River cruise line AmaWaterways has announced its biggest expansion yet, revealing plans to grow its fleet to more than 50 ships by 2032 as demand for river cruising continues to rise.
The company currently operates 31 ships worldwide and says it will significantly increase capacity over the coming years with a series of new vessels across Europe, Africa and Asia.
In total, the expansion will include 15 additional ships in Europe and a major increase in capacity outside the region, with new ships planned for both Africa and Asia.
The growth programme builds on previously announced plans for three ships launching in 2027 on the Rhine, Danube and Mekong rivers, while several other vessels are scheduled to debut between 2026 and 2028.
“Our expansion reflects strong demand across both our established and emerging markets,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “River cruising is on a clear growth trajectory, and we are investing with purpose, expanding our global footprint while continuing to elevate the experience for our guests and our travel partners.”
New Ships Planned For Europe, Africa And Asia
The expansion includes a number of confirmed ships that will begin sailing over the next few years across several major river cruise regions.
AmaNubia is scheduled to launch on the Nile in September 2026. The ship will feature 38 staterooms designed with Egyptian-inspired details and will join the line’s existing Nile vessels AmaDahlia and AmaLilia.
In 2027, AmaRudi will debut on the Danube. The vessel will be the line’s second double-width river ship, following AmaMagna, and will accommodate 196 guests across 98 staterooms.
AmaRudi
Another ship arriving in 2027 is AmaMaya, which will operate on the Mekong River with 60 staterooms and a design influenced by the region’s Indochine heritage.
Additional ships planned include AmaFiora on the Rhine in 2027, AmaClara on the Rhône in 2028, and AmaGaia on Portugal’s Douro River in 2028. AmaCleo is also expected to join the Nile fleet in 2028 as the line expands its presence in Egypt.
AmaWaterways is also exploring further growth in Africa, including plans for a second ship on the Chobe River alongside the Zambezi Queen.
What The Expansion Means For River Cruise Passengers
For cruise passengers, the expansion means a wider choice of itineraries and potentially greater availability on some of the world’s most popular river routes.
Europe remains the company’s largest market, but the addition of ships in Africa and Asia reflects growing interest in more adventurous river cruise destinations such as Egypt, Vietnam, Cambodia and southern Africa.
Portugal’s Douro River is another area seeing strong demand, which has led to the planned introduction of AmaGaia alongside the line’s existing ships already operating there.
Douro River
With new vessels scheduled to arrive almost every year through to 2032, the cruise line expects the expansion to significantly increase global capacity while expanding its presence in both established and emerging river cruise markets.
Industry Demand Driving River Cruise Growth
The announcement highlights the continued growth of the river cruise sector, which has seen increasing demand in recent years from travellers looking for smaller ships and destination-focused itineraries.
AmaWaterways says strong repeat guest rates and growing interest from travellers in North America, Europe and newer markets have helped drive the decision to invest in a significantly larger fleet over the next decade.
Further details about future ships and itineraries are expected to be released in the coming months as the expansion programme continues.
Silversea cruises are often described as the ultimate luxury at sea. All-inclusive drinks. Butler service in every suite. Some of the most exclusive itineraries in cruising.
But here’s what many people don’t realise…
Not all Silversea ships feel the same.
Some are sleek, modern luxury ships. Others are smaller expedition vessels built for exploring places most cruise ships can’t reach. And the onboard experience can feel surprisingly different depending on which one you choose.
So which Silversea ships are the newest, the biggest… and the ones that offer something completely different?
Size of the Silversea Fleet
Silversea currently has 12 cruise ships in its fleet. Of the current fleet, four are Expedition ships and eight are ultra-luxury cruise ships.
There are two main types of Silversea ships – the standard ships that offer a classic ultra-luxury experience, and Expedition class ships.
Expedition class vessels are smaller than regular cruise ships as they are specifically designed to be able to access ports of call that larger ships can’t.
