is suited for guests with hearing impairments.
Disney Wish Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom
Category 3A (Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom With Verandah) and Category 3B (Concierge Family Oceanview Stateroom)
For families who want the Disney Concierge benefits (more on those below) without the expense of a full Suite, the Concierge Family Oceanview Staterooms are ideal.
Those on Decks 12 and 13 feature a verandah, while those on Deck 11 instead have floor-to-ceiling windows looking forwards just above the bridge. The rooms without a balcony are a little larger, particularly if you go for one of the corner rooms. 11504 is reserved for guests with mobility needs, but 11006 is a large room that can be booked by anyone.
Each stateroom sleeps four or five guests with a king-size bed, single sofa bed, single Pullman bed, and an extra bed that pulls down from the wall in some rooms. The decor is inspired by Tangled.
Disney Wish Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Category 4A, 4B, 4C, 4E
For families of five, or those wanting a little more space but without the Disney Concierge-level benefits, the best staterooms on Disney Wish are the Deluxe Family Oceanview with Verandah rooms.
This is the room I stayed in when I cruised on the Disney Wish. You can read more about that in my Disney Wish review.
The different letters in category 4 – A, B, C and E (I’m not sure what happened to D) – relate to the location on the ship. 4A are in the best spot on Decks 10 and 11, while the others are a little further away from the open decks.
The 4E staterooms on Disney Wish are located at the aft of the ship on Decks 6, 9 and 10. These have huge balconies and views over the aft. I would say that these could be the best rooms on Disney Wish, for the money.
When you look at the Disney Wish deck plan, you’ll see that there are ‘bump-outs’ on Decks 6 to 10. These are areas where the ship extends outwards. If you choose a category 4 stateroom on a bump-out, you’ll benefit from a larger balcony. So these are worth looking out for.
I stayed in room 9556, which is on the bump out. The balcony is pretty big, as you can see from my video tour below:
Each Deluxe Family Oceanview room has a queen bed, a single sofa bed and a pull-down bed. Those rooms that sleep five have an additional pull-down bed from the wall.
Here’s where you’ll find the Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom with Verandahs:
Category 4A: Decks 10 and 11
Category 4B: Decks 8 and 9
Category 4C: Decks 6 and 7
Category 4E: Decks 6, 9 and 10
Disney Wish Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah
Category 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6B, 7A
The most popular stateroom type on the Disney Wish is the Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah. This is akin to what would be called a standard balcony stateroom on most other cruise ships.
Sleeping three or four people, each room has a queen bed and a single sofa bed. Those rooms that sleep four also have a single pull-down bed.
Again, you’ll want to study the deck plan carefully, as those that are located on the bump-outs have bigger balconies for the same money.
Category 6 staterooms on the Disney Wish all have a slight obstruction to the view, although I expect that this will be minimal, such as a solid wall at the bottom. If this worries you, go for category 5.
Category 7 staterooms on the Disney Wish have a ‘Navigator’s Verandah’. These balconies are a little more enclosed than a standard verandah, with a large open-air porthole. On Carnival ships, they’re known as Cove Balconies.
In this video, you can see what a Navigator’s Verandah looks like on the Disney Magic:
Here’s where you’ll find the Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandahs:
Category 5A: Deck 10
Category 5B: Decks 8 and 9
Category 5C: Decks 6 and 7
Category 6A: Decks 8 and 9
Category 6B: Decks 6 and 7
Category 7A: Decks 6, 7, 8 and 9
Disney Wish Deluxe Family Oceanview Stateroom
Categories 8B & 8C
Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms have a large round window instead of a balcony. They each sleep either four or five guests and are a little larger than the Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms, with an extra 21 square feet of floor space (around 8% more).
Each room has a queen bed, a single sofa bed and a pull-down bed. Those rooms that sleep five have an additional pull-down bed from the wall.
Here’s where you’ll find the Deluxe Family Oceanview Staterooms:
Category 8B: Decks 8 and 9
Category 8C: Decks 6 and 7
Disney Wish Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom
Categories 9A, 9B, 9C & 9D
Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms each sleep three or four guests, and have a large porthole window. If you choose category 9D, the window is slanted.
Each room has a queen bed and a single sofa bed, with some also having a single bed that pulls down from the wall or ceiling.
