But what about MSC Cruises? Who owns MSC Cruises, and what other cruise brands do they own?
Read on for some super-interesting insights into the company behind the MSC Cruises brand…
MSC Seaside in Nassau
Just who are MSC Cruises?
MSC Cruises is a global cruise line based in Geneva, Switzerland. It was founded in Naples, Italy in 1989. MSC Cruises employs over 30,000 people and has 19 cruise ships, making it the fastest-growing global cruise brand.
MSC Cruises is part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) – the world’s second-largest container shipping operator with 570 container ships.
The Mediterranean Shipping Company has the following divisions:
MSC Cruises – Holiday cruises
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) – Cargo shipping
Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV) – Ferries
Società Navigazione Alta Velocità (SNAV) – Ferries
MSC Shipmanagement Limited – Onboard and shoreside crew
Terminal Investment Limited (TIL) – Port operations
MEDLOG – Inland logistics
The MSC Cruises arm of the business is owned by Italian billionaire Gianluigi Aponte and his family, including wife Rafaela, son Diego and daughter Alexa. Gianluigi Aponte is the founder, chairman, and MSC Cruises owner, while his family members all have key roles in the business.
With a net worth of around $17.7 billion in 2022, Gianluigi and Rafaela Aponte are some of the richest people in the shipping industry and the 94th richest people in the world according to Forbes.
The largest privately owned cruise company
This all means that MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company. While other cruise lines are publicly traded and owned by shareholders, MSC Cruises is privately owned by the Aponte family.
Because MSC Cruises is privately-owned, it doesn’t have stock. It’s not possible to buy shares in MSC as you can do with Carnival, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line.
The CEO of MSC Cruises is Gianni Onorato, an Italian with 30 years of experience in the cruise industry. He has been the CEO of MSC Cruises since 2013. Prior to that, he was the president of Costa Cruises from 2004 to 2013.
So that’s what MSC stands for!
The ‘MSC’ in MSC Cruises stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company. This is because the MSC Cruises brand is part of the same shipping company that transports cargo around the world.
Shipping containers in Southampton – Can you spot the MSC one?
The timeline of MSC
MSC Cruises was founded in 1988. However, the Aponte family’s involvement in the shipping industry dates back much further. Take a look at the timeline below to learn about the history of MSC Cruises…
1675 – First record of the Aponte family’s involvement in shipping to and from Naples
1970 – Gianluigi Aponte purchases a single ship and founds the Mediterranean Shipping Company
1988 – MSC enters the cruise business with the purchase of the first cruise ship, Monterey
2003 – MSC Cruises invests €5.5 billion on12 new ships to build the world’s most modern fleet of cruise ships
2014 – MSC Cruises invests €5.1 billion on seven new cruise ships and the enlargement of four existing ships
2016 – A further €3.9 billion is invested to build four World-class ships
2017 – A further €2.6 billion is invested to build three more ships
2019 – MSC Cruises’ private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, welcomes its first guests
2020 – MSC Cruises is the first major cruise line to restart thanks to its industry-leading health and safety protocol
Fun fact: Gianluigi Aponte financed the purchase of his first cruise ship, Patricia, without a loan.
An Italian cruise line, but with international flair
MSC Cruises Cruises is an Italian cruise line. It was founded in Naples, Italy in 1989, although it’s now registered in Switzerland with headquarters in Geneva and operations offices in Naples, Genoa and Venice.
MSC Cruises offers cruises all over the world. The cruise line caters to many different nationalities with many languages being spoken on board. Announcements are often made in English, Italian, French, Spanish and German. Entertainment is mainly based around music or visuals such as acrobats and dancers, rather than comedians or lecturers.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest MSC Cruises offers…
Related posts:
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Carnival Cruise Line has announced that it is creating a new class of ship that will be the biggest ever for the company, with three ships set to be delivered.
The new class of ship will measure at “almost 230,000 gross tonnes”, meaning they will be a similar size to the Oasis-class ships sailing for rival cruise line Royal Caribbean, though a little short of the biggest ships in the world, the Icon Class.