They still provide a luxury cruise experience, but being smaller they don’t have the same range of facilities – you’ll have fewer choices for dining venues, and there won’t be as many public areas to relax. They’re an adventure ship, rather than one designed around sumptuous pool decks and classy bars.
With Silversea expeditions, the focus is very much on the destinations, with the chance to visit some of the world’s most beautiful and untouched locations including the north and south polar regions, the Galapagos Islands and more.
Silversea’s larger cruise ships won’t even offer tenders to these locations due to logistical issues, but the smaller expedition ships are able to anchor much closer. They’re also better equipped to deal with icy polar weather conditions.
Many Silversea expedition cruise ships have Zodiac boats, which are much smaller than a typical tender and allow guests to get onto land at destinations like the Antarctic where a regular tender can’t get close.
If you’ve ever wanted to see penguins in their natural habitats, rather than zoos, then a Silversea Expedition ship can get you there.
They’re ideal if you like the idea of cruising with a much smaller number of passengers too – the largest Silversea expedition ship accommodates just 274 passengers, while the smallest has just 100. You could almost learn every passenger’s name by the end of your voyage!
Silversea cruise ships are all relatively small compared to many other cruise lines, with a maximum guest capacity of 728 on the largest ships (and many accommodating fewer).
A cruise with Silversea is not one where you’re going to be overwhelmed with crowds. It’s a more intimate and relaxed experience, where the crew are able to give a more personalised service.
It wouldn’t be possible for a ship with 6,000 passengers to be able to give each guest the same luxury that Silversea offers.
The table below compares all of the Silversea ships by size from largest to smallest…
Ship
Type
Volume (gross tons)
Length (feet)
Number of decks
Passenger capacity
Crew capacity
Silver Ray
Ultra-luxury
54,700
801
11
728
556
Silver Nova
Ultra-luxury
54,700
801
11
728
556
Silver Muse
Ultra-luxury
40,700
698
11
596
411
Silver Moon
Ultra-luxury
40,700
698
11
596
411
Silver Dawn
Ultra-luxury
40,700
698
11
596
411
Silver Spirit
Ultra-luxury
39,519
691
11
608
411
Silver Shadow
Ultra-luxury
28,258
610
10
392
302
Silver Whisper
Ultra-luxury
28,258
610
10
392
302
Silver Endeavor
Expedition
20,449
538
10
200
209
Silver Cloud
Expedition
17,400
514
9
254
212
Silver Wind
Expedition
17,400
514
9
274
239
Silver Origin
Expedition
5,800
331
8
100
90
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Silversea Ships by Age
The current newest ship in the Silversea fleet is the Silver Ray, the second of the Evolution-class of ships. The first of this class was the Silver Nova.
Silversea maintains the highest standards in its ships, and so they go through regular refurbishments to ensure that they offer the luxury that the cruise line demands.
Here’s a look at each ship in the fleet, when it was launched, and when it was last refurbished:
Ship
Type
Year built
Year joined the fleet
Last refurbished
Silver Cloud
Expedition
1994
1994
2017
Silver Wind
Expedition
1995
1995
2021
Silver Shadow
Ultra-luxury
2000
2000
2019
Silver Whisper
Ultra-luxury
2001
2001
2018
Silver Spirit
Ultra-luxury
2009
2009
2026
Silver Muse
Ultra-luxury
2017
2017
2025
Silver Moon
Ultra-luxury
2020
2020
N/A
Silver Origin
Expedition
2020
2020
N/A
Silver Dawn
Ultra-luxury
2021
2021
N/A
Silver Endeavor
Expedition
2021
2022
2022
Silver Nova
Ultra-luxury
2023
2023
N/A
Silver Ray
Ultra-luxury
2024
2024
N/A
Life Onboard a Silversea Ship
Silversea is considered to be an ultra-luxury cruise line. With smaller ships, a crew-to-guest ratio that’s often close to 1:1, and butler service for all guests, everyone enjoys a personalised VIP experience, with fine dining restaurants, beautiful suites and public areas to enjoy.
