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Royal Caribbean Explains Sustainability Approach To New Beach Club Destination

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Royal Caribbean has revealed that its new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be built and maintained with sustainable practices in order to protect the area and its native wildlife.

Royal Beach Club

The cruise line has partnered with the environmental firm SEV Consulting Group, who will oversee the new development and continue to visit and inspect it.

It will ensure that the original construction of the 17-acre property, and its ongoing operation, aligns with environmental standards set both locally and internationally.

Examples of the work to be carried out will be protecting marine turtle nesting sites, and removing any invasive species that threaten the ecosystem.

Protecting and preserving the natural resources of Paradise Island is a key part of how the beauty and spirit of the Bahamas will shine at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

Nature painted a perfect canvas on the island. That canvas was changed with time after it was abandoned over many years by previous homeowners. While there is some work to be done and process to go through, that beauty will be restored.

Philip Simon Jr., president and general manager of Royal Beach Club and Royal Caribbean International Bahamas

Work has already begun, including the demolition and removal of over 1,600 non-native plants and trees to help restore the destination’s native ecosytem – a move mandated by local environmental authorities.

The cruise line is investing in several ‘environmental pillars’ to protect the area, including a commitment to zero waste-to-landfill (including no single-use plastics), 100% renewable energy by 2030, no overwater cabanas and a best-in-class wastewater treatment process.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is due to open in summer 2025.

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Royal Caribbean Adds Brand New Port To Several Itineraries

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Royal Caribbean has added a brand new cruise port to several itineraries for ships in the Caribbean.

Caribbean beach

The port in question is Cabo Rojo in the Dominican Republic, which has only been open to cruise passengers since January 2024.

The port is in Pedernales on the southwestern coast of the island, close to the Jaragua National Park, which is home to the largest protected area of marine habitats in all of the Caribbean.

At the moment, the port has been added to several sailings on Adventure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, with the potential that it may also be introduced to other ships soon.

The port visit is typically replacing sea days rather than other ports, although it is sometimes having a minor impact on the amount of time spent in other ports of call, as the ship needs to leave earlier to make it to Cabo Rojo in time.

While this is the first time Royal Caribbean is including the itinerary in sailings, it isn’t the first cruise line to visit – that was Norwegian Cruise Line.

Other cruises to Cabo Rojo are also now planned for Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Azamara Cruises.

Cabo Rojo offers a number of experiences for guests to enjoy, including excellent beaches for sunbathing, excursions for snorkelling, hiking opportunities and more. It’s not as developed as many other ports, so there are lots of natural options to enjoy.

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Disney Cruise Line Reveals More Details Of Disney Destiny, Including Inaugural Sailing

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Disney Cruise Line has several ships currently under construction, and the cruise line has now revealed some exciting details of Disney Destiny, which is due to join the fleet in 2025.

Disney Destiny Keel Coin

The ship’s inaugural sailing has been revealed for 20th November 2025, which will be a four-night cruise sailing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.

The cruise will include stops at both of Disney’s private island destinations, Castaway Cay, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

The other ports being visited on the first cruise will be Nassau in the Bahamas, and Cozumel in Mexico.

Following this inaugural sailing, the ship will then offer a series of 4- and 5-night cruises from Port Everglades to the Bahamas and Western Caribbean.

All cruises will include a call to at least one of the two private island destinations, with some itineraries sailing to both.

Bookings for the inaugural season will open on 6th September 2024 for any members of the cruise line’s Castaway Club loyalty programme. They will then open to the general public on 12th September 2024.

The cruise line also revealed more details of the Cask and Cannon pub onboard, which will be themed around Pirates of the Caribbean.

Guests will be able to enjoy an extensive range of rums (including some rare options), meaning you’ll never have to ask “Why has the rum gone?” like Captain Jack did.

There’ll also be a range of custom-brewed beers served direct from the barrel, and themed treats such as drinks served from treasure chests.

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Florida Port Getting Their First Luxury Cruise Line

by Diplomacy

A port in Florida will have a luxury cruise line sailing from it for the first time when Oceania Cruises bases a ship from Tampa in 2026.

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Oceania Cruises will base Insignia out of Port Tampa Bay starting in the spring of 2026. This will be the first time that an ultra-luxury cruise ship sails from the port.

The cruise ship will sail a series of seven- to 20-night cruises from Tampa that will visit the Caribbean and the Panama Canal.

Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises, gave the following statement:

“Port Tampa Bay represents an exciting new chapter as Oceania Cruises becomes the first ultra-premium cruise line to have dedicated voyages from Tampa, opening the door as a convenient gateway to Florida’s west coast and the Gulf of Mexico.

“This is a natural expansion for our brand, as Tampa echoes the cosmopolitan essence of our beloved hometown of Miami with its diverse mix of international influences and cultures.”

Paul Anderson, President and CEO of Port Tampa Bay, added:

“We are thrilled to welcome Oceania Cruises to Port Tampa Bay. The arrival of Insignia marks a significant milestone, enhancing Tampa’s status as a premier cruise destination. We look forward to welcoming new guests to our beautiful city and gateway, as the increased tourism will create substantial economic opportunities for our region, workers, and businesses.”

Insignia is a 670 passenger cruise ship that has 400 crew members.

Oceania Cruises offers guests the ultimate value in ultra-premium cruising thanks to a host of always included amenities including:

  • Specialty restaurants
  • Unlimited WiFi
  • Butler service for guests in Penthouse Suites and above
  • In-room dining
  • Juices
  • Still and sparkling Vero Water
  • Plus coffees and teas

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Holland America Line Adds New Cruises to Alaska in 2026

by Diplomacy

Holland America Line has added new cruises to Alaska for 2026 that include voyages up to 28 days long.

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Holland America Line Alaska

Holland America Line will have six cruise ships sailing to Alaska in 2026 from April through September. Itineraries range from seven to 28 days and include the popular monthlong “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” sailing and a new 14-day option roundtrip from Seattle.

Holland America Line ships sailings to Alaska in 2026 are:

  • Eurodam
  • Koningsdam
  • Nieuw Amsterdam
  • Noordam
  • Westerdam
  • Zaandam

For the first time in more than five years, Westerdam will cruise to Alaska from Vancouver and Noordam will sail roundtrip from Seattle.

New for 2026 is a two week “Great Alaska Explorer” that will sail from both Seattle and Vancouver.

The cruise line is also bringing back their popular 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” voyage for a third year.

Seven-day roundtrip cruises will depart from both Seattle and Vancouver.

One-way Glacier Discovery voyages will depart from both Vancouver and Whittier.

All of Holland America Line’s cruises to Alaska will feature glacier viewing experiences. Their Glacier Guarantee pledges that you will see a glacier on every single one of their voyages to Alaska.

The cruise line visits:

  • Glacier Bay National Park
  • College Fjord
  • Dawes Glacier
  • Hubbard Glacier
  • Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm

Holland America’s fresh fish program offers the freshest fish on any cruise ship. They bring locally sourced fresh fish that goes from port to plate in less than 48 hours.

Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line, gave the following statement:

“We continue to build an Alaska program that is unlike any other in the industry, that is deeply immersive, putting a spotlight on all the splendor that brings cruisers to Alaska.

“Whether it’s talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired.”

These new cruises to Alaska in 2026 on Holland America Line are now open for bookings. Land tours will open in the near future.

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Carnival Cruise Ship Receives New Dining Options and Updates

by Diplomacy

A Carnival cruise ship is returning to service after receiving upgrades and new features during the vessel’s recent dry dock.

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Carnival Splendor will return to service next week with new dining options and upgrades. The ship is the latest in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet to complete its periodic dry dock. You can see Carnival’s complete dry dock schedule here.

Carnival Splendor received new dining options that include Mad Sizzle and Masala Tiger.

Mad Sizzle will serve kebabs and satays with slow spit-roasted meats. It is located on deck nine.

Due to the popularity of Indian restaurant Masala Tiger, it is in a new larger location on deck 10. 

Menus at other dining venues have also been enhanced, including Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse which features signature dishes such as T-bone steak and fresh New Zealand pink snapper.

All of the cruise ship’s cabins has been refreshed with new whirlpool tubs being installed in suites. All of the ship’s balconies received a full refreshment.

Other enhancements to the ship include:

  • Updated basketball court and jogging track
  • New gym equipment
  • Refreshed Thalasso therapy pool at Cloud 9 Spa
  • Casino has been updated
  • Retail shops have been refreshed
  • Newly enhanced Dreams Photo Studio has been relocated to Deck 3 in the Atrium.
  • Fully refreshed mini-golf course
  • Revamped Carnival WaterWorks

Kara Glamore, Carnival Cruise Line Australia vice president, gave the following statement:

“From her beautiful new look outside to the upgraded amenities and new entertainment on board, Carnival Splendor has more fun to offer our guests sailing from Sydney than ever before. Carnival is set to be Australia’s largest cruise brand from early next year and we’re proud to continue to provide new ways to bring more fun to our guests.”