Category 9B staterooms are all on Deck 2. This is a handy location for the Oceaneer Club, but it’s a long way up to the open decks. If you don’t like to use elevators and prefer to take the stairs, this might be a category to avoid.
Here’s where you’ll find the Deluxe Oceanview Staterooms:
Category 9A: Decks 7 and 8
Category 9B: Deck 2
Category 9C: Decks 7 and 8
Category 9D: Decks 6 and 7
Disney Wish Inside Staterooms
Categories 11A, 11B and 11C
The cheapest staterooms on the Disney Wish are Guaranteed Inside Staterooms. With this option, you don’t get to choose your stateroom number. It will be assigned to you based on what’s available closer to the sailing date.
Guaranteed Inside Staterooms are likely to be the worst rooms on the Disney Wish, although arguably there are no bad rooms on this ship. Plus you have the chance of getting a great one, and may even be upgraded to Ocean View if all of the inside rooms sell out.
The worst staterooms on Disney Wish are category 11C. As well as having no window or natural light, these are located right down on Deck 2, far away from all of the action. For a better location, choose an 11A or 11B stateroom and try to get one that’s not too far from the elevators.
Inside Staterooms on Disney Wish are the only ones that don’t feature Disney Cruise Line’s signature split bathrooms. Your toilet will be in the same room as your bath, rather than in a separate room. But you do at least get a bathtub, even in the cheapest inside room. And that’s something reserved for Suite guests on most other cruise lines.
Here’s where you’ll find the Standard Inside Staterooms:
Category 11A: Decks 9, 10 and 11
Category 11B: Decks 6, 7 and 8
Category 11C: Deck 2
About Disney Wish Concierge Rooms
Disney Cruise Line Suites and selected Staterooms are classed as Concierge Level. These come with some extra in-room amenities and some extra perks.
Here’s what you get:
Access to VIP areas of the ship, like the Concierge Lounge
Down Duvets and Pillow Menu
Robe and Slippers
Free Wi-Fi (not unlimited)
Chance to pre-reserve activities
Services of a Concierge Host
Surprise gifts
For more details about exactly what you get with Disney’s Concierge level (and whether Concierge is worth it on the Disney Wish), take a look at my full guide to Disney Cruise Concierge Perks.
Which deck to choose?
The best deck to stay on Disney Wish depends on your own personal preferences. Deck 7 is popular because you’re surrounded by staterooms above and below, so noise is limited. But if you want to be near the pool, choose a higher deck.
Choosing a room
Whichever room you choose on the Disney Wish for your cruise, you’ll enjoy a range of amenities, including:
43-inch TV
USB and USB-C ports
Large vanity
Refrigerator
Full-length mirror
Safe
Hair dryer
Phone
Climate control
Privacy curtain
Queen bed and pull-out sofa beds
Deluxe toiletries
If you’re on a tight budget, the Inside Staterooms will be more than adequate. I stayed in an Inside Stateroom on the Disney Magic with my family of four, and it was lovely.
If you prefer a balcony, then my preference would be to go for a category 4E stateroom. These are very spacious, with large balconies and the best views over the wake.
If money is no object and you want something truly magical, then the Tower Suite inside the funnel is the one to go for. Assuming it’s still available for your dates, that is!
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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.
Ever fancied spending time on a private tropical island? It’s a dream that’s normally out of reach, but book a cruise to Ocean Cay and you’ll get pretty close to the experience. Technically it is a private island, even though you’ll be sharing the experience with a couple of thousand others at the same time.
Still, it’s a fantastic destination that’s really popular with cruise passengers, despite only being open for a couple of years. Let’s look at some of the key facts and secrets about Ocean Cay, so that you make the most of your time at the island.
1. Ocean Cay is Exclusive to MSC Cruises
The only cruise line that visits Ocean Cay is MSC Cruises, as they own the island. There are seven different MSC Cruises ships that include Ocean Cay as a port of call. These are MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Poesia, MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore and MSC Seaside.
MSC Cruises bought the island and renovated it specifically to be their own private cruise destination. No other cruise lines can visit, nor can any other holidaymakers. It’s only by booking one of the cruise breaks sailing from either Port Canaveral or Miami that you can visit the island.
Despite some cruise itineraries including a two-day visit to Ocean Cay, you aren’t allowed to stay on the island overnight. You must return to the ship for the evening. There are no hotels on the island, so you are not legally able to stay ashore at night.
