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Royal Caribbean Group Implements New Deposit Rules For Casino Reservations

The Royal Caribbean Group has announced a change to the rules surrounding free cruises granted to casino players, with a deposit now required for all bookings for guests who’ve previously no-showed.

Casino Royale with Royal Caribbean

Guests on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises sailings are often invited to enjoy free cruises, if they spend enough money in the casino onboard during past cruises.

It makes sense for the cruise line, because they will often make more money from those guests when they return and play more in the casinos.

However, there have been some issues with guests no-showing their cruise, meaning that there are empty beds on the cruise ships that could otherwise have been filled.

As a result, those guests have been contacted and told that, in future, they must pay a $200 deposit to secure their free cruises.

It only applies to guests who’ve no-showed or who have cancelled within two days of a sailing date, but it will apply to all future bookings from 5th September 2024 onwards for those guests.

If the guests do board the ship, the $200 deposit will be converted into onboard credit for them to enjoy. If they cancel with at least seven days’ notice, it’ll be refunded. But, if the guests cancel at short notice or no-show the cruise, the deposit is forfeited.

While it may be controversial for those impacted guests, on the outside the move makes sense, as it’s not fair on the cruise lines to award free places to guests who then no-show a room that could otherwise have been sold.

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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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Carnival Announces American Football Partnership For New Season

Carnival Cruise Line has announced that it will be showing more American Football for next season, agreeing a deal to screen both NFL and college football.

Carnival American Football

John Heald announced via his Facebook page that the cruise line has bought the NFL Syndication and Sunday Ticket package.

This means that, across the fleet, guests will be able to enjoy Monday Night Football and Thursday Night Football.

The cruise line has also struck an agreement to show 12 college football games every week of the 14-week season, with games chosen for the home ports of the ships.

The games won’t be shown on the cabin TVs, but will be available to watch in the casino bars, the pubs and the breweries onboard.

Some games will also be shown on the big screen, but the Dive In movies will still take priority.

The only exception is the Super Bowl, which will definitely be shown on the big screens and in the onboard theatre on each ship.

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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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Guest Confronts Comedian On Stage Following An Audience Fight

An eventful comic performance onboard an MSC cruise resulted in a guest walking onto the stage to confront the comedian, before being removed from the venue.

MSC Seashore Comedian Confronted
Credit: k.daniellelifestyle

According to guests who shared the story on social media, a fight was beginning to break out between two male guests in the audience of a late-night comedy show on MSC Seashore.

While the fight was settled thanks to the comedian and the cruise director, the comedian then made some jokes about the fight, which drew the ire of a female guest who then walked up to the stage to argue.

@k.daniellelifestyle Do not tell me about Carnival and how it’s the Walmart of the seas. It is never the brand of ship. It is always its clientele. Every brand has something unique and distinctive to offer their customers but you will always have one who shows up and behave like this. All of this while I was aboard MSC Seashore. These are the new adults. Doesn’t matter who you sail with. #kdaniellelifestyle #traveltiktok #cruisetok #mscseashore #msc #lookatthis #travelagentlife ♬ original sound – K.D | The Travel Girl

The comedian – Robert L. Hines, who was performing a guest set onboard – argued back with the guest and made jokes at her expense as she was escorted from the venue, but not before throwing her drink towards the comedian.

K. Danielle, who shared the TikTok above, then also followed up to answer some of the questions that people had left with comments:

@k.daniellelifestyle Replying to @HailtotheQueen #greenscreen #kdaniellelifestyle #traveltiktok #cruisetok #mscseashore #msc ♬ original sound – K.D | The Travel Girl

As well as throwing a drink, the woman removed a shoe in a bid to throw that at the comedian, but she was stopped and removed.

K. Danielle also commented on MSC security, saying they weren’t seen during the incident at all, and that the woman was removed by the cruise director.

Anyone confronting (and technically assaulting) a performer on a cruise can probably expect to be removed from the ship at the next port of call.

It’s not clear whether this happened to the guest, or if the performance happened on the last night anyway – the cruise was a short one.