The ships will be delivered in 2029, 2031 and 2033 respectively and they are being constructed at Fincantieri, the world-renowned shipbuilder in Italy.
“We are proud to be known as America’s cruise line with tremendous guest loyalty and an outstanding team that has enabled us to deliver memorable vacations to over 100 million guests… For this next generation ship, we are focused on creating innovative guest experiences that will take Carnival Cruise Line into the future with new FUN features and excitement that we know our guests will LOVE.“
Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president
Carnival had already announced earlier this year that two more Excel-class ships would be built for the cruise line, meaning that there will be five brand-new ships joining the fleet between 2027 and 2033.
By 2033, the Carnival Group will have 16 cruise ships powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), with half of those sailing for Carnival Cruise Line, meaning that almost 30% of the fleet will be powered by this cleaner fuel type.
As soon as we hear more on the names of these ships and the name of the new class, I’ll let you know!
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Norwegian Jade suffered an unknown problem with her propulsion systems which caused her to be late back to Port Canaveral by an entire day.
While this may sound like heaven for those onboard – an extra free day of cruising – instead it was likely to be a significant cause of stress as guests had to rearrange travel plans at short notice.
Guests who had booked flights and transfers through NCL were having changes arranged automatically although there was no guarantee guests could be flown out that day – with plans put in place to accommodate guests who would have to stay overnight in a hotel before being flown home an extra day later.
Other guests who had not booked via NCL were given free internet access onboard the ship to allow them to make their adjustments, as well as up to $300 per person to cover any cancellation or adjustment fees with airlines that weren’t already covered by travel insurance.
Guests onboard were also offered a 10% discount on future cruises as an apology, to be used before 31st December 2025.
This also had the knock-on effect of shortening the next cruise by one day. Guests on that cruise are to be given a pro-rated refund for the day they’re now missing, but the impact was more significant than just shortening the cruise by a day.
The shorter time also meant that the original itinerary was completely changed, with Tortola and San Juan removed from the plans, to be replaced by Nassau. The ship is still set to visit Puerto Plata and Great Stirrup Cay as per the original itinerary.
Guests on that cruise were also given a $100 non-refundable credit to spend onboard the ship along with a 20% discount on a future cruise booked before 31st December 2025.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest NCL offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Sun Princess, the new flagship for Princess Cruises which launched in February 2024, has cancelled all port visits to Kotor for the summer season, along with some Santorini port visits.
The ship originally cancelled visits to Santorini during her first couple of weeks of sailing due to issues with the tender boats not aligning with the ship for boarding properly.
It’s rumoured that this is an ongoing issue, although others have also claimed that the cancellations for Kotor and Santorini are due to ship congestion instead.
Kotor is no longer being advertised for the 2024 season although several cruises are still advertising Santorini as a port of call.
I asked Princess Cruises for clarification on whether Santorini was still scheduled on those cruises, and was told that there was no official cancellation for the port, but that if that were to change then customers on the affected cruises would be told.
Some guests on social media have reported frustration with the cancellation of the port after booking, especially with Santorini being such a popular destination in the region.
It’s also compounded by the further issues with Sun Princess, such as the cancellation of several major features in Park19 onboard the ship, which its been confirmed will now never open to guests.
Guests are always advised to have travel insurance with missed port cover included so that they can get a partial refund on their cruise fare if ports are missed.
Anyone booking a Sun Princess cruise that includes Santorini should definitely get the coverage, in case the ship does cancel the visits!
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Princess Cruises offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Princess Cruises has announced some disappointing news regarding newest ship Sun Princess – several features within the Park19 area of the ship will now never open.
The features are the RollGlider, the Coastal Climb, and the Ropes Course. The three attractions are all installed in Park19 already, but will never open.
The ship debuted in February 2024 (after delays) but with the features closed. Since then, details have been limited on when they could open. It was believed that they might open once the ship crossed to the US after the summer season, when key safety features could be added.
But in a statement, the cruise line has confirmed that the experiences will never now open to guests.