Some people might be tempted by the idea of hiding away to enjoy a slice of private island life, even just for a night. You’ll get in a lot of trouble if you do. Just enjoy the late-night show then get back to the comfort of your cabin.
Ship docked at Ocean Cay overnight
3. It Cost Around $200 Million to Renovate the Island
When MSC Cruises bought the island of Ocean Cay, they spent $200 million to make it fit for purpose as a cruise destination. This included building the cruise pier and adding facilities for guests to eat, drink and relax on the island.
Ocean Cay before the renovation in 2019
The work on restoring the island began in 2016, and was held up by Hurrican Dorian just as it was getting close to completion in September of 2019. It was able to open in December 2019 despite the setback.
In August 2023, the next phase of development was announced, with another $100 million investment. The island was closed for six weeks between April and May 2024 as a result, and work is continuing. It is expected to be completed by the end of the winter 2024-25 season.
4. There Are No Swimming Pools on Ocean Cay
There are no swimming pools on Ocean Cay, although if you want to swim then there are secluded lagoons that are safe. They don’t have a strong current and they have gentle slopes, including shallow waters that are suitable for young children.
Ocean Cay Lagoon
The waters around Ocean Cay are really clear and clean, which makes them really pleasant for swimming. You’ll see some marvellous wildlife too. There’s no need for a pool when the lagoons are this pristine.
5. You Don’t Need Your Passport To Visit the Island
You won’t need to take your passport with you when you disembark at Ocean Cay. The island is privately owned, so isn’t classified as a foreign territory despite it being in the Bahamas. You will need to take your cruise card to sign out of the ship and to sign back in.
This is handy since there’s no risk of losing your important ID documents, but you will need to keep the keycard safe.
Some cruise lines offer itineraries that only sail to their own private islands. For those, you don’t need your passport at all for the entire cruise. A birth certificate will suffice.
That’s not the case with MSC Cruises. Their itineraries will always visit at least one other destination, so you will need your passport to board the ship.
6. Ocean Cay is a Man-Made Island
Ocean Cay is an artificial island that was built in the late 1960s by dredging, with the purpose of mining Aragonite sand. It’s now considered a Marine Reserve with conservation status. As part of the renovation, MSC Cruises has preserved the ecosystem.
Ocean Cay is man-made
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is located in the district of Bimini in the Bahamas, around 20 miles south of the Bimini islands. Ocean Cay is actually much closer to Miami than it is to Grand Bahamas, Nassau and the other Bahamas islands.
The cruise line has plans to build a Conservation Center. This will serve as a research base for scientists studying local coral and other wildlife, and will welcome guests to learn about the island and the surrounding waters (Source).
7. Ocean Cay Has Decent Wi-Fi
There is Wi-Fi access available across parts of Ocean Cay, although if you wander to more remote areas, you will struggle to get service. Access to the Wi-Fi on the island is included if you’ve bought an internet package on the ship.
A lot of people prefer to use a private island as a technology detox. But if you can’t resist posting your photographs online as soon as you’ve snapped them, then you’ll be able to.
8. Drinks Packages Carry Over Onto The Island
If you’ve bought a drinks package on your MSC cruise, it will carry over to any visit to Ocean Cay. This means you can enjoy the same drinks that you would on board at the venues on the island.
One of the bars on Ocean Cay
Some cruise lines treat their private island as a separate entity, meaning you have to pay for your drinks even if you’ve got a drinks package. So it’s good that MSC allows you to enjoy the same drinks at Ocean Cay as you would if you’d stayed on your ship (Source).
For a little extra privacy, you can rent a private cabana on Ocean Cay from $249 for the full day, although some cabanas cost more. Each cabana includes beach chairs and a shaded area where you can escape the sun, and they can accommodate six guests.
Cabanas on Ocean Cay
You’ll also be given fresh water to help you cool down. Towels are provided, so you don’t need to take your own ashore if you plan on swimming or snorkelling. More expensive Ocean Cay beach cabana packages include lunch and snorkelling equipment too.
10. Food Is Included During Your Visit to Ocean Cay
Most food on Ocean Cay is included in your cruise fare, including the buffet and food trucks. There are some excursions which may include food, such as picnics. These incur the extra charge that you pay for the excursion.