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Read more about me

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Carnival Cruise Line Announces Big News for NFL Fans

Sports fans who cruise a lot know how difficult it can be to keep up with their favorite teams while at sea.  Cruise lines must have the rights to air certain games on their ships.  And getting those rights can involve some wheeling and dealing behind the scenes.

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Carnival movie screen on Carnival Horizon
Main TV screen on Carnival Horizon. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever

NFL fans have sometime been disappointed when trying to watch a big game while on a cruise.

But today, Carnival Cruise Line has announced plans to air NFL and college football games for the upcoming season.

In a Facebook post Brand Ambassador John Heald announced the decision for the 2024-2025 season.

“For all our NFL fans, we are very happy to announce that for the 2024-2025 NFL football season we will show the games that are broadcast on the ESPN network have the NFL Syndication and Sunday Ticket package. This means we will have Monday Night and ummm, Thursday Night football,” Heald wrote.

Where will cruisers be able to watch the games?  Heald mentioned that not every one of these games will be shown on the main screen on the lido deck, but sports fans will be able to watch them in sports bars, casino bars, and pubs around the vessels.

There is a schedule with nightly movies for Dive in Movies that Carnival ships will follow, but big games like the Super Bowl will be on the main big screen.

Heald also announced that college football games will be shown on Carnival ships.

“Now on to college football. This season we have an agreement to show 12 games per week during the 14-week season that is more specific to the home ports in our US itineraries. Now I have sod all idea what that means as my knowledge of college sports is probably the same as many of you reading this and your knowledge of cricket. However, I am sure this is fabulous news for college football fans,” Heald wrote in his announcement.

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My Best Tips for Cruising with Senior Parents

My parents love reading my cruise articles. Each time one is published, I send the link to my dad and he loves to reminisce over our cruises throughout the years.  I’m not sure how thrilled he will be about this one though. 

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Senior parents on a cruise, tips to know
Photo Credit: Mirko Vitali | Dreamstime

My dad is 65 and qualifies for the free small drinks at Chick-Fil-A and everything that comes along with an AARP membership.

He could even get the coveted 5% off at Publix every Wednesday, but “I’m not going to shop there when it’s that busy and old people are there!” 

Having said that, this article is not about him and my mother. It’s about all the “other” senior adult parents out there. 

Medications

Unfortunately, the first item on this list includes an example. (insert eyeroll here) When I was 13, my family decided to take a road trip from Alabama to New Hampshire. It was two weeks in a pop-up camper with 4 adults and myself.

Roughly 15 minutes down the road, my grandfather discovered that he did not pack enough of his necessary medications for a two-week trip. At that moment, he decided, “Oh, I’ll just break them in half and I’ll be okay. I can stretch them out”. 

I absolutely DO NOT recommend that anyone do that. It’s not responsible, nor is it safe. Be sure that your family members have all of their required medications and plenty of it before leaving on a cruise.

We can be frugal with some things cruise-wise, but not with potentially life-saving medications. 

Read more: 15 things people always forget to pack for a cruise

If Necessary, Plan for Accessibility and Special Diets 

Tips on cruising with your parents

Many senior adults are just as mobile as their younger counterparts, while others are not. If you or your family member is in the latter category, be sure to plan ahead. 

Cruise ships offer handicap accessible rooms, but they are limited in number. In fact, any cruise ship that sails in U.S. waters is required to adhere to ADA standards.

Accessible cabins usually contain a shower bench and wider spaces for wheelchairs to move.  Book these rooms early if you need one. 

If you need assistance with boarding, be sure to let a cruise line representative know as soon as you arrive at the port. 

Many cruisers (senior adults or otherwise) have special dietary restrictions. Cruise lines can usually provide special diets like low-fat, vegetarian, low-carb, low-sugar, and low-cholesterol. Speak with the dining staff as early into the cruise as possible. 

If you have additional concerns, contact your chosen cruise line ahead of time. Each cruise line has a dedicated accessibility department. 

Give Yourself Extra Time 

Early flights from a cruise ship to the airport
(Photo credit: Cruise Fever)

When cruising with your senior adult parents, be sure to give yourself extra time. If you fly beforehand, allot extra time for TSA screenings.

If your loved one has a defibrillator, pacemaker, or other implanted device, be sure they have their TSA notification card ready well in advance.

Once you get to the TSA area, things are likely to be rushed and sometimes confusing. Reduce the stress and give yourself plenty of time to navigate potential additional challenges.

If you are not flying beforehand, remember to keep the TSA notification card handy for the screening stations at the cruise terminal. 

Many senior adults simply do not ambulate as quickly as they once did. Some of them prefer a slower pace to enjoy every moment. Either way, just give yourself some extra time. You’ll be glad you did. 

Pack Wisely 

Suitcase and luggage in cruise ship hallway in front of cabins
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever

A majority of cruisers pack traditional luggage and a carry-on bag. If you are traveling with senior adult parents be sure that their necessities are in their carry-on. 

If they require medications throughout the day, make sure that their medication is accessible to them at all times.

Do not allow them to pack this in their luggage that will be delivered to the room later. Also, be sure they have ample room for Werther’s Originals and knitting supplies. 

Remind your senior adult parents to pack no-slip shoes that they are accustomed to wearing. Cruises are no place to break in a new pair of velcro sneakers. It’s a great idea to pack socks with grippers on the bottom for the cabin. 

Plan Appropriate Activities

Though possibly tempting, do not book an excursion on the Twister Jet Boat for you and your 85-year old parents.

They might not like it. Your parents might remove you from the will and their cardiologist might have a few choice words for you. 

Ask your parents what interests them. Maybe they want a nice and relaxing day at the beach. My dad prefers an afternoon at Pancho’s Backyard in Cozumel over anything else. 

I can’t suggest board games and card games enough. On our last cruise, we played several rounds of Phase 10 throughout the trip. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and it works as a “cover” while you people watch. 

Be Flexible 

Three cruise ships in Costa Maya port

I cannot stress this last point enough. You may have every single day planned out in your mind. Just know that plans can easily change and that’s okay. 

Your parents may wake up after a day in Cozumel and decide that they “overdid it” the day before and just want to relax all day. That’s okay! It’s vacation! 

They may choose to eat in the dining room each evening, while you prefer the Lido. That’s okay! Be flexible. 

I took my first cruise when I was 12 years old and I am 42 now. This journey to my parents becoming the senior adults I write about is surreal. I wouldn’t change a thing.

They have given me the opportunity to experience the things I have and I’m honored to still cruise with them today. 

Read more from Kristi: 8 things I skipped on my cruise to save money

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Cruise Line Makes Changes to Upcoming Cruises Due to Political Unrest

A cruise line has made several changes to upcoming cruise itineraries due to political unrest in the Red Sea.

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Celestyal Discovery cruise ship

Celestyal Cruises has canceled their upcoming two-week repositioning cruise, “Ancient Athens to Dazzling Doha” on Celestyal Journey that was scheduled to depart on October 26, 2024. The cruise line said that political unrest in the Red Sea was the reason for needed itinerary changes.

The cruise ship will now sail a 34-night non-commercial cruise to Doha, bypassing the Red Sea, so the cruise line can uphold their commitment to a year-round program.

Since the ship will be arriving in Doha a few weeks later than scheduled, the first three “Desert Days” cruises from Doha on November 9, 16 and 23 have been canceled.

The ship will also sail a 34-night non-commercial cruise back to Athens in the spring of 2025. Because of this, Celestyal has canceled the March 22, 29 and April 5, 2025 sailings. These cruises were the first three “Heavenly Adriatic” of the season.

The repositioning cruise on March 8, 2025 has also been canceled.

The cruise ship’s maiden voyage in the Arabian Gulf has also been slightly modified and is now a “Desert Days & Qatar Grand Prix” cruise that will depart on November 30, 2024.

This cruise will be in Doha port for the first three days to cover the Qatar Grand Prix, travelling onto an overnight in Dubai Marina and also visiting Khasab, Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi.

The cruise line will now offer nine “Desert Days” voyages where guests can embark in Doha, Qatar, Abu Dhabi or Dubai, UAE.

Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal, said the following regarding the cruise line’s decision to modify several sailings”

“We recently announced our full cruise program through March 2027 to build simplicity and assurance into our offering. In light of the current geopolitical climate in our original path of passage to this year’s winter season, we have decided to operate longer non-commercial repositioning sailings to and from Qatar. Celestyal Journey will continue to proudly homeport from Doha, Qatar from November 2024, for the next three winter seasons.

“We apologize for the inconvenience that today’s cancellation of a small number of our itineraries may have caused. Our impacted guests have all been offered alternative cruise options and/or reimbursement. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our global year-round operation in the Greek islands, Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf, and would like to thank our valued guests and trade partners for their understanding and support. We look forward to welcoming our customers onboard Celestyal Journey for her inaugural Arabian Gulf season in late November this year.”

All guests who were booked on one of these canceled or modified cruises have been notified and provided with alternative cruises and reimbursement.

Commission to travel agents will still be paid out and they have been given updated information and guest rebooking options.

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Oceania Cruises’ 2025 Grand Voyages Unveils Immersive 2025 Grand Voyages

Oceania Cruises® is spotlighting a selection of its 2025 Grand Voyages, offering the most elegant way to enjoy extended travel with bucket list trips to the most incredible locations across the globe.

The diverse array of voyages allows guests to discover world wonders such as Borobudur in Indonesia, the world’s largest Buddhist monument, or Mount Fuji in Japan, with immersive itineraries on board Oceania Cruises’ boutique ships.

Oceania Cruises 2025 Grand Voyages

Ranging from spectacular 111-day expeditions of wonders across the continents to shorter sailings exploring South America, Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America, the selection of fascinating itineraries is perfect for the discerning, time-rich traveler. Discover the mangrove-lined Prey Chak River in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, and spot diverse wildlife, including the milky storks, or learn the fine art of Taiji (tai chi) from a master in Shanghai, China. In Togo, witness a voodoo ceremony from the village chief at Sanguera, or explore the city of Agadir, set against the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, and wander through the city’s Coco Polizzi Medina.

Itineraries across Europe offer guests the chance to visit iconic ports such as Oslo, Barcelona, and Athens, meander through the whitewashed buildings of Santorini, or walk up the Bluestack Mountains in Killybegs, County Donegal, Ireland. Voyages that navigate Latin America offer opportunities for snorkeling in the bright blue sea in Ilhabela, Magellanic, penguin watching in Uruguay or driving into the pampas for an authentic Gaucho fiesta complete with empanadas and barbecues.

“Our 2025 Grand Voyages offer our discerning guests the chance to explore the globe without the constraint of time, immersing themselves deeper into destinations with our enriching shore excursion offerings before relaxing on board our small, luxurious ships,” commented Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises.“We are so proud of the incredible Grand Voyages on offer in 2025 and can’t wait to welcome our guests on board.”

Featuring the largest standard staterooms at sea, all Oceania Cruises’ ships are perfect for longer voyages, giving travelers the space to relax on board after a busy day exploring ashore. Sea days are a treat with an array of options including Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center for a wind down, as well as enhancing gastronomic skills in The Culinary Center or getting creative in the Artist Loft on board VistaTM, RivieraTM and MarinaTM, and the line’s newest ship, Allura TM, which debuts in 2025.

Oceania Cruises’ Allura, Vista, Marina and Riviera are the ultimate foodie ships, featuring the first ever hands-on cooking school at sea and a variety of incredible Culinary Discovery ToursTM, providing travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culinary traditions.

Being the only true foodie cruise line, what better way to explore the world than via a kaleidoscope of new tastes and culinary experiences. Oceania Cruises’ ships feature more galley space and more fresh food storage than any other cruise line, making the specialty restaurants a mouthwatering experience.

