Luxury cruise line Seabourn has announced two solar eclipse cruise opportunities for guests to enjoy in 2026.
The solar eclipse is due to happen on 12th August 2026, and Seabourn has planned two itineraries around it for Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn, giving guests incredible views of this landmark event.
Seabourn Ovation will sail a 14-day cruise from Dover, England to Reykjavik in Iceland. The cruise will embark on 8th August 2026, visiting ports in Ireland before enjoying a day in the Atlantic Ocean for the eclipse itself.
Seabourn Sojourn will offer a 10-day round-trip cruise from Barcelona on 7th August 2026, with the ship scheduled to be in the Balearic Sea during the solar eclipse.
On both cruises, guests will be able to enjoy themed events including talks by the Royal Astronomic Society (on Ovation) and by Dallas Campbell, a science presenter and author (on Sojourn).
“The viewing of the solar eclipse from our ultra-luxury ships will be an unforgettable ‘Seabourn Moment’ for everyone on board… Our team has curated a series of captivating, eclipse-themed Seabourn Conversations and experiences, turning this celestial event into an extraordinary celebration for everyone on board“
Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn
Several cruise lines have been releasing their 2026 cruises in the past couple of months, including solar eclipse cruises. Seabourn’s sister cruise line Carnival is offering a more family-oriented option, also sailing from Dover.
The best way to book a Seabourn cruise
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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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Regent Seven Seas Cruises has equipped all its ships with Starlink Internet, providing guests with fast, unlimited WiFi included in their voyage.
This enhancement utilises Starlink’s satellite technology to deliver faster and more reliable internet onboard.
“We are committed to providing an unrivaled experience for our discerning guests and are delighted to give luxury travelers the ability to share photos and videos, stream films and enjoy other immersive content on board at even faster speeds.
“As the leaders in all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruising, this installation of Starlink WiFi across our entire fleet will not only improve our guests’ ability to communicate with loved ones at home but also support the ship’s operational needs and services.”
Andrea DeMarco, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas offers guests complimentary WiFi, so this upgrade is one that’s worthwhile news for everyone sailing with the line.
Guests can still pay for upgraded WiFi or for additional log-ins if they wish to use multiple devices, but for most guests, the included WiFi will be sufficient – especially with the upgraded speeds offered by Starlink.
Starlink technology is gradually being adopted by most cruise lines, since it offers a much more reliable connection that previous internet facilities at sea.
And with many Regent Seven Seas itineraries lasting for longer durations, including the epic luxury world cruises, the news will be welcomed by guests who wish to stay in touch with loved ones back home whilst spending significant amounts of time exploring the world.
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If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Royal Caribbean has updated its list of prohibited items, now banning multi-plug outlets. Multi-plug outlets are now classified as “Flammable Items,” similar to extension cords and power strips, due to…
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When Virgin Voyages began sailing three years ago, they began offering something that no other cruise line offered. An adults-only cruise geared towards the mainstream market.
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I was on their very first sailing, a four night cruise to The Bahamas from Miami on Scarlet Lady. When I wrote my review, I loved many aspects of the cruise but was also critical of many things that I thought were well, ridiculous. You can read that review here.
Last week, I disembarked from a week-long cruise on Virgin that was part of the cruise line’s Virgin Celebration Voyages. Virgin invited me on board to experience everything that they now have to offer on their ships.
By the end of the week I had just one thought, Virgin Voyages has perfected cruises. They have made critical changes over the past couple years that really makes it the perfect adults-only cruise.
“Virgin Voyages perfected cruises” – Cruise Fever
Here is how they did it.
Since it was a Virgin Celebration Voyage, many of the cruise line’s executives were on board including CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu. Also on board for part of the cruise was Sir Richard Branson, Boy George who DJ’d for three hours, Raygun and Virgin Galactic astronauts.
On one of the sea days, Saverimuttu sat down with sailors (what Virgin calls their passengers) and gave them an update on Virgin and also had a Q&A session with them.
He talked about many important changes that were made since they started sailing three years ago. “Never Sleep Alone”, the sex therapist show, is gone.
He said that they didn’t want the wrong story being told about their brand. While it was just one show, people got the impression that it was more of a “sex cruise” than what it really is, a cruise with no kids. They didn’t want one show to define who they are so they got rid of it.
Also, all of the ridiculous show descriptions I talked about in my first review have been removed. Now, instead of trying to be “edgy”, they are adding more entertainment like live music and comedy shows. Things people actually want while on vacation. There was live music all over the ship, it was really nice.
A lot of the oddball entertainment that used to roam the ship is also gone.
One of the reason for the changes is that the CEO of Virgin listens to their guests. I have talked to every CEO from all of the major cruise lines and Saverimuttu is the first one I’ve even seen pull out a small notepad from his pocket and write down ideas/complaints that guests tell him.
Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu and Sir Richard Branson talking to guests on my Virgin Celebration Voyage. Photo: Cruise Fever
Now, Virgin Voyages offers a premium cruise experience with no kids on board. Saverimuttu said that not having kids on board allows them to invest in better food and services. If you want a kid-free vacation or holiday, you can’t beat the experience that Virgin offers.
What’s Included in Cruise Fares
One of the things that makes Virgin Voyages so great is what’s included with your cruise fare.
First of all, every dining option on the ship is included. Now, the six main specialty restaurants do have a few options that cost extra but I never found the need to order one of them.
Extra Virgin, the Italian restaurant, has become my favorite Italian dining option on any cruise ship. Tip, get the gelato for dessert. (Thank you to Nadia who works in Guest Services on Scarlet Lady for this tip.)
For lunch or a late night snack, The Pizza Place can’t be beat. Cruise Fever rated it as the #1 complimentary pizza shop at sea. They even have to go boxes if you want to take it away. At night, it is extremely popular. One crew member told me that they make 1,000 pizzas a day.
The view from The Wake, the steakhouse and seafood restaurant, can’t be beat.
For a truly unique dining experience, visit The Test Kitchen.
In addition to the six main restaurants, there are also a load of casual options all around the ship including food to go in The Galley. The best part, you don’t have to pay extra for any of it.
Basic WiFi through Starlink is also included although you can upgrade for the fastest speeds if you want.
Basic beverages like soda are also included. You can go to any bar and ask for a Coke and there’s no charge. There are also self-service fountain soda machines in The Galley.
One thing you won’t find on your bill at the end of the cruise are daily gratuities added. Also, the price listed for drinks and spa appointments are what you pay. You can tip extra if you want but it’s already part of the price listed.