The buffet at the food court includes traditional Bahamian dishes alongside classic favourites, and there’s also an ice cream parlour for guests to enjoy. Plus, some of the dining venues on the ship remain open while docked at Ocean Cay, so you can eat on board if you prefer.
11. There Are Eight Different Beaches You Can Enjoy
There are eight different beaches open to guests on Ocean Cay. North and South beaches have calm waters and are suitable for families, as is the Seakers Family Cove and the Family Lagoon Beach. Watersports are available at South Beach, while Ocean House Beach is only available to MSC Yacht Club Guests.
One of the beaches on Ocean Cay
Not every beach is monitored by a lifeguard, so you’ll need to be careful if you choose to swim at one of the unprotected ones. However, finding a quiet spot to relax should be easier with so many beaches to choose from.
12. You Can Rent Various Watersport Equipment
There are a lot of watersports you can enjoy on Ocean Cay, including snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding. These activities come with an additional cost, either to rent the equipment or as part of a guided excursion.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
One of the more interesting excursions is a glow-in-the-dark experience available in the evening. You’ll be given a paddleboard with LED lights on the underside. These cast a gentle glow into the waters, attracting some interesting wildlife. Definitely one to try if you have the chance (Source).
13. Ocean Cay Isn’t Very Big
Ocean Cay isn’t a large island. It covers 95 acres and has around 1.5 miles of beachfront. You can walk from one end to the other in around 20 minutes. The size of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is very similar to that of Royal Caribbean’s private island, Coco Cay.
Ocean Cay is two to three times as long as a cruise ship
14. There Are Bikes and Golf Carts For Hire
If you want to travel faster around Ocean Cay, you can hire a bicycle. You don’t have to be excluded if you have mobility issues or find walking long distances difficult. So consider hiring a golf cart if you want to experience all that Ocean Cay has to offer without pushing your walking limits too far.
15. The Ship Can Dock Directly At The Island
Most private islands require cruise guests to take a water shuttle boat to shore, but Ocean Cay has its own cruise pier where the ship can dock directly. As soon as you walk off the ship, you are on the island.
Cruise pier
The pier was built as part of the $200 million renovation. It makes it much more convenient to travel back and forth to the ship if you want a break from the island, or have forgotten something essential in your cabin.
16. The Casino Remains Open on the Ship During a Visit
When a cruise ship docks in port, it normally has to close the casino due to national gambling regulations. However, because Ocean Cay is privately owned, it is considered to be international waters and so the casino can remain open.
So don’t worry if you’ve been itching to enjoy a few casino games, as you can wander back and forth between the island and the casino as you like. Plus it’s likely to be a quieter time since most people will be ashore, which is good if you don’t like crowds.
17. You Can Book a Special Picnic
One of the evening excursions available on Ocean Cay is the Sunset Evening Beach Picnic. This isn’t so much an excursion as the chance to enjoy your own picnic under the stars. It includes a basket with a blanket, a bottle of sparkling wine, and various foods and desserts.
It’s a lovely way to end your day on the private island. If you can find a quiet spot (which shouldn’t be difficult), then it can be a really romantic, memorable moment.
18. There’s a Lighthouse You Can Climb
Ocean Cay has its own lighthouse, and you can pay to climb it. There are three levels with a total of 165 steps if you want to go all the way to the top, where there is a 360-degree viewing platform. The tour is guided, and you’ll learn about the island as you climb.
Lighthouse on Ocean Cay
It’s one of the more popular excursions on the island, so book early if you can. You’ll get amazing views across the whole of Ocean Cay. The whole thing only takes 30 minutes, so you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of the day (Source).
19. The Lighthouse Plays a Part in Special Evening Shows
With ships staying late at Ocean Cay, there are often evening shows including the popular Evening Lighthouse Show, where the lighthouse is lit up in an impressive demonstration. Live DJs will provide an atmosphere, and fire pits add to the tropical escape feel.
There are other evening events you can enjoy too, including a Luna Libre Party or a romantic Sunset Champagne cruise. The fun isn’t just limited to the daytime on Ocean Cay.
20. Parts Of The Island Have a Dark Sky
Although parts of Ocean Cay will be lit up for the evening shows and as part of the lively atmosphere, there are plenty of secluded spots with a dark sky if you want to go stargazing. You’ll get an amazing view of the night sky from a peaceful beach location, away from the crowds.