All the finer details are taken care of, so you can expect the staff to greet you by name, remember your favourite drink, and even offer you a cool towel while you sunbathe by the pool!
What Makes Silversea Different
What sets Silversea apart – as well as the all-inclusive luxury – is the choice of itineraries available. Across their entire fleet, they sail to over 900 ports of call on all 7 continents, meaning guests can explore more of the world from the comfort of a luxury vessel.
They Aren’t Stuffy Though!
Silversea’s ships are luxurious, but it’s more understated and chic. Guests are treated as if they are VIPs and everything is about giving the guest the best cruise. There aren’t a lot of formal expectations placed on guests to behave in a certain manner.
You Do Still Get Formal Nights
There is at least one formal night on every Silversea cruise. They’re optional, with some restaurants on board allowing guests to still dress casually. If you do wish to attend a formal night, men should wear a dark suit or tuxedo and women are asked to wear an evening gown.
Surprisingly, Families are Welcomed
Despite their ultra-luxury atmosphere, Silversea ships are not for adults only. Children as young as six months are permitted to travel. Guests under the age of 18 must be travelling with an adult, either in the same or an adjoining suite.
That said, you’ll rarely find any children on board Silversea cruises. As there are no facilities for children, families often choose more family-friendly cruise lines with activities for children.
Drinks Are Included In Your Fare
All drinks are included on a Silversea cruise, even Champagne. Whether at a bar, a restaurant or in your own suite, all drinks on board are complimentary, and your butler will make sure that your own mini-bar is constantly stocked with your favourites, though you can also make special requests.
Some Fares Include Airfare Too!
Guests can choose a Door-to-Door cruise fare if they want airfare included in their cruise, along with chauffeur transfers from their home to the airport. A Port-to-Port fare lets guests book just the cruise element if they want, and there’s also a newer Essential fare on some sailings that removes the shore excursions from the package.
What’s Not Included
Some of the things not included in a Silversea cruise fare include selected shore excursions and on-board dining experiences, any on-shore dining, fuel surcharges, laundry and valet services, casino gaming and purchases from the on-board shops.
Personal care services, including spa treatments and medication, are also not included.
Which Silversea Ship is Best
There’s no single answer on which is the best Silversea ship, because they all offer different types of experience.
If you’re more concerned with the quality of the onboard experience, then you will likely find one of the classic ultra-luxury ships to be more to your tastes. They offer a wider range of dining venues and more deck space where you can unwind.
But even within these ships, you have the choice of one of the ‘larger’ ships in the fleet that can accommodate up to 728 passengers or a smaller one that has a capacity of around 400 guests. Those smaller ships still have plenty of spaces to unwind in luxury, and they have a better crew-to-guest ratio that’s close to 1:1 for even more attentive service.
Or, you could choose an Expedition ship. These are smaller again, and while they don’t have the same range of restaurants or public areas where you can unwind, they still offer Silversea’s ultra-luxury experience.
Plus, you get the chance to explore a much broader range of destinations, including some incredibly exciting ports in parts of the world that most other cruise ships simply can’t reach due to their size.
That’s why it’s impossible to say which is the best. It all comes down to whether you want a ship with more places to relax, or a smaller ship where the destination matters more.
Whichever of the Silversea Cruises ships you choose though, you will be made to feel very comfortable and very special, thanks to their outstanding service across the entire fleet.
Book Your Silversea Cruise
I recommend Panache Cruises as the ideal expert to help you book your perfect Silversea Cruise.
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To Conclude
Silversea’s fleet isn’t the largest (both in terms of ship size and the number of ships), but they have a very specific target market in mind. These aren’t cheap cruises – these are the pinnacle of ultra-luxury holidays, offering you the equivalent of the finest hotels whilst also taking you to some of the most exotic and fascinating places in the world.
Expedition cruises are more suited to the adventurous types, but each ship is something special, and definitely worth checking out if you want the cruise holiday of a lifetime.