Sailors who book a Rockstar Suite have access to Richard’s Rooftop at the front of the ship. This is the quietest area on the ship and a great place to relax. There’s also a free happy hour from 5-6:00 pm each day.
What You Won’t Find
There’s no nickel and diming on Virgin cruise ships. Even the arcade that’s full of retro games from the 80s and 90s is free.
There are no photographers on Virgin’s ships interrupting your dinner for photos.
There are no formal nights and there’s really not a dress code, although most tend to put on something nice for dinner. This creates a relaxed vibe, something I personally look for in a vacation.
There are no art auctions, no guess the price of a Peter Max and all the nonsense that goes with that.
There is also no main dining room on Virgin’s ships.
Crew
I’ve always said that the two most important factors of a cruise are the food and service. Virgin Voyages excels in both. Cruisers can overlook other things that may not be up to par but not these two areas.
Since I’ve already talked about the food, I want to talk about the crew on Virgin’s ships for a minute.
Nirmal Saverimuttu gave a few comments on the crew that really stood out to me. He said that if you treat your people right, your business will thrive. Virgin lets crew members be themselves and they also give them free WiFi. Happy crew makes for better service!
They manage by exception, not rules. He said this is what makes them successful.
I can’t say enough great things about the crew members on my latest Virgin cruise on Scarlet Lady. The service was phenomenal everywhere I went.
Unique Virgin Features
Scarlet Night is the most unique night that you’ll find on a cruise. It takes over pretty much the entire ship, even the hallway lights turn to red. The night ends with a deck party up by the pool.
“I’ll be the ocean, if you’ll be the moon, this is our Scarlet Night.”
If you’re going on a Virgin cruise, bring something red to wear for this night.
There is no smoking allowed in the casino on Virgin’s cruise ships. The best part of this is that there is no smoke traveling to other parts of the ship that are near it like on most cruise lines.
Virgin remains the only cruise line to have a tattoo parlor on their ships.
The staterooms on Virgin Voyages are also unique in a few ways. For one, they are smart rooms and you can control the entire room from a tablet. You can turn the lights up, down or off, open/close curtains, operate the thermostat, control the TV etc., all from a tablet. This is something that every cruise line should do, it’s so nice.
Also, every balcony cabin has a red hammock. It seemed like a gimmick when I first heard about it but after having a balcony cabin, I want it on every cruise. Whether it’s in the morning with a cup of coffee or just relaxing on a sea day, the hammock is great feature.
The hammocks found on the balconies of all Virgin cruise ships. Photo: Cruise Fever
When Virgin Voyages first debuted, I had several colleagues who have covered the cruise industry for decades tell me that Virgin would be out of business in a year and one of the major cruise lines would end up buying their ships.
I am glad to report that they were wrong.
Three years later, Virgin’s cruise ships are sailing at or near capacity and they offer a cruise experience that you can’t find anywhere else. Yes, it’s different than the traditional cruise experience but that is something that draws people to Virgin.
I still remember my first day on a Virgin cruise back in 2021, I really did not like it. Fast forward to today and they would be my first choice if I was taking a cruise with my wife.
Note: For transparency, the first several cruises that I took on Virgin I paid full fare and this latest one I was a guest of Virgin Voyages. This article is a combination of every cruise that I took on a Virgin cruise ship, but most of it is about the latter.
Sun Princess is the first Sphere-Class ship for Princess Cruises, and with that she comes with a lot of new features, a new ship layout, and lots of new accommodation options to choose from.
When booking your cruise, you want to make sure you get the perfect cabin for you – it’s a lot of money to spend, after all. So I wanted to collate all the information on the best and worst cabins on the ship, to make your decision easier.
I have cruised on Sun Princess, but obviously only stayed in one cabin!
So to put this guide together I’ve used forums, social media groups, reviews and more to find the staterooms and suites that people love, and those that they didn’t enjoy.
First, though, let’s take a look at the different cabin options available.
Sun Princess cabins – an overview
There are five main types of cabin you can choose from on Sun Princess, but within those five categories there are several sub-types too.
There are 14 main cabin options overall and that’s before you start considering obstructed views, accessible cabins, connecting rooms and more!
Here are the main cabin types:
Room
Sleeps
Size (incl. balcony)
Interior
2 to 4
136 to 145 sq. ft.
Ocean View
2 to 4
212 sq. ft.
Balcony
2 to 4
179 to 279 sq. ft.
Mini-suite
2 to 4
304 to 389 sq. ft.
Suite
2 to 5
304 to 1,262 sq. ft.
And it’s not like one will always be better than another. It completely depends on your budget, your party size, whether you’re travelling with toddlers, whether you’re at risk of getting seasick… There’s a lot to consider!
Let’s delve into each of the categories in a little more detail, to help you narrow down your search.
Interior Staterooms
The Interior Staterooms on Sun Princess are the cheapest options on the ship, but if you’re someone who doesn’t spend a whole lot of time in the room, then they’re absolutely worth considering.
The rooms feature either a twin bed or queen double bed, depending on your preference, while some inside rooms have options for a 3rd or 4th berth with pull-down beds. It can be cramped but for a small family, it’s a good way to keep costs down.
You can also get Interior Staterooms that are designed for solo guests – these will have the queen bed configuration as standard.
Oceanview Staterooms
The Oceanview Staterooms on Sun Princess are the next step up from Interior, and size-wise they’re pretty impressive – a lot of oceanview staterooms on other ships or cruise lines would be much closer in size to an Interior room, but with Sun Princess you get quite a lot of extra space.
That’s handy if you’re travelling with kids because some of the rooms will have convertible sofa beds rather than pull-down beds. And even if you’re only two guests in a room, you can enjoy the extra space of the sofa and the desk area.
Some rooms have the bed by the window, while others have the sofa by the window.
My preference would be to have the sofa by the window as you have a better seating area with the window seat by the sofa. And also, your bed is closer to the bathroom.
When you check the Sun Princess Deck plan and click on a cabin, you’ll be able to see where the sofa is located with the note that’s in red.
The windows in these rooms are reasonably-sized picture windows, which means they’re smaller than on some of the Royal-class ships in the Princess fleet that have floor-to-ceiling slanted windows. But for a budget option with natural daylight, it’s still a good choice.
Balcony Staterooms
There are four different types of Balcony stateroom, but I’m just going to cover three of them for now – (I’ll cover the Signature Balcony Stateroom together with the other Signature rooms).