Ocean Cay after dark
There are also dedicated stargazing excursions if you’d prefer to be shown everything by an expert. You’ll be able to use state-of-the-art telescopes as part of the excursions, some of which are tailored specifically to children who have a passion for space.
21. You Can Get Married On The Island
Guests can choose an all-inclusive wedding package if they want to get married on Ocean Cay. Staff will arrange all the paperwork, so you just need to book it and turn up. There’s a special Wedding Cabana overlooking the ocean where ceremonies take place.
If you’re already married and feel like you’re missing out, then don’t worry – you can also renew your vows at the cabana in a private ceremony (Source).
The Wedding Pavilion
22. Spa Treatments Are Available On The Island
At The Spa Ocean Cay, you can enjoy massages and gentle yoga classes while surrounded by the pristine marine reserve scenery. All skincare products used at the spa are eco-certified, so you can relax and enjoy a soothing treatment that befits the conservation theme.
Ocean Cay Spa treatment room
You can even combine yoga and paddleboarding for a unique experience. Don’t worry, it isn’t as difficult as it sounds! (Source)
23. The Snorkelling Is Excellent
Many cruisers say that snorkelling is one of the best activities to enjoy at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. The water is crystal clear, and you can see lots of colourful fish as well as turtles and other marine animals.
Snorkelling at Ocean Cay
You can snorkel right off the beach with your own equipment or hired snorkels and masks. For the very best experience, book a guided Ocean Cay snorkelling safari excursion.
24. You Don’t Have To Spend a Penny If You Don’t Want To
A visit to Ocean Cay includes food and some non-alcoholic drinks. There’s live music and entertainment for free, and sun loungers and beach chairs are all free of charge. You can bring your own snorkel, or just enjoy swimming in the ocean or the lagoons.
You really don’t need to pay for anything. But if you want to rent a floating water mat, inflatable ring, kayak, bicycle, pedalo, paddleboard, snorkel or even a cabana, then you can do so by charging it to your cruise card.
Otherwise, the Ocean Cay excursions prices can vary, and you’re best checking for your specific sailing.
Ocean Cay Rental Price List:
Cabanas – $249
Deluxe Cabanas – $349
Inflatable family raft – $25
Floating beach mat – $15
Paddleboard – £29
Kayak – £29
Umbrella – $12
25. Ocean Cay Has a Schedule of Organised Fun
Think you’ll get bored with sunbathing all day? Don’t like to swim? Fear not. Ocean Cay offers lots of organised activities that will keep the whole family entertained.
You can sign up for all kinds of fun things such as scavenger hunts, sandcastle building competitions and even the Ocean Cay Olympic Games.
26. There Are Excursions From Ocean Cay
To really make the most of your time at Ocean Cay, you can book an excursion. Popular options include:
Ocean Cay WaveRunner tour
Night-time stand-up paddleboarding
A boat ride to a shipwreck for snorkelling
Guided kayak tour
Catamaran ride with rum
Sunset Champagne boat cruise
Beachside stargazing
Deep-sea fishing
Scuba diving
Sunset picnic
Stingray adventure
Family catamaran tour
Shipwreck snorkelling excursion
To Conclude
There is an extraordinary number of things you can see and do on the custom-designed island of Ocean Cay, including some wonderful excursions and secrets to uncover.
You’ll no doubt discover your own special surprises and moments during your cruise to the island. Feel free to get in touch via the comments below, and help me expand this list with even more ideas when you do!
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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.
If you’re considering whether to choose a balcony stateroom, Junior Suite or Grand Suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll want to know about the benefits that come with a Junior Suite.
Many cruisers are shocked to learn that there aren’t really many Junior Suite perks, especially when compared to a Grand Suite. However, Junior Suites are larger than balcony staterooms and they do offer a few nice extra touches.
Read on to learn all about Royal Caribbean’s Junior Suites, to help you decide if it’s worth booking one for your next cruise.
What actually is a Junior Suite?
Royal Caribbean cruise ships have four categories of accommodation:
Inside Stateroom
Ocean View Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom
Suite
A Junior Suite is the smallest and cheapest of all of Royal Caribbean’s suites. It’s a type of accommodation in-between a Deluxe Balcony Stateroom and a Grand Suite.
Balcony Vs Junior Suite Vs Grand Suite – what you get with each
The main reason to get a suite is the benefits that come with it. But you may be disappointed to see that Royal Caribbean’s Junior Suites don’t include many benefits at all.
Benefit
Balcony
Junior Suite
Grand Suite
Use of Royal Caribbean Bathrobes
–
YES
YES
Luxury Toiletries
–
YES
YES
Coffee Machine in Room
–
YES
YES
Dinner at Coastal Kitchen (Oasis and Spectrum Class ships)
–
YES
YES
Priority Boarding
–
YES
YES
Priority Departure
–
–
YES
Priority Tendering
–
–
YES
Pillowtop Mattress
–
–
YES
Welcome Water and Fruit
–
–
YES
Access to Suite Lounge
–
–
YES
Concierge Service
–
–
YES
Priority Dining Reservations
–
–
YES
Priority Spa Bookings
–
–
YES
Priority Shore Excursion Ticketing
–
–
YES
Bridge, Galley and Backstage Tours
–
–
YES
VIP Pool Deck Seating
–
–
YES
Reserved Section in Theater
–
–
YES
Main Dining Menu Available for In-Suite dining
–
–
YES
Free 24-Hour Room Service
–
–
YES
Private Breakfast Seating
–
–
YES
Departure Breakfast
–
–
YES
Complimentary Pressing on First Formal Night
–
–
YES
Sign-up Fee Waived for Luggage Valet Service
–
–
YES
Another benefit of a suite compared to a standard balcony room is the extra space.
Junior Suite sizes are better on newer ships
Royal Caribbean’s Junior Suites vary in size depending on the ship, with the average Junior Suite being 290 square feet (27 square metres). The smallest Junior Suites are on Vision Class ships at 245 square feet (22.8 square metres), and the largest are on Odyssey of the Seas at 301 square feet (28 square metres).
In the image below, you can see how a typical Junior Suite compares in size to a balcony stateroom and a Grand Suite:
As a rule, the newer ships have larger Junior Suites. However, there is also some variation in the size of Junior Suites within each ship. Be sure to examine the deck plan carefully when choosing your suite number.
The size of the balconies on Junior Suites varies hugely. On the older ships, the balconies are just about enough for a table and two chairs. On the newer ships, many Junior Suite balconies are over 160 square feet (14.9 square metres) in size, and come with sun loungers.
Spa Junior Suite on Quantum Class Ships
Here’s what your Junior Suite includes…
A Junior Suite usually sleeps up to four guests with a king-size bed (that converts to twins) and a double sofa bed. On some ships, Junior Suites also have a Pullman bed and can sleep up to five guests.
Junior Suites are spacious and usually (but not always) feature a bathtub and a walk-in closet. There is sometimes a curtain between the bed and the sofa bed.
Royal Suite Class Deals
I recommend booking with luxury specialists Panache Cruises for the best service.
The layout and decor of Royal Caribbean’s Junior Suites vary. On the newer ships, you can expect more modern decor than on ships that are up to 20 years old.
The pictures below show Junior Suite 11638 on Anthem of the Seas:
The photo below shows a Junior Suite on Radiance of the Seas. This ship was built in 2001. As you can see, the woodwork is in a more traditional style than on the newer ships and the TV is smaller.
Photo credit: Lawson Albritton
For a more detailed look at a Royal Caribbean Junior Suite, take a look at this video which showcases one of the Junior Suites on Symphony of the Seas:
Junior Suite perks
Royal Caribbean’s Suites can come with a huge selection of perks. However, most of these do not apply to Junior Suites, only to Grand Suites and above. So if you were hoping to skip lines and access VIP areas, having a Junior Suite won’t help you with that.
With Royal Caribbean, Junior Suites include these perks:
More space than a balcony cabin
Use of a Royal Caribbean classic bathrobe
Luxury bathroom toiletries
Luxury pillow-top mattress
Tea and coffee-making facilities
Dinner at Coastal Kitchen (on Oasis and Spectrum Class ships)
Priority boarding (depending on the embarkation port)
Double Crown & Anchor points
Most Junior Suites have a bath, which makes them very popular with families with young children. Sometimes there is a separate bath and walk-in shower, but often the shower will be over the bath.
On Quantum Class ships (Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas), look out for the Spa Junior Suites. These have a spa-inspired bath and separate rainfall shower.
TIP: If you wish to dine in the Coastal Kitchen, make your dining reservation as soon as you can, as it gets booked up quickly.
Want more space? Some Junior Suites are connected to each other with internal doors or balcony staterooms. This is a great way to accommodate larger groups.
You pay the same gratuities as regular staterooms
Royal Caribbean gratuities are $18 per person per day for Junior Suite guests. This is the standard gratuity charge for most guests. Those staying in a Grand Suite or above will pay $20.50 per person per day.
A good upgrade from Balcony Staterooms, if the price is right
On Royal Caribbean cruise ships, Junior Suites are larger than balcony staterooms, both in terms of the cabin itself and the balcony space. You’ll often find bathtubs and walk-in closets.
Junior Suites come with a few extra perks that you won’t find in a balcony stateroom. These include bathrobes, luxury toiletries, and the chance to enjoy dinner at the Coastal Kitchen restaurant on ships that have one.
Royal Caribbean’s Coastal Kitchen is available on the following ships:
Allure of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Icon of the Seas
Oasis of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas
Ovation of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas
Spectrum of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Coastal Kitchen on Icon of the Seas
Grand Suites have a LOT more benefit (but cost more too)
Royal Caribbean’s Grand Suites are not just larger than Junior Suites, they also come with a lot more perks. Grand Suite guests can enjoy concierge service, access to VIP areas, invitations to special events, and priority reservations for dining, spa services and excursions.
A Junior Suite usually costs a couple of hundred dollars more than a balcony stateroom, although the price will vary depending on the itinerary.
For some people, the extra space is worth that. Families with babies love Junior Suites, as they have plenty of room to add a cot (Pack n Play), and a bathtub is much easier than a shower. Cruisers who are of larger than average size also report that they value the extra space in the bathroom.
If you’re a frequent cruiser aiming to work your way up the Crown & Anchor Society tiers to get extra benefits, then the double points that come with a Junior Suite can make it worthwhile.
TIP: Double Crown & Anchor points are on offer if you book a Junior Suite, but not if you upgrade after booking via the Royal Up bidding programme.
However, you don’t really get any of the usual Suite perks with a Junior Suite. If that’s something that really appeals to you, consider a Grand Suite if you have the budget for it.
I do like having extra space, so my definitive answer would be yes – a Junior Suite is worth it if you can afford it. Just make sure you know what to expect.
I recommend booking with luxury specialists Panache Cruises for the best service.
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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 man jumped off the 16th deck of a cruise ship while it was anchored off the coast of Greece.
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Tom Bridge kitesurfs off of a Virgin cruise ship on the coast of Delos, Greece on June 27, 2024 // Cut Media / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202409200190 //
The stunt was performed by Red Bull athlete and kitesurfer, Tom Bridge. He teamed up with Virgin Voyages for the epic jump off of Resilient Lady while the ship was off the coast of Delos, Greece.
Bridge said it was the most terrifying thing he’s done on a kite. Before his epic stunt, he had three visits to the cruise ship and looked over the edge several times.
He said he didn’t even look down before the jump. He had the kite in his hands and put his feet in the straps and jumped. He was 129 feet above the water on deck 16 of the ship when he jumped.
You can watch a video of the jump in the embed below.
Bridge stayed in the air for longer than he expected and estimated that he traveled 700-900 feet before he landed on the water.
Tom Bridge kitesurfs off of Virgin Cruise Ship at sea in the Greek islands in Greece on June 27, 2024. // Alex Grymanis / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202409200434 //
After he landed, Bridge said, “It was a brilliant experience; it feels amazing to have done it.”
Sir Richard Branson, the Virgin Group Founder who also has a love for kitesurfing, gave the following statement about the jump:
“You’ve got to be both incredibly skilled, and have a lot of nerve to attempt such a boost – what an amazing achievement! I love kitesurfing at my home on Necker Island, so Tom successfully jumping from deck 16 of Resilient Lady is an epic achievement.”
Today, Royal Caribbean has released a statement to impacted guests informing passengers on Serenade of the Seas that they will be spending an extra two days at sea.
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This effectively turns a 7-night cruise into a 5-night cruise.
Hurricane Helene, now a Category 3 storm, has already forced the Port of Tampa to close temporarily while the storm makes it impossible for ships to dock safely.
The storm, which is expected to become a Category 4 hurricane, is set to make landfall Thursday night.
Passengers on Serenade of the Seas are currently on a scheduled 5-night cruise that was supposed to arrive back in Tampa on September 27.
As winds and rain batter the Port of Tampa, guests on board the ship will be able to extend their vacation in calmer waters.
Royal Caribbean is giving the storm a wide berth and is delaying the return to the ship’s homeport.
“Due to the planned closure of the Port of Tampa and to stay clear of the hurricane, we’ll have to delay our return to our homeport,” Royal Caribbean stated to guests on board the ship.
“We’ll now arrive in Tampa on Sunday, Sept. 29, and enjoy some extra sea days along the way. We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change caused by the weather – your safety is our top priority,” the cruise line added.
Cruise passengers who booked flights directly through the cruise line will automatically get their flights changed to the new dates. In addition, Royal Caribbean is taking care of the extra costs of airfare changes for guests who booked their own flights.
The compensation for the flight adjustments will be in the form of $200 refunds per person for domestic flights and up to $400 per person for those flying internationally.
The cruise line reiterated one of the perks of cruising, stating that “being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather.”
While a cruise ship can move out of the way of an oncoming storm, land-based resorts must face the storm head-on.
Port Canaveral was also recently closed due to the storm, and all cruise lines are monitoring the situation and will be updating impacted guests over the coming days.
Four Seasons Yachts has announced nine new cruises that will visit the Caribbean and The Bahamas in 2026-2027. The cruises will range from five- to 14-nights in length.
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These nine new cruises from Miami on Four Seasons will sail between November 19, 2026 and January 31, 2027. Three of the sailings will be five-night cruises to The Bahamas with each one visiting Exuma Sound.
On marina days, the full prowess of Four Seasons I comes into play, offering guests direct access to the sea.
The ship will have access to areas that larger ships cannot visit.
Tim Littley, Vice President of Itinerary Planning at Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings LTD, Joint Owner/Operator, Four Seasons Yachts, said:
“All of these carefully crafted voyages combine yacht-only harbors and off-the-radar treasures with exclusive access to authentic local experiences. Whether enjoying festive season voyages amidst idyllic island backdrops or starting the new year in grand style travelling through stunning tropical landscapes beloved by the yachting set, our personalized journeys provide unique perspectives on the world.”
These newly announced cruises bring the total number of voyages in the ship’s inaugural year to 32.
Alejandro Reynal, President and CEO, Four Seasons, added:
“Building from the excitement and interest of our initial Mediterranean and Caribbean journeys, we are thrilled to unveil the final set of exceptional voyages for Four Seasons Yachts inaugural year.
“The festive season is an important and special time for leisure travelers and our loyal guests, and we look forward to introducing a new luxury experience to explore the best of the Caribbean and Bahamas while spending the holidays with Four Seasons.”
Four Seasons Yachts will debut in January 2026 with their first vessel, Four Seasons I.
The yacht will have 95 residential-style suites and is promising to redefine luxury cruises.
Virgin Voyages, the adults only cruise line, is bringing back their season pass for 2025 due to popular demand.
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When Virgin first announced season passes for 2024, they were so popular they sold out in days. The season passes allow you to stay on a Virgin ship for 24-40 straight nights and include a ton of extra perks.
The cruise line is expanding their Summer Season Pass for 2025 to wherever their cruise ships are sailing to. This includes the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.
The passes will range from 24-40 nights in length and start at $14,999 for two guests (Sailors). This is a savings of 20%.
Included with the Summer Seas Passes are the following perks:
Central Sea Terrace cabin
Welcome bubbles
Premium WiFi
Two specialty coffees each day
Laundry service
Early access booking
Pre-Voyage and onboard support
In addition, the first 25 Sailors booked will receive access to Richard’s Rooftop. Richard’s Rooftop is an exclusive area in the front of the ship for guests staying in Rockstar suites.
There is also a daily complimentary happy hour here and it’s generally the quietest and most relaxing place on the ship.
Virgin’s Summer Season Pass is available on Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady.
Scarlet Lady will be offering roundtrip sailings from Barcelona and Portsmouth.
Valiant Lady will homeport in Miami offering cruises to the Caribbean and The Bahamas.
Resilient Lady will offer cruises from Athens that visit both Greece and Croatia.
