Smoking on cruise ships has once again become a hot topic after one major cruise line stated why the embarkation day rules have changed in recent months.
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John Heald recently addressed an embarkation day smoking policy.
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador, John Heald, is facing backlash from certain passengers regarding the cruise line’s smoking policy.
In a Facebook Live video message, Heald addressed some “awful” comments he received, clarifying the company’s stance and the reasons behind its restrictions.
“So, yesterday I mentioned about the gentleman who had come to see me and used colorful language to say the least… I have taken on the wrath of many smokers who now believe that I am anti-smoking and have been saying some rather awful things, and I just wanted to say this,” Heald stated in the video.
Heald explained that the rules for smoking on embarkation day are mainly due to the new e-muster drills that Carnival has embraced.
“We used to allow smoking in the casino before it would open on embarkation day, but that was back when we had the original muster station where you would either go to the lounge or out on the deck floor and stand in front of the lifeboats,” he said.
“That has been replaced now with the electronic muster station part of which involves people going to the casino which becomes a place we can’t have people smoking while they’re doing that.“
Additionally, Heald emphasized the safety risks associated with smoking on open decks while the ship is refueling.
“Secondly, we cannot have people smoking outside on the open decks while we are refueling. And I had a gentleman who wrote to me and said that this is proven to be nonsense and then others followed in and now I’ve suddenly become this hated anti-smoking guy even though I smoke cigars,” he explained.
Addressing rumors of a complete smoking ban, Heald assured passengers that there are no current plans to implement such a restriction.
“We live in a more anti-smoking world than ever, but at the moment we’re not changing anything. We’re just asking for smokers to please please don’t shout or scream at the crew. You can shout and scream at me but not the crew. [Smoking] isn’t allowed on embarkation day until you hear the announcement that the outdoor areas are open. Smoking cannot be done in the casino on embarkation day until the casino opens,” he said.
Heald acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the smoking restrictions but stressed the importance of passenger and crew safety.
“I do understand. I’m sympathetic. I really am. But if it’s that bad then just wait until the last moment before you can come on the ship,” he concluded.
While there are rising concerns about sustainability and over-tourism in some destinations, cruise tourism is rising. People have been coming back to cruising after there was a dip due to the Covid-19 outbreak. New records in cruising have been reported in countries such as Norway. While cruising might sound simple, it might cause a lot of anxiety to people who have never been on a cruise ship. If you are planning a cruise, clear your schedule by having a do my homework for me service clear your assignments for you. Based on that, here are the best recommendations for first-time cruise travelers.
Choose Your Cruise Line Carefully
When choosing your first cruise, you should consider two factors: budget and location/itinerary. But do not disregard the selection of the specific cruise line. While cruising, it may be easy to think that the cruise line does not matter most of the time you will be sleeping or in the ports, but the experiences differ.
Choosing the right company to offer cruise services is very important when planning an ideal cruise vacation, but this is made difficult by the multiplicity of agencies offering the services. The choice of cruise company could depend on the season and the regions you want to visit, among other factors.
Choosing a cruise line is a crucial decision. Cruise ships can be categorized by the types of customers they attract. It is very important to choose the best for you so that you can have a good or even excellent cruise experience.
While cruise lines may have various types of ships, the companies themselves can vary significantly in several ways. This guide will cover everything you need to know to select the ideal cruise line for your dream cruise getaway.
Research Cruise Ports
The success of your cruise experience will depend, to a degree, on your level of preparation. All that you’re likely to require on a cruise, from food to fun and cabins, are available in applications, maps on the ships, and the daily schedule of events hand-delivered to your room. It does not mean that one should get on his/her ship without conducting a little research on his/her own first.
Cruise lines do not offer much more than a map of the local port town jewelry stores with which, more often than not, they have some business arrangement. Since there is limited time in port, one would do well to review before leaving the port. At least have a vague idea of what you intend to do on your cruise. If it is a port-heavy week in the Mediterranean, do not tire yourself out by signing up for one tour after the other.
Select Your Shore Adventure Options
When you have decided on the cruise you will be taking, choose the shore excursions that will interest you during your cruise. These include shopping, sightseeing, cooking, dancing, zipline, ATV, scuba and snorkeling, and other related activities. Your shore excursions will influence what to pack for your trip; hence, it is wise to consider them before you embark on the trip.
Other aspects of your cruise will also be defined by meal, drink, and activity packages that could save you money.
The most sought-after tours with limited participants can be fully booked, sometimes even before you embark on your cruise. Make sure to reserve these online as soon as possible. Furthermore, numerous cruise companies offer discounts on pre-purchased excursions. Ensure that you carefully review the details about tour cancellation policies. Moreover, in certain situations, utilizing onboard credit for tours arranged before the ship sets sail is impossible.
Research the Weather on Your Cruise
Weather information is valuable to tourists since it directly impacts their trips and choices. Thus, tourists use weather forecasts and climate data before and during their vacation to make operational and strategic decisions. However, the quality of weather information shared on official tourism promotion websites is usually poor, which in turn affects tourists’ social interaction and integration with the destination and the quality of their experience.
The weather also determines the narrative of holidays and how tourists assess the effects of various weather factors. Thus, the weather data can be regarded as essential for tourists, especially when scheduling, choosing the programs, and evaluating the trip.
Remember, the ship will be your home during the cruise, and it is essential to ensure you get the best one. A fun way of utilizing the ship’s features is to read about each ship before the trip on the Cruise Ship Hub. Here, you can learn more about the ship and its features and see the decks, activities, accommodation, and trip information. Hence, do not be surprised when you select a ship and the place you will be cruising to based on the available itineraries. Cruising is a unique journey in every sense of the word.
Pack Wisely
The next set of tips relates to packing for your trip and ensuring you carry all the essentials. When getting ready for a cruise, checking the cruise line website and looking at the cruise schedule is recommended. Where are you going? Which tours have you arranged on the shore? Will you eat most of your meals formally in the formal dining area, or will you only eat buffet-style during dinner? If you need to, buy essay papers from professionals online.
Pack formal attire, and don’t forget a sweater. On most cruises, there is usually a formal night, and you should pack at least one formal outfit for the occasion. Formal clothing for women could be a dress, gown, or even a suit. In this regard, men want to wear a collared button-up shirt and tie with trousers and dress shoes. Also, make sure to carry cover-ups and bathing suits.
This article summarizes useful tips for preparing for your first cruise. Make sure to carry a backpack and research the weather at your destination. Most importantly, carry your toiletries. Also, choose a cruise cabin suited to your needs and preferences and learn cabin crew service charges.
MSC Cruises has announced that the line has partnered with “F1,” the highly anticipated Formula 1® racing feature from Apple Original Films, producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and director Joseph Kosinski, due to be released globally in theatres and IMAX by Warner Bros. Pictures in North America on June 27, 2025, and internationally beginning June 25, 2025.
MSC Cruises’ logo will feature in the movie, including on the fictional APXGP car and team kit, as well as on the track at the races included in the storyline.
The highly anticipated Formula 1® racing feature stars Brad Pitt as a former driver who returns to Formula 1®, alongside Damson Idris as his teammate at APXGP, a fictional team on the grid. The feature has been shot during actual Grand Prix weekends as the team competes against the sport’s titans. The star-studded cast includes Academy Award nominee Kerry Condon, Academy Award winner Javier Bardem, Emmy Award winner and Golden Globe Award nominee Tobias Menzies, Sarah Niles, Kim Bodnia, and Samson Kayo.
MSC Cruises is a Formula 1® Global Partner, having entered into a multi-year deal to the end of the 2026 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. The partnership brings together two global leaders in their respective fields to drive change through their shared passion for excellence, sustainability, and international entertainment.
An issue with the engines onboard Carnival Vista resulted in an entire itinerary change for guests boarding this weekend.
The ship had been scheduled to depart Port Canaveral on a Southern Caribbean cruise that would include visits to Aruba, Curacao, and Grand Turk.
However, the ship had developed a problem with the engines which meant that the ship could not reach full speed.
As a result, the cruise line had to change the entire itinerary for one that featured ports in the Bahamas, much closer to Port Canaveral.
The ship will now visit Nassau, Princess Cays, Freeport, and Half Moon Cay.
While it’s not unusual for a port to be missed on a cruise, it’s very rare that an entire itinerary is swapped out like this.
The change means that engineers can repair the engines during the cruise, so that the ship isn’t taken out of commission and can continue to fulfil future itineraries.
However, it is likely to be extremely disappointing for guests who had planned on seeing different ports, especially as the announcement was only made on the day of embarkation, with some guests even onboard already.
Guests who had not yet boarded the ship were offered the option to cancel their cruise and receive a 100% Future Cruise Credit, while those who stayed onboard were given a $400 onboard credit per stateroom to use during the cruise.
Any guests who had booked excursions for the original ports of call through Carnival will have them automatically refunded, but anyone who paid for third-party excursions will need to seek a refund from the provider.
Here’s hoping the guests took out cruise travel insurance with missed-port cover!
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Disney Cruise Line has announced a major expansion that will see the cruise line grow to 13 cruise ships by 2031. Disney currently has five ships in service.
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Disney Cruise Line announced four more new ships will be added to their fleet in 2027-2031. This is in addition to the four new ships that are either under construction or on order.
This announcement was made during the second night of Marquee D23 Showcases. Disney Experiences unveiled a full slate of projects that includes these new ships.
Disney Cruise Line currently has five ships in service:
Disney Magic
Disney Wonder
Disney Dream
Disney Fantasy
Disney Wish
Disney has three more Wish class ships on order or under construction. Disney Treasure will debut in 2024, Disney Destiny in 2025, and an unnamed ship in 2028.
Disney also has their largest cruise ship ever, Disney Adventure, debuting in 2025. This 208,000 gross ton ship was purchased when it was 75% completed after Genting filed for bankruptcy. It will offer cruises from Singapore.
In addition to these nine cruise ships, Disney Cruise Line will roll out four new ships between 2027 and 2031. They did not give out any other details on these new vessels.
Disney Cruise Line will grow to 13 cruise ships by 2031
Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro, gave the following statement:
“Disney Experiences is embarking on an accelerated path of ambitious growth and innovation. With so many great Disney stories to tell, we’re excited to bring an unprecedented number of new projects to life in the near future, whether it be in our theme parks, on our cruise ships or through our partnership with Epic Games in the digital space.”
One non-negotiable reason for traveling to the USA is exchanging your Aussie dollars for USD. This involves following the exchange rate, researching exchange fees, and determining how long it’ll take for the exchange to process. This can all be pretty overwhelming for newbies to the exchange game, and they might go for the first exchange they see, which isn’t always the best idea!
This article will give you some tips to make this process easier.
Depending on politics, economics, and other issues, exchange rates can drop and rise overnight. The first thing you’ll want to do when traveling internationally is check the exchange rates. For instance, if you’re traveling from Australia to the US, the current exchange rate is $1 US to $1.5 AUD. This means that for every $1.5 AUD, you’d get $1 in the US. At this stage, the US dollar is stronger than the Australian dollar.
We’d suggest watching the exchange rate for some time before doing your exchange. Waiting has two sides. Waiting might cause the exchange to go up, favoring the Australian dollar, which could mean you end up with more money after the exchange. However, it could go the opposite direction, too, with the US dollar strengthening more against the Australian dollar, leading to you needing more income to match the conversation amount you need.
When exchanging currencies, you must also factor in the conversion fees. These are the fees charged by the institute for converting the currency. Some exchanges have some heavy fees that can be a big shock when you exchange your cash. That’s why it’s important to factor in these fees when making the exchange, so you can add additional funds to cover them if you need to. Shop around as well. Look at different exchanges to see who provides the most suitable exchange fees. Don’t just go for the first exchange you see.
Purchase foreign currency before leaving your country
Start doing your research early and try to purchase currency before you travel. It has two benefits. Firstly, it gives you time to consider different exchanges and compare their fees, and secondly, you don’t have to waste time trying to find an exchange when you land because you’re already sorted.
Using the example above, we’d suggest buying US dollars before leaving Australia, especially when the exchange rate is high! Then, when you land, you’ll have everything you need.
Another option that falls into the same line is sending money to your destination ahead of time. There are exchanges worldwide that you can go to, deposit money, and exchange it for your chosen currency. Then, when you arrive at your destination, you find the same company and withdraw your money. It’s easy. This will ensure you still have funds if your luggage is lost or someone steals your wallet. But it would help if you ensured that the exchange you use has branches in the country you visit for this to work.
Ask any seasoned traveler; they tell you that you should always have some loose cash in an emergency. Most of the world has adopted more modern payment methods like tapping to pay or scanning a QR code, but this technology isn’t everywhere. You might come across a store that requires a cash payment, and if you don’t have cash on you, you’d need to find an ATM, which means extra fees and time spent.
Having some extra cash on you can be a lifesaver when needed. Be sure always to keep it somewhere safe and in your person. As we said in the paragraph above, luggage can easily get lost, so you don’t want your backup cash to be lost along with it.
If you need a currency exchange in the country you’re visiting, be cautious with where you go! Beforehand, research a few reputable cash exchanges in the country and try to find the closest one if possible. Don’t go to any old currency exchange on the side of the street.
Likewise, avoid airport exchanges as well if you can. Their fees are generally higher. Withdrawing money at an ATM is an option, but once again, fees will come off your account for the exchange.
Final Thoughts
It might not seem very clear the first time you use a currency exchange. But, if you research and find a reputable exchange, the process will be much smoother. Watch the exchange rates closely to get the best rates; you should be all set!
Embarking on a cruise is an exciting experience, especially when you have top-notch entertainment options and you’re hitting the open sea with friends and family. For South African cruise enthusiasts, casinos offer a thrilling way to pass the time on board. In this article, we explore the best casino entertainment choices available.
The Allure of On-Board Casinos
In a first for Celebrity Cruises, Ascent will feature an all-new Casino gaming floor complete with a new layout, new design featuring deep reds and golds, and all new slot machines with the latest technology
As a South African cruise enthusiast, you know that the journey can be just as important as the destination. One of the highlights of any cruise is the variety of entertainment options available. Casinos’ vibrant atmosphere and potential for big wins are a must-visit for many travelers. On-board casinos are crafted to provide an immersive and exciting experience. They often feature games, from classic table games like blackjack and roulette to modern favorites like online slots. These gaming options ensure something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned gambler or a casual player looking to try your luck.
If you aren’t playing online and are keen to be social among fellow cruise lovers, the convenience of having a casino steps away from your cabin cannot be overstated. It allows you to enjoy a few hands of poker or spins of the slot machine at your leisure without worrying about travel or finding a place to stay. Additionally, many cruise lines offer special promotions and tournaments that can enhance your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning big.
What to Look for in a Cruise Casino
When opting for a cruise with a casino, several factors must be considered to ensure you have the best experience possible. First, check the size and variety of the casino’s gaming options. A well-equipped casino should offer a mix of table games, slot machines, and possibly even sports betting. This variety ensures you find something that suits your interests and skill level.
Another important consideration is the quality of customer service. Friendly and knowledgeable staff can make all the difference in your gaming experience, providing assistance and creating a welcoming environment. Lastly, look for casinos that offer loyalty programs or player rewards. These programs can provide additional benefits such as free play credits, complimentary drinks, and exclusive event invitations. Be it personal or online, remember always to play responsibly and not spend your entire day indoors. Go out and feel the sea breeze on your face.
Top Cruise Lines with Exceptional Casinos
Several cruise lines are known for their outstanding on-board casinos. Royal Caribbean International is a cruise liner that has been around for decades, renowned for its state-of-the-art gaming facilities and wide range of entertainment options. Their casinos feature everything from poker tournaments to slot machines with progressive jackpots, ensuring an exhilarating experience for all guests.
Carnival Cruise Line offers impressive casino options with their “Carnival Players Club.” This program provides guests access to exclusive tournaments, events, and promotions that can significantly enhance your time on board. Another excellent choice is Norwegian Cruise Line, which boasts some of the most extensive gaming areas at sea. Their “Casinos at Sea” program offers rewards and incentives for novice players and high rollers.
Enhancing Your Cruise Experience
Incorporating casino visits into your cruise itinerary can add excitement and enjoyment to your trip. Whether you want to unwind with light gambling or aim for significant wins, onboard casinos provide an accessible and entertaining option. Take advantage of any special events or promotions during your cruise to maximize your experience.
Additionally, as mentioned above, it is essential to gamble responsibly and set limits for yourself before you begin playing. This approach ensures that you can enjoy the thrill of gaming without any negative consequences. Remember, the goal is to have fun and make lasting memories with your friends and family during your time at sea.
Cruising offers a unique opportunity to explore the world, experience different cultures, and relax on the open sea. However, the environmental impact of cruising can be significant, with waste generation being one of the primary concerns. As more travelers become conscious of their ecological footprint, the demand for sustainable practices in the cruising industry has grown.
This article delves into practical steps you can take to reduce waste on your next voyage, ensuring that your adventure is both enjoyable and environmentally responsible. For a comprehensive waste management strategy, consider Macon roll off services for all your disposal needs.
The Importance of Eco-Friendly Cruising
As with any form of tourism, cruising has environmental issues accompanying innovation. Some of the most urgent challenges are waste disposal, carbon footprint, and marine life concerns. The standard practice was that cruise ships disposed of their waste in the ocean, which has been proven to cause a lot of pollution, with tons of garbage dumped into the ocean yearly.
This has implications not only for the health of the marine environment but also on human safety and health in coastal regions. Undoubtedly, carrying out these negative impacts on cruises and the seas adversely affects the environment. However, embracing sustainable, environmentally friendly measures in your cruise can greatly reduce these impacts and create a better future for the industry.
Planning: Choose an Eco-Friendly Cruise Line
But first things first: one of the most critical choices you can make is selecting a cruise line that has the environment on its side. The majority of companies in the cruise industry now have environmental programs as part of their strategies, and these include the elimination of one-use plastics, the use of better wastewater treatment systems, and support for marine conservation efforts.
Search for different cruise lines available and choose the most environmentally conscious company. Some certifications from organizations such as the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) or the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) indicate that the cruise line upholds sustainability policies and practices.
Packing Smart: Waste Reduction – Reducing Waste Right from the Source
Packing your luggage for the cruise with sustainability is always advisable, keeping in mind the amount of waste that will be produced. It is best to begin with items that can be reused, such as water bottles, cups for holding coffee or tea, and shopping bags. Here are some tips to help you remove one-use plastics and other single-use items frequently used on cruises. Also, you should pack a plastic utensil set, which can be helpful during the shore leaves or when you want to refuse to use disposable cutlery.
Use biodegradable and natural products such as soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, detergents, and other bathroom accessories. For instance, instead of the regular liquid shampoos packed in plastic containers, the Lush company launched ‘solid shampoo,’ which does not need a plastic container. Select products with a small package to reduce packaging waste, and avoid using products that contain microbeads as they are detrimental to aquatic life.
Onboard Practices: Ways of Reducing Waste on Your Cruise
If you are already a passenger, there are specific measures that you can take to minimize wastage. Initially, you should learn more about the ship’s working recycling policy and adhere to the rules concerning the removal of recyclable objects. While many of today’s cruise ships boast of efficient waste management and recycling and even onboard waste-to-energy conversion, you cannot simply sit back and watch the processes play out.
Regularity and care when choosing the food. There is always a problem with buffet services and cruise ships because many foods are prepared, and guests take small portions, thus wasting most. To avoid this, eat in small quantities and return for a second, helping only when hungry. Additionally, some cruise lines offer create-your-own meal choices, which remove undesirable food wastage since the food is prepared according to demand.
Shore Excursions: Eco-Friendly Adventures
Cruises are one of the most attractive means of traveling, offering shore excursions as one of the most exciting amenities, but at the same time, they might produce waste. To reduce your environmental footprint, select the green tours that will positively change the environment. It is worth noticing that many tour operators mainly provide conservation tours, including wildlife tours, nature trails, and marine parks. Many of these activities also increase one’s appreciation for nature and contribute directly to the area’s wildlife preservation.
Supporting Local Sustainability Initiatives
It will be vital for you to support local sustainability during your cruises. There are so many coastal communities where people depend on tourism to make a living; hence, your decisions matter. Travel to farmers’ markets, eat at restaurants that purchase food from local farms, and choose products with minimal packaging and environmentally friendly production. You also ensure that others practice sustainable tourism practices that you and those who engage in the activity adopt.
Final Thoughts
The green cruise is not a fashion but a change that needs to be adopted in the overall concern for sustainable tourism. Before going for the trip, during the journey, and after the trip, it is possible to minimize waste production and thus contribute to protecting our planet’s oceans and coastal regions.
From choosing an eco-friendly cruise line to practicing daily on cruise ships and excursions, it is good to remember that every step counts. After reading this article, the next time you embark on a trip, the purpose of sustainable travel should be brought to your mind: protecting the beauty and health of the travel destinations for future generations.
Data collected by trade industry publication Cruise Industry News has revealed that cruise lines are expected to hire 20,000 new crew members to run the new ships launching in 2025.
The ships launching in 2025 will add approximately 40,000 new guest berths to the cruise industry, meaning that with a guest-to-crew ratio that averages 2.5:1, that’s around 16,000 new jobs that will be needed to cover the workload.
However, when you then add another 20% to cover for vacation time/contract lengths, that means it’s estimated that around 20,000 people will join the workforce for the year.
There are over 60 cruise ships set to enter service in the next decade, many of which will have capacity for over 2,000 crew members.
It’s estimated that in total, around 75,000 new crew members are going to be hired by 2036, and that’s barring any further announcements from cruise lines about new ships in that timeframe.
Of course, there’s a high likelihood that several cruise ships may be sold or scrapped in that same time period, but many of these will be older ships, which are much smaller than many of the newest ones.
Even when a new ship replaces an old one, more new jobs will be created.
So, if you’ve any interest in working in the cruise industry, now’s a great time to get your application forms in with the various cruise lines!
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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.