P&O Cruises has confirmed that comedian Jason Manford will bring his touring Manford’s Comedy Club concept on board two of its newest ships for a limited run of sailings in 2026.
The cruise line revealed that the shows will feature exclusively on selected itineraries aboard Iona and Arvia between May and October 2026, offering passengers access to a curated line-up of emerging UK comedy talent.
Handpicked Line-Up Across 35 Sailings
Across the season, 70 comedians personally selected by Manford are set to deliver a total of 140 performances. The shows will take place in the ships’ Limelight Club venues, which combine a cabaret-style setting with a premium dining experience.
Each performance will be ticketed and reserved for adults, with a double-bill format promising an evening of live comedy designed to complement time spent ashore or on board.
The cruises themselves will span a range of European itineraries, including voyages to France, Spain, Italy and the Norwegian fjords.
Paul Ludlow said the partnership enhances the line’s entertainment offering, stating the company was “delighted” to collaborate with one of the UK’s most recognisable comedians.
Manford added that the move represents a new chapter for his long-running comedy brand, describing the project as taking the club “to sea” across 35 cruises.
Example sailings featuring the comedy events include a seven-night Norwegian fjords itinerary departing Southampton on 4th July 2026 aboard Iona, with lead-in fares from £849 per person.
A longer 14-night Spain and France sailing on Arvia departs 16th August 2026, with prices starting from £1,229 per person based on two people sharing an inside cabin.
Onboard Entertainment And Added Value
The Limelight Club venues on both ships are designed to offer a more intimate setting than traditional theatre spaces, positioning the comedy nights as a premium, small-capacity experience within the broader entertainment programme.
Cruises with P&O Cruises already include accommodation, meals, entertainment such as theatre productions and live music, as well as access to pools and children’s clubs. The addition of Manford’s Comedy Club builds on the line’s focus on varied onboard experiences.
The announcement also comes alongside a promotional push for Southampton departures, with selected cruises offering up to £800 in onboard spending credit. The offer applies to new Select Price bookings made between 24th March 2026 and 1st June 2026, covering sailings departing between 1st June 2026 and 29th November 2027.
Guests can also opt for the cruise line’s all-inclusive packages, which bundle drinks, WiFi and speciality dining. The Classic Package is priced at £49 per person per day, with P&O Cruises stating it can offer savings compared with purchasing each element individually on board.
Growing Trend For Specialist Entertainment At Sea
The introduction of a branded comedy club at sea reflects a wider trend among cruise operators to partner with well-known personalities and entertainment brands to create unique onboard experiences.
Manford’s Comedy Club, which has been running for more than a decade on land, has hosted hundreds of comedians across venues ranging from theatres to holiday parks. Its move into the cruise sector signals continued demand for curated, live entertainment that goes beyond traditional cruise offerings.
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A travel agent named Iona is preparing to marry on P&O Cruises’ ship Iona after a recent visit on board convinced her it was the perfect venue for her wedding.
Iona Ginn, a 31-year-old Hays Travel consultant, will marry her fiancé Harley, 28, on 12th September 2027 during a seven-night Norwegian fjords cruise.
The couple, who have been together for five years, got engaged at Disneyworld in Florida in November 2024, when Harley proposed by the castle.
A Ship Visit Sealed The Decision
Iona said she had been looking into wedding options when P&O Cruises announced that couples could get married across its fleet.
She said: “When I was on the ship visit last month, I just wanted to get married right there and then. I was speechless – I just love the atrium with its floor to ceiling windows and all the light in that space.
“We were researching wedding options and then we saw that P&O Cruises announced couples could get married on all its ships. We both love cruising, so we thought: let’s go for it, this is us. It’s something we wanted to do so we took the plunge and we are so excited.”
The ceremony will take place at sea before the ship arrives in Stavanger, Norway. Iona said the itinerary was ideal because none of the couple’s family had visited the region before.
“It’s the perfect itinerary for us as it’s an area that no-one in our family has visited before. It’s going to be a dream come true,” said Iona.