Beginning March 2025, Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa will be joined by two additional sister ships operating in Australia when P&O Cruises Australia transitions to Carnival Cruise Line.

Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will become Carnival sister ships and will be renamed Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter.

Carnival Cruise Line will have four cruise ships sailing around Australia when these two new ships are added to the fleet.

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Norway To Enforce Strict Net-Zero Rules For Cruise Ships

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

The Norwegian government has announced new regulations that will force cruise ships to run on net-zero emissions in order to visit the country.

Norway

The country plans on introducing the laws by 2026 for smaller vessels under 10,000 gross tons, which will include many ferries and tourist ships that visit the area.

But it will extend the rules so that, by 2032, large cruise ships must also be compliant.

In order to be compliant, ships will need to implement several technologies, including using alternative fuels such as bio-gas, and making sure they can connect to shore power to prevent emissions while docked.

The goal is to preserve the spectacular fjords and create sustainable tourism. The zero-emission requirement will drive technology development, reduce emissions, and ensure the World Heritage fjords remain attractive tourist destinations.

Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Norway’s climate and environment minister

Norway has several fjords that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which the country is obviously keen to protect.

To support the move, the government is helping to fund new shore power facilities in Flam, one of the more popular ports for ships in the region to dock.

Crucially, the Norwegian government recognises that this is a major undertaking, hence the longer-term planning and the emphasis on a gradual roll-out of regulations and technology. It understands that cruise lines can’t make instant changes, and that much of the tech needed is still being developed.

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5 Skills To Master Before Your Next Cruise

by Cruise Tips

Cruises are more than just a way to get from one destination to another – they’re a whole holiday experience in and of themselves. With so many activities and amenities packed into these floating resorts, there’s never a dull moment. You can spend your day lounging by the pool, exploring exotic ports of call, indulging in gourmet dining, or taking in a West End-style show in the evening…

But what if you could make your time onboard even more enjoyable? You’d be surprised how much more enriching your cruise experience can be by picking up a few skills before you board. Whether knowing how to start a conversation with fellow passengers, learning to play poker for a friendly game in the casino, or even mastering the basics of photography, these skills can transform your cruise from good to unforgettable.

Master the Art of Being Social 

In case you didn’t already know, cruises are inherently social experiences. You’re surrounded by fellow travelers, often for longer than a week, and they’re all likely just as eager to meet and connect with new people. 

Mastering your social skills is essential if striking up conversations isn’t your strong suit. Luckily, if you start practicing now, you’ll become a witty fellow passenger when your cruise comes around. Engage with people you don’t know so well in your daily life, whether that’s a neighbor you’ve barely spoken to or the barista in your daily coffee haunt. Ask questions, and listen actively – before you know it, you’ll chat effortlessly with fellow cruisers.

Learn Some Photography Basics

A cruise is an aspiring photographer’s dream; all those dreamy sea views and breathtaking ocean vistas are begging to be captured. Even if you don’t know your DSLR from your dual ISO, you can still grab some high-quality cruise shots by understanding the basics of photography. 

No, you don’t need a digital camera either, as you can elevate the snaps you take on your smartphone with clever composition, adequate lighting, and framing. There are also plenty of online resources that will help you brush up on your photography game before you sail, from iPhone photography courses to free video tutorials. 

Learn the Rules of Poker

Casino games are still a regular feature of many longer cruises, especially that card gaming classic, poker. Whether your goal is to hit the tournament tables or just enjoy a few casual games with your shipmates, knowing the basics of the game will come in handy. 

Start by familiarising yourself with the rules, getting a good grasp of hand rankings, and some basic strategies before diving into a game. Online platforms make it easy to learn poker at your own pace, with how-to-guides and strategy tips in abundance. You can even practice your skills in playing money games as you work up the confidence and know-how to play in cash games. 

Put on Your Dancing Shoes

The dance class is another staple of onboard cruise entertainment, so there’s no excuse for having two left feet! Whether it’s a high-energy salsa class, an elegant ballroom, or just some free-flowing creative movement, knowing how to coordinate your brain and body in advance will make you stand out for all the right reasons. 

If you’re not a natural dancer, you can take a beginner class or two before your cruise. But nothing beats dancing around in your kitchen to a playlist of your favorite tunes. Remember that dance is all about creative expression, and it can be an enjoyable way to meet new people and stay active while you’re onboard your dream cruise.    