“We regret to announce that Princess is unable to accept delivery of the RollGlider, Coastal Climb, and Ropes Course features within Park19 aboard Sun Princess and those experiences will not be opening… We are actively evaluating these areas for future recreational opportunities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all our guests.”
Princess Cruises Statement
The RollGlider was set to be a first-of-its-kind glider/zipline experience around the top deck, which had been specially designed to be usable by disabled guests as well as able-bodied ones.
Costal Climb was a climbing feature within the ropes course area, offering amazing views out to sea for guests brave enough to attempt it.
It’s not clear why the attractions can’t open – but it’s likely a safety issue. Whether it was a fault in their design, or a key part that will now no longer be available, we may never find out.
As it stands, no announcements have been made for any replacement features. In the medium term, the features will just remain in place, but dormant.
Sun Princess has debuted many new features that guests do enjoy, but it’s a real shame these experiences will never be open for guests to enjoy.
Star Princess, the site ship to Sun Princess, is still under construction and you would expect the features would be removed, if they had already been added by this stage.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Princess Cruises offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
I just returned from a whirlwind trip through the Mekong Delta, and let me tell you, it was incredible! I took the Mekong Princess Cruise stretching towards the horizon, bustling floating markets, and serene boat rides along hidden canals. The whole place has this laid-back vibe that seeps right into your soul.
I spent three days and two nights on a 5-star RV Mekong Princess cruise. The ship is more like a boutique hotel on water. It cleverly blends French colonial design with hints of Khmer culture. You can imagine them as intricate carvings that whispered of ancient temples, offset by the clean lines of European architecture.
Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a relaxing escape, the Mekong Delta has something for you. Buckle up, because I am about to share all my travel tips, hidden gems, and maybe a few hilarious mishaps along the way.
How much does it cost?
To have this perfect trip, it took me days and nights to go through reviews about Mekong River cruises. Finally, I got my 3-day trip for just US $1032 per pax for a super luxurious suite called Saigon Suite.
Each cruise package includes a transfer from your hotel to the cruise port, in-suite accommodation, dining, entertainment onboard, and offboard excursions. However, please note that massage service and champagne will be excluded from the package. For those who feel more than three days are needed, there are different itineraries lasting from 4 to 8 days for you to explore.
You may wonder, “How can it be so cheap?”. The tip is to book a Mekong Princess cruise tour at www.bestpricetravel.com. With a discounted promotion of 35% off, there are five cabin classes with the lowest price of US $731.
How do I get to the Mekong Princess Cruise?
To reach the anchor point, we must be at the cruise port at 05 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Ward 13, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. If you want to be picked up, please give your hotel address, and the driver will be there. You need to get ready between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to avoid being late for the embarkation time. As you are at the port, an electric cart will transfer you to the ship.
What is the 3-day-2-night cruise like?
We will explore rustic sights, uncover hidden gems, and delve into the local experiences that make the Mekong Delta unique. So buckle up, because we are finding out what will await you on the 3-day, 2-night cruise from Saigon to Can Tho.
Day 1: Saigon Port – Mekong Delta – Sunset Canape
Once I got on the Mekong Princess Cruise, everyone fully gathered at the Ramvong Lounge. The crew started with a warm greeting and provided us with information and safety instructions.
As the cruise departed, we had our first lunch onboard. Seating a maximum of 30 guests, the Indochine restaurant fosters a friendly and personalized atmosphere. The restaurant offers a combination of buffet-style and a-la-carte meals, focusing on the advantages of Western food. I tried Ham baguette with Raisins and banana cakes, and they were extraordinary.
We then took a room tour around the Saigon Suite. It has an area of 24 m2 and is decorated with Vietnamese influence. Our room has the theme of Empress Nam Phuong, the last empress consort of Vietnam. The suite has sophisticated facilities and two twin-sized beds, suitable for two friends. I also loved the en-suite bathroom, as it was airy and had a window with a view of the majestic riverscape.
In the afternoon, we sailed through the Saigon River, Soai Rap River, Nuoc Man Canal, Vam Co River, and the Cho Gao Canal to reach the ‘Mighty Mekong River’. While passing the Cho Gao Canal, I was very excited. Instead of cars and trucks, I was dodging rustic wooden boats. It was a beautiful chaos, a microcosm of everything the Mekong Delta represents.
After spending all afternoon onboard, I checked out the gym, and it was beyond my expectations. Although there was not so much equipment, it was all high-quality. I could work out while gazing out at the ever-changing Mekong Delta scenery.
At twilight, we had a sunset canape and port talk. At the Ramvong Lounge, the host briefly informed us about the second day’s program. Then, we had a traditional Vietnamese ‘a la carte dinner. This was my first time attending such a royal-style dinner with dishes perfect for even the most discerning palates.
Day 2: Tan Phong Island – Can Tho
We started our second day with a colorful breakfast. Fresh fruits and dried sweets were used as toppings for cereals and yogurt. You can also mix them with bread and jam. If you need a nutritious meal with high protein, just order an English breakfast. It would include bacon and some bread.
Our first outdoor activity was to get on sampans through a channel lined with mangroves to visit Tan Phong Island. This island has a tradition of making coconut products like candy, oil, souvenirs, and kitchen utensils. I like those items because they are environmentally friendly and tasty. We enjoyed the yummy sweets while acknowledging the history of coconut candy and how to make it.
After the workshop, we boarded a small boat to go to a narrow creek highlighted with Nipah palm lines. As we went ashore, we got on a unique ride with the grand name Lambro 555 called ‘Xe Loi”. We moved to a local village to see the making of wood to build houses and the raising of cocks for fighting – a typical culture in Western Vietnam. Looking at how these cocks were specially raised made me want to see their fights very much.
Our morning ended, and we returned to the small boat, where the staff refreshed us with fresh coconut water and unique fruits like pineapples. As we got on the ship after the long walk on the dirty road, the crew staff carefully helped us clean our shoes.
In the afternoon, the cruise sailed through an untouched area with little tourism to reach the riverside capital of the Mekong Delta – Can Tho City. We went to the Ramvong Lounge for complimentary drinks while enjoying the picturesque sunset. There was also a spa with professional staff who could help you heal your spiritual mind and body immediately.
After a tasteful dinner, we boarded a sampan to visit Ninh Kieu night market. Ninh Kieu is like two markets in one. One side is a shopper’s paradise overflowing with colorful clothes, handcrafted souvenirs, and sparkling jewelry. The other half is dotted with dozens of mobile stalls serving steaming plates of local specialties.
Day 3: Cai Rang Floating Market – Disembarkation
It was our final day, and we needed to wake up early to enjoy the bustling life of the famous market here. We started with a continental breakfast filled with colorful fruits, cheese, bread, and jam. I think the cruise should diversify breakfast dishes instead of serving these sweets.
At about 7:30, we boarded the sampan to arrive at the Cai Rang floating market. Plenty of boats were selling individual fruits, breakfast, and coffee. Some people approached our boat to offer the products. Life here was so unique and exciting! I even saw entire families live on their boats.
We then landed and had a market tour before visiting the ‘Hu tieu’ manufacturer – a typical west side food. At the factory, I could see colorful Hu Tieu with different flavors. Our final destination for this trip was Zi Huang Pagoda with a greeting ‘Lion dance’ performance. The architecture reflects Chinese influences, with intricate carvings and upside-down roofs decorated with dragon statues. Stepping through the grand entrance, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of spiritual symbolism and cultural heritage.
In a nutshell
The Mekong Delta has woven its magic spell on me. The bustling water life and fresh fruits made me yearn to live here forever. Also, thanks to BestPrice Travel, we experienced 5-star services on a Mekong River Cruise at an affordable price. If you want an adventure that will challenge your senses and touch your soul, look no further than the Mekong Delta.
Are you a cruise enthusiast looking for the ultimate onboard entertainment experience? Premium casino packages are now part of the best cruise deals. Discover how you can elevate your cruise vacation with top-notch gaming options.
Imagine sailing through the serene ocean waters while accessing world-class casino entertainment. Cruise lines now offer exclusive deals with premium casino packages, ensuring your journey is as thrilling as relaxing. These packages cater to novice and experienced gamblers, providing an unforgettable experience.
What makes premium casino packages unique?
Casino aboard Carnival Venezia
Premium casino packages on cruises offer a unique blend of luxury and excitement. These packages often include access to exclusive gaming areas, complimentary drinks, and personalized service. You will find various online casino games, such as poker, blackjack, and slot machines, to keep you entertained throughout your voyage. This integration within the cruise industry highlights how ingrained Betway Casino offerings have become in enhancing passenger experiences.
Moreover, premium casino packages often have exclusive perks that enhance your overall cruise experience. These may include priority boarding, VIP seating at onboard shows, and access to private lounges. Some cruise lines even offer complimentary shore excursions or onboard credit as part of their casino packages, allowing you to enjoy more of what the ship and ports of call offer. Combining these luxurious amenities with top-tier gaming facilities creates an unparalleled experience for cruise passengers who enjoy a bit of gambling excitement.
Why choose a cruise with casino entertainment?
Casino Gambling Gaming – Slots
Cruise vacations are known for their all-inclusive nature, but adding a premium casino package can take your experience to the next level. Whether traveling alone or with friends, these packages provide an engaging way to spend time at sea. The increasing popularity of these deals among travelers highlights a shift towards more diverse entertainment options.
Furthermore, casino entertainment on cruises offers a unique social atmosphere that can’t be replicated elsewhere. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet fellow travelers who share your interests, potentially forming new friendships that last beyond your voyage. The casino environment also adds an element of sophistication to your evenings, providing a perfect excuse to dress up and enjoy a glamorous night out without ever leaving the ship. For those who enjoy a little friendly competition, many cruise casinos host tournaments and special events, adding extra excitement to your vacation experience.
How to find the best cruise deals with casino packages
Cruise Deals Featuring Premium Casino Entertainment Packages 5
Finding the best cruise deals featuring premium casino packages requires some research. Start by looking at reputable cruise lines known for their excellent onboard entertainment. Check out customer reviews and compare different packages to see which one offers the best value for your money. It’s also worth signing up for newsletters or alerts from cruise deal websites to stay updated on the latest offers.
Onboard casinos on cruise ships are designed to replicate the atmosphere of land-based casinos, providing an exciting and immersive experience. You’ll find many games, from classic table games to modern slot machines. The staff is typically well-trained and professional, ensuring you have a great time while playing. Additionally, many casinos offer tournaments and special events that provide extra excitement during your trip.
Embarking on a cruise with a premium casino package is an excellent way to combine relaxation and entertainment. With so many options available, you can find a deal that suits your preferences and budget. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today and experience the thrill of onboard gaming like never before.
Wesley Dunlop, one of the most popular cruise captains for British guests, has announced that he is leaving Carnival Group and P&O Cruises, and will instead be joining Disney Cruise Line.
Dunlop joined Carnival Group in April 2016 and has helmed several ships, most recently Iona.
He confirmed that he would be taking one final trip as captain of Iona in August to complete the Norway season for the ship and then he would be done.
He will then be joining Disney Cruise Line in 2025. It’s not yet confirmed if he’ll be in charge of one of the new cruise ships such as Disney Treasure, or if he’ll continue to work out of the UK and helm the British season for Disney Fantasy in 2025.
Several cruise captains and other senior officers have a public presence on social media and build up a reputation as a ‘fan favourite’ due to their cheery nature, and Dunlop is certainly a popular figure.
His announcement on social media brought many well-wishes, as he was described as some guests’ “favourite captain”, with several describing it as a big loss for P&O that he was going.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Disney Cruise Line offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
Royal Caribbean International and GRAMMY-winning singer and songwriterMeghan Trainor rang in the vacation of celebrations, Utopia of the Seas, with a blowout summer party in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Trainor, the godmother of the new vacation, marked the introduction of the ultimate short getaway in an official naming event on board with more than 4,000 partygoers, the legendary Rev Run and DJ Ruckus at the turntables, Royal Caribbean crew members and executives, and more.