A Namesake Wedding At Sea
P&O Cruises’ Iona entered service in summer 2021 with a British Isles sailing that visited the island of Iona in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. More than 2,000 guests joined the inaugural cruise, which included fireworks and a deck party.
The ship’s name also carries a personal connection for the bride-to-be, who was named after the same Scottish island.
“The fact we share a name is a winning point and it feels like it was meant to be. Getting married at sea will be so magical. It’s also amazing value – the cake, flowers, hair and make-up is all included – not something you normally see. We’ll also get to make a week out of it and have our loved ones close by, which will be incredible.”
Iona said her experience as a travel agent has also helped her explain the cruise to family and friends, many of whom have not sailed before.
“It’s nice that I’ve been able to explain what their experience will be like and that knowledge has flowed through to all our guests.
“As a travel agent, having first-hand knowledge of the product is so important, especially for people who haven’t sailed before. I share photos and it adds that layer of credibility and puts people at ease. You then know exactly what you’re selling people.”
P&O Cruises associate vice president of sales and distribution, Ruth Venn, said: “We’re delighted that Iona has chosen her namesake ship for an unforgettable wedding in the fjords. Our travel agent partners have been instrumental in the huge popularity of P&O Cruises Ceremonies Sea and Shore, accounting for 45% of the bookings since we launched the new proposition in 2025.”
P&O Cruises offers commitment ceremonies, engagements and renewal of vows across all seven ships in its fleet. The first shore ceremony in Barbados is due to take place in early 2027.
Iona’s advice to other couples considering a cruise wedding is: “Do the research and go for it.
“Everything that we wanted we are getting – for an amazing price and a holiday included in it. It’s been such a seamless experience, we feel so well looked after. I’m normally a control freak, but I’m as cool as a cucumber with no stress right now.”
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Oceania Cruises has announced plans to relaunch Oceania Nautica as Oceania Aurelia in late 2027, with the 25-year-old ship to be extensively reworked under the line’s OceaniaNEXT programme and positioned for long, immersive itineraries including its 2028 and 2029 Around the World sailings.
The refit will turn the current Regatta-class vessel into a more intimate ship centred on suite accommodation, destination-rich dining and enrichment tailored to extended voyages.
The reimagined ship is expected to carry fewer than 500 guests, with official material describing a crew of 400 officers and staff. Trade reports put double-occupancy capacity at 476, a sharp reduction from Nautica’s current layout of around 670, as Oceania moves to create a more residential feel on board for passengers spending weeks or months at sea.
“Oceania Aurelia is our ultimate world explorer. She is designed specifically for guests who desire greater space, more suites and a deeper level of personalized care, particularly for extended journeys,
“Oceania Aurelia will be a smaller, more club-like ship that truly feels like a home at sea, providing travelers a deeper connection to the ports they visit.”
Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises.
The ship was originally built in 2000 and measures 30,277 gross tons, with a length of 593.7 feet. Oceania is now recasting her as a vessel for slower-paced global exploration, with inaugural 2027-2028 sailings set to lead into two 180-day world cruises and a wider programme of Grand Voyages.
More Suites And A New Onboard Mix
Accommodation is set to be one of the biggest areas of change. Oceania said Aurelia will have 238 accommodation units, of which 179 will be suites.
Most are expected to exceed 300 square feet, while some will reach as much as 1,000 square feet. Many will include separate living and dining areas, reflecting the line’s push to make the ship feel more like a private residence for guests on longer sailings.
The suite line-up will include refreshed Owner’s, Vista and Penthouse Suites, alongside newly introduced Oceania Suites and Horizon Suites, plus a selection of Oceanview and Inside Suites.
Reports from trade outlets also indicate butler service will be part of the offering across the accommodation mix created for the new ship.
Dining venues named for the ship include The Grand Dining Room, Polo Grill, Toscana, Terrace Café, Waves Grill and the Pizzeria in the evenings.
Oceania said menus will reflect the destinations being visited, reinforcing the vessel’s role as a ship built around long-haul, destination-focused itineraries rather than shorter cruise programmes.
