Waiter in a white uniform serving guests in an elegant cruise ship dining room

The 5 Best Cruise Lines to Work For: Contracts, Benefits and How to Apply

The best cruise lines to work for depend on your role, nationality and languages, but five stand out for different reasons: Royal Caribbean for sheer scale and promotion paths, Disney Cruise Line for shorter contracts and strong benefits, MSC Cruises for structured training, Cunard for experienced hospitality staff who want a classic luxury setting, and AIDA Cruises for German speakers. All of them share the basics of cruise ship work: multi-month contracts, long days with few full days off, and free food and accommodation on board.

This guide compares each line’s typical contracts, benefits and hiring routes, then covers what every applicant needs (STCW safety training, a seafarer medical and the right visa) and how to pick the line that suits you. Cruise lines publish little about pay, so where figures vary or aren’t public we say so rather than guess.

Best Cruise Lines to Work For: Quick Comparison

Cruise line Typical contract Main language on board Stand-out benefit Best suited to
Royal Caribbean International Around 4-8 months English Huge fleet, lots of internal promotion Ambitious first-timers and tipped roles
Disney Cruise Line 3-8 months, most 4-6 English Matched retirement plan, theme park admission Guest-facing and entertainment staff
MSC Cruises Often around 5-7 months (reported) English, plus European languages valued Pre-boarding training academies Multilingual applicants
Cunard Varies by role English Small, upscale fleet with formal service Experienced hotel and fine-dining staff
AIDA Cruises About 3-6 months German with guests, English among crew EU-standard contracts for EU citizens German speakers

Contract lengths come from the lines’ own career pages where published, and from reputable cruise press where not. They vary by position, and senior and officer roles usually differ from the ranges above.

What Working on a Cruise Ship Is Really Like

Before comparing employers, it helps to know what is common to almost every line:

  • Contracts, not permanent jobs (at first). Most crew sign on for several months, then go home for a break, often around six to eight weeks, before the next contract.
  • Long hours. Ten to twelve hours a day, seven days a week, is normal in many departments. Time off is usually counted in hours, so you may get an afternoon ashore in port rather than whole days off.
  • Room and board included. Crew typically share a cabin, eat in a crew mess and have crew-only facilities such as a bar, gym and sometimes a pool.
  • Flights usually paid to and from the ship for most crew, though terms vary by line and contract.
  • Pay varies widely. Base salaries for entry-level roles are modest, and in tipped or commission roles (bar, dining, spa, retail, casino) a large share of earnings can depend on guests and sales. Lines rarely publish pay, so ask the recruiter for the exact package in writing.

1. Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is one of the world’s biggest cruise brands, and that scale is its main appeal for crew. More ships means more vacancies, more departments and more room to be promoted. Its newest Icon-class ships carry several thousand crew each; our guide to Royal Caribbean ships by age shows how varied the fleet is, from older, smaller ships to the latest mega-ships.

Contracts and benefits

  • Contracts typically run around four to eight months depending on the role.
  • Benefits reported for crew include accommodation, meals, medical care on board, crew gyms, free messaging-app Wi-Fi and cruise discounts for family.
  • Royal Caribbean Group, which also owns Celebrity Cruises, hires through its official careers site and a network of approved recruitment partners in different countries.

Good fit for: first-time crew in hotel, food and beverage roles, and people who want a clear ladder to supervisor and manager jobs.

2. Disney Cruise Line

Disney is often named by crew as a good employer, partly because its contracts are shorter than average. Disney says contracts range from three to eight months, with most positions averaging four to six. The fleet is growing, with new ships added in recent years; see our list of Disney cruise ships from newest to oldest.

Contracts and benefits

  • Benefits listed by Disney include a company-matched retirement savings plan after 90 days, complimentary theme park admission for you and your family, bi-weekly pay, medical coverage while on contract, training and recognition programmes.
  • Most crew share a cabin and have access to a 24-hour crew gym, recreation room and dining areas.
  • You apply through Disney Careers by choosing your country of residence; each country page lists available roles and Disney’s approved local recruitment partner.

Good fit for: people who enjoy guest interaction, youth activities and entertainment, and who are comfortable with Disney’s strict appearance and conduct standards.

Cruise ship crew members in uniform standing on an outdoor deck
Crew contracts usually last several months with a break in between. Photo: Moisés Fonseca on Pexels

3. MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a fast-growing, Swiss-based line with a strongly international crew and guests from across Europe and the Americas. It puts a lot of emphasis on training: MSC says it runs pre-embarkation hospitality training at schools in several countries, alongside onboard training and the mandatory STCW safety courses.

Contracts and benefits

  • English is a primary requirement, assessed against the CEFR language framework; Italian, Spanish, German or French are a real advantage in guest-facing roles.
  • Contracts are reported to be in the region of five to seven months, followed by around two months at home, though this varies by role.
  • Crew benefits reported include shared accommodation and meals, crew bar and gym, medical care and free messaging Wi-Fi.

The quality of the guest experience on MSC varies quite a bit between ship classes, as our MSC ships ranked by guest reviews shows, and crew facilities tend to be better on newer ships too.

Good fit for: multilingual applicants, and people from countries where MSC runs training academies.

4. Cunard

Cunard operates four ships: Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Anne. It is run by Carnival UK, which also manages P&O Cruises, so recruitment goes through Carnival UK and its approved agencies. With a smaller fleet there are fewer vacancies, but the setting is formal and traditional, and transatlantic crossings on Queen Mary 2 are unique in the industry.

Contracts and benefits

  • Contract lengths depend on the role; ask the recruiter for exact terms.
  • Many roles ask for previous cruise, four- or five-star hotel or upscale restaurant experience, and some request qualifications such as WSET wine certificates or food safety awards.
  • Carnival UK job adverts note that some compliance documents or training may initially be at your own cost, with some refundable once your first assignment starts. Cunard says its agencies never charge a fee to apply.

Good fit for: experienced hospitality professionals, especially in fine dining and wine service, who want a classic British luxury brand on their CV.

5. AIDA Cruises

AIDA is Germany’s biggest cruise line, sailing mainly for German-speaking guests. That makes it an excellent option if you speak German, and largely closed if you don’t: German is the language used with guests, and good English is needed because the crew is international.

Contracts and benefits

  • AIDA says assignments usually last about three to six months, depending on the role and deployment area.
  • EU citizens receive contracts under EU rules including social and health insurance, and after several successful assignments crew can move to a permanent contract.
  • Benefits listed include single or shared cabins, free meals and drinks in the crew mess, uniforms cleaned free, crew pool, sauna, gym and bar, internet access, and travel paid for crew joining from outside Germany.
  • The minimum age is 18, and tattoos and piercings are accepted.

Good fit for: German speakers, including career changers, as some entry roles don’t require formal training.

Orange life jackets and safety equipment on a ship deck used in crew safety training
STCW safety training is required for almost every crew role. Photo: Bohdan Hyrovych on Pexels

Cruise Ship Job Requirements: STCW, Medical and Visas

Whichever cruise line you choose, expect to need the following before you join a ship:

  1. A valid passport with plenty of validity left.
  2. STCW Basic Safety Training. This international certificate covers personal survival, fire prevention and firefighting, elementary first aid, and personal safety and social responsibility. Passenger ship crew also do crowd and crisis management training. Some lines arrange it after hiring, but applicants who already hold it are often preferred.
  3. A seafarer medical. You must pass a medical arranged by the line or hold a recognised certificate such as the UK ENG1. Germany has its own sea-fitness certificate for AIDA crew.
  4. The right visa. If your ship calls at U.S. ports and you are not a U.S. citizen or green card holder, you will usually need a C1/D crew visa, normally applied for after a job offer.
  5. A background check and, for some lines, a police clearance certificate.

Minimum age is usually 21 for many roles, though some lines (AIDA, for example) accept 18-year-olds.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You

  • Start with your languages. English-only speakers have the widest choice with Royal Caribbean, Disney and Cunard; German opens AIDA; other European languages help with MSC.
  • Match your experience to the brand. Mass-market lines hire more entry-level staff; luxury and premium brands like Cunard usually want hotel or fine-dining experience.
  • Think about contract length. Disney’s and AIDA’s shorter stints suit people who don’t want to be away for eight months.
  • Compare the full package, not just base pay. Ask about tips or commission, flights, contract length, leave between contracts and medical cover.
  • Read crew reviews critically. Sites like Glassdoor and Indeed carry crew reviews, but they mix shoreside and shipboard staff and change over time, so read recent shipboard reviews rather than relying on a headline score.

How to Apply (and Avoid Job Scams)

Apply only through the cruise line’s official careers website or the recruitment partners it lists for your country. Under the Maritime Labour Convention, seafarers should not be charged fees for recruitment or placement, so treat any “agent” demanding money for a guaranteed job with suspicion. Be wary of offers that arrive by WhatsApp or social media without an interview, and never pay to “reserve” a position. You may pay for your own medical, STCW course or visa in some cases, but those payments go to clinics, training centres or embassies, not to a recruiter.

Many of the well-known Carnival cruise directors started out in the Fun Squad or as performers before being promoted to run a ship’s entertainment.

If one of these employers appeals, our guide to how to get a job on a cruise ship covers the paperwork, typical pay and recruitment scams to watch for.

FAQs

Which cruise line is best to work for?

There’s no single best. Royal Caribbean offers the most vacancies and promotion paths, Disney has shorter contracts and strong benefits, MSC suits multilingual applicants, Cunard suits experienced luxury hospitality staff, and AIDA is ideal for German speakers.

How long are cruise ship contracts?

Most crew contracts last between about three and nine months depending on the line and role, followed by a break at home of roughly six to eight weeks.

Do cruise lines pay well?

It depends on the role. Entry-level base pay is modest, but food and accommodation are free, so many crew save most of what they earn. Tipped and commission roles, officers and specialists can earn considerably more.

Can I apply for jobs at Royal Caribbean online?

Yes. Royal Caribbean Group posts shipboard vacancies on its official careers website, and in many countries it also hires through approved recruitment partners.

Do I need STCW training to work on a cruise ship?

Most crew need STCW Basic Safety Training. Some lines provide it after you’re hired, but having it already can make your application stronger.

MedallionNet_Max-scaled.jpg

Princess Cruises Introduces Next-Level Connectivity With MedallionNet Max

Princess Cruises has announced the launch of MedallionNet Max, a new level of onboard Wi-Fi service that will meet the growing demands of today’s intensively digitally connected travelers and continue expanding the cruise vacation market. MedallionNet Max will be available exclusively in Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages.

Since 2018, Princess has led the industry on high-performance onboard Wi-Fi, aggressively adopting service new satellite constellations, including a Wi-Fi access point in every stateroom on every ship and ensuring that Wi-Fi service access is simple and hassle-free. Princess is the only cruise operator that has adopted every source of bandwidth spanning the globally deployed fleet, including LEO (Starlink), MEO, GEO satellite constellations, as well as 5G terrestrial.

Introducing MedallionNet Max

Princess will now offer two tiers of Wi-Fi service: MedallionNet Classic and MedallionNet Max. MedallionNet Classic will offer the same service performance, reliability, and global coverage that Princess guests enjoy today. MedallionNet Max will now be the highest-performing service tier, with prioritized access to the highest-quality and highest-performance bandwidth available anywhere in the world, which is typically Starlink.

MedallionNet Max will only be available in the brand’s industry-leading bundles – Princess Plus and Princess Premier. These packages are engineered to give guests the maximum experience and value.

A la carte pricing for MedallionNet Classic remains $24.99 per day for a single-device plan and $44.99 per day for a multi-device plan. Consistent with the cruise brand’s relentless focus on personalized and hassle-free service, guests will not have to do anything different onboard to access the different services.

As indicated on the Princess app, the appropriate service level will be assigned based on each guest’s package. A single guest network will remain, reducing guest confusion related to network names or any complications added to the onboard experience.

To preview the new service tier, Princess Cruises will host the first-ever land/sea custom UGC competition, leveraging a custom Minecraft world – Princess Cruises Nautical Quest. The August 7 match-up will feature 32 of the world’s most popular UGC players, with eight of the gamers – Shubble, Krinios, Fruitberries, vGumiho, Sneegsnag, JimmyHere, Smajor, and Hannahxxrose – competing aboard Enchanted Princess in the Caribbean against 24 others who will play from home as millions of fans tune in to watch online.

“Just like we did when we launched MedallionNet Classic almost seven years ago, Princess continues to ensure guests have access to the highest performing connectivity available at industry-leading value,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “By including MedallionNet Max in our incredible bundles, we are guaranteeing the best possible onboard experience with the best value anywhere in the world as our guests explore over 330 destinations via our world-class globally deployed fleet.”

A History of Upping the Connectivity Ante

MedallionNet MaxMedallionNet Max
Majestic Princess

In early 2018, Princess established a new connectivity standard for guests on its cruise ships by smashing the bandwidth-at-sea world record with the initial launch of its MedallionNet connectivity service aboard Regal Princess. At a time when the industry average was 10-20 Mbps per ship, Regal Princess reached 2.25 Gbps, demonstrating there were no practical limits to progressing shipboard connectivity. Since that time, the connectivity landscape has changed dramatically with Starlink, with onboard Wi-Fi increasingly becoming a commodity. However, Princess will continue to ensure connectivity experience differentiation by making it the best value and most hassle-free experience possible.

While MedallionNet Max will only be available within the inclusive Princess Plus and Princess Premier bundles, guests opting to sail with the standard Princess vacation package still will be able to purchase MedallionNet Classic connectivity with no change to pricing.

In addition to premium connectivity, guests opting for the inclusive Princess Plus and Princess Premier will also enjoy popular amenities like beverages, casual dining, desserts, complimentary room service, fitness classes, crew gratuities and more at an even greater savings of up 65% than when the inclusive package amenities are purchased separately.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor by calling 1-800-PRINCESS (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting the company’s website at www.princess.com.

Source link

AOV_Arctic_Gravnesodden13.jpg

Atlas Ocean Voyages Introduces 2026 Arctic Season

Atlas Ocean Voyages has announced that its 2026 Arctic Season will feature six and seven-night expeditions and include pre-cruise hotel stays for the first time. Onboard World Voyager and World Navigator, the season will also discover new ports exploring the remote Skjoldungen Island in Greenland, the heart of Icelandic culture in Stykkishólmur, and “miniature Norway” from Senja, the island of adventure. Reaching restricted areas for larger ships from Svalbard, Atlas’ small, intimate yachts allow fewer than 200 guests to explore the remote region. All expeditions departing from Longyearbyen and Kangerluusuaq include the pre-cruise hotel. 

2026 Arctic Season

“Atlas Ocean Voyages continues to leverage our smaller size to expand expedition experiences, including exploring Svalbard, which will soon not be accessible to larger ships with stringent restrictions.’ shares James A. Rodriguez, president and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages. “I am enthused by the Arctic program the team has assembled for the 2026 season, especially these sailings, which enable guests to explore the most remote regions.”

Shorter Svalbard expeditions

Guests embark on a 7-night expedition from Tromsø to Longyearbyen featuring ports along the stunning Norwegian coast, including Hammerfest and Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway, before culminating in the breathtaking landscapes of Svalbard departing May 22, 2026, A six or seven -night expedition Longyearbyen roundtrip is available for departures May 29, June 5 and June 11, 2026.

Iceland and Greenland

Expeditions will continue visiting Greenland in 2026, a favorite offering allowing travelers to explore Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland in one extraordinary journey. Whether it’s the towering icebergs, vibrant coastal villages, or the mesmerizing Northern Lights, each day promises a new and awe-inspiring experience. Choose from expeditions of 10 to 15 nights for an unforgettable experience: July 29,  July 31,  Aug 11 (solar eclipse), Aug 15, Aug 20, Aug 30, August 31, and Sept 10, 2026.

Norway

Senja, NorwaySenja, Norway
Senja, Norway (credit: Atlas Ocean Voyages)

Two departures featuring the Norwegian fjords and Svalbard depart June 18 and July 19, 2026.

Included Private Jet Service from Oslo or New York JFK

On expeditions embarking or concluding in Longyearbyen or Kangerlussuaq, guests will enjoy an inclusive charter flight inclusion. Expeditions departing or ending in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, include charter air flights from Oslo, Norway to Longyearbyen, making it easier for guests to begin or end their expedition. Expeditions departing or ending in Kangerlusssuaq will include charter air flights from New York JFK.

NEW Included Pre-Cruise Hotel in Oslo or New York

For our 2026 Arctic polar expeditions, a complimentary pre-cruise hotel night is included for all departures from Longyearbyen, with accommodations provided in Oslo, Norway, the night before the charter flight. Additionally, for the August 31, 2026, departure from Kangerlussuaq, a pre-cruise hotel night will be offered in New York the night before the charter flight.

Exclusive Cultural Immersions

Every 2026 Polar Expedition by Atlas includes a free Cultural Immersion experience, offering guests unique insights into local communities. Examples include visits to Indigenous villages like Ittoqqortoormiit, Paimutt, or Ilulisat in Greenland, where guests can engage with local traditions, taste regional treats, and explore cultural nuances. In Longyearbyen, guests will enjoy a panoramic drive and a welcome aboard event featuring an insightful talk on local life, complemented by delicacies such as reindeer canapés, coal mine beer, and regional chocolate.

Adventure activities include FREE Zodiac sightseeing safaris, allowing for up-close-and-personal experiences with stunning landscapes and wildlife. Plus, landings ashore, where our world-class expedition team guides you, and for the daring, take the plunge with our exhilarating polar plunge opportunity, creating memories that last a lifetime. Each guest also receives a complimentary parka to take home with them.

For information and reservations, call a travel advisor at 1.844.44.ATLAS or visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.

Source link

starbreeze-3840-JPG-download-scaled.jpg

Windstar Cruises’ 2026 European Voyages Boast 15 Fresh Itineraries And 24 First-Time Ports

Windstar Cruises unveils its 2026 European Voyages with more new ports and itineraries than the line has ever debuted in a single season. 

There are 15 brand-new itineraries, 34 first-time ports, a litany of new Star Collector sailings (which combine several itineraries into one epic/longer adventure), and a first-ever Windstar Solar Eclipse. The August 12, 2026, Around Iceland: A Total Solar Eclipse will place Windstar guests in the path of totality. 

2026 European Voyages

A new 81-day Star Collector, 2026 Grand Europe Adventure, begins in Helsinki, Finland on July 14, 2026, and visits 20 countries and 67 ports of call before ending in Athens, Greece. Overnight stays for up to 4 days in a single destination and late-night departures allow guests to travel further inland.

The line will also debut new cruise tours from Madrid, allowing guests to explore further inland in Spain; a brand-new circumnavigation of Ireland; a deep dive into the Aeolian Islands; and an exploration of Northern Greece with highlights like the chance to visit the Meteora Monasteries from the port of Volos. A larger sampling of new itineraries is listed below.    

To celebrate the news, Windstar is concurrently launching an early booking offer. Those who book a 2026 European cruise by October 31, 2024, will enjoy a complimentary All-Inclusive experience — featuring Wi-Fi, unlimited wine, beer, and cocktails, and all gratuities — plus a $100 onboard credit per stateroom.

“Our year-round cruises in the Mediterranean and Europe have more small-ship-only destinations than ever before,” says Jess Peterson, Windstar’s itinerary planner. “We’ve designed these voyages with a focus on regional exploration, so that means more overnight stays and off-the-beaten-path experiences to help give you a deeper, more genuine look at some of Europe’s best spots.” 

New itineraries and ports mean a host of new shore excursions, and Windstar’s team vets every offering to bring a truly special and uniquely local experience to life – like creating molded chocolates in Bruges, Belgium or learning the lyra in Thessaloniki, Greece. 

Selected 2026 New Itinerary Highlights

Atlantic France (7 nights): Get an in-depth exploration of France on a single cruise. Embark from Bordeaux and its unmatched wineries before sailing down the Dordogne River to the Atlantic and La Rochelle for feasting on oysters; then to Lorient, which accepts just one ship per day; followed by St. Malo, where a late night makes it easy to also visit Mont Saint-Michel. A mid-cruise jaunt to the UK with a visit to Guernsey in the Channel Islands is an interlude before returning to France and Cherbourg, where one can retrace the footsteps of WWII soldiers at the landing beach sites in Normandy. Finally, there is scenic cruising on the Seine before overnighting in Paris. 

Treasure Troves of Corsica & Sardinia (7 nights): Vacation where the Italians and French do on this roundtrip voyage from Rome. Dolphin watching in Golfo Aranci; promenading at sunset on an overnight in Alghero; coastal driving in Bonifacio; wine tasting in Bastia; and exploring Napoleon’s birthplace in Ajaccio are highlights.    

Northern Spain & Portugal (8 nights): Leave from Lisbon and end with an overnight in Bordeaux. This sailing gives a chance to explore destinations outside of Portugal and Spain’s major cities with stops in small ports of the Galicia and Asturias regions of Spain (plus an overnight in Bilbao) as well as charming Porto and Lisbon. 

Norway’s Southern Splendors (8 nights): Explore little-known fishing ports and scenic inlets along Norway’s southern coastline including charming Rosendal and cozy Egersund, both first-time ports for Windstar. Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites like Urnes Stave Church, savor local cuisine, and marvel at natural wonders like Sognefjord, the majestic “King of Fjords.” 

Off-the-Beaten-Path Greek Islands (7 nights): Sail to less popular islands in Greece like Syros, Samos, Naxos, Folegandros, and Milos, enjoying secluded crystalline beaches, hidden harbors, and romantic ruins. Experience a moonlight concert in Ephesus, sample local Muscat wines in Samos, and wander ancient temples. 

Tulip Season in Holland & Belgium (7 nights): Breathe in the height of tulip season in Holland, when the fields explode with vibrant colors. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens, explore new-to-Windstar destinations and overnight in Antwerp, whose exclusive seaport accepts only one ship per day. Cyclists will especially enjoy chances for rides in the countryside outside Harlingen.  

Bella Italia: A Southern Italian Romance (8 nights): Travel like a local in southern Italy’s Calabria and Puglia regions. Explore the winding lanes of Taranto — a coastal city rich in Greek ruins and medieval fortification — before visiting Otranto’s picturesque harbor and Croatia’s Island of Rab.  

Treasures of Southern Spain & Morocco (8 nights): Have a brilliant combination of desirable ports on this Barcelona to Lisbon sailing, including the return of Windstar to Seville. (Windstar is one of the few cruise lines that can do the 50-mile scenic sailing up the Guadalquivir River to access this cultural capital of Southern Spain.) A visit to Tangier, Morocco is another highlight.  

Star Collectors are longer voyages combining one or more cruises into a comprehensive voyage of 13+ days with few repeated ports. Windstar’s itinerary planning team selects popular itineraries to link up for longer adventures allowing guests to make the most of their time away. As a bonus, free daily laundry is provided so guests can still pack light. 

For a full list of voyages, visit windstarcruises.com. 

Source link

F1-Trailer-FP-0011png.png

MSC Cruises Partners On Highly Anticipated New Movie “F1”

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.

Source link

cruise-ship-engine-room-1.jpg

Cruise Ship Engine Issues Cause Entire Itinerary To Change

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!

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

See the latest Carnival cruise offers…

Related posts

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

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.

Read more about me

Source link

ncl_Brkwy_Blackjack2_192.jpeg

Discover The Best Casino Entertainment Options For South African Cruise Enthusiasts

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

Best Casino EntertainmentBest Casino Entertainment
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.

Source link

Handheld walkie-talkie two-way radio, the type of FRS radio families take on cruise ships

The Best Walkie-Talkies for Cruise Ships (and When to Skip Them)

The best walkie-talkies for cruise ships are simple, licence-free FRS radios from brands such as Motorola Talkabout, Midland and Cobra, kept under 5 watts so they meet cruise line rules. They work best between nearby decks, as thick steel walls cut range sharply. On many ships, the cruise line’s own app chat is now cheaper and more reliable.

That said, radios still have fans. They don’t need WiFi, kids find them fun, and there is no lag when you just want to say “meet at the buffet”. This guide covers which lines allow them, what licence rules apply, what range to really expect, which features to look for, and when you should skip radios and use your phone.

Can You Bring Walkie-Talkies on a Cruise?

On most major lines, yes, as long as your radios are small, low-powered consumer models. Ham radios and similar transmitting gear are banned on all the big lines, and policies differ, so check your line’s prohibited items page before you sail. Here is where things stood at the time of writing (October 2026):

Cruise line Walkie-talkies allowed? Key rules
Royal Caribbean Yes Two-way radios are allowed up to a maximum range of 10 miles and 5 watts of power. They must be for voice only, with no external antenna. Ham radios are prohibited.
Carnival Yes Carnival has said guests can use them. It asks you to keep the volume down and switch them off during shows.
Norwegian Cruise Line No “Walkie-talkies” are named on NCL’s prohibited items list, along with ham radios and satellite phones.
Disney Cruise Line Not specifically listed Disney’s list bans ham radios and communication scanners but does not name walkie-talkies. Its Navigator app chat is free, so most families use that.
Other lines (MSC, Princess, Celebrity and more) Varies Check the current prohibited items list on the line’s official website. Security can confiscate anything they consider unsuitable.

One useful point: Royal Caribbean’s limits are based on the range and wattage printed on the box. A radio sold as “up to 36 miles” may technically break that rule, even though it will never reach anything close to that at sea. Choose models whose specs sit within the limits so you don’t have a problem at the security scanner.

FRS vs GMRS vs PMR446: Which Type Do You Need?

Consumer walkie-talkies use one of a few radio services, and which one you can legally use depends on where you are from.

FRS (US, no licence)

Family Radio Service radios are the plug-and-play option sold in most US stores. You don’t need a licence. Power is capped at 2 watts on most channels and 0.5 watts on channels 8 to 14. For cruise use, FRS is the obvious choice: legal, cheap and well within cruise line limits.

GMRS (US, FCC licence required)

General Mobile Radio Service radios share many channels with FRS but can transmit at higher power. You need an FCC GMRS licence to use them. At the time of writing it costs $35, lasts 10 years and covers your immediate family. Many handheld GMRS radios run at up to 5 watts. That is right at Royal Caribbean’s limit, and some have removable antennas, which can raise questions at security. The extra power helps a bit through steel, but it is no miracle.

PMR446 (UK and Europe, no licence)

If you are sailing from the UK or Europe, the licence-free standard is PMR446, limited to 0.5 watts. US FRS and GMRS radios use frequencies that are not approved for licence-free use in the UK and EU. So buy PMR446 sets for European sailings, and don’t bring US radios to use on a Mediterranean or Northern Europe cruise.

Do Walkie-Talkies Work on Cruise Ships? The Range Reality

This is where expectations and reality part ways. Range claims like “25 miles” or “36 miles” assume an open, flat landscape with a clear line of sight. A cruise ship is the opposite: a stack of steel decks, fire doors, bulkheads and machinery, which together block and reflect radio signals.

In practice, you can expect:

  • Same deck, open area: generally good, often from one end of the pool deck to the other.
  • A few decks apart in the same section: usually workable, especially near atriums and stairwells.
  • Cabin to the opposite end of the ship, many decks down: often patchy or dead.
  • Inside theatres, the casino and lower interior decks: usually the weakest spots.

Two habits help. Agree on a “radio check” spot on an open deck, and move toward a window or stairwell when the signal breaks up. On the biggest ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon and Oasis classes, accept that radios will cover your neighbourhood of the ship, not the whole ship.

Families relaxing on an open cruise ship deck where walkie-talkie signals carry best
Open decks are where cruise walkie-talkies work best. Photo: emre varışlı on Pexels

The Best Walkie-Talkies for Cruise Ships: What to Look For

Instead of chasing the biggest range number on the box, look for features that matter on a ship. Several well-known model families tick most of these boxes:

  1. Motorola Talkabout T-series (FRS): widely sold in the US, with models that run on rechargeable batteries or AA batteries, and some waterproof versions (such as the floating H2O models) that suit pool decks and beach days. They are a sensible default for most families.
  2. Midland T-series (FRS): simple, light radios that kids can manage easily. Many sets come with privacy codes and a shared charging setup, and they are often sold in multipacks for bigger groups.
  3. Midland GXT series (GMRS): chunkier, higher-power radios aimed at outdoor use. They are worth considering only if you will get a GMRS licence and confirm the wattage is within your cruise line’s limit.
  4. Cobra RX and ACXT ranges (FRS): budget-friendly, rugged, often water-resistant pairs, and a good choice if you mainly want radios for port days and the pool.
  5. PMR446 sets for UK and European sailings: Motorola, Midland and Cobra all sell licence-free PMR446 versions in Europe. Buy the regional version, not the US one.

Whichever brand you choose, look for:

  • Privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS): they filter out other families on the same channel, which is a real issue on busy sailings.
  • USB charging: one cable you already pack, instead of a bulky charging cradle. Pack a multi-port USB charger, not a surge-protected power strip, which most lines prohibit.
  • Keypad lock: stops kids (and pockets) changing the channel.
  • Water resistance: handy around pools, splash pads and tender boats.
  • Earpiece socket or vibrate alert: keeps you from becoming the person whose radio squawks during dinner.
  • Specs within the rules: 5 watts or less, advertised range of 10 miles or less for Royal Caribbean, and a fixed antenna.

Expect to pay from around $30 to $60 for a basic FRS pair and more for waterproof or GMRS models. Prices change often, so compare a few retailers.

Are Walkie-Talkies Worth It on a Cruise in 2026?

For many passengers, the honest answer is “probably not”. Ships now have fast satellite WiFi, and cruise line apps include guest-to-guest messaging. Here is how the options compare:

Option Typical cost Works ship-wide? Best for
FRS walkie-talkies From around $30 to $60 a pair, used again on future trips No, it is patchy across decks Kids without phones, port days, lines without free chat
Royal Caribbean app chat Free between guests on the same sailing (connect to ship WiFi) Yes, wherever there is WiFi Royal Caribbean guests with phones
Carnival HUB app chat One-time fee, about $5 per person at the time of writing Yes Carnival families on a budget
Disney Navigator app chat Free Yes Disney Cruise Line guests
NCL onboard messaging Uses ship WiFi and Free at Sea minutes or an internet package Yes NCL guests, since radios are banned
Full WiFi package Often $20 to $30 or more per person per day Yes, plus messages home People who need WhatsApp, email or work access

App features and fees change, so check what is included before you sail. If you are weighing up connectivity, our guide to cruise ship WiFi costs and cheaper alternatives breaks down package prices by line.

Person sending a text message on a smartphone, an alternative to walkie-talkies on a cruise
Cruise line app chat has replaced radios for many families. Photo: RDNE Stock project on Pexels

When Walkie-Talkies Still Make Sense

Radios still earn a place in your bag in a few situations:

  • Kids and tweens without phones: a radio gives younger cruisers a bit of independence on the pool deck or at the kids’ club drop-off. If you are choosing a family-friendly ship, see our guide to the best Royal Caribbean ships for kids of each age.
  • Port days and private islands: ship WiFi and app chat stop working once you are away from the ship, and roaming can be expensive. A radio set works on a beach or at a private island with no data at all.
  • Groups and family reunions: one shared channel can be quicker than a dozen group chat notifications.
  • Older passengers who prefer push-to-talk: there are no apps to set up or links to accept.

Cruise Walkie-Talkie Etiquette and Pre-Cruise Checklist

A little planning avoids confiscation, flat batteries and annoyed neighbours:

  1. Read your cruise line’s prohibited items list in the week before sailing, as rules change. NCL’s walkie-talkie ban is a recent example.
  2. Check the wattage and advertised range on the box against the line’s limits.
  3. Pack radios in your carry-on so any security question is answered at the terminal, not after your checked bag goes missing until evening.
  4. Fully charge radios the night before, and bring a USB charger with enough ports.
  5. Pick a channel and privacy code at home, then lock the keypad.
  6. Agree on a backup meeting point in case radios fail.
  7. Keep the volume low, use an earpiece in quiet spaces, and switch off in theatres, restaurants and the spa.
  8. Never use radios near crew working areas or anywhere you are asked not to.

Still planning your trip? Before you buy any gadgets, compare current offers in our cruise deals 2027 guide.

If you would rather use your own phone at sea, our guide to whether the AT&T cruise package is worth it compares daily passes with ship Wi-Fi.

FAQs

Can you bring walkie-talkies on a cruise?

On most big lines, yes. Royal Caribbean allows two-way radios up to 5 watts and 10 miles of advertised range with no external antenna, and Carnival allows them too. Norwegian Cruise Line is the main exception: walkie-talkies are on its prohibited items list. Always check your line’s current list before you pack.

Do walkie-talkies work on cruise ships?

They work, but not as well as the box suggests. Steel decks and bulkheads block radio signals, so expect reliable coverage within a few decks and a section or two of the ship rather than end to end. Higher, open areas such as the pool deck work best.

Do I need a licence for cruise walkie-talkies?

In the US, FRS radios need no licence. Using GMRS channels or higher power needs an FCC GMRS licence, which costs $35 at the time of writing, lasts 10 years and covers your immediate family. In the UK and Europe, only licence-free PMR446 radios should be used.

What is the best walkie-talkie for a cruise ship?

A good choice is a rechargeable FRS pair from a mainstream brand such as Motorola Talkabout, Midland or Cobra, with privacy codes, a belt clip, a keypad lock and decent battery life. Pick a GMRS model only if you are willing to get the licence and it stays within your cruise line’s power limits.

Is it cheaper to use the cruise line app instead?

Usually, yes. Royal Caribbean’s app chat between guests on the same sailing is free over the ship’s WiFi, and Carnival’s HUB app chat has been a small one-time fee, about $5 per person. That is often cheaper than buying radios, and messages get through anywhere on board.

Travel magazines on a table beside a cup of coffee, the kind of cruise magazines UK readers browse for ideas

The Best Cruise Magazines in the UK (2026)

The best cruise magazines in the UK in 2026 are Cruise & Travel (formerly Cruise International), World of Cruising and the independent Sail Away for holiday inspiration, plus Ships Monthly and Shipping Today & Yesterday if you love the ships themselves. Most come out every two months or monthly, in print and digital editions, and several can be read for free or very cheaply if you know where to look.

A lot has changed since the last round-up of cruise magazines UK readers could rely on. Some titles have been renamed, some have merged and a few have quietly disappeared. This guide covers what is actually still being published, how often it comes out, how to read it, and which magazine suits which kind of cruiser.

Cruise magazines in the UK at a glance

Details below were checked in October 2026. Publishers change schedules and prices often, so check before you subscribe.

Magazine Focus Frequency Format
Cruise & Travel Cruise holidays, ship reviews, destinations 6 issues a year plus specials Print and digital
World of Cruising Ship reviews, destination guides, planning tips Around 6 issues a year (check current schedule) Digital (print availability varies)
Sail Away Independent UK cruise news, reviews and opinion 6 issues a year Print, plus website and video
Ships Monthly Ship news for enthusiasts: cruise, ferries, merchant Monthly Print and digital
Shipping Today & Yesterday Maritime history and modern shipping (now includes Sea Breezes) Monthly Print
Your Holiday & Cruise Magazine Holiday and cruise inspiration Twice a year Digital
Cruise & Ferry Review Trade: industry leaders, new ships, ports 2 issues a year Print and digital
Cruise Industry News Quarterly Trade: shipbuilding, operations, business 4 issues a year Print with digital edition
Porthole Cruise and Travel US consumer cruise and travel lifestyle About every 2 months Print and digital

The best cruise magazines for holidaymakers

1. Cruise & Travel (formerly Cruise International)

If you only buy one cruise magazine, this is the obvious starting point. It describes itself as the UK’s highest-selling cruise magazine and is published by The Chelsea Magazine Company. The title was long known as Cruise International, and you will still see that name on its app and on some digital newsstand listings, so don’t be confused if you search for one and find the other.

Each issue mixes ship reviews, destination features, news on new ships and itineraries, and practical advice for planning a cruise. It comes out six times a year, with occasional special editions such as an annual cruise planner. At the time of writing, single digital issues on Pocketmags were around £5.99 and the publisher’s own app offered a digital subscription of about £19.99 a year, though prices can change. Print copies are sold in larger newsagents and supermarkets, or by subscription.

2. World of Cruising

World of Cruising is a long-running UK title built around ship reviews, destination guides and planning tips. Its own website now offers the magazine as a digital edition, and its publisher lists six issues a year plus an annual cruise directory. It has often been distributed through cruise agents as well as by subscription, so you may already have been sent a copy if you have booked through a travel agent. Check the World of Cruising website for the current subscription options, as these have changed over time.

3. Sail Away

Sail Away is the newest name on this list. It launched in October 2023 as an independent UK cruise brand and has grown into a print magazine backed by a website, YouTube channel and podcasts. Because it is not owned by a large publishing group, it tends to have a chattier, more opinionated tone, including reader polls and an opinion supplement.

The print magazine comes out six times a year with a cover price of around £6.95. Subscription agent isubscribe listed a 12-month (six-issue) print subscription at £39.99 including delivery at the time of writing.

4. Your Holiday & Cruise Magazine

Published by Kent-based Atlantic Print Media, this is now an online magazine with a twice-yearly digital issue and regular email updates. It covers wider holidays as well as cruises, so it suits readers who split their time between land-based trips and sailings. It is a lighter read than the newsstand titles but a handy free source of ideas.

Large white cruise ship berthed in a harbour with people watching from the quayside
Ship enthusiast titles cover the vessels themselves as well as the holidays. Photo: Joe Ambrogio on Pexels

Magazines for ship lovers and maritime enthusiasts

Holiday magazines tell you where to go. These titles are for people who care about the ships: who built them, which ones are being renamed or sold, and how today’s fleets compare with the liners of the past.

5. Ships Monthly

Published by Kelsey Media, Ships Monthly calls itself Britain’s best-selling monthly magazine for ship lovers. It covers cruise ships alongside ferries, merchant ships and naval vessels, with plenty of photography and fleet news. It is a good choice if you like knowing what is happening behind the brochures, such as new ship deliveries, ships moving between brands and older vessels heading for scrap. Print and digital editions are available.

6. Shipping Today & Yesterday

This monthly magazine has been owned by Sundial Magazines since 2023, and from the January 2026 issue it incorporated the long-running Sea Breezes. That makes it the main home for maritime history readers, with features on classic liners, ferries and cargo ships alongside modern shipping news. If you used to buy Sea Breezes, this is now where its content lives.

Trade and international cruise magazines

These are written mainly for people who work in cruise, but curious passengers often enjoy them for an early look at new ships and industry trends.

7. Cruise & Ferry Review

Formerly known as International Cruise & Ferry Review, this UK-produced trade title publishes two issues a year (Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter in 2026), with a sister title on ship interiors. Articles are largely written by or with senior executives from cruise lines, ports and shipyards. Much of it can be read online through the Cruise & Ferry website.

8. Cruise Industry News Quarterly

A US trade magazine published four times a year, focused on shipbuilding, operations and the business side of cruising. A one-year international subscription was listed at $110 at the time of writing, and print subscribers also get the digital edition. Some of it is heavy going for a holidaymaker, but it is very good on future ship orders.

9. Porthole Cruise and Travel

Porthole is a long-established American consumer cruise magazine with a glossy, lifestyle-led style. New issues appear roughly every two months on digital newsstands such as PressReader. Its prices, deals and ship coverage lean towards the North American market, so treat it as inspiration rather than a UK booking guide.

Free cruise line magazines worth knowing about

Some of the best cruise reading is free if you have sailed before. Cruise lines use magazines to keep past guests interested, and these often preview new itineraries before they reach the newsstand titles.

  • P&O Cruises: the Peninsular Club magazine is a benefit for members from the Pacific tier upwards. If you are weighing up which ship to sail on next, our guide to P&O Cruises ships compared is a useful companion.
  • Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines: the line has published a lifestyle magazine for members of its Oceans loyalty scheme, with copies also left in cabins on board.
  • Other lines: most major cruise lines with UK offices send brochures, newsletters or loyalty magazines to past guests. Make sure your marketing preferences allow post if you want to receive them.

Remember that cruise line magazines are marketing material. They are great for itinerary ideas, but they will not compare one line fairly against another.

Person reading a digital magazine on a tablet on a sunny balcony overlooking the sea
Digital editions and library apps make it easy to read cruise magazines on the go. Photo: Helena Lopes on Pexels

Where to buy or read cruise magazines in the UK

  1. Newsagents and supermarkets: larger WHSmith branches, especially at railway stations and airports, are the most reliable place to find Cruise & Travel, Ships Monthly and other niche titles on the shelf.
  2. Direct subscription: buying from the publisher or a subscription agent usually works out cheaper per issue than the cover price, and the magazine arrives before it reaches the shops.
  3. Single digital issues: Pocketmags, Zinio and publisher apps let you buy one issue at a time, which is handy if you only want the issue covering your next destination.
  4. All-you-can-read apps: Readly and PressReader offer large libraries of magazines for a monthly fee. Titles come and go, so check the cruise titles you want are included before you sign up.
  5. Your local library: this is the tip most guides miss. Many UK library services give members free access to digital magazines through apps such as Libby or PressReader. Ships Monthly, for example, is distributed on the OverDrive and Libby platform, so it is worth checking what your council’s library offers before paying for anything.

Which cruise magazines have closed or changed name?

If you remember titles from older lists of cruise magazines UK readers used to buy, here is what we found when checking in 2026:

  • Cruise International now trades as Cruise & Travel.
  • International Cruise & Ferry Review is now Cruise & Ferry Review.
  • Sea Breezes has been folded into Shipping Today & Yesterday from January 2026.
  • Your Holiday & Cruise Magazine continues, but as an online magazine with a twice-yearly digital issue.
  • Into The Blue, Blue Horizons, YourCruise and Cruise Ahoy: we could not find current 2026 issues of these titles, so we have left them out. Some were agency or loyalty newsletters rather than newsstand magazines.

How to choose the right cruise magazine

Think about what you want from it. If you are planning your next holiday, Cruise & Travel or Sail Away will give you the most ideas per page, and pairing them with our guide to cruise deals for 2027 and when to book will help you turn inspiration into a well-priced booking. If you prefer to sail from home, look out for features on no-fly cruises, such as our guide to Norwegian fjords cruises from the UK. If you love the ships themselves, Ships Monthly is the one to pick. And if you only read occasionally, a library app or a single digital issue is better value than a full subscription.

For day-to-day tips and roll calls, our guide to the best cruise forums and online communities covers where cruisers swap advice online.

FAQs

What is the best-selling cruise magazine in the UK?

Cruise & Travel, the title formerly known as Cruise International, describes itself as the UK’s highest-selling cruise magazine. It is published six times a year in print and digital.

Can I get cruise magazines for free?

Often, yes. Cruise lines send loyalty magazines to past guests (P&O Cruises’ Peninsular Club magazine is a perk of the Pacific tier, for example), and many UK library services let members read digital magazines free through apps such as Libby or PressReader.

Is Cruise International magazine still published?

Not under that name. The magazine now trades as Cruise & Travel, and its app and Pocketmags listings still carry the old Cruise International name in places.

Where can I buy cruise magazines in the UK?

Larger WHSmith branches and supermarkets stock the newsstand titles. You can also subscribe direct from the publisher, buy digital issues on Pocketmags, Zinio or the publisher’s app, or read them as part of an all-you-can-read service such as Readly or PressReader.

Which magazine is best for ship enthusiasts rather than holidaymakers?

Ships Monthly and Shipping Today & Yesterday are aimed at people who love ships themselves: fleet news, maritime history, ferries and photography. They both come out monthly.

Costa-Serena.jpg

Six New Ships Reportedly Ordered For Carnival Group

Shipping Italy, a trade publication, has reported that the Fincantieri shipyard is in negotiations with the Carnival Corporation for six new cruise ships.

This has not been officially announced by the shipyard or the cruise company yet, and is on top of the existing orders that have already been announced, including the three new mega-ships being built for Carnival Cruise Line.

It’s not clear which cruise lines these new ships would be assigned to – but it’s believed that it could be a new series of ships for Carnival Cruise Line, new ships for AIDA Cruises, or possibly new ships for Costa Cruises.

The Carnival Corporation also includes P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, and the luxury brand Seabourn.

The six ships – with the potential option for a further two – are believed to be in excess of 150,000 gross tons with the total value of the contract believed to be around $8.7 million.

If the deal is signed then construction would be due to start relatively soon, as the reported delivery of the ships would start in 2029.

Costa could definitely do with a boost to its fleet, as the cruise line has seen three ships move to the Carnival brand within the last couple of years. Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze all started life as Costa ships.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

See the latest Carnival cruise offers…

Related posts

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

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.

Read more about me

Source link