Utopia of the Seas
The moment comes just days before the final milestone:Utopia debuts with the first of its 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaways onFriday, July 19.
Royal Caribbean International and GRAMMY-winning singer and songwriter Meghan Trainor threw the party of the summer for the new Utopia of the Seas in Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Celebrating the people and work bringing Utopia to life and the weekend energy coming to every day of the week, the “All That Bass” star took center stage on the ultimate short getaway’s iconic open-air AquaTheater to bestow safekeeping onto the ship, its dedicated crew and the millions who will celebrate on Utopia for years to come. The party hit a high note when Trainor performed live for the audience, which included more than 50 of the 20,000-plus Trainor fans who entered for a chance to join the party. The Monday event kicked off Utopia’s 3-night celebration and cruise that includes one party after the next, including a live concert on board hosted by Trainor while the new vacation is at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
God Mother Meghan Trainor
Royal Caribbean debuts its newest ship Utopia of the Seas. Naming Ceremony and party on the Boardwalk.
“Becoming Utopia’s godmother and being here for this incredible celebration with Royal Caribbean is a dream come true,” said Meghan Trainor, Utopia of the Seas godmother. “From performing on a breathtaking stage while we’re in the middle of the ocean to having my fans here to sing and dance with me and experiencing it all with my family – Utopia really is the ultimate short getaway. I’m so honored to be part of the memories so many will make here.”
The celebration will set the tone for vacations on Utopia, where everyone can make more memories on a short getaway than ever. Friends and families can celebrate any occasion or get away with a lineup of experiences that bring unmatched weekend energy. There’s everything from more than 40 ways to dine, drink, and party, including a lineup of parties only on Utopia, two casinos and Royal Railway – Utopia Station, a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience, to more pools than the days to count, thrills; show-stopping entertainment across air, ice, water and stage; and more.
“We set out to create a utopian playground at sea that delivers the perfect short getaway and ultimate vacation,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group. “I’m immensely proud of our dream team that turned this vision into reality. Utopiaof the Seas embodies our commitment to push boundaries and deliver the best vacation experiences responsibly.”
The vibes extend beyond Utopia to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. The top-rated private island ups the ante with 14 waterslides, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, and the newly opened adults-only oasis Hideaway Beach, which features a private beach, pools, spots for drinks and bites, exclusive cabanas, a live DJ, and more.
“Every day on Utopia will feel like the weekend. The unmatched energy and ways to make memories – between the pools, thrills and more and our award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay – will bring friends and families together on a short getaway like never before,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “This epic party, the vacation of celebrations, is just getting started!”
Beginning Friday, vacationers everywhere can explore Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas, on one of Utopia’s3-night weekend and 4-night weekday escapes. The ultimate short getaway will welcome guests to make more memories than ever before with a roster of experiences that bring big weekend energy to every day of the week. There’s everything from more than 40 ways to dine, drink and party, including a lineup of parties only on Utopia, two casinos and Royal Railway – Utopia Station, a first-of-its-kind immersive train car dining experience; to more pools than the days to count;thrills, like the longest dry slide at sea; show-stopping entertainment across air, ice, water and stage; and more.
For more details about Utopia, vacationers can visit Royal Caribbean’s website to learn more and begin planning their ultimate weekend getaway.
Carnival onboard credit (OBC) is money loaded onto your Sail & Sign account that pays for extras on your cruise, such as gratuities, specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and drinks. It cannot be put toward your cruise fare, taxes or port fees, and most promotional credit is non-refundable, so any balance left at the end of the sailing is simply lost. The smartest move is to point it at costs you would pay anyway, starting with daily gratuities.
Below we explain the different kinds of Carnival onboard credit, the main ways to earn it in 2026, where it works best, what it will not cover, and how to keep track of your balance so none of it goes to waste.
What Is Carnival Onboard Credit?
Onboard credit is a dollar amount attached to an individual booking and applied to your shipboard account, which Carnival calls Sail & Sign. Every purchase you make on the ship, from a cappuccino to a massage, is charged to that account. When credit is present, those charges are paid from the credit first and only the remainder lands on your credit card or cash deposit.