Cove Balcony Staterooms – With a more enclosed balcony, these are great for privacy and shelter. These are only on deck 6, so if you choose one, you’ll be close to the water.
Deluxe Balcony Staterooms – These have the typical, spacious outdoor balcony you’d expect on most cruise ships.
Premium Deluxe Balcony Staterooms – These have a larger balcony area. The balcony sizes vary, but the deck plan is to scale, so you can pick one of the really big ones that have sunloungers as well as chairs.
Whichever you choose, you’ll have a choice of layout with the bed near the entrance or the sofa near the entrance.
Unlike with the oceanview cabins, my preference here would be to have the sofa by the entrance.
I stayed in one with the bed by the entrance and the area between the bed and wardrobe felt a little cramped. Plus, if would be nice to be able to lie in bed and look at the ocean. That’s just my opinion though, you may prefer to sit on the sofa and look at the ocean.
Here’s my video tour of our balcony cabin. Some of the tips in it will apply to all cabins types, so I hope you’ll find it useful even if you plan to stay in an inside cabin or a suite.
The balcony is separated from the main room by stylish sliding glass doors, rather than the swinging door you’ll find on older cruise ships.
It’s great for relaxing in your room with the door open, but make sure you remember to close it before you leave otherwise the wind can cause havoc when you open the stateroom door!
Mini-Suites
Princess Cruises ships all offer Mini-suite accommodations, which bridge the gap between full Suites and regular Balcony Staterooms. You’ll get a couple of additional perks, but nothing like what you get with suite-class accommodations – though you won’t be paying the price of a suite either.
Mini-suites are really for those who want a Balcony Stateroom but with more space.
The welcome glass of bubbly is a nice touch, and you’ll get a properly separate sitting area, and a second TV too.
As well as the regular Mini-suites, you can also book a Cabana Mini-suite, which has its own cabana area between the balcony and the main room, perfect as a chilled space to enjoy the fresh air.
The Cabana Deck Mini-suites are another step up again, this time not only giving you the luxury of your own room cabana, but granting you access to the shared Cabana Deck space too, which is a small private deck space you can access directly outside your balcony.
It has sun loungers, a hot tub and an outdoor shower that you share with other Cabana Deck Mini-suite guests.
Reserve Collection Mini-suites
While Mini-suites sit between Balcony Staterooms and Suites, there’s another sub-class which is even closer to the Suite experience – those are the Reserve Collection Mini-suites.
These are a premium category, which include a host of additional perks for you to enjoy on your cruise, such as:
The best locations on the ship
Evening canapes provided on request
Priority embarkation and disembarkations
Reserve Dining – a reserved area in the dining room with no wait times for a table and additional menu options
An in-room wine setup with half bottles of white and red wine
If you’re familiar with Club Class Mini-suites on older Princess ships, this is the same thing – it’s just a new name.
Suites
There are four main types of suite that you can choose from on Sun Princess.
Suite
Sleeps
Size (incl. balcony)
Signature Suite
2 to 4
304 to 636 sq. ft.
Vista Suite
2 to 4
446 sq. ft.
Grand Suite
2 to 4
636 sq. ft.
Sky Suite
2 to 5
1,262 sq. ft.
(Note that some of the names of these have changed recently. Vista Suites used to be called Penthouse Suites and Grand Suites used to be called Owner’s Suites)
Suites are the very best accommodations on the ship, and they come with a range of extra suite perks that you can enjoy to enhance your experience onboard.
This of course means they’re also the most expensive accommodations on the ship, and so you’ll only want to book them if you have the budget spare and you enjoy the luxury feeling that suite accommodations provide.
Often a suite room will cost at least twice that of a balcony room, so consider whether you’d rather pay for one cruise in a suite, or two cruises.
Sanctuary Accommodations
The Sanctuary Collection debuted on Sun Princess, and these are the most exclusive accommodation options on the ship.
All of the suites are considered Sanctuary Accommodations, but you can also book a Sanctuary Balcony Stateroom, and a Sanctuary Mini-suite.
The Sanctuary Balcony Stateroom is a version of the Premium Deluxe Balcony, while a Sanctuary Mini-Suite is a regular Mini-suite. The difference is that, by staying in these rooms, you also get all the benefits of the Sanctuary area of the ship, including access to the Sanctuary Restaurant and Sanctuary Sun Deck.
OK, now you’ve got an oversight of the accommodation types in general, let’s take a look at those cabins you might want to avoid.
1. Deck 9 cabins en-route to the buffet
9307 to 9361
A few people have criticised the layout of Sun Princess and how it’s not the easiest ship to navigate. And I agree, some of it makes no sense!
One of the main criticisms is how you have to walk through the ship past several stateroom areas to get to some of the dining venues, with the chief culprit being The Eatery – the buffet restaurant on Deck 9.
You can walk the length of the ship to elevators that will get you closer, but most people at the front of the ship will use the elevators or stairs nearest them, and then need to walk along a corridor of cabins on Deck 9.
This means during peak times (breakfast and lunch) the corridors get quite busy with a constant stream of people walking past your room and chatting. Breakfast starts from 6 am, so you may be woken early.
I would definitely avoid saying in one of these rooms on deck 9!
2. Rooms close to the Piazza
9350 to 9361, 10360 to 10639
As has become something of a trend for Princess Cruises, the Piazza in the centre of the ship is a real hub of activity and entertainment.
This is great if you’re wandering the ship looking to enjoy yourself – you’ll often stumble across different entertainers just as you walk around, and you’ll suddenly be front-row for something exciting and exhilarating.
However, if you’re in one of the Deck 9 rooms close to the Piazza, or a Deck 10 stateroom directly above, that can mean you’re kept awake at night as the entertainment continues into the early hours, and it can be pretty loud.
There seems to be little consideration for how much the sound carries, and some guests have apparently reported a lot of noise in the closest cabins – if you’re a light sleeper or you prefer to be tucked up in bed relatively early, maybe look elsewhere.
3. Rooms below the Pool Deck
16320 to 16441
A real classic recommendation of any ‘best and worst cabins’ guide, it’s best to avoid any cabins directly below the pool deck.
It’s due to noise, specifically the sounds of deck chairs being dragged across the wooden surface first thing in the morning.
If you value your sleep first-thing, you should give these cabins a miss, as there’s always some eager folks who like to be up super-early and make sure they get a deck chair, and they will drag them into place to do so. The sound can be pretty grating.