Brush Up on Your Swimming Skills

Swimming pools and water activities are a big part of the recreational cruise experience. Many shore excursions involve snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. 

Being confident in the water is essential for making the most of these opportunities, so, if you haven’t swum in a while, consider taking a refresher course or just spending some time at your local pool before your trip. 

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Royal Caribbean Orders More New Cruise Ships

by Diplomacy

Royal Caribbean, the world’s largest cruise line, has announced that they have placed an order to add to their fleet of Icon class ships. Icon class are the largest cruise ships in the world at over 250,000 gross tons.

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Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship

This order from Royal Caribbean for more new cruise ships includes a fourth Icon class ship that will enter service in 2027.  The ship will be built by Meyer Turku.

Included in this news is an option for Royal Caribbean to add a fifth and sixth Icon class ships at a later date.

Royal Caribbean now has four new ships on order with an option to bring the total to six new cruise ships.

A second Icon class ship, Star of the Seas, will debut next year. A third and currently unnamed ship will debut a year later in 2026.

The cruise line also has another Oasis class ship scheduled to enter service in 2028.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group, gave the following statement:

“Building on the incredible momentum and market response to the launch of Icon of the Seas and the excitement for its sister ship, Star of the Seas, coming in 2025, we’re thrilled to join with Meyer Turku once again to expand our roster of Icon Class ships and continue our future growth plans.

“Since its debut, Icon has changed the game in vacation experiences and exceeded our expectations in both guest satisfaction and financial performance.”

Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku, added:

“This order is an important milestone for the future of shipbuilding in the maritime network in Finland. With Icon of the Seas, our team, consisting of the shipyard and partners, have built an extraordinary ship in respect of naval architecture, energy efficiency and customer experience.

“This is yet another recognition of the professionalism of our personnel and of our leadership in the maritime industry’s innovation and green transition. The options underline the strong outlook of our order book.”

This agreement for more new cruise ships for Royal Caribbean is contingent upon customary conditions, including financing.

This new ship order is in addition to Royal Caribbean developing a new class of vessels, the Discovery class.

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, said that the cruise line is just getting started and they are developing new experiences for their guests.

Royal Caribbean is currently the world’s largest cruise line with 28 cruise ships in service.

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Carnival’s Private Island Expansion Will Allow Their Largest Ships to Visit

by Diplomacy

Carnival Cruise Line released their next wave of cruises for 2026-2027 and included in them is their largest class of ships visiting Half Moon Cay.

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Carnival ship

Carnival is expanding one of the highest rated cruise line private islands in The Bahamas, Half Moon Cay. The expansion includes a pier that will allow Excel class ships, the largest in Carnival’s fleet, to visit the island.

Other enhancements to Half Moon Cay are an expanded beach and new dining and beverage experiences. Carnival said that they will give more details on this expansion in the near future.

Carnival opened new cruises in 2026 and 2027 for bookings. Included in these cruises is Excel class ships visiting Half Moon Cay for the first time.

Here is a look at the new cruises that were just announced by Carnival Cruise Line.

PortMiami

Carnival Celebration will sail week long cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Miami. Ports the ship will visit include Half Moon Cay, Celebration Key, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Cozumel, St. Thomas and San Juan.

Carnival will base more ships in Miami for 2026-2027 but those cruises will be released at a later time.

Port Canaveral

Mardi Gras will continue to homeport at Port Canaveral offering seven-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Cruises through the spring of 2027 have been released.

Carnival Venezia will sail seasonally from the port on a variety of seven and 14 night cruises to the Caribbean.

Galveston

Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Dream and Carnival Breeze will all homeport in Galveston.

Carnival Jubilee will sail six and eight night cruises to the Western Caribbean and The Bahamas stating in September 2026. The ship will sail seven night cruises from now through September 2026.

Carnival Dream will offer six, seven, and eight night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Two week Carnival Journey cruises to the Southern Caribbean are also open for bookings.

Carnival Breeze will sail a variety of four through eight night cruises from Galveston that visit the Western Caribbean.

Baltimore

Carnival Pride will sail mostly seven night cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean. A few longer Carnival Journey cruises are also available that visit the Southern Caribbean or Canada.

Carnival Cruise Line said that more cruises in 2026-2027 will soon be announced. Cruise Fever will have all of these cruises when they are released by the cruise line.

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