The line’s smaller ships, NauticaTM, Regatta®, SirenaTM, and Insignia®, carrying only 670 guests, can access gorgeous boutique ports, offering guests an elegant, yacht-like experience, possibly the most refined way to explore the world.

Immerse yourself in culture, history and culinary traditions thanks to Oceania Cruises’ raft of shore excursions, catering to a variety of interests. Culinary Discovery Tours offer guests the ultimate opportunity to immerse themselves into the foodie atmosphere of a destination. Choose a Chef-Led Foraging and Onboard Cooking Class in Helsinki, meander around the local market picking the best reindeer and cloudberries on offer before preparing regional dishes in the onboard Culinary Center. Alternatively, choose a Hydroponic Farm Visit and Onboard Cooking Class in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and learn how to use ingredients from the farm in your dishes.

Meanwhile, Go Local and Go Green shore excursions offer a diverse range of experiences. Guests can learn about mangrove conservation and crab nurseries in Bali and appreciate the fine art of Gaelic sports such as hurling and Gaelic football in Cork, Ireland.

Highlighted 2025 Grand Voyages

Outback & Island Pearls – 25 Days from Bali (Benoa), Indonesia to Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia aboard Regatta

Explore Komodo, one of the three major islands making up the UNESCO World Heritage site of Komodo National Park, and snorkel through Lautoka, the soft coral capital of the world, before wandering amidst lush rainforests and orchid farms. Visit beautiful Gina’s Tropical Gardens, and learn about local Samoan plants at Sopo’aga Falls before discovering the local sea life during a snorkel safari in Bora Bora Lagoon.

Exotic Atlantic Shores – 22 Days from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Cape Town, South Africa aboard Insignia

Revel in the warmth of South America in January, discovering the Jewish heritage of Montevideo before cruising down the Tigre Delta towards Buenos Aires where you can admire the San Isidro Cathedral or partake in a Tango Masterclass in the cobbled district of San Telmo. Visit the world’s most remote permanent settlement, Tristan da Cuhna, with only 300 residents and jaw-dropping volcanic vistas.

Revered Pagodas – 22 Days from Singapore, Singapore to Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan aboard Insignia

Discover the giant Buddha in Ko Samui, amid the local monkeys, before indulging your senses in the golden temples, palaces, and street food at Klong Toey Market in Bangkok. Hue offers insight into the lives of the Nguyen emperors and the tomb of Emperor Tu Doc, while The Garden of the Master of the Nets in Shanghai is a stunning example of Suzhou residential gardens and was the inspiration for the Ming Hall Garden at the MOMA in New York City.

Southern Seas Explorer – 61 Days from Perth (Fremantle), Australia to San Diego, California aboard Insignia

This voyage showcases the natural beauty of Australia, from the kangaroos at Cape Le Grand National Park to the pink-hued lake at Esperance, and the iconic Sydney Opera House. Meanwhile,New Zealand highlights include observing flying dolphins, gannets and blue penguins in the Bay of Islands, tastes of stunning wines in Napier, Lord of the Rings views in Wellington, and the hot springs at Te Puia. With an international date line crossing, island-hop around gems of the South Pacific such as Vanuatu, Fiji and Bora Bora, before cruising the Pacific Ocean to call upon Honolulu and, Hilo and finally San Diego.

Mediterranean Odyssey – 22 Days from Athens, Greece to Monte Carlo, Monaco aboard Allura

Experience a port-intensive sojourn across the Mediterranean with highlights such as marvelously preserved ancient Ephesus, the spellbinding allure of the Amalfi Coast and idyllic Ibiza, famed for its beautiful beach coastline. For deeper destination immersion, enjoy overnights in vibrant Istanbul to explore the impressive Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and fashionable Monte Carlo, where you can stroll along the Grand Corniche and its pink Grimaldi Palace.

Indian Ocean Treasures – 35 Days from Singapore, Singapore to Cape Town, South Africa aboard Nautica

Explore the cosmopolitan city of Kuala Lumpur before landing in Colombo. Here, experience a meditation session with a Buddhist Thera or participate in Kandyan dance therapy, said to lift up moods. Wander along the old city of Goa on the coast of India before enjoying a luxury beach escape in the breathtaking Maldives. Spot pygmy kingfishers, chameleons, and lemurs in Madagascar’s national parks, and discover the vibrant heritage of Mozambique in Maputo.

Radiant Brazil & Argentina – 21 Days from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to Buenos Aires, Argentina aboard Marina

Board a Brazilian saveiro schooner and set sail for superb snorkeling spots in Ilha Grande, or hike to Tres Tombos waterfall in Ilhabela. Shear sheep in Argentina, or wander among a colony of Magellanic penguins on the Punta Ninfas promontory. Witness the spectacular beauty of Tierra del Fuego’s lakes and the mirador at Escondido Lake, witnessing glaciers as you go.

Tropics of the Far East – 24 Days from Tokyo, Japan to Singapore, Singapore aboard Riviera

Meander through the pine groves of Miho under the shadow of Mount Fuji and visit the 17th-century botanical oasis that is Sengen-en Garden. Cruise along one of the world’s longest underground rivers in an outrigger canoe in Puerto Princesa, and explore the remains of the medieval Candi Tikus temple in Surabaya, before overnighting in Bali (Benoa) and Indonesia’s capital city, Jakarta, famed for its architecture, diverse culture and rich cuisine.

Ultimate Value

Oceania Cruises offers guests the ultimate value in ultra-premium cruising thanks to a host of always included amenities, such as dining at all specialty restaurants; unlimited WiFi; butler service for all guests in Penthouse Suites and above; juices, still and sparkling Vero Water®, plus coffees and teas.

For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury products, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call 855-OCEANIA, or speak with a professional travel advisor.

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Disney Imagination Garden To Bloom With Boundless Storytelling Onboard Disney Adventure, Sailing From Singapore In 2025

Disney Cruise Line unveils all-new details about one of the seven themed areas aboard the Disney Adventure, which will sail from Singapore in 2025. Disney Imagination Garden, the ship’s central hub, will be an immersive, enchanted valley inspired by 100 years of heroic and heartwarming Disney adventures. The colorful landscapes of Disney Imagination Garden will transport guests into the pages of well-loved Disney stories alongside their favorite characters. The vibrant, open-air garden will be set against a three-deck-tall, stunning storybook castle art piece, a first-of-its-kind onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. The space will also include a state-of-the-art theatrical stage that will bring beloved Disney stories to life, two quick-service eateries, an alluring bar, and a selection of garden-view staterooms. 

Disney Imagination Garden

“Disney Imagination Garden is the heart and soul of the Disney Adventure, where our guests will interact with our Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories in a whole new way,” said Laura Cabo, portfolio executive creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “The size and scale of this space provided us with many opportunities to dream big and try new things with our experiential design, creating first-of-a-kind experiences for our guests, from all-new entertainment to delicious dining and lots of magical surprises sprinkled throughout. Rooted in the rich legacy of Disney storytelling, we’re creating an area that will open doors to new adventures and encourage guests to create magic of their own.”

Disney Imagination Garden is one of seven uniquely themed areas on the Disney Adventure, each teeming with incredible characters and unique experiences. The other areas include Disney Discovery Reef, San Fransokyo Street, Wayfinder Bay, Town Square, Marvel Landing, and Toy Story Place. More details about these themed areas will be released at a later date.

The Adventure Begins: Exploring Disney Imagination Garden

Recalling the pages of a classic pop-up storybook, Disney Imagination Garden will be filled with landscapes styled like paper cut-outs, including decorative foliage of blooming flowers, shaped topiaries, tall trees, and cascading vines, all among scenic props like towering trellises and twinkling lanterns. A mix of popular characters and designs from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories will be placed throughout the idyllic scenery.

The Garden Stage will anchor the Disney Imagination Garden on one end and the larger-than-life castle artwork on the other, with a promenade in between providing families with opportunities to explore, connect, and dine. Directly in front of the stage will be an open “lawn” area leading to a large staircase that will double as amphitheater-style seating, perfect for enjoying live entertainment on the Garden Stage. On either side of the staircase, intricately adorned arches and leafy tree branches with hanging lanterns will further evoke the area’s storybook garden theme.

At the top of the grand staircase, guests will discover a charming garden courtyard and bar surrounded by trees that look like storybook cut-outs and are decorated with images of familiar animal pals. At the center of the courtyard, a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse topiary will stand with his wand held high as if conjuring this magical garden where beloved characters and stories bloom to life.

Families staying in designated Garden View staterooms, an all-new room category for Disney Cruise Line, will have access to a verandah providing unmatched views of Disney Imagination Garden.

Set the Stage: Activating All-Day Entertainment

The state-of-the-art Garden Stage will host a captivating program of high-energy shows, character appearances, and magical surprises for families. Complete with three-deck-high LED screens, special effects, and innovative theatrical tools; this cutting-edge performance venue will delight guests of all ages throughout each day of their voyage aboard the Disney Adventure.

One of the signature entertainment experiences performed on the Garden Stage will be Avengers Assemble! This action-packed stage show will feature jaw-dropping stunts and incredible special effects as the one-and-only Deadpool makes his Disney Cruise Line debut to lend his signature irreverence and comedy to the spectacle. The epic battle of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains at sea will showcase the unbelievable powers of Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Thor, Black Panther, The Scarlet Witch, Ms. Marvel, Loki, Red Skull, Taskmaster and more.

Details about additional shows and other entertainment offerings on the Garden Stage will be released at a later date.

At the Family Table: Showcasing Regional Cuisines

Disney Imagination Garden will be home to two quick-service eateries that guests can enjoy as part of their cruise fare. Inspired by the animated worlds of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Jungle Book” and “Moana,” these restaurants will continue Disney Imagination Garden’s immersive storytelling by inviting families to dine in two distinctly themed environments. With options for indoor and outdoor seating at both locations, guests who dine on either patio will also have a view of the Garden Stage to enjoy entertainment.

  • Mowgli’s Eatery — Serving Indian cuisine, including vegetarian and regional dishes with a special Disney twist, this casual eatery will be inspired by Mowgli’s epic journey in “The Jungle Book.” The restaurant will draw on both early concept art from the film and authentic regional design influences. 
  • Gramma Tala’s Kitchen — This inviting quick-service restaurant will reflect the vibrant scenery and island flair of “Moana.” Décor inspired by the Pacific Islands and art and backgrounds based on the film will set the stage for an imaginative menu showcasing the diverse flavors found throughout the Pacific and Asia.

Magic at Sea: Sailing on the Disney Adventure

Beginning in 2025, the Disney Adventure will sail out of Singapore, offering families throughout the region three- and four-night voyages with only days at sea. The ship will be both a journey and a destination, with endless opportunities for families to have an unforgettable vacation without ever leaving the ship.

After a busy day of magical adventures, families will retreat to well-appointed staterooms with special Disney touches and family-friendly conveniences. Families can choose from a range of room types, including those boasting beautiful ocean vistas, scenic views of the ship’s spectacular promenades, and dedicated concierge accommodations. Providing ultimate luxury, concierge bookings will include access to exclusive areas and amenities such as a private indoor lounge, an expansive sundeck with a shaded pool and whirlpools, high-end shopping venues, and first-class spa and fitness facilities.

On the Horizon: A New Adventure Awaits

The Disney Adventure will sail from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre for at least five years beginning in 2025 as part of a collaboration between Disney Cruise Line and the Singapore Tourism Board.

Disney Cruise Line estimates the passenger capacity of the 208,000-gross-ton Disney Adventure to be approximately 6,700, with around 2,500 crew members.

More details about the Disney Adventure’s onboard experiences and maiden voyage will be announced at a later date.

For more information about Disney Cruise Line, guests can visit disneycruise.com.

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Norwegian Announces 225 New Cruises for 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced and opened for bookings 225 new cruises that will depart in 2026. Some of the sailings are port intensive cruises with no sea days.

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These 225 cruises will visit 150 unique ports with eight Norwegian ships offering cruises to Europe. There will be 22 overnight port visits in Europe giving guests plenty of time to spend in the top ports in the region.

Here is a look at these new cruises that were announced this morning from NCL.

Norwegian Escape will sail seven night cruises to the Western Caribbean from New Orleans between April 12, 2026 through May 10, 2026. The ship will then head to Miami for the summer visiting the same ports. In the fall, the ship will reposition to New York for Canada/New England cruises.

Norwegian Spirit will offer 11- and 13-day cruises to the South Pacific that visit New Caledonia; Fiji; Samoa Islands; French Polynesia and the Hawaiian islands. Embarkation ports include Sydney; Papeete, French Polynesia; Honolulu; and Lautoka, Fiji.

During the summer, Norwegian Spirit will sail cruises to Alaska and Hawaii on four unique “Fire and Ice” voyages from the middle of July until September 1, 2026.

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian’s newest cruise ship, will sail nine and 10-day cruises in the Mediterranean and to Greece. Port stops include Turkey, Malta, Italy, Greece, Montenegro and Croatia with an overnight in Istanbul.

Norwegian Epic will sail from Barcelona and Rome between May 2026 and October 2026. The cruises will offer longer days in port that range from 10 to 17 hours.

Norwegian Dawn will offer cruises from Lisbon and Barcelona between April 2026 and October 2026. The ship will have late night ports visits in Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza, Spain.

Norwegian Gem will sail from Barcelona, Venice and Rome. The cruises from Italy will have no sea days and will visit a port every single day of the cruise. Destinations included on these sailings are Greece, Montenegro and Croatia.

Norwegian Pearl will island hop in Greece from May 2026 through October 2026.

Norwegian Sun will offer cruises to the Baltic from Copenhagen, Denmark and Helsinki. There will be few sea days with port stops on almost every night of these sailings.

Norwegian Sky will begin her second season in Europe on April 19, 2026 from Le Havre and Copenhagen. The ship will also visit the British Isles where the cruise line will make their maiden port stop in Portree, Scotland.

Norwegian Star will sail 10- and 11- night cruises to Iceland with the 11 day cruises featuring an overnight in Reykjavik.

David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, said the following:

“At NCL, we take pride in offering our guests various options to plan where they want to vacation. Whether they choose our seven-day sailings, longer immersive voyages, or cruises that begin and end in a new destination, we make it so our guests can vacation with ease with us from start to finish. From transportation, air programming and so much more, we strive to offer the best service all around.”

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Norwegian Cruise Line Adding New Sustainable Serveware for Room Service

Norwegian Cruise Line has partnered with Drinique to bring new reusable bento box-style serveware for breakfast room service.

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The serveware will be made with 50% certified recycled materials as the cruise line continues to show its commitment to their global sustainability program.

It will provide a compact and convenient way for guests to enjoy their in-room breakfast experience without the weight and bulk of porcelain plates. It also eliminates the need for plastic cling wrap.

This will be added to Norwegian’s two newest ships first, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. It will be rolled out to all 19 NCL ships by the end of the year.

The bento-style box is made with Eastman Tritan Renew which sources hard-to-recycle waste to keep it out of landfills.

Andrew Elliott, president of Drinique, said:

“We are excited to help companies like NCL drive change to meet their environmental goals. The durability of Tritan Renew helps our partners innovate while providing guests with an effortless dining experience and reducing single-use plastic waste.”

Mark Kansley, senior vice president of Hotel Operations at Norwegian Cruise Line, added:

“As part of our commitment to reduce single-use plastic onboard, we continuously search for opportunities to implement environmentally friendly practices, while keeping our mission of delivering more experiences so our guests can vacation better with us top of mind. We’re excited to continue to work with Drinique to introduce these reusable solutions across our fleet.”

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