There are several cabins that are adjacent to the laundry rooms on the ship, and those are more options that you might want to avoid booking if you’re worried about noise.
Most of the rooms aren’t too bad because there’s just a small part of the laundry room wall that’s shared with the rear wall of the cabin, although that is close to your bed, so it could be an issue if people are up early or late to get their washing done.
Room 5302 is the worst of these because it shares an entire long wall with the laundromat so the noise here is bound to be a lot louder.
5. Rooms near Firefly Park (if you aren’t sailing with young kids)
Odd-numbered cabins from 6327 to 6435
The kids’ clubs on Sun Princess are split between different locations on the ship. Neon Grove and The Underground are for the older kids and teens, and they’re near the Princess Arena on Deck 7.
But the younger kids will use Firefly Park on Deck 6, which has its entrance right next to a series of Cove Balcony staterooms.
If you’re booking outside of school holidays then it’s not likely going to be an issue, but if you’re travelling without kids during a school holiday then expect this corridor to be a lot more busy – and noisier, too.
Of course, this makes it a fantastic location for families with kids age 3 to 7 who will be using the kids’ club, so it just depends on who you’re sailing with.
There are several Premium Deluxe Balcony staterooms you can book on Sun Princess, but many of them are on a corner area of the ship – not right at the front or aft of the ship, but in mid-ship locations where the design sticks out in places.
These balconies suffer from a real lack of privacy, because you’re essentially at a right-angle to other balconies. You’re overlooked from above, and also from the balconies that are recessed in the ship slightly.
I stayed in a cabin like this on P&O Iona, which is a sister ship to Sun Princess. On Iona and Arvia, these are designated as regular balcony cabins, so they don’t cost any extra like they do on Sun Princess, but I still wouldn’t recommend them.
Check out this video to see why not…
The difference between these cabins on P&O ships and Princess ships, is that with Princess you do get two sun loungers so you can make the most of the extra space.
If you do still want one of these corner Premium Deluxe Balcony staterooms, you’re best booking one on Deck 17 if you can. While your balcony will still be visible from the other balconies on that deck, you at least won’t be overlooked by the balconies above, so the intrusion will be minimal.
Be warned that the absolute worst of these large balcony cabins are 10236 and 10237. These are right over the hot tub on the Cabana deck!
Not only would it feel SO WEIRD to be sitting on your deck chair overlooking the hot tub when people are in it. But the guests staying in these cabins aren’t even allowed to use these hot tubs themselves as they’re exclusively for Cabana guests staying on the deck below!
7. Mini Suites on Deck 9 & 10
9105 to 9361 & 10438 to 10635
If you want to enjoy a feeling of privacy on your balcony, then steer clear of the mini suites and Cabana mini suites on Decks 9 and 10.
The problem with this deck is that the balconies stick out further than the decks above, so every person looking down can see straight onto your balcony.
The Cabana Deck also has its own issues with privacy which, oddly, I’m going to cover in the ‘Best cabins’ section of this guide. You’ll see why.
A minor issue, but one worth pointing out considering the issues some people have had with noise on Sun Princess and how the rooms aren’t the best at being soundproofed.
Most of the interior cabins are perpendicular to the corridors, meaning that the shortest wall faces the corridor where the door is.
But these cabins I’ve listed have a longer wall running along the corridor instead, which means a lot more of your cabin is closer to public areas, potentially including the headboard of your bed.
If you have kids running up and down the corridors, or chatty adults who’ve had a few too many drinks to control their own volume, you might find that these rooms feel a lot noisier just because there’s so much more of your wall shared with the space directly outside.
The Best Cabins On Sun Princess
There are loads of amazing cabins you can choose from on Sun Princess, and I’ve tried to avoid just picking the very top suites – but here are some others that are considered to be amongst the best options onboard.
1. Cove Balcony Staterooms
Cove Balcony Staterooms are not a new invention for Princess Cruises. Carnival has popularised them the most on several ships by now. But they do work as good options on the Sun Princess.
They’re good for anyone who wants to feel more sheltered, true, but they also have other benefits – mainly a clear view of the waterline.
Most of the balconies on higher decks, due to the design of Sun Princess, will be overlooking at least either part of a balcony below or a public deck area.
But because the Cove Balconies are lower on the ship, their view is uninterrupted. Plus, because they’re lower, they’re one of the best choices for anyone who suffers from seasickness. You’ll feel less of the ship’s movement, but also enjoy fresh air and a view of the horizon, both of which can alleviate symptoms.
2. Cabana Deck Mini-suites
I can definitely see how the Cabana Deck Mini-suites would split opinion, but I think most guests view them in a positive way.
You get lots of space to enjoy – your private cabana area, your own small balcony, and that then leads directly onto the Cabana Deck with sun loungers and a hot tub.
Sure, that’s a shared space, but you’re not sharing it with a huge number of other guests, so it does feel quite exclusive and luxurious.
The problems are that anyone could walk around right outside your balcony and look in, plus you are overlooked on both the Cabana Deck and your balcony from the higher decks.
If that’s a concern though, just retreat into your cabana space – that’s more private, so you aren’t overlooked, and then it’s just anyone nosey on the Cabana Deck that you need to worry about.
3. Sanctuary Balcony Staterooms
Lots of cruise lines these days have exclusive restaurants and sun decks for the use of suite guests, but Sun Princess offers these benefits to select Balcony Staterooms – and that’s pretty much unheard of.
If you like the idea of having access to a quiet, adults-only part of the ship along with a more exclusive restaurant, but you can’t afford a suite, then Sanctuary Balcony Staterooms are a fantastic middle-ground.
You are forced to pay for Princess Premier fares, which does jack the cost up, but you might’ve been considering that anyway and you do get a lot included for that price.
4. Spacious forward cabins (if you don’t get seasick)
At the front of the ships, you’ll find some Premium Ocean View cabins (on deck 10) and some Deluxe Balcony (on decks 11, 12 & 14) that are much bigger than normal.
If you’re checking the deck plans, you might spot that there are other rooms close to those ones I’ve named that also look bigger than average, but those are specifically Accessible cabins, reserved for those who need the extra space for wheelchairs, mobility scooters etc. It’s just these that I’ve picked out that aren’t classified as accessible rooms, but that have the extra space.
Also bear in mind that you’re on a higher deck, right at the front of the ship – this is where you’re going to feel the motion of the ship more than anywhere else. So don’t book these if you’ve got any concerns about seasickness.