OBC is tied to the stateroom or guest it was issued to. Carnival’s promotional terms describe most offers as non-transferable, and they state that the credit may not be applied to cruise fare, required cruise fees and expenses, or government taxes and fees. In other words, OBC is for spending once your trip is paid for, not for lowering the price of the trip itself.
Refundable vs Non-Refundable OBC
Not all credit behaves the same way, and knowing which type you hold changes how you should spend it.
Bought by you, friends or family at carnival.com/cruise-cash
No
Forfeited (Carnival calls it “use it or lose it”)
Refundable funds
Your own cash deposit, Carnival gift cards applied onboard
Yes, or returned as a new gift card
Refunded; unused gift card value is mailed back as a new card
Your account generally applies non-refundable credit to charges before refundable money, which works in your favour. If you are unsure which bucket your credit sits in, Guest Services can show you a breakdown of your balance.
How to Get Carnival Onboard Credit
There are more routes to OBC than most first-time cruisers realise. These are the main ones for Carnival sailings in 2026.
Booking promotions. Carnival’s sales often include “up to” a set amount of onboard credit, with larger amounts usually reserved for balconies and suites. Compare these offers when you shop our roundup of the best cruise deals for 2027.
Travel agents. Many agencies add their own OBC on top of Carnival’s offer. It costs nothing to ask an agent what they can include before you book direct.
Lowest Price Guarantee. If you find a lower Carnival-advertised price for the same cruise and submit a claim within 48 hours of booking, Carnival’s terms say the difference is paid as non-refundable onboard credit.
Carnival Rewards milestones. Carnival Rewards replaced the VIFP Club on 1 September 2026. Under the new programme, onboard credit is part of the milestone rewards tied to days sailed (50 days, 100 days and every 100 days after), and members can also redeem points toward things like excursions, spa treatments and specialty dining.
Future Cruise and rebooking offers. Booking your next sailing while onboard, or through the post-cruise rebooking window, frequently comes with a small OBC bonus per stateroom.
Shareholder benefit. Owners of at least 100 shares of Carnival Corporation can claim OBC per stateroom: $50 on sailings of six days or fewer, $100 on seven to 13 days and $250 on 14 days or more. Claims must be submitted ahead of the cruise, and this credit has its own restrictions, so read the current rules on the Carnival Corporation website.
Cruise Cash and gift cards. You or others can buy Cruise Cash in $25 to $100 amounts up to two days before debarkation. Carnival gift cards can pay toward your fare or be added to your onboard account, and buying them at a discount is one of the easiest ways to stretch your budget. Our guide on how to buy discounted Carnival gift cards explains where to look and the pitfalls to avoid.
Casino offers. Regular casino players sometimes receive mailed offers that include free or discounted cruises and onboard credit. These are targeted, so there is no guarantee you will qualify.
Specialty dining is one of the most popular ways to spend onboard credit. Photo: Phát Trương on Pexels
The Best Ways to Use Carnival Onboard Credit
The golden rule is simple: spend your credit on things you were going to buy anyway. That turns OBC into real savings rather than an excuse to buy extras you did not need.
1. Gratuities (the safest bet)
Carnival adds a daily gratuity to every guest’s account. For sailings departing on or after 2 April 2026, the rate is $17 per person per day in interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms, and $19 per person per day in suites. For two people on a seven-night balcony cruise, that is $238 before you buy a single drink. If you have not prepaid gratuities, most promotional OBC will cover them automatically as they post, which makes this the most reliable way to use credit in full.
2. Specialty dining
Steakhouse dinners, sushi, teppanyaki and Italian specialty restaurants all charge to Sail & Sign, as do many à la carte venues. A single specialty dinner for two can absorb a typical promotional credit in one evening.
3. Spa treatments and thermal suites
Massages, facials and thermal suite passes can be paid with OBC. If you are weighing up whether to book a spa cabin for the extra perks, read our look at whether Carnival Cloud 9 Spa rooms are worth it before you spend.
4. Shore excursions
Carnival-booked excursions can be paid for with onboard credit. Some guests prefer to pre-book online so popular tours do not sell out and then let the credit offset the charge once onboard; check how your particular credit applies before you sail.
5. Drinks and drink packages
Bar tabs, specialty coffees and soft drink packages all draw on OBC. Bottomless Bubbles rose to $11.99 per day for adults in 2026, plus the service charge, so a soda package can eat through credit quickly on longer sailings.
6. Wi-Fi, photos and laundry
Internet plans, professional photo packages and laundry services can usually be charged to your account, so they are good homes for any credit left late in the cruise. On a few older ships with coin-operated launderettes, laundry may not be payable this way.
7. Onboard shops
The ship’s boutiques accept Sail & Sign charges, so leftover credit on the final night can go toward souvenirs, sundries or toiletries you would otherwise buy at home. Prices are not always better than on land, so treat this as a last resort.
What Carnival Onboard Credit Cannot Be Used For
Your cruise fare, taxes, port fees or required cruise fees. Carnival’s promotional terms rule these out.
Cash. Promotional OBC and Cruise Cash have no cash value and cannot be withdrawn at Guest Services.
Future cruises. Credit is valid for one sailing only and does not roll over.
Casino cash-outs. Rules depend on the type of credit. Some credit, including shareholder OBC, cannot be used in the casino, and where play is allowed you can only cash out winnings, not the credit itself. Ask the casino host before you sit down.
Gratuities, in some cases. Shareholder credit is reported to exclude gratuity charges, and specialty products such as Cruise Cash Bar or Cruise Cash Photo only cover their own category.
Onshore spending. Anything you buy in port with your own card is outside your Sail & Sign account.
Checking your balance in the app early in the cruise helps you spot missing credit. Photo: FOX ^.ᆽ.^= ∫ on Pexels
How to Check Your Onboard Credit Balance
Before you sail, your OBC should appear in your booking details on carnival.com, often in the invoice or booking summary for each stateroom. Once onboard, open the Carnival HUB app, connect to the ship’s network and look for your Sail & Sign account or charges section, which lists purchases and credits applied. You can also visit Guest Services or an onboard kiosk for a printed statement that separates refundable and non-refundable amounts.
It is worth checking on the first day. If an expected travel agent or promotional credit is missing, it is far easier to sort out early in the cruise than on the last night.
What Happens to Unused Carnival Onboard Credit?
Non-refundable OBC and Cruise Cash are forfeited when the cruise ends. There is no refund, no transfer to a cabinmate in another stateroom and no carry-over to your next booking. Refundable money, such as a cash deposit, is returned, and leftover value from Carnival gift cards applied onboard is typically sent back as a new gift card.
A useful habit that most guides skip: on the second-to-last day, check your balance against the gratuities still to post. Because gratuities are charged daily, you can work out exactly how much credit remains after the final day’s tips and then spend only the true surplus, rather than guessing and either leaving money behind or overshooting onto your card.
If you are expecting a large credit, read our guide on whether to prepay Carnival gratuities before you decide, because onboard credit generally can’t be used to prepay them.
FAQs
Can you use onboard credit for gratuities on Carnival?
Yes, most promotional Carnival onboard credit covers the daily gratuities if you have not prepaid them. Shareholder credit is a common exception, so check the type of credit you have.
How do I get onboard credit with Carnival?
The main sources are booking promotions, travel agent offers, the Lowest Price Guarantee, Carnival Rewards milestones, Future Cruise rebooking offers, the Carnival Corporation shareholder benefit and purchased Cruise Cash.
Can you use Carnival onboard credit in the casino?
It depends on the credit type. Some credit cannot be used in the casino at all, and where it can, only winnings can be cashed out. Confirm with the casino host first.
How many Carnival shares do I need to get onboard credit?
You need at least 100 shares of Carnival Corporation. The benefit is $50 for cruises of six days or fewer, $100 for seven to 13 days and $250 for 14 days or more, per stateroom.
Does Carnival onboard credit expire?
Yes. Non-refundable OBC is only valid for the sailing it was issued for and is forfeited at the end of the cruise.