The line’s Baristas coffee venue will move to Horizons, where it will be joined by two new additions: Bakery and Crêperie.
Guests will also find a new Founders Bar, which is set to host mixology-led experiences as part of the refreshed public spaces.
Oceania is also adding several enrichment features aimed at travellers spending long periods on board, including the new Chef’s Studio for culinary workshops, Artist Loft for hands-on creative sessions, the LYNC Digital Center for interactive classes and a guest speaker programme. For the first time, unlimited access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace will also be available to all guests.
Part Of A Wider OceaniaNEXT Push
Aurelia’s overhaul forms part of OceaniaNEXT, the cruise line’s broader upgrade strategy covering ship design, cuisine, service and enrichment.
Earlier this month, Oceania also confirmed an extensive refurbishment for Marina, describing that project as the first in a series of enhancements under the programme. That suggests Aurelia is not a one-off revamp, but part of a wider effort to refresh the fleet while sharpening the line’s luxury positioning.
The Nautica conversion also marks a notable shift in how Oceania is using its smaller ships. Rather than keeping the vessel in its existing higher-capacity format, the line is betting on lower guest numbers, larger suites and more personalised service to appeal to travellers booking major itineraries such as world cruises and other extended journeys.
In effect, Aurelia is being positioned less as a traditional small cruise ship and more as a boutique home at sea for global travel.
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A two-year-old child was taken to hospital after falling aboard the cruise ship Mein Schiff 7 while it was docked in Funchal on 22nd April 2026, prompting an emergency response from local medical teams.
According to Portuguese media reports, the child fell from a height estimated to be between 6 and 10 feet while the vessel was alongside in port. Emergency responders arrived to find the child conscious and already receiving care from the ship’s onboard medical team, with his mother by his side.
Madeira’s Integrated Medical Emergency System dispatched its Rapid Intervention Medical Team, known as EMIR, along with an ambulance directly to the ship. After an initial assessment onboard, the child was transferred ashore and taken to Dr. Nélio Mendonça Hospital for further checks.
Cruise line TUI Cruises later confirmed the incident, stating the injuries were not serious.
“We can confirm an incident on Mein Schiff 7 in Madeira involving a child. However, the child was never in a critical condition, nor did it have life-threatening injuries. It was in hospital for routine observation, though the child is in good condition and with family members,”
Portuguese port authority APRAM also confirmed the incident occurred while the ship was docked, adding that it took place within the vessel itself.
Investigation Ongoing Into Cause Of Fall
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fall. While there has been some speculation that the child may have fallen from a balcony, this has not been officially confirmed.
The incident occurred during a seven-night itinerary that began in Gran Canaria on 20th April 2026. After a day at sea, the ship arrived in Funchal at 7am on 22nd April for an overnight stay. The situation did not affect the vessel’s schedule, with departure planned for 23rd April.
The 3,984-passenger ship, which entered service in June 2024, is scheduled to continue its voyage with calls to ports including Santa Cruz de La Palma, Tenerife and Fuerteventura before returning to Gran Canaria on 27th April.
Previous Incidents Across The Fleet
While rare, this is not the first serious incident involving ships operated by TUI Cruises.
On 14th October 2022, a passenger died after falling from a balcony aboard Mein Schiff 6 during a voyage in the Aegean Sea. Reports indicated the individual fell multiple decks from Deck 10 onto a lifeboat area below.
More recently, in November 2025, a 76-year-old passenger was reported missing after going overboard from Marella Explorer 2 near the Canary Islands. A search operation was launched by Spanish authorities, but the individual was not found.
Investigations into the latest incident in Madeira remain ongoing, though early indications suggest the child is recovering well following the fall.
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Passengers booking guarantee staterooms with Royal Caribbean can now pay to secure earlier clarity on their cabin location, as the cruise line rolls out a new pilot programme called “Early Assign”.
The optional upgrade, priced at $30 per stateroom, allows guests to receive their cabin assