The cruise ship that helped Oceania Cruises break its own single-day booking record in 2022 has finally set sail on its 180-day world cruise.
On Sunday, the 684-guest Insignia departed from San Francisco on her way to Hawaii for the first leg of the worldwide voyage.
The itinerary
From the Hawaiian Islands the ship will sail further west to French Polynesia and the Samoan Islands before arriving in New Zealand and Australia.
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The 30,000 gross ton vessel will then sail to Asia where passengers will visit destinations like Bali, Taipei, Tokyo, Kyoto, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
The Suez Canal and a visit to the Great Pyramids of Egypt are on the current itinerary for the ship, but with continued unrest in the Red Sea, the cruise line will be monitoring the situation. Right now the ship is planning to enter the Suze Canal on May 26th of 2024.
Insignia is then scheduled to sail along the Mediterranean Sea, visiting ports in Greece and Italy before sailing around Spain as the vessel heads to Northern Europe on its way to Iceland.
From Reykjavik, the ship will voyage westward to Greenland where passengers will experience the small village of Paamiut – which also happens to be the 10th largest town in Greenland.
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The 180-Day world cruise will culminate in New York City and is scheduled to arrive on July 12, 2024.
18% of passengers opted to continue the journey for a total of 196 days on the ship, as Insignia sails on westward.
Overnight stays will allow passengers to spend more time in port with less worry about rushing back to the ship.
The following ports of call will welcome Insignia over night: Auckland, Shanghai, Singapore, Phuket, Mumbai, Dubai, Barcelona, Seville, Bordeaux, and Reykjavik.
How much did it cost?
Prices on Oceania Cruises’ world cruise started at $48,499 per person. Veranda staterooms started at $69,499 per person and a luxurious penthouse suite went for around $101,000 per person.
The cruise sold out in 30 minutes, and the cruise line stated that nearly half of the bookings came from guests who were new to the brand.
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42% of the guests that booked the 180-day world cruise with Oceania Cruises also had booked the 2022 world cruise with the cruise line.
Effective February 1st, 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line will make a major change regarding onboard currency.
Norwegian Escape in port in Bermuda. Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Foreign currency exchange services will no longer be available on the cruise line’s ships, making USD the sole form of payment accepted for settling onboard accounts.
Norwegian Cruise Line shared the changes in an email to guests and travel partners on Friday. This change impacts all upcoming cruises scheduled to depart on or after the specified date.
What this means for cruise travelers
Cruise passengers sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line will need to plan ahead if they want to use local currencies in foreign ports of call.
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While USD will still be accepted for onboard account settlements, exchanging US dollars for other currencies will only be possible off the ship.
While exchanging currencies at a local bank or credit union is generally recommended, some travelers have gotten used to the convenience of onboard services.
However, be aware that cruise ship exchange rates are often unfavorable and only suitable as a last-minute option. Additionally, settling onboard accounts in Euros or Pounds will no longer be possible.
Cash on a cruise
While traveling abroad and not using a credit card with zero foreign transaction fees, I will sometimes use a local ATM for local currencies. It’s convenient and the fees are not usually that exorbitant. The only issue is making sure the ATM machine has not been compromised.
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A cruise ship is a cashless society, but since you will be getting off at various ports of call, having cash on hand for both tipping and buying goods from vendors is a good idea.
Keep in mind that many ports of call in the Bahamas and Caribbean will gladly accept U.S. dollars, but always do your research first. Even if you pay in USD you might receive Bahamian dollars back as change.
Read the full statement from Norwegian Cruise Line here:
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE SERVICE DISCONTINUATION
Dear Valued Guests and Travel Partners,
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Thank you for choosing to sail with us for your upcoming cruise vacation. We have important information to share, and travel partners are asked to share this information with impacted guests.
Effective February 1, 2024, we will no longer provide foreign currency exchange services on board, and USD will be the only form of currency accepted for the settling of your onboard account. If you are in need of US currency for your upcoming cruise, we encourage you to obtain it prior to embarkation. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
As always, we are at your service and look forward to providing you with a truly memorable onboard experience!
People love to cruise. Unpacking once, seeing the world, and eating as much as you want is a vacation style growing in popularity.
But there’s always room for improvement.
Photo credit: Cruise Fever
We recently asked a question on social media to see what tweaks cruise passengers wanted to see from various cruise lines. This post is a result of the replies that poured in.
“[Cruise Line] would be awesome if they just _______________.”
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Better service
This will vary by cruise line and by expectations. While I’ve almost always been impressed with the service on a cruise ship, some expressed the need for more attention to detail on the part of the crew.
One reader put it this way, “CCL would be awesome if they would put “Service” back into the cruising experience. There are far too many lines for everything in order to do anything. The workers are overwhelmed because CCL wants to put more workers in areas to make us spend money instead of using the workers in much needed ares like Cabin service, MDR, buffet line, or the pizza line.“
No more deck chair hogs
We saw this comment numerous times in the replies. Deck chair hogs are one of the greatest annoyances on a ship.
If you’re going to use a lounger, use it. And if you decide to leave your belongings on the deck chair for hours on end, don’t expect other passengers to respect your “claim” and not use it for themselves.
While some cruise lines have tried to come up better ways of regulating how long a towel can actually reserve a lounger near the main pool, it’s still the bane late-rising sun-bathers.
A desire for cruise lines to offer more restaurants and amenities that are included in the cruise fare was clearly stated by several respondents.
However, this also means the cruise fare price would go up for everyone. Offering more inclusions and raising prices is something Celebrity Cruises just tried recently, and it was met with some dissatisfaction from loyal passengers.
On the flip side, being charged extra for every little thing on a ship gets cumbersome by the end of a cruise. But it does allow for passengers to only pay for things they will actually use.
All-inclusive cruises are great for people that don’t mind paying the premium. Paying once and enjoying all aspects of the cruise for the rest of the trip is a great way to enjoy a vacation.
Fewer kids (more adult only areas)
This was also a recurring theme in the comments. There are adult-only cruise lines available. The issue is that most of the more affordable cruise lines tend to also be family-focused.
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Some mentioned at least wanting more areas on the ship that are off-limits to children, such as more adult-only pools and lounges.
Photo credit: Cruise Fever
Offer a few cruises that are adult only
Along the same idea as above, some wanted to see cruise lines offer a few cruises throughout the year that are adult only. For instance, a cruise line that is not normally adult only could offer a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean that is only for passengers 18 and above. It would be more like a chartered cruise but carried out by the cruise line.
Stop making new ships and improve the ones they have
I don’t see this one happening any time soon, but I do understand the guests who expressed this sentiment. The difference between new cruise ships and ships that have been in the fleet for 15+ years is stark.
The truth of the matter is that cruise lines can charge a premium for a brand new ship, and there isn’t as much revenue available to justify spritzing up that ship from 2002. But I’d love to see this happen as well.
Some expressed dissatisfaction with some of the food quality lately. Again, this will vary by cruise line and individual taste, and while some cruise lines have been cutting down on those extra entrees and lobster, the quality of food should always be above par.
Bigger showers
I think we can all agree on this one. Cruise showers in standard staterooms are tiny at best. But at least it seems like we’re moving away from the shower curtains that cling to your body every time you try to turn around in the shower, at least for the most part. If you want a bigger shower you may have to upgrade to a suite.
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Better perks in loyalty programs
I’ve written several articles on cruise line loyalty perks, and the reality is that not many of them are very good. Royal Caribbean does offer more benefits to their cruisers than Carnival in my opinion, but there’s still so much more that can be done to encourage loyalty for cruise lines across the board.
I never really thought about this one. As I’m an avid coffee drinker but prefer to drink it black, I can’t recall seeing many creamer options besides the standard milk and cream. I wonder how many other cruisers would like to see more flavored creamer on ships.
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Being allowed to bring pets
This topic was brought up while I was on Celebrity Ascent a few weeks ago. A member of the audience asked one of the company’s representatives about allowing guests to bring pets onto the ship. There was a resounding groan that came across the crowd as it was clear most people were not fond of the idea.
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There are also a lot of logistics when it comes to going into a port of call and who would watch the dog or cat while a passenger is off the ship.
I don’t expect to see this happen any time soon, although Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has its own Chief Dog Officer now.
More trivia
I’m all about trivia on a cruise ship, but I was surprised people wanted more of it. Perhaps it depends what cruise line those people have been sailing on. On my last Carnival cruise with Celebration there were 5 or 6 trivia games going on every single day, and the topics ran the gamut.
More comedians
This also depends on the cruise line. Carnival Cruise Line has been known to have some top-notch comedians, offering both family friendly and adult-only comedy. Sometimes this will depend on the demographic a cruise line caters to most. Norwegian Cruise Line has some great comedy options and Disney Cruise Line has some family friendly comedy as well.
Better smoke control in the casino
Some newer cruise ships have done a good job of controlling smoke from the casino, but it’s still an issue cruise lines are trying to fix. Some cruise lines, like Carnival, will only allow smoking in the casino if someone is seated and playing. Still, cruise lines like Norwegian have built clear barricades to try to keep the smoke from traveling to other areas of the ship.
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Get rid of the single supplement fee
I’ll be one of the first to sign this petition. I’ve seen pricing for a single person in a cabin that is more than twice the cost of two people in the same cabin category.
Solo cruising is only getting more popular, and cruise lines that are quicker to adapt to this trend and allow for more solo cabins without a single supplement fee or at least a reduced fee will win.
Not enforcing the rules is worse than not having the rule at all. Some cruisers were exasperated by the lack of enforcement with some unruly passengers. This can probably be extended to the whole lounger-hog debate we mentioned above as well.
Cruise lines walk a careful balance beam of trying to make sure a paying customer is happy with the product, while also making sure no one else has a bad vacation because of their actions.
Totally free room service
You don’t have to go back very far in time to remember when almost all cruise lines offered free room service. But in the post-pandemic cruising world, cruise lines just want to climb back into profitable territory. You can still get free room service on some cruise lines, but the menu may be limited. And don’t forget to tip the delivery person.
But having access to a launderette means I can pack less and have an affordable way to get my linens clean and fresh. You can always get a bag of laundry done by the cruise line, of course.
Offer some good sweet tea
It appears we have some southerners in our Cruise Fever audience. Sweet tea was mentioned several times in the comments. This drink is a staple of the southern part of the U.S., but it has to be made right. I wonder if some cruisers can tell me which cruise line had the best sweet tea.
A more user-friendly website
This comment was made in relation to the MSC Cruises website, which I will admit has come a long way in its user friendliness. I remember booking an MSC cruise back in 2012, and it was almost impossible to use. MSC and other cruise lines have made great strides in making their websites easy for the average person to find a book a cruise.
Make it less crowded
This requires a careful balance by cruise lines as well. They need to be profitable to keep offering cruises, but most people don’t want it to feel cramped on their cruise vacation. I recently posted an update to an article on the space/passenger ratios of 141 cruise ships.
But the flow and design of a cruise ship is what makes it feel crowded or spacious. More cruise ships are being designed with this particular thing in mind.
The topic of gratuities and tips on a cruise ship is always a dicey one. Some want them removed so they can pay crew members individually, and others want gratuities listed in the total fare price of a cruise.
Perceptions of gratuities are different based on different places in the world as well. Cruisers from non-western countries can’t comprehend how we tip for almost everything in the U.S.
Some cruisers were simply tired of the same cruise ports in the Bahamas and Caribbean. Nassau was mentioned as a port that many were tired of seeing on their itineraries. But as the Bahamian cruise port just broke passenger records last year, it doesn’t look like cruise traffic to Nassau is slowing down any time soon.
For those cruisers it may be time to branch out to other destinations in the world and try a cruise along Norway or Iceland, or even a Mediterranean cruise to spice things up.
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No complaints
A large majority of cruisers were simply happy to be cruising! After all, there’s always some minor detail we can focus on and complain about. But just being at sea, on a cruise ship that offers everything we could possibly want, is a magical experience.
My favorite reply to the question:
Tara A. “Royal Carribbean and Carnival would be awesome if they just let me stay on the ship for as long as I want. I’m tired of putting my bags outside the door lol.”
Ok good, I’m not the only one that feels this way!
Why take a cruise on an older ship? You’re missing out if you overlook cruise ships that were built 15 or 20 years ago.
Here are the best reasons to book a cruise on an older ship and why it can offer an even better vacation for some people.
Grandeur of the Seas at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
The term “old” is quite relative in terms of cruise ships. Out of the mainstream cruise lines, the oldest cruise ship is Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas which was built in 1996. But it only seems old because of the drastic innovations made by cruise ships in recent years.
Once a new cruise ship is built by a cruise line every other ship in the fleet suddenly feels just a little bit older. Don’t let the glamour and glitter of brand-new ships blind you to the perks of sailing on older vessels.
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When I was booking my very first cruise almost 14 years ago, I just HAD to book the newest and greatest ship.
As a total newbie to cruising I had the same misconception that many rookie cruisers deal with: assuming that only new ships offer a great cruise experience.
But older cruise ships offer a few things newer ships can’t. Here are the best reasons to book a cruise on an older cruise ship:
1. They are much more affordable
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
We’ll start with the most obvious reason, which is also the biggest reason for some travelers. A cruise on an older ship can cost 30% – 50% less than a newer ship with a similar itinerary.
Because there is so much hype and demand for cruise ships that are fresh out of the shipyard there is a premium cost to go with it. But if you want to cruise more often and are on a limited budget, older cruise ships are the way to go.
You can also find last-minute deals on older cruise ships more easily than on newer ships, so if you can be flexible with your schedule even better.
2. Fewer people means smaller crowds
Top deck of Celebrity Infinity just above the pool deck. Infinity is the 2nd oldest ship in Celebrity’s fleet, built in 2001. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Most cruise ships built around the year 2000 and earlier hold about 2,000 passengers at double capacity. Compare that with the 4,000 and 5,000 passenger capacity on some cruise ships built in the past few years.
Whether it’s crowds during embarkation, debarkation, tendering, or simply at the buffet, a newer and larger cruise ship can feel crowded in certain spaces.
A smaller number of passengers an on older vessel can make for a more relaxed cruise with more personalized service.
Much of the feeling of “crowdedness” comes down to the design and space on the ship as well.
Cruise ships in the 65,000 to 90,000 gross tonnage range are beloved by regular cruises. And older ships are commonly found in this small to medium size range. The spaces are smaller and more intimate.
This also means less walking forward and aft. Sure, elevators help with going up and down a few decks, but so far there are no people-movers on cruise ships for walking the length of these floating resorts.
From lounges and pool decks to dining rooms and atriums, a cruise ship built decades ago can often provide a cozy atmosphere that seasoned travelers who don’t care for the bells and whistles of modern ships just really enjoy.
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4. Unique spaces and features
Aft pool on Caribbean Princess. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
There are features on some older ships that simply can’t be found on recent ship builds. When sailing on the 20-year-old Caribbean Princess I was enamored by the aft part of the ship.
High above the aft pool is a very unique lounge that gives the ship its distinctive look. Skywalker’s Nightclub lounge on deck 19 offers fantastic views and is a quiet place to relax during the day. It also offers some shade over the aft pool, creating an inviting space.
Another iconic space is the Viking Crown Lounge on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, which have been a staple of the cruise line since the 70’s.
This top deck lounge shaped like a saucer offers wonderful panoramic views and is one of my favorite places from which to watch sailaway.
The lounge has been done away with on newer ships, however, so you will need to book a cruise on a Royal Caribbean ship at least 15 years old to enjoy it.
5. A nod to nostalgia and tradition
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Older cruise ships embrace nostalgia and tradition, and this is quickly seen in the design of some of these timeless vessels. They are a perfect choice for those passengers seeking a connection to the golden age of maritime travel.
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These vessels often feature classic designs reminiscent of ocean liners from the past, with elegant lines, prominent funnels, and a distinct profile.
The interior decor showcases art collections, ornate detailing, and grand staircases.
6. More flexibility with destinations
The truth of the matter is that the mega ships of today cannot visit certain locations because of their size. Older, smaller ships can navigate some destinations that are inaccessible to large ships.
They fit under bridges that others cannot and can sail narrower waterways. Some older ships can even use piers that larger ships cannot. These larger ships must use tenders to transport passengers which can be a time-consuming process.
There’s also a factor that newer ships need to generate lots of revenue and will tend to sail to more common itineraries instead of going off the beaten path.
You can often find more exotic and rare itineraries on an older ship.
7. It could be your last chance to sail on that older ship
Majesty of the Seas when it was still owned ad operated by Royal Caribbean International. Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Once a cruise ship hits a certain age, its days are numbered.
I had a chance to sail on Carnival Imagination (a Fantasy-class ship) right before it retired and also on Royal Caribbean’s beloved Majesty of the Seas shortly before it was removed from service.
These ships have loyal fans that love the more intimate atmosphere and unique spaces. Sailing on these older ships gives you one last chance to enjoy an iconic cruise ship before it is removed from service and sent to the scrapyard.
8. Rank up your loyalty rewards faster
This goes back to the first point about saving money on each cruise. The more money you save on a cruise the more often you can afford to take a cruise.
Taking shorter cruises on older ships is the most economical way of getting your loyalty points up to the next level. And this means more rewards and benefits for each cruise you take thereafter.
Booking a cruise on an older ship holds a lot of advantages. These ships offer a unique charm and nostalgia that newer vessels may lack. From the timeless elegance to personalized service, there’s something special about these ships.
Exploring lesser-known destinations, enjoying a taste of classic luxury, and immersing yourself in the rich history are just a few reasons to consider sailing on an older ship. So why not embrace the chance to step back in time and create lasting memories that will make your cruise experience something to remember.
More cruise lines are making adjustments due to tensions in the Red Sea.
A cruise through the Red Sea offers access to exotic locations in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. And ports of call at Aqaba, Jordan provide access to the UNESCO city of Petra.
But tensions in the Red Sea over the last several weeks have caused shipping vessels and cruise ships alike to alter course, avoiding the region altogether.
Recent Houthi militant attacks on shipping vessels near Yemen have cast a shadow over the popular cruising route.
This has led to cruise ships taking a much longer voyage around Africa, as companies and operators prioritize safety.
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Cruise Travel Through the Red Sea
While a Red Sea cruise is a dream for many travelers, its peak season with cruise lines typically begins in spring. This has allowed some companies to adopt a wait-and-see approach regarding itinerary adjustments as tensions in the region unfold.
The Suez Canal, a critical shortcut for world cruises, has also felt the impact.
Even before the current escalation, MSC Cruises made the decision to reroute their MSC Poesia mid-way through her 121-day World Cruise in early January, bypassing the Red Sea altogether.
Instead of sailing past ancient pyramids and vibrant reefs, Poesia charted a new course that went by Cape Verde and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic.
Due to the Red Sea conflict, MSC Cruises rerouted MSC Poesia while the vessel was on a World Cruise.
Cruise Lines Adjusting Itineraries
Silversea’s Silver Moon cut its Red Sea trip short, stopping early in Aqaba, Jordan, because of increased security concerns in the region. The ship, which was originally sailing from Aqaba to Muscat, Oman, with stops in Saudi Arabia, will now disembark passengers in Aqaba. The cruise line will be making further travel arrangements for the passengers.
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This development adds to the growing tension surrounding Red Sea cruises amid recent maritime attacks near Yemen. While Silversea quickly altered its itinerary for passenger safety, there’s still some uncertainty over future sailings in the region, including those scheduled for February.
Future Uncertainty for Cruise Lines
Major cruise players like Carnival Corp. have remained somewhat silent about their contingency plans in the face of this geopolitical unrest.
During a recent earnings call, CEO Josh Weinstein stressed that passenger safety remains most important, with strategies in place should the situation escalate. However, specific decisions regarding the Red Sea and Suez Canal routes remain unconfirmed.
Other cruise lines that have plans to sail through the Red Sea over the next few months include Cunard, Seabourn, Fred Olsen, Holland America Line, Regent, Azamara, P&O Cruises and Princess.
Several cruise lines have made statements about the rising tensions in the Red Sea.
P&O Cruises: A spokesperson confirmed the cruise line is monitoring the situation on a daily basis, stating, “We will advise guests should any changes to the itinerary be necessary. The safety, security and wellbeing of guests and crew is our absolute priority.”
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Fred Olsen Cruise Lines: Fred Olsen has a world cruise currently scheduled to sail through the Red Sea and Suez Canal in April but so far has not yet made any changes. The company stated, “We continue to have regular communication with the relevant authorities and evaluate all risks. In the event of an increased risk, we will of course implement our contingency itinerary.”
Cunard and Holland America: Both cruise lines noted they are closely monitoring the situation, with HAL adding they will inform guests of any updates “at the earliest opportunity.”
Bottom Line
Geopolitical tension is one of several reasons a cruise line may choose to skip certain ports or completely alter the destination of a particular cruise.
The United States has increased naval presence in the region, conducting patrols and escorting commercial vessels to ensure safe passage. Despite these efforts, the uncertainty and risk associated with the Red Sea region remain high.
A recent Carnival Cruise Line passenger is making waves online after sharing a pricey post-cruise phone bill. But the real spark in the debate came from the comment which blamed Carnival for not warning about potential phone charges.
The passenger, whose question appeared on Carnival Ambassador John Heald’s Facebook page, claims they received a $470 bill after the phone was used to play games during the cruise.
“$470 worth of charges from my cruise”
The passenger stated, “Just got my monthly cell phone charges through and there are $470 worth of charges from my cruise on Carnival cruises Freedom.”
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Apparently, the passenger never put their phone into airplane mode. Later someone told them to center the blame on the cruise line.
“Someone told me that the cruise line should be responsible because nobody told us that we should have the phone in airplane mode or off. All he did was play games on the phone”, they stated.
The upset passenger went on to criticize the cruise line for “being covert” about the pricing structure and not providing clear warnings about the potential for such high charges claiming,
“Nowhere on the ship does Carnival highlight that there will be extremely high prices for using data at sea and EXACTLY what that cost is. The reason for this is that no one will use the service.”
While Heald confirmed that Carnival does not receive any portion of the roaming charges, he acknowledged the possibility of improved communication.
“I do want to ask those reading this if you think we can do a better job in letting people know about this kind of thing or is it something you are mostly aware of?” he wrote, sparking a heated debate in the comments section.
Cell phone charges can add up quickly on a cruise if you’re not in airplane mode.
Comments from the crowd
The vast majority of the 5,600 comments sided with the cruise line, placing the responsibility on passengers to be aware of roaming charges and take precautions. Several mentioned downloading the official Carnival Hub app beforehand or purchasing onboard Wi-Fi packages.
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One user commented, “Our cruise director said airplane mode throughout our WHOLE cruise. Even the hub app tells you to put it on airplane mode. Even in some of my cruise documents it said something about airplane mode.”
Another Facebook user sympathized with passengers new to cruising, stating, “For a first time cruiser, this can be quite a shock! Perhaps some sort of note in the room would be helpful. I agree with others that you don’t always hear announcements. However, it still comes down to the responsibility of each person to understand their own cell phone. Carnival is not making any money from the cell phone companies and of course is not going to reimburse this person. Sometimes you have to learn things the hard way!”
It’s important to remember that using your phone at on a cruise is very different from using it on land, as cruise ships often rely on satellite networks for connectivity.
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These satellite connections can lead to significantly higher roaming charges, so it’s always a good idea to check your carrier’s plan and consider alternative options like onboard Wi-Fi packages before cruising.
While most major carriers do offer some form of international coverage, these plans aren’t as cheap as cruise ship Wi-Fi in most cases. Additionally, some carriers, like T-Mobile, provide proactive warnings when entering areas with high roaming costs.
Ultimately, passengers are responsible for managing their phone usage and any related charges while cruising.
How you can avoid a massive phone bill from your cruise
So, what can travelers do to avoid a similar post-cruise shock? Here are some tips:
Check your carrier’s roaming policies and rates before setting sail. Some carriers offer special packages or deals for international travel.
Download content beforehand for offline entertainment. Movies, music, and ebooks can keep you occupied without racking up data charges.
Purchase onboard Wi-Fi packages, especially if you need to stay connected for work or social media.
Enable airplane mode on your phone when not actively using Wi-Fi. This will prevent your phone from inadvertently connecting to expensive satellite networks.
The Port of Galveston will be welcoming another cruise ship in 2025, according to a statement released by MSC Cruises.
Starting in November of 2025, MSC Seascape will be offering 7-night sailings out of Galveston Texas. The 5,877 max-capacity cruise ship– 4,540 at double-capacity — is the second Seaside EVO-class ship to be built by the cruise line.
The newest Seaside-class vessel is currently sailing out of PortMiami and will transition to Galveston for its first sailing on November 9th, 2025.
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Itineraries on the 169,400 gross ton MSC Seascape will include visits to Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel.
In the statement, CEO of MSC Cruises, Gianni Onorato, emphasized the cruise lines desire to expand its operations in the U.S. saying,
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“This announcement is the latest step in our strategy to continue to grow our U.S footprint. Earlier this year we began operations from our third U.S. home port, New York City, where we now sail year-round, and we are proud to add Galveston to that growing line-up alongside PortMiami and Port Canaveral.”
“We are committed to bringing our newest, largest, most innovative ships to the U.S. and are pleased that MSC Seascape will be more easily accessible to guests in central and western parts of the U.S through Galveston, as well as to our guests internationally via the well-connected international airport hub of Houston.”
Due to the distances between ports, reaching these Caribbean ports of call requires 3 sea days within most itineraries. Longer 7- and 10-day cruises are typical for sailings out of Galveston.
Galveston has been growing in popularity as a homeport for other cruise lines as well, with Princess Cruises recently sailing Regal Princess from the port until March of 2024.
Ships scheduled to sail out of Galveston throughout 2024 include the following:
Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Miracle Disney Cruises: Disney Magic Royal Caribbean International: Harmony of the Seas Jewel of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Prima Princess Cruises: Regal Princess
Looking for things to do in Cozumel during your cruise vacation? Don’t waste your time with boring “to do lists” when you can just focus on the very best this island has to offer! After reading through this cruise port guide you will know EXACTLY what you should be doing during your visit to Cozumel, Mexico. Some of the things on this list are just going to jump off the page at you. So, enjoy this port of call!
Over 3 million people cruise to Mexico’s most populated island every year and all of the mainstream cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises. There’s a reason it’s one of the most visited cruise ports in the world.
As many as 8 cruise ships could be in port at one time.
Personally, I love visiting Cozumel. I love the weather, people, environment, beaches, and overall vibe. Every time I visit I find something new, so this post will detail some unique and fun experiences you can have at this fantastic stop along your cruise.
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Planning what to do in Cozumel ahead of time can be a bit daunting. There is a lot to do and see in this beautiful and exotic location.
From the pristine coral reefs and endless beaches to the plentiful shopping in town, Cozumel has something for everyone. Oh, and there is even something for the Indiana Jones in you if you want to explore some archeological sites.
The weather in Cozumel is about as good as it gets throughout the year. Average temperatures are in the 70’s and 80’s (Fahrenheit).
In this post we will give you some of the best things to do in Cozumel along with some helpful information on how to get around the island, what to expect, where to go, etc.
There are over 100,000 people living at this municipality which is just off the eastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. The largest city is San Miguel which is right near the cruise ports on the west end of the island.
The economy of Cozumel relies heavily on tourism, so the people there will be very glad to help you and make sure you have a pleasant experience.
Many times I’ve had locals on the island help me out or point me in the right direction all while asking for nothing in return.
There are even special vehicles that drive around the island in order to help any tourists that have broken down and need help. A service that is offered for free.
Cozumel is mostly flat with the highest point being just 50 feet above sea level. As you travel out of town you will notice the mangrove forests that dominates the landscape inland while both rocky and sandy beaches surround the exterior.
Do you need to know Spanish? Most people living in Cozumel speak English and can understand you perfectly fine. But trying to learn a few Spanish words and phrases is very much appreciated.
Cruise ports in Cozumel: How far are they from downtown?
Puerta Maya
This is a little confusing to cruise ship passengers who have never been to Cozumel before. Even if you have been to Cozumel before you might get off the ship and not recognize your surroundings because you could be at a completely different terminal than before.
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There are 3 different cruise ship piers in Cozumel. One is close to downtown and the other two are a few miles out. So, let’s look at each terminal and its location.
Punta Langosta. This pier is the closest to the downtown area, only about a 5-minute walk. You can join a walking tour of San Miguel or just explore on your own without having to walk very far at all.
International Pier. This is where some of the larger cruise ships will dock: ships like Royal Caribbean Oasis class ships and larger Norwegian Cruise Line ships. This is the oldest cruise pier in Cozumel and is about 3 miles from downtown.
Puerta Maya. This pier was built by Carnival Cruise Line and is only used for Carnival owned ships. It’s right next to International Pier. It’s been nicknamed “Little Cozumel” as many shops, restaurants, and modern amenities are offered right within the terminal area.
Both International Pier and Puerta Maya are about 3 miles from San Miguel, but it is a safe and scenic walk to the downtown area which I have done a few times. Taxis are cheap, but if you have extra time the walk is doable.
Sometimes, ships will have to anchor just offshore if it’s a very busy day with 7 or 8 cruise ships coming in. In these cases the ships will tender passengers to some of the smaller piers near Puerta Maya.
Map data: Google, DigitalGlobe
How to travel around Cozumel
Cozumel does have a decent size airport if you are thinking of flying straight there. One thing I love about cruising is that it gives you a sampling of different places that you can then revisit once you find what you like.
If you want to check out mainland Mexico, Playa Del Carmen is only a short boat ride away from the island. It is located south of Cancún and north of Tulum, in the state of Quintana Roo. Playa del Carmen is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lively nightlife.
Renting a vehicle
Riding around Cozumel in a rental and keeping it classy.
There is a plethora of options for renting a vehicle and driving around Cozumel as well. The island is easy to navigate in a matter of a couple hours if you don’t make too many stops.
The best way to tour Cozumel in your rental is to start by heading south and drive along the shoreline. If you’re driving a scooter or bike you will have your own road to travel on, making the journey stress-free. The further you get away from the city the more open and serene the landscape becomes.
How big is Cozumel? The whole island is 28 miles long and about 10 miles wide. I have rented both cars and scooters to drive around Cozumel. (See map at bottom of article)
One thing that should be noted about renting a car, though. If you do happen to damage the vehicle in any way you may be required to pay for the repairs before you leave the island. I’ve never had any mishaps, but I have heard that this can be an issue.
You can rent anything from a dune buggy to a VW Beetle to a scooter or even motorcycle if you want. There are even Harley tours you can take.
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As soon as you get off the ship you will find vendors who are able to find you just about any type of vehicle to rent if you want to explore on your own.
Renting Bikes and Scooters
Some of the downtown area can get crowded with cars and people, but if you want to venture out on your own renting a bike might be a good option. There are many shops that will rent scooters and bikes. If you don’t want to have to work too much electric scooters area available too. And if you want to go beach hopping on your bike you can get one with fatter tires.
Taxis in Cozumel
If you want to take a taxis in Cozumel it is easy and affordable. The prices are set, and you don’t need to negotiate. There is a slightly higher price if you have more than 4 people and a bit more if you have 6-8 people in your group.
I recommend grabbing a local taxi right at the cruise port to make sure you’re getting the real deal.
You can pay with US dollars, but it will be cheaper if you exchange for pesos first and use them. Credit cards are not accepted by taxi drivers so you will need to pay in cash. Also, a 10-15% tip is appreciated.
Here are some prices you can use as a sample for taxi ride rates. (These prices will more than likely be different when you travel and are just for reference.) Prices are in US Dollars and are from the starting point of Puerta Maya:
Downtown: $8.00
Discover Mexico: $8.00
Chankanaab: $12.00
Chocolate Factory: $11.00
Playa Corona: $13.00
Punta Sur: $35.00
Airport: $16.00
Full Island Tour: $100.00
Take a ferry
Cozumel is just 12 miles from the mainland of Mexico. Many cruisers love to take the 45-minute ferry from Cozumel to Play Del Carmen to check out some great resorts and beaches.
If you’re going to see some Mayan ruins on the mainland you will end up on a ferry to the mainland. But if you want to pay for it yourself to check out Playa Del Carmen it will cost around $10.
The ferry port is not far from downtown, so hopping on the ferry to see some more sights in Mexico might make sense if you have time during your cruise. Some excursions also require a ferry ride to the mainland to see Mayan Ruins or explore scenic caves.
Where to eat in Cozumel?
Costa Brava
The non-adventurous will be glad to know there are a few American staples in Cozumel. There is a Subway, Pizza Hut, and Starbucks right near the Punta Langosta terminal and even a Burger King further inland.
But for those who want a truly authentic experience Cozumel does not disappoint. There is a myriad of restaurants. You can get a casual, relaxing dining experience at one of the many eateries along the beach or try something more upscale.
I’ve had some incredibly delicious tacos just by stopping at one of the local vendors along the shoreline. And don’t forget to get some local churros.
Cozumel is an island that is known for exquisite seafood combined with common Mexican foods as tortillas, beans, and salsa. You can find affordable lobster dishes and plenty of options especially in the main city of San Miguel.
Of course Cozumel has the iconic Senor Frogs and Bubba Gump Shrimp if you want an old standby.
Here are a few places we recommend for eating in Cozumel:
Costa Brava. Love eating here. Authentic Mexican food at a reasonable price. Friendly staff.
Casa Mission. For truly local Mexican food and seafood. Located near the center of San Miguel
La Mission Restaurant. Traditional Mexican food right near the shore. Really great décor and great food.
Guido’s Restaurant. Swiss-Italian restaurant with a beautiful patio and daily specials. Right on the main street of San Miguel with great views of the ocean.
Pepe’s Grill. Upscale dining with amazing seafood. Owned by one of the oldest family’s on Cozumel.
Have you eaten in Cozumel and want to let us know a great place to check out? Let us know in the comment section so the rest of our readers can benefit as well.
23 Best Things to do in Cozumel
So now let’s take a look at some things to do in Cozumel. We’ll cover some of the best things to do on this island to give you some ideas for your upcoming excursions and adventures.
Cozumel is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest coral reef system in the world, and it is a paradise for those who like to dive and snorkel.
Because most of the island is surrounded by some of the most amazing coral reefs in the Western Caribbean, Cozumel has become a main attraction for thousands of expert divers every year.
Even if you just want to rent or bring along some snorkeling gear you will want to check out these pristine waters at one of the many coral reef locations.
Best places for snorkeling or diving:
Villa Blanca Reef. Located between 2 cruise ship piers. Wall after wall of beautiful reefs.
Chankanaab Reef. Part of Chankanaab Park. Reef is 300 yards from shore. More on Chankanaab later.
Paradise Reef. Near the marine park. Lots of coral and sea life to see like nurse sharks and stingrays. 3 reefs 600 feet from the shore.
Palancar Reef. Better for diving. Stunning caves and drop-offs.
El Cielo Reef. Great for beginner snorkelers. Shallow water. Lots of starfish.
Coral at Dzul Ha. 10 to 15 foot depth with plenty of lobster, crab, and all kinds of fish. Near beach club and restaurant.
Colombia Reef. Great for diving with 80 foot drop-off. Find huge towers of coral, caves, caverns and marine creatures.
There are many more places you can dive and snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t look at this list as exhaustive. In fact, if you have a great reef to check out please let us know in the comment section below this post. We will add it to the list if it looks good so everyone else can benefit.
The first time I went to Cozumel I brought my own snorkel gear and just pulled over at random places to check out the water. It’s really hard NOT to see some amazing things in the water around Cozumel.
Since the water around Cozumel is so remarkable why not take a boat ride around it so you can see the whole thing on a shore excursion?
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You can do this on a catamaran, glass-bottom boat, or even a private charter. The nice thing about booking a snorkeling or diving excursion is that some of them will involve a boat ride to the reef and you will get to have a scenic boat ride at the same time.
3. Take a Submarine Tour
Want to see the reefs without getting wet? Then a submarine tour is just for you. The submarine will descend 100 feet below the surface and will look through portholes to see amazing marine life, a sunken shipwreck, and even a 400 foot drop-off known as The Wall.
4. Enjoy a Beautiful Beach Day (best beaches in Cozumel)
Cozumel has some of the most amazing beaches in all of Mexico and there are a variety to choose from. You can choose a beach for it’s snorkeling opportunities, it’s relaxing atmosphere, or for its culinary delights that are nearby.
If you rent a vehicle you can just drive around to see the different beaches to see which is best for what you want your beach day to be like. The eastern side of the island is rocky and exposed to the open ocean, but there are still some hidden away spots that are perfect for a beach day.
Here is a short list of some of our favorite beaches in Cozumel:
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Playa Chen Rio. On the eastern side but large rocks break up the surf. This is where some locals go and it’s not usually very crowded. Some thick vegetation with sand and rocks.
Playa Bonita. Romantic beach with white sands and gentle waves. On the east. Mayan ruins nearby.
Playa Corona. Known for its great diving and underwater scenery. Beach huts for shade. On the west coast.
Playa Uvas. If you want a Miami Beach kind of vibe with upscale loungers and shade spots this is your beach.
Playa San Francisco. A lot of activities available at this popular 3 mile stretch of sand.
Palancar Beach. 13 miles south of San Miguel. Away from the hustle and bustle. Lovely white sandy beach.
Are any beaches near the cruise ports in Cozumel? While there are some beaches close to Puerta Maya and International pier they will require a fee. Park Royal Beach is just a 5-minute walk from these two terminals and will require $40 per person to access since it’s part of a hotel. But the amenities and views from there are fantastic.
Have your own beach to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below.
5. Swim with stingrays
It’s an incredible experience to swim with the rays at Stingray Beach. Don’t worry, the dangerous barbs have been removed. You can both swim and snorkel with these amazing creatures. It’s just a couple minutes from downtown.
6. Visit Chankanaab National Park
Hammock at Chankanaab. See why I love this place?
It amazes me how many people have been to Cozumel and have never been to Chankanaab. It’s one of my go-to places on the island. It does cost $21 for adults and $14 for children to have access to the park, but once inside you will find enough things for everyone to do for the entire day.
There are great beaches, plenty of shaded loungers and hammocks, a pristine lagoon, alligators, a seal and sea lion show, dolphins, manatees, and so much more. Want to just relax in a hammock tied to a couple palm trees while the kids go have fun? This is your place in Cozumel.
If you want to swim with dolphins this is a great place to do it as well.
See a video of what Chankanaab is like below:
7. Explore Mayan Ruins
Cozumel is not known for some of the most elaborate Mayan ruins in Mexico, but there are still some worth checking out if you are interested.
The largest Mayan ruins in Cozumel are at San Gervasio, located in the central part of the island. This was a holy site dedicated to the goddess of fertility.
If you want truly spectacular Mayan ruins you can still see them during your cruise to Cozumel, but since they are on the main land of Mexico it will be an all-day event which will require a ferry ride. Chichen Itza (recently named one of the 7 wonders of the world) and Tulum are the main Mayan sites you can see. If you can only see one, check out Chichen Itza. It’s truly spectacular.
8. Tour the Chocolate Factory
I did the chocolate factory tour a few years ago and found it to be a really interesting experience. It’s not a huge factory, but you get to see how the chocolate is locally made and then you get to make some yourself. And of course the best part is sampling the chocolate after you are done.
It’s called Kaokao Chocolate Factory and is just a $15 or so cab ride away. I recommend getting reservations ahead of time because time slots can fill up quickly.
9. Zipline over Cozumel
There are a few different places for zipline thrill seekers. Chankanaab does have a zipline course or you can take a zipline course that soars over some of the mangrove forest in Cozumel. You will be 60 feet above the jungle floor and start off from 6 different canopy towers. Most of the course can be done in about an hour so you will still have time for other activities.
10. Go on a Cave Tour
Some of the most incredible caves are found on the mainland at Rio Secreto, where adventurers can explore a picturesque underwater river. This place could easily be a wonder of the world. Other cave tours start out with an ATV ride through the wild back roads of Cozumel.
11. Go Horseback Riding
You’ve seen the pictures: a scenic beach background with someone riding a horse along the shoreline. This is on my to-do list actually, and Cozumel is a great place to check it off. You can ride horseback through the jungle and then along the beach, and then you can stop to get something to eat at Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club.
12. Play a Round of Golf in Paradise
Cozumel Country Club is right near the shore and offers 18 holes of scenic beauty. The fairways and greens may not be as lush as what you’re used to, but the wildlife and surroundings make up for it. It’s about a 30 minute cab ride from the cruise port.
13. Go Parasailing
The joy of parasailing is in the aerial views you get to soak in. So, it’s even more enjoyable when those views are of some of the most pristine water along Mexico. There’s just something about being hundreds of feet in the air, being pulled by a speed boat. The only thing to keep in mind here is that you may be with a group. This means you will have to wait your turn and may spend more time in the boat waiting than actually up in the air enjoying your parasailing experience.
14. Join the Manatees for a Swim Encounter
This is also part of Chankanaab Park which is open from 9am to 5pm. These slow-moving creatures are rarely seen in the wild so this excursion offers you the ability to get up close and personal with these “Mermaids of the Sea”.
15. Join a Pirate Dinner Cruise
If you want to feel like a pirate for the day and get some great food along with some unique entertainment this is the activity for you. I’ve read some rave reviews about the Jean Laffite Pirate Dinner Cruise but have not checked it out myself. But for most cruises this option will take place too late in the day, so it’s really only doable if you are staying in Cozumel for a few nights. It goes from 6pm to 9pm, but I still wanted to put it in this list.
16. Hit the Shops
You don’t’ even have to leave the cruise terminal to find places to shop, but do yourself and the Cozumel locals a favor by venturing out and shopping from local vendors. T-shirts and trinkets are incredible affordable and I haven’t found shop owners to be too pushy compared to other ports.
The Royal Village Shopping Center has some really interesting places to shop, including one place that sells all kinds of medieval type armor and décor.
Everyone needs at least 1 or 2 Mexican blankets at home and you will find them everywhere in Cozumel.
You can pay in pesos or US dollars. In fact, you will see a lot of signs with prices in US dollars.
Important note: Just be careful on using local ATM machines. Last time I used an ATM machine in Cozumel I had my card information hacked. Stick to indoor bank ATM’s if you can and always cover your hand as you type in your pin.
17. Discover Mexico
You can’t see all of Mexico during your cruise, but this little stop will allow you to at least feel like you did. The tour at Discover Mexico Park will allow you to experience the taste, culture, history, heritage, art, and music of Mexico. There are miniature scale models of famous sites from around Mexico and a tour guide will talk you through some of this country’s most important landmarks.
18. See the Cozumel Pearl Farm
Not many cruisers venture up to the northern part of the islands to see this family-run pearl farm, but you should. After seeing how the pearls are grown and harvested you can snorkel out to see the pearl hatchery. While snorkeling you can see an underwater life-size Virgen de Guadalupe statue. Tours can last about 6 hours.
19. Take a Mini-Sub Dive Tour
If you love the idea of scuba diving but you want something a bit simpler, this might be the Cozumel activity for you. No previous diving experience is required. You simply “wear” a sort of “sub suit” that allows you to go 20 feet below the water and have unobstructed views of the marine life. And with Cozumel’s reputation for great reefs and pristine coral, this is a great thing to do while cruising to this beautiful island.
20. Join the Amazing Cozumel Race
Just like you’ve seen on TV, you can explore Cozumel while cracking clues, solving mysteries, and playing adventurous games with fellow travelers. This competitive journey will take about 4.5 hours and there is a post-race award ceremony that follows. People seem to really enjoy this excursion. Even if the it ends up raining you won’t be able to dampen the fun vibe on this activity.
21. Swim with Whale Sharks
Sure you can swim with dophins and stingrays on Cozumel, but if you really want to kick things up a notch and take some impressive photos for your friends back home, swimming with whale sharks is the ticket. Every summer the whale sharks come in to the Yucatan Peninsula, so you can snorkel along with them during their annual migration (June – September). The feeling of being so close to these immense creatures is unforgettable.
22. Visit Punta Sur Eco Beach Park
Nature lovers can indulge in the island’s largest ecological reserve at Punta Sur. Whether you want to enjoy the white sandy beaches, climb the stairs to the historic Celarain Lighthouse, or catch up with the local crocodiles, Punta Sur Eco Beach Park is a gem on Cozumel. You can find a variety of flora, fauna, flowers, birds, and even sea turtles. Visitors can also enjoy the Navigation Museum which is the old lighthouse keeper’s home. There they will learn about the island’s rich history of Mayans and pirates that sailed the Caribbean waters.
23. Tantalize Your Taste Buds with Cozumel Chef Food Tours
Are you a foodie? Taste the full flavors of Mexico with a food tour that lets you sample the best the islands has to offer. Cozumel Chef Food Tours is all-inclusive and takes you to a Yucatecan restaurant, a traditional Mexican market, a bakery, and a few other stops along the way on this 3 hour tour. Want to taste a truly authentic quesadilla? This is a food tour you will brag about when you get home. The cost is $80 per person, and the tours typically start at 11am, perfect for cruise passengers.
You can also eat at some local restaurants yourself. Here are some places to eat in Cozumel that some of our readers have recommended:
Los Tacotales – A great affordable option for street tacos and pozole in an open-air restaurant.
Casa Cuzamil – For seafood lovers on a budget, get your fix of shrimp tacos, grilled fish, and ceviche. There’s also a sports bar here.
La Cocay – This Mediterranean and Italian steakhouse has a lovely garden setting and serves everything from small plates and tapas to steaks and pizza.
La Candela – A popular place among the locals of Cozumel, this restaurant serves Mexican and Caribbean entrees for mid-range prices. I really enjoyed my experience here. Great portions for hot meals in the heart of town.
Ix Kool Mayan – If you want true, authentic Mayan dishes, this is the place for you. A higher-end restaurant, this establishment serves pork panucho, cochinita and other delicacies you will be hard pressed to find anywhere else.
Guido’s – A combination of seafood and Italian dishes, Guido’s offers a fine dining experience with open-air seating. Both the service and food are typically very good.
Buccanos At Night – Situated right on the coast, this restaurant is known for elegant dining and exquisite dishes. You can order seafood or local dishes at Buccanos at Night, which is considered by many to be one of the best places to eat on the island.
We Want to Hear from You
What are some things to do in Cozumel that you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below so everyone can benefit.
Map data: Google, DigitalGlobe
Frequently Asked Questions on the Cozumel Cruise Port
Q: How do cruise ships dock in Cozumel?
A: There are three main cruise ship piers in Cozumel: Punta Langosta, the International Pier, and Puerta Maya. All three piers are located on the west side of the island.
Punta Langosta is the closest pier to the town of San Miguel de Cozumel, the largest town on the island. It is also the smallest of the three piers, and can only accommodate smaller cruise ships.
The International Pier is located about 3 miles south of San Miguel. It is the largest of the three piers, and can accommodate the largest cruise ships.
Puerta Maya is located about 5 miles south of San Miguel. It is the second-largest of the three piers, and can accommodate a variety of cruise ship sizes.
Q: How can I get to Playa del Carmen from Cozumel Cruise Port?
A: Playa del Carmen is a popular destination located on the mainland, just a short 45-minute ferry ride away from Cozumel. You can easily take a ferry from the ferry terminal in Cozumel to Playa del Carmen and explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and beaches.
Q: Where can I find a taxi at Cozumel Cruise Port?
A: Taxis are readily available at the Cozumel Cruise Port. You can find taxi stands near the cruise terminal where you can easily hail a taxi to take you to your desired destination on the island.
Q: What is Puerta Maya?
A: Puerta Maya is a popular cruise ship port in Cozumel. It is one of the main cruise ship terminals in Cozumel and is known for its convenient location near many tourist attractions and activities.
Q: What is the best way to explore Cozumel during a cruise?
A: Personally, I prefer to explore Cozumel on my own. If you’re new to the island you can just hire a tax to take you to all the best spots and get an overview of the island. But for those worried about getting back to the ship on time, it’s best to just take book a shore excursion. I’ve booked excursions, hired taxis, rented scooters, and rented cars in Cozumel, and it’s a very easy place to navigate.
Q: Can I visit Cozumel independently without a shore excursion?
A: Yes, you can certainly explore Cozumel independently without a shore excursion. The port area is well-connected to the rest of the island, and you can easily hire a taxi or rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.
Q: What are some popular cruise itineraries that include Cozumel?
A: Cozumel is a popular destination on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries. Major cruise lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line include Cozumel as a port of call in many of their itineraries.
Cruise ships have often been famously referred to as floating buffets at sea – and for good reason. With all-you-can-eat pizza, cake, steak, and lobster, the options truly are endless.
But we often see the same mistakes made when it comes to dining on a cruise ship. A little cruise buffet etiquette can go a long way to ensure everyone on the ship has a pleasant vacation.
Photo Credit: Cruise Fever
Almost all major cruise ships have at least one buffet on board, which is included in your cruise fare. What’s also included is the 10 pounds you’re sure to gain from sampling all these culinary delights.
Although cruise dining has an overall laid back vibe, there are some unwritten rules you should know before you belly up to the bar – or the buffet that is. Read on to learn about these 10 golden rules every cruiser should follow.
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1. Don’t Cut the Unofficial Line (You Know It’s There)
While the buffets on cruise ships are known for being more fun and easy-going compared to its counterparts (looking at you, Main Dining Room), it goes without saying that there is some form of structure and order. A prime example of this would be the lines of hungry people snaked throughout the room.
Cutting people off at the store wouldn’t fly on land, and it isn’t permissible (nor polite) onboard. Instead, exercising your patience and waiting your turn is not only encouraged, but required here.
In the instance you approach a selection of food you’d rather skip all together, you can either wait patiently, or ask the passenger ahead of you in line if you may kindly pass them by. The key here is to ask, as they did arrive before you.
The saying may go that your eyes eat before your stomach, but your hands get washed before you do any anything else.
Cruise ships have an overabundance of restrooms, hand-washing stations, and now, hand sanitizer pumps dispersed throughout the vessel. These sanitizer pumps are typically stationed at the entrance of all dining rooms to encourage all guests to wash up before eating.
Even though you will not be touching the food directly (right?), you will be handling those serving utensils that everyone else also touched. You wouldn’t want the person in line ahead of you to have dirty hands, so wash yours too.
Hand washing station on Celebrity Ascent. Photo credit: Cruise Fever
3. Use the Tongs (Not Your Hands)
This one isn’t just for the kids (though they are the biggest offenders) – adults are just as guilty.
While it can be tempting to grab that last slice of cheese, sitting all alone with your fingers, just don’t do it. There are food handling utensils for a good reason, and the cruise line expects that everyone uses them.
Speaking of children – watch and accompany your children at all times in the buffet and seating area. Period.
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The buffet area commonly stores hot plates, foods, glassware and other items that can pose harm to children and others if not handled properly. As a parent, it is your responsibility to watch, and escort them to and throughout the buffet.
Children also need gentle reminders on buffet etiquette such as not cutting others in line, not grabbing food with tiny fingers, or running around in inappropriate areas.
5. Always Use a New Plate
One of the unwritten golden rules of buffet dining is that there will be more than one plate of food consumed per person. It goes without saying.
With that in mind, it should be noted that when you go back for seconds (or thirds, nobody is judging on a cruise), leave your used plate on your table and grab a new, clean one.
Buffet dining halls have plenty of staff members rounding the tables to take away dirty plates, silver wear, cups and napkins. This is to avoid the serving spoons and tongs coming into contact with your personal dishes, so please be respectful.
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Each buffet station has its own set of tongs, spoons, forks, or knifes for a reason – to avoid cross-contamination of different food products. This is primarily for allergy, or dietary reasons but is also to avoid mixing unwanted flavors (because nobody wants French fries in their chocolate cake).
Should you transfer the utensils from one station to another, you are risking serious consequences for other passengers. Some are allergic to shellfish, or peanuts, while some may be following a vegetarian, kosher, or gluten free diet. Keeping the utensils in their proper places allows all guests to dine comfortably.
If you are dining on a cruise ship and have dietary concerns, all cruise lines encourage you to speak directly to the maître d. They can modify dishes, or even prepare special dishes for you without risk.
Make sure to pack your courteous pants with you when you board because you’ll certainly need them in line at the buffet.
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You’ll encounter many a station where you’re presented with the last couple items, and as respect to the hungry passengers in line behind you: don’t take all of them. Even if you have a table of 4 waiting for you across the room. That’s right – just don’t do it.
The right thing to do here is to take one, leave some behind and alert the chef who’s probably standing behind the station, that the supply is running low and needs to be replenished. They’ll know what to do from there.
And if you really, really (like really) need to take that last cookie, definitely make sure to let a chef know so that everyone else can have one, too.
8. Do Not Eat in Line
With endless, mouthwatering options, eating while standing in line (that seems to move at a snail’s pace) can be painfully tempting, but don’t do it.
The food on your plate, nor at the buffet, isn’t going anywhere and this may be a good opportunity to practice patience (and to teach little ones about this virtue as well).
Eating in line is unsanitary and defeats the purpose of rule number 2 – washing your hands first. As in, before you eat and touch the utensils you’re using as a vehicle to put the food on your plate. It’s just rude and sends the wrong message to other guests.
Again – cruise food makes you salivate, so loading up your plate can happen before you even realize it. Why should you have to choose between nachos, and French fries? Here’s the thing though: you don’t.
There are tactics to avoid overloading one plate and appearing gluttonous to other passengers. You can eat in shifts by taking one plate at a time. Start with a salad, then your entrée, and then move onto dessert(s).
Or, if you’d rather make one trip, you can take a little bit of everything instead of normal-sized portions of each item. Think: Thanksgiving-style, cruise ship edition.
10. Be Kind to All Staff Members
Above all, expressing your kindness, sincerity and appreciation to staff members throughout the buffet dining hall, and within the dining room should go without saying, but is certainly worth mentioning.
While all cruise staff members are there to serve you (and certainly go above and beyond to make your experience memorable and exceptionable), passengers need keep in mind that they are deserving of respect.
Make sure to always say please, thank you, or no thank you, to smile and wave and let them know when they have made a difference in your dining experience!
Cruises are the best vacation you can take if you’re looking to sample the flavors of the world in a single sitting. This truly all-you-can-eat experience coupled with a casual environment is not to be missed.
Before you embark on your next cruise buffet dining experience, please keep in mind the unwritten rules of the dining hall to ensure the best experience for both you and everyone else on board.
Remembering to practice best etiquette such as:
Ensuring your hands are washed.
Not handling food with your hands
Don’t cut the line!
And being respectful of staff members
These key points will help maintain the laid back, comfortable dining experience that every passenger comes for, and ultimately is why they stay around.
The most important day of your cruise is about to begin: Embarkation day! Here are some things that you should do to make the most out of your cruise.
The embarkation day experience on a cruise has changed over the last several years. Various requirements and policy changes have made boarding day slightly different than what you might be expecting.
With all the excitement and anticipation that leads up to this very first day of your cruise vacation it’s important to make sure you’re ready for the all-important embarkation process.
If you’ve ever had a bad embarkation day experience you know how important the information below is going to be to new cruisers. This is essentially the very beginning of your cruise, so making sure it’s as smooth as possible is key.
In this article we are going to cover the 19 things smart travelers always do on the embarkation day of their cruise.
Whether it’s a short 3-nighter or a longer 14-day cruise, the things you do on day one can either enhance or diminish your cruise vacation. Here at Cruise Fever we’re all about helping travelers make the MOST out of their cruise. So, let’s dig into some tips to keep your boarding day painless and stress-free.
The first part of this article will cover things you should do before you arrive at the port.
Actually, the first two items on our list involve things you need to do even before embarkation day. But this had to be mentioned as it will make your boarding day a lot easier.
Complete online check-in as early as possible
You don’t get on the ship early by showing up at the port early. In fact, if you show up well before your check-in time you will probably be told to come back later.
Get an early check-in time by doing the online check-in as soon as possible at home. Some cruise lines (like Royal Caribbean) allow you to do this 45 days before your cruise and for others it’s 14 days before, so check with your cruise line so you know how soon you can do this.
More check-in time slots will be available when check-in opens, and those early time slots fill up very fast. The easiest way to do this is through the app, and even if you don’t complete the entire check-in process you can at least lock in the check-in time right away. Often the earliest times are around 10:30am or 11:00am.
Here’s another important tip that involves planning before boarding day, but it’s one of my main recommendations when cruising from a port far from home.
Booking a pre-cruise hotel near your cruise port takes all the stress and hassle out of a day that will be rather busy.
I always recommend flying into the city you will be sailing out of 1 or 2 days ahead of time. This way even if there is bad weather and your flight has to be delayed you won’t have to sweat missing your ship.
Additionally, if you book a hotel that is near the cruise port you can often get free or very inexpensive transportation to the port as part of your stay. Even if you drive to the port some hotels will allow you to keep your car there during your vacation.
Just make this extra day or two another part of your vacation.
You can and should do this step early on as well. The app makes the check-in process very simple and quick, and it allows you to book all kinds of other amenities you may want on your cruise.
You should pre-book everything you know you will want to do or have on your cruise. Things like drink packages, Wi-Fi, spa services, specialty dining, shore excursions etc. are all things you can book through the app or website. Additionally, you can often save money by booking in advanced.
Another perk of booking services ahead of time is having more time-slots to choose from, since certain popular restaurants or excursions could fill up quickly.
The more information you fill out in the app the more time you will save in the terminal. I will mention that a few times in this article, since after all this is all about making that embarkation day as easy as possible
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Fill out the health questionnaire
This will have to get done anyway, so you might as well get it done early. You can usually do this through the cruise line’s app, but fill out that questionnaire and save time at the terminal.
Most all U.S. cruise ports have done away with COVID testing protocols and extra requirements, so the questionnaire is pretty much like it was before the shutdowns. If you need to fill out the paper version of the health questionnaire with your cruise line just fill it out as soon as you can.
Have documentation ready in digital and physical format
Double-check all documents and have both digital and physical copies of each. Even if you don’t have a physical printout of your documentation at least save the files on your phone offline. You don’t want to have to rely on your signal strength and delay the process.
Phone signal or Wi-Fi signal in terminal may not be strong, although many newer terminals have Wi-Fi throughout. You can use the folder on your phone or other apps to have copies of your documents that are accessible off-line even if you don’t have a signal.
I always like to make a copy of my passport as well, and I will keep it in my stateroom safe. So if something happens to my actual passport I at least have a fallback plan to make the next steps a little easier.
And then have all those documents ready to go. You can keep them in a special case or folder, but you don’t want to be shuffling through your bags when you’re being called up.
Reinforce your luggage tag with a plastic holder
The only thing telling the crew where your suitcase belongs is that luggage tag. You know, the one you printed off at home and is made out of paper. And no matter how many times you staple it and try to wrap it in tape, it can still easily fall off.
Save yourself a trip to guest services by picking up a luggage tag holder so you can secure your tag to your bag. You can pick them up on Amazon pretty cheaply (Affiliate Link).
Put the essentials in your carry-on
Since you will probably and should probably have a porter take your large pieces of luggage for you (more on this later), make sure you always keep the essentials on-hand.
On the rare occurrence that your luggage gets lost or does not show up in your stateroom right away you need to be able to have access to any medications, documents, and devices you will need in the meantime. I always like to have an extra change of clothing in my carry-on as well in the event this happens.
Having a bathing suit in your carry-on is always a good ideas as well. The pools, watersides and hot tubs will be open when you board the ship, and many like to enjoy these areas while their staterooms are being prepared. Another perk of jumping in the pool right away on embarkation day is that they aren’t usually that busy.
Know what items are not allowed
Packing an item that is not allowed on your cruise ship will just bog down your embarkation process. Know what you should leave at home. Items like irons and steamers, knives, candles, and even certain types of decorations aren’t allowed on board.
Some of the most common items people put in their luggage are extension cords (including surge-protector power strips) and too much alcohol, as cruise lines only allow for a certain amount to be brought on board.
Also know that weapons and any illegal substances in your bags will just slow down your boarding day process (which could be the least of your worries), so know what is allowed and what isn’t.
Arrive at the check-time time
You can arrive a few minutes before your check-in time as you allow for the time it takes to park and grab your luggage, but don’t get there too early. As mentioned earlier, you will more than likely be turned away and told to come back later if you arrive well ahead of your check-in time. This can depend on the port or terminal on how they enforce this.
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Let the porter take your bags
You might want to save a few dollars by carrying all your luggage onto the ship yourself, but don’t. Not only will it be a major pain to walk through the ship with all those bags, it will only make elevators more cramped and be a nuisance to other travelers. You only need to tip a few dollars to the porter and the bags will magically appear in your stateroom. Again, you will want to keep your essential items with you, so keep that carry-on and let the rest go.
Once on board you should do the following things on embarkation day
Note: Once you’re on the ship you may notice how crowded the atrium area can be. The mid-ship elevators can get quite crowded as well, so I will usually walk forward or aft to find an easier way to navigate the ship. You will find elevators and stairwells much more accessible away from the bottleneck of the ship’s entry point.
Make your specialty restaurant reservations
While sometimes you can make these reservations ahead of time through the app, most of the time you have to go to a restaurant on board the ship and make them in person. If there is a particular restaurant you really want to try and you have a certain time in mind you should do this right after you get on the ship. Usually you can make reservations at any other restaurants from any single dining venue, so go ahead and get it all done then.
If you have a dining package you should definitely do this right away. Come prepared with the list of restaurants at which you want to eat, including preferred days and times to enjoy your specialty dining experience.
Some of the best times fill up fast, and there is a greater interest in specialty dining on some of the major lines these days.
One quick tip to note is that typically specialty dining restaurants are not as busy on embarkation day so you can try one of those venues on the first night to see how you like it.
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Complete the digital e-muster drill
The days of standing in a very crowded line on the lifeboat deck for 30 minutes while a list of names is read aloud are over, for the most part.
In the post-shutdown era some cruise lines are still fine-tuning how they carry out these “digital muster drills”. But it’s easier now than ever to comply with the requirements of the “lifeboat drill” using an app on your phone or your stateroom’s TV.
With many lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival, guests simply need to watch a presentation on their phones and find their way to their muster station where a crew member will record their attendance. This can be done at different times as long as it’s completed in a timely manner before the ship needs to set sail.
A problem some lines have run into though is that some passengers still fail to report to their muster stations. And according to International Maritime Law passengers needs to complete the safety briefing before the ship leaves port. This has lead to the frustration of captain and crew as ships have tight schedules to keep.
So don’t be “that guy” that holds up everyone else’s vacation. Get the muster drill completed and enjoy that cruise.
Make reservations for shows and activities on the app
Even for some of the free shows on cruise ships it’s recommended that you make a reservation to make sure you have a seat. This will vary by cruise line, but I recommend you get on the app and see what activities or shows you want to try out that require a reservation. Some of these can only be booked once you’re on the ship’s Wi-Fi and can’t be done ahead of time.
Check your table assignment in the main dining room
If you have a fixed dining time for your cruise you can head over to the main dining room and see where your table is. This will help you know its exact location and also if the location needs to be changed for one reason or another. This is especially important if you’re traveling in a group and would like a table to seat everyone, or even if you’re traveling as a couple and would like a table for two.
Check out the kid’s area
If you’re traveling without children you can skip this one, but if you did happen to bring those precious little angels with you, you should definitely check out the kid’s club.
These areas are like an open-house on embarkation day so you can get a tour of the facilities, meet the staff that will be working with the children, and check out the hours of operation.
This is also when you will get your kids signed-up and, you can go over any allergies or limitations with the crew. It will take a few minutes to fill out a few forms, but doing this on day one makes it easier later on when it’s time to drop your kids off and scurry away to watch a show.
Your kids will get a wristband and be all set for drop-off later on that night. I also find that it’s good for the kids to get to meet the staff and see all the cool toys and games so they are more familiar with the area and will even be excited about it (hopefully).
Enjoy some lunch
Most passengers head straight for the buffet area, so that will be the most crowded place to eat. But many ships have other places you can grab a bite to eat on embarkation day as well.
Many don’t realize that even main dining rooms are often open for lunch and it’s a much quieter way to get some sustenance after a long day of handling logistics. Wherever you decide to eat make sure you do take the time to start enjoying some of the hard-earned money you spent on the cruise.
Explore the ship
This is my favorite part. It’s something I do after all the other “business” areas are taken care of. I might check out a few deck plans ahead of time, but mostly I just peruse the ship and get familiar with my home-away-from-home for the week.
It’s important to do this on day one so you know what the cruise ship actually offers. I’ve come across many cruisers who found their favorite venue on day 4 or 5 of a cruise and wish they knew about it sooner.
Sure, you can do some of this ahead of time by watching Youtube videos on your cruise ship, but by walking around and exploring in person you will get a better feel for the layout of the ship and spend less time backtracking later on.
Make mental notes along the way of places you want to check out later and just soak it all in. There’s nothing like that excitement of being on a cruise ship for the first time.
Meet your stateroom attendant
In all the hustle and bustle it’s important not to forget the person who will be cleaning up after you all week. Meeting your stateroom attendant is not only a nice gesture for the crew, but it also helps to iron out any issues you might have. If you need the room setup a certain way, need extra pillows, or have any other kinds of needs you can let them know on day one.
And it’s always nice to put a face with a name for a more personal experience. I always try to make sure my first encounter with my cabin steward is a positive one, not one where I have this huge problem and need it fixed right away.
The cruise ship is always abuzz on embarkation day, and it won’t take long to come across some day 1 deals. This is especially true in the spa area. On most cruise ships there is some kind of raffle in the spa on boarding day, and you simply need to enter your name and show up for the drawing.
There are also sales on retail items throughout the ship and many limited time offerings. So, you might as well take advantage of them.
Put your phone in airplane mode
You don’t have to do this one right away, but sometime before the ship leaves port you will want to enter airplane mode on your devices. I’ve known many to rack up huge phone bills because their phone connected to the cruise ship’s towers and ran up some serious charges.
And even if your phone does not connect to the ship automatically it will just drain the battery by looking for a signal. Just go into airplane mode, turn on Wi-Fi to connect to the ship, and enjoy your vacation. Remember, you don’t actually need to sign up for a Wi-Fi plan to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi. It’s just a great way to see what’s going on around the ship and stay on top of your account.
Embarkation day is an exciting part of the cruise experience. It’s important to take the time to enjoy the process and make the most of the day. Make sure you are prepared with all necessary documents, have a plan for getting to your departure port on time, and come with a positive attitude.
While embarkation day can be stressful, it is also a great opportunity to get acquainted with fellow passengers and explore the ship before setting off on your journey.
And yes, there are actually 20 items on our list. Consider it a bonus ;).