5. A very large inside cabin
12102
There’s an unusual inside cabin on Deck 12 right at the front of the ship. This one has its pros and cons, but some people will love it.
The cabin is much bigger than a standard inside cabin, yet it’s the same price.
To access the cabin you have to go through the ‘crew only’ doors, which is a little strange. Your neighbours will be the chief engineers, but they’re used to guests staying in this cabin being in the staff area!
Here’s what someone on Facebook had to say about this cabin…
The cabin is located right the front of the ship, so it’s a long walk to the buffet, and if you suffer from seasickness, this will be one to avoid. But, if you’re on a budget and want a lot of space, it’s ideal.
6. Balconies on the sphere
One of the standout features of Sun Princess is the sphere in the centre. Much of this is made up of balconies, which are larger than average and have a perfect mid-ship location. If you suffer from seasickness, this is the best possible spot to be in.
Check out the deck plan to see the sizes of each balcony. There are a few which are designated as Deluxe Balconies, but they actually have pretty large balconies that are more similar to the size of a Premium Deluxe. Those offer greater value for money.
Wanting an aft view cabin?
Many cruisers love aft view cabins and enjoy sitting on their balconies looking at the wake. However, one weird quirk of Sun Princess is that there are none!
Well, there are eight, but they’re wheelchair-accessible cabins, so if you don’t have a need for them, you can’t book them.
Whilst it’s great that wheelchair users can enjoy some fantastic aft views, it’s a shame that people who don’t use wheelchairs don’t have this option.
Here’s what the aft of Sun Princess looks like…
There are the eight accessible cabins in the centre, with the huge rounded balconies. Above those is the two-storey suite lounge, with the Love Britto speciality restaurant above that.
On each corner, there is, what I would consider to be a huge waste of space. It’s a staircase that goes from Deck 10 to Deck 16.
All of these decks have cabins, which means that there is no reason for guests to ever use this staircase. There’s also an elevator right by it which goes all the way from Deck 7 to Deck 18, so it’s actually useful, unlike the stairs, which won’t take you anywhere except between cabins.
I have no idea why Princess Cruises didn’t use this space for some incredible corner aft suites as most ships have. For example, P&O Cruises’ Iona and Arvia are sister ships to Sun Princess, and this is where you’ll find the very best suites with wraparound balconies.
At the very least, they could consider putting sunloungers there so that people can actually use the space and enjoy the best views on the ship.
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Final word
Sun Princess is still a relatively new ship, so I’ve pulled together these recommendations based on looking around the ship myself, the few negative reviews of cabins that I’ve seen, and an in-depth review of the deck plans.
Over time, more people may share their experiences and I’ll update this guide, but honestly, the cabins are one of the areas that most people seem to review quite positively so far. The ship has some other issues, but accommodations are broadly praised.
It’s always worth doing your own research too, so if you want to dig a little deeper, I’d recommend these resources:
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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.
Australia boasts landscapes from beaches to the rugged Outback region, providing a unique travel adventure for visitors. The country is famous for its wildlife and plant life, as well as its lively urban centers and stunning marvels, making it a popular destination throughout the year.
However, the ideal time to visit Australia can greatly differ based on the areas and excursions you wish to take. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway, an exciting Outback experience, or an immersion in culture and atmosphere, this guide will assist you in finding the right time to plan your journey.
Best Times to Visit Australia’s Beaches
Australia is home to some of the world’s iconic beaches with pristine waters and sandy shorelines, perfect for various water sports and relaxation activities when it comes to making the most of these gems in Australia, navigating the time to visit largely hinges upon whether you’re venturing towards the northern or southern regions of the country.
Northern Australia (Great Barrier Reef, Queensland)
The northern section of Australia is where you’ll find the Great Barrier Reef and beautiful beaches, such as Whitehaven Beach and Noosa. The ideal time to explore these beaches for activities like swimming and snorkeling is from April to October when the weather is dry and pleasant, with warm, sunny days and calm waters.
During this time of the year, marine animals, like humpback whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures, migrate here, which makes it a great time for wildlife spotting enthusiasts to enjoy nature’s beauty. The weather stays quite mild, with temperatures hovering between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it perfect for adventures without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.
Southern Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth)
The prime time to explore Australia’s cities, like Sydney and Melbourne, for beach getaways is the summer season, from December to February. The climate is warm and sunny, ideal for relishing popular spots such as Bondi Beach in Sydney or St. Kilda in Melbourne.
During the summer months, the temperatures typically range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), offering a setting for enjoying events like festivals and water activities while immersing oneself in the lively beach scene.
In contrast to the positives of summer weather and activities are the downsides of increased costs and more people flocking to known tourist spots during this season. One way to tackle these issues is by organizing your trip ahead of time and securing your bookings online. Alternatively, you could opt for less popular beaches found along the southern shorelines to escape the crowds.
Best Time to Visit the Australian Outback
The Australian Outback is necessary for those seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and vast wilderness of the country’s interior regions. Known for their red sandy deserts and secluded terrains with iconic sites, such as Uluru, providing a striking contrast to Australia’s coastal regions, it is vital to plan an Outback journey thoughtfully considering timing factors.
Central Australia (Uluru, Alice Springs)
The ideal time to explore Australia and its famed Outback near Uluru and Alice Springs is from May to September when the weather is milder and easier to handle. In these months of winter in the region, temperatures typically range between 16°C to 26°C (60°F to 79°F), which is perfect for activities like hiking and camping while soaking in the landscapes of the Outback.
Winter is a season for stargazing in the Outback because the clear and cool skies offer conditions for viewing the Milky Way in all its glory. Tourists can join guided excursions to discover the terrain and delve into the area’s Indigenous heritage and culture.
Avoiding the Summer Heat
During the summer months (December to February), it’s advisable to avoid visiting the Outback as the scorching heat can reach temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F). This extreme heat not only makes outdoor activities unpleasant but poses a potential risk of heatstroke. Due to the high temperatures in the region during the period, many tourist services may operate on reduced hours, further limiting options for travelers.
Exploring Other Iconic Regions
In Australia, there is more to explore than its shores and arid landscapes. It boasts a variety of ecosystems that provide distinctive adventures throughout the year, such as lush rainforests teeming with life and national parks waiting to be explored in different seasons, along with picturesque wine regions, each with their own ideal times to visit.
Rainforests of Northern Queensland
The Daintree Rainforest in Northern Queensland is renowned as one of the oldest rainforests with a rich biodiversity to explore and appreciate year-round. The ideal time to venture into Australia’s rainforests is during the months from June to August when the dry season prevails in the northern region. This period offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the green landscapes teeming with waterfalls and exotic wildlife that includes unique creatures, such as the cassowary and tree kangaroo.
During the dry season, the rainforest is an ideal time to explore since there are fewer road closures caused by rain or floods. This time is perfect for activities like hiking and guided eco-tours on the river.
Southern Vineyards and National Parks
If you’re keen on discovering Australia’s wine regions or national parks, the months of autumn from March to May provide the best weather conditions. This time of year signifies the grape harvest in wine areas, such as the Barossa Valley and Margaret River, allowing tourists to partake in wine tour tastings and vineyard festivals.
Autumn also offers weather that’s ideal for exploring national parks, such as the Blue Mountains or Grampians, without the summer crowds. The decrease in temperature also reduces the chances of bushfires, which are common in the summer months.
Best Time to Visit for Festivals and Events
Australia holds an array of festivals all year round that cater to interests like music, cuisine, art, and culture. Planning your trip to align with these events can significantly enrich your experience.
Summer Festivals (December to February): During the summer season in Australia, you’ll find a variety of happenings, such as the Sydney Mardi Gras celebration and the Australian Open tennis tournament, along with outdoor music concerts and film festivals.
Winter Festivals (June to August): During the winter months, you can enjoy events like the mesmerizing Vivid Sydney light show and the delightful Noosa Eat & Drink Festival in addition to the Henley-on-Todd Regatta held in the Northern Territory region.
Festivals offer a chance to experience culture firsthand as both locals and visitors come together to celebrate in the bustling streets and scenic waterfront areas in major cities.
Shoulder Seasons: The Perfect Time for Budget Travelers
Travelers looking for a blend of good weather and fewer crowds often find March to May and September to November to be the time to explore Australia comfortably and affordably with fewer tourists around. The shoulder seasons present an opportunity to visit spots such as Sydney and Melbourne or take in the breathtaking scenery along the Great Ocean Road minus the peak summer crowds.
During these times, the weather creates an atmosphere for exploring sights in cities and towns where you can experience open-air markets and food fests while taking leisurely strolls.
Conclusion
Australia is a destination that can be enjoyed no matter when you visit. However, the optimal time to tour Australia varies depending on your desired activities. Be it relaxing on the shores,
Have you ever heard someone playing loud music from a Bluetooth speaker on a cruise ship? Carnival has recently implemented a few rules that were repeated today.
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Bluetooth speakers have become a problem on some cruise ships. After all, the portable devices have become more powerful and much louder in recent years.
And on a confined ship where many just want to get away from noise pollution, an extra set of speakers blaring someone’s own musical preference can ruffle some feathers.
On top of that, a cruiser’s Bluetooth speaker often competes with the cruise ship’s own music or announcements, making a not-so-relaxing experience.
Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald recently posted a video in which he talked about a whole host of cruise topics, one of which was Bluetooth speakers.
The video has since been deleted. Heald said the deletion was “because of my Polish pirate joke”, but that could just be his own inimitable sense of humor coming out.
However, in a Facebook post today, he once again mentioned the issue of Bluetooth speakers.
“BLUE TEETH SPEAKERS. In my video, I read a post out from somebody who feels they should be allowed to use them on balconies and on the open decks. You can’t, please don’t, it’s well selfish, that’s my opinion anyway and that’s what I expressed in my video,” Heald posted.
Earlier this year Heald posted a poll on his social media channel to see what Carnival cruisers felt about the devices.
After over 15,000 votes 90% said they were in favor of banning Bluetooth speakers entirely.
Bluetooth speakers are not allowed to be used on balconies. Carnival Celebration balcony (Photo Credit: Cruise Fever)
Currently, the speakers are permitted on board. But they are not allowed to be used in public areas or even in cabin balconies if others can be disturbed by it.
Personally, I’ve been on cruises with various cruise lines where some passengers were literally walking around the ship with a Bluetooth boombox on their shoulders. At the time, nothing was done about it, but there have been recent efforts to curb this kind of behavior.
In previous statements, the Brand Ambassador said he was in favor of a ban himself.
“My personal opinion and it is a personal opinion is that we should not allow Bluetooth speakers on board at any time. I do not see a circumstance where people need this when they can use the speaker on their phone or headphones,” Heald said.
This, of course, is Heald’s opinion and not an official statement from Carnival, even though Heald will often make announcements or mention changes for the company.
When it comes to cruising, a little consideration goes a long way. If you really must have a certain kind of music or podcast playing while you’re on the ship, headphone are a great option.
In fact, I like to bring noise-cancelling headphones just in case I want to get some extra peace and quiet and just kind of zone-out.
It seems like every week we’re hearing new stories of fights on cruise ships. Much more than cross words between guests, as we can see from the videos that are inevitably shared on social media, some of these look pretty scary with multiple people involved and furniture being launched.
If the thought of experiencing something like this on your cruise is putting you off booking, you’re not alone.
However, you can reduce the chances of your experiencing violence at sea to virtually zero if you follow these steps…
1. Avoid Short & Weekend Cruises
Shorter cruises, especially those lasting 2-5 days, tend to attract a more party-oriented crowd. The condensed time frame encourages passengers to “make the most” of their trip, often leading to excessive drinking and rowdiness.
Opt for cruises that are 7 days or longer to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Weekend cruises are notorious for being particularly boisterous, as they often attract locals looking for a quick escape. These short, high-energy trips can lead to more alcohol consumption and, consequently, more conflicts. For a calmer experience, book a cruise that sails during the week.
2. Choose Newer or Larger Ships
Older and smaller ships often come with cheaper fares, which can attract a crowd more prone to misbehaviour.
If you prefer a more refined experience, consider booking a cruise on a newer or larger vessel, which typically attracts a more diverse and laid-back group of travellers.
I’ve often booked cruises that cost under £200 and while I haven’t ever witnessed anyone being violent, the guests on board are quite different from those on a cruise I paid thousands for.
Just as you see a different crowd of people at Butlins as you do at Center Parcs, the same will happen on a cruise.
The departure port can influence the type of crowd on your cruise. For instance, cruises departing from cities like New Orleans, Galveston, or Baltimore have been reported to have rowdier crowds compared to those leaving from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
This could be because these cruises attract more people who live locally to the port. On cruises departing from Florida ports, more guests will fly in, which again adds to the overall cost.
High-season or holiday cruises can attract a wide variety of passengers, including those looking for a party atmosphere. In the US, spring break is a time that you’ll almost certainly want to avoid if you’re looking for a relaxing cruise.
Sailing during off-peak times, such as when school is in session, can help ensure a more mature crowd.
5. Be Mindful of Cruise Lines’ Reputation
Some cruise lines, like Carnival, have a reputation for being more party-centric, which can contribute to a higher likelihood of unruly behaviour. Others that have had reports of fighting onboard recently include Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider cruise lines like Holland America or Celebrity Cruises, which are known for attracting an older and more reserved clientele.
6. Avoid Cruises With All-Inclusive Drink Packages
All-inclusive drink packages are a magnet for those looking to maximise their fun, often at the expense of others’ enjoyment.
Most cruises offer drink packages, but some cruise lines only sell these on longer cruises.
There may be rules in place to prevent people from drinking more than 15 alcoholic drinks per day. But some cruisers get around this by sneaking extra alcohol on board.
8. Know When and Where to Avoid Crowds Onboard
Even on a lively ship, you can still find tranquillity by knowing where to go. Avoid the pool deck and nightclubs late at night if you want to steer clear of potential altercations.
Instead, enjoy quieter areas like the spa, library, or speciality restaurants during peak party hours.
9. Stay Calm and Detached from Drama
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may witness or be near a confrontation. The best course of action is to remain calm and detached.
Avoid getting involved, and notify ship security if necessary. Remember, your focus is on enjoying your cruise, not on other passengers’ disputes.
Are Cruise Lines Doing Enough?
The recent rise in cruise ship brawls has raised concerns among passengers and industry insiders alike. While cruise lines have taken steps to manage these incidents, there’s a growing consensus that more needs to be done.
Here are some measures cruise lines could implement to help reduce onboard conflicts…
Implement a Stricter Alcohol Policy
Alcohol is a significant factor in many onboard altercations. While some cruise lines already have a drink limit (like Carnival’s 15-drink cap), there’s room for improvement.
Cruise lines could empower bartenders and staff to cut off passengers before they reach their limit if they show signs of intoxication.
Additionally, lowering the daily drink limit could help curb excessive drinking and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
Increase Security Presence
A more visible and robust security presence on cruise ships, particularly during high-risk times like late nights or during popular events, could act as a deterrent for bad behaviour.
Security staff should be well-trained and equipped to handle confrontations swiftly and effectively. Some passengers have reported that security teams seem too young or inexperienced, which could undermine their authority in tense situations.
Introduce Heavier Fines and Lifetime Bans
Many passengers feel that the current fines for bad behaviour are not severe enough to deter potential troublemakers.
Raising fines to a substantial amount (e.g., $15,000) and clearly communicating these penalties could make passengers think twice before engaging in disruptive behaviour.
Additionally, cruise lines should consider implementing lifetime bans for individuals involved in serious incidents, and sharing this information across different cruise lines to prevent repeat offenders from boarding other ships.
Establish a ‘No Cruise’ List
Similar to the aviation industry’s ‘no-fly’ list, cruise lines could collaborate to create a ‘no cruise’ list for passengers who have been involved in severe onboard incidents.
This would prevent repeat offenders from simply moving to another cruise line after being banned from one. Such a list would protect the broader cruising community and maintain a safer environment onboard.
Revise the Design and Capacity of Ships
Overcrowding can lead to frustration and conflicts, especially in common areas like pools, bars, and sun decks.
Cruise lines should reconsider the trend of adding more cabins without increasing communal space. Ensuring that there are enough amenities and space for all passengers can help reduce stress and potential altercations.
Enhance Passenger Education and Onboarding Procedures
Cruise lines could do more to educate passengers on the importance of respectful behaviour and the consequences of misconduct.
This could be done through mandatory onboard safety and behavior briefings, or through digital content delivered before the cruise begins. Clear communication about penalties for bad behaviour, such as fines or bans, should be emphasised during these briefings.
Monitor and Support Affected Passengers
In instances where nearby passengers are impacted by others’ bad behaviour, cruise lines should provide follow-up care and support.
This could include checking in on affected passengers, offering cabin changes, or providing compensation for disrupted vacations. This approach not only aids those directly involved but also sends a message that the cruise line takes these incidents seriously.
By implementing these measures, cruise lines can better manage and reduce the incidence of onboard conflicts, ensuring that all passengers have a safe and enjoyable experience.
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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.
Marking the Company’s 21st ship in its cutting-edge fleet, Norwegian Luna opened for sale today for guests to choose from various fun-in-the-sun voyages sailing roundtrip from Miami beginning April 4, 2026, through November 2026. Norwegian Luna will kick off its inaugural Caribbean season with two western itineraries to Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, the Brand’s resort-style destination. The ship will then sail seven-day cruises with calls to the beautiful Eastern Caribbean destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas, which will feature a brand-new pier by late 2025.
All-New Norwegian Luna™
Take a sneak peek at Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line’s next ship in its cutting-edge fleet – debuting 2026.
At 1,056 feet long, 156,300 gross tons, and accommodating approximately 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna will boast an overall 10 percent size and capacity increase from Prima Class ships, Norwegian Prima®, and Norwegian Viva®. Norwegian Luna will be designed as a twin sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, the Company’s latest new vessel due for delivery in March 2025. Both ships are currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.
“Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean. It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board, and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation. We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!”
Vibrant Hull Artwork By ELLE
Norwegian Luna Hull Art
Norwegian Luna’s hull art will showcase a vibrant dreamscape by ELLE, the highly acclaimed street artist from Napa, Calif., who has partnered with popular brand names such as Nike, Reebok, and Ralph Lauren. Entitled ‘La Luna,’ the artwork is a visual exploration of humanity’s deep-rooted connection with the celestial forces in space as human beings are intrinsically linked to the ebb and flow of the moon. ‘La Luna’ will display proudly on the bow of the ship, leading guests on an extraordinary voyage and an epic journey of discovery.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, which has been known for showcasing stunningly designed hull art across its entire fleet,” said ELLE. “It’s been an incredible experience crafting this piece and knowing my 1,056-foot piece of artwork will sail across the seas, traveling the globe for all to see.”
Sister-Ship To Norwegian Aqua
Mirroring the upscale design and structure of Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna will thrill and exhilarate guests with the NCL-exclusive Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that will debut next year on Norwegian Aqua and become the longest and fastest slides at sea. Complete with exhilarating dual slides and a magnetic lift that propels adventurous guests through two different courses, this attraction will feature three stories of exciting twists and turns around the ship’s funnel. Norwegian Luna will also feature a digital sports complex, the Glow Court, offering a variety of interactive guest activities by day and then transforming into a nightclub in the evening. Guests will also be able to continue to enjoy some of their favorite onboard experiences aboard Norwegian Luna, including The Drop, NCL’s 10-story free-fall slide, and the Stadium, an outdoor space offering complimentary activities.
All-New Duplex Haven Suites
Norwegian Luna will boast the all-new luxurious Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites in the Brand’s premium keycard-access-only-complex, The Haven by Norwegian®, which were first announced to debut on sister ship Norwegian Aqua. These expansive two-story suites will feature separate living and dining areas, three bathrooms, a balcony, and three bedrooms. Haven guests will continue to enjoy 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge team, as well as access to a sprawling sundeck, an infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern, an outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room, two hot tubs, a private lounge; and an exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages.
A variety of NCL’s elevated guest experiences will also make their comeback on Norwegian Luna, including Ocean Boulevard, the 46,000-square-foot outdoor walkway that wraps around the entire ship to bring guests closer to the sea; Vibe Beach Club, the adults-only, open-air lounge; Infinity Beach, which provides sweeping views of the ocean; and an expansive, upper pool deck equipped with day beds for soaking up the sun.
Foodie Finds Around Every Corner
Guests aboard Norwegian Luna can also enjoy the new dining and bar experiences of the Prima Plus Class, such as Sukhothai, the Company’s Thai specialty restaurant with an eclectic menu of traditional and creative offerings, and Indulge Food Hall with ten different food stations, including the plant-based Planterie location. Returning NCL signature specialty and complimentary venues include Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, the elevated French restaurant, and Onda by Scarpetta, the high-end Italian venue. In addition to the culinary offerings, guests can indulge in bar and lounge favorites for delicious imbibes at Whiskey Bar, Belvedere Bar, and Metropolitan, NCL’s modern Sail & Sustain cocktail bar, which won the 2024 Vibe Vista Award for “Best Beverage Menu.”
Additional guest experiences aboard Norwegian Luna will be unveiled in the upcoming new year.
For more information about the Company’s award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784), or visit www.ncl.com.
Princess Cruises has released their deployment schedule for cruises to Japan in 2026 that include over 50 departures on Diamond Princess.
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Princess Cruises will offer more than 50 cruises to Japan in 2026 on Diamond Princess. The cruise ship was custom built for Japan and offers the most immersive and authentic experience when cruising to the Land of the Rising Sun.
Diamond Princess will offer 35 unique itineraries in 2026 that range from seven to 28 days in length and visit 38 destinations in three countries.
Among the highlight cruises in 2026 are the 10- and 11-night Spring Flowers cruises that depart in March and April.
The nine-to 14-night Circle Japan Voyages circumnavigate the island of Japan and stop in Nagasaki, Kanazawa and Maizuru (for Kyoto).
Nine-night Southern Islands itineraries will visit Okinawa, Ishigaki, Taipei and Haulien.
Seven- to 11-night Japan Explorer cruises stop at Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji), Osaka (for Kyoto) and Hiroshima.
Longer 15- to 28-day cruises are also available for those who want an in-depth exploration of Japan.
Diamond Princess will offer late night port stays in Aomori (for Nebuta Festival), Hakodate (for Minato Festival), Kochi (for Yosaki Festival), Shimizu (for Mt. Fuji) and Tokushima (for Awa Odori Festival).
Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Japan in spring.; Shutterstock ID 635105279; Purchase Order: PAS19EF15553 – electronic 2019 Japan bro; Job: Unlimited Seats, Unlimited Print Run, Unlimited Web & Worldwide Distribution; Client/Licensee: Princess Cruises; Other: ordered by Ward
John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises, said the following:
“Only on Princess can you become immersed into Japan’s rich culture, ancient traditions and incredible beauty while enjoying a completely unique onboard fusion of eastern and western cultures. The extended 2026 season lets guests choose a cruise in the season they find most appealing – from spring cherry blossoms, to summer festivals, autumn foliage or snowy, wintery landscapes.”
Built by Mitsubishi in Nagasaki, Diamond Princess features uniquely designed, Japanese-inspired experiences including:
Izumi Bath modeled after a traditional onsen
Regional dishes from the Noodle Bar or freshly prepared sushi at Kai Sushi
Fine Japanese whiskeys, sake and shochu
400-year-old traditional “rakugo” storytelling
Karaoke-filled evenings and folkloric dancers showcasing the arts
Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that Norwegian Luna, a sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, will debut in 2026 with cruises now open for bookings.
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Norwegian Luna will be Norwegian Cruise Line’s 21st ship in their fleet and their second Prima Plus class ship.
The cruise ship will homeport in Miami starting in April 2026. Norwegian Luna will offer cruises from there between April 4, 2026 through November 2026.
Luna will sail seven-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Miami.
A few cruise ports that the ship will visit include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas, which will feature a brand-new pier by late 2025.
Norwegian Luna will be 156,300 gross tons in size and be 1,056 feet long. The ship will carry 3,550 guests at double capacity which is a 10% increase from Prima class ships.
Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide
Glow Court, a digital sports complex
The Drop, a 10-story free-fall slide
Dual waterslides
Stadium, an outdoor space for complimentary activities
Additional features have also yet to be announced
Norwegian Luna will have new dining and bar experiences of the Prima Plus Class such as Sukhothai, the cruise line’s Thai specialty restaurant and Indulge Food Hall with 10 different food stations including the plant based Planterie location.
Of course, the ship will have NCL favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse; Le Bistro, the elevated French restaurant; and Onda by Scarpetta.
The Haven will feature Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites. Haven guests will continue to enjoy:
24-hour butler service
Dedicated concierge team
Sprawling sundeck
Infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern
Outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room;
Two hot tubs
Private lounge
Exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages.
The ship will be built by Fincantieri with interior designs created by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.
The cruise ship’s hull art will showcase a vibrant dreamscape by ELLE, the highly acclaimed street artist from Napa, California.
David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, gave the following statement about this new ship:
“Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua.
“The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean.
“It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation. We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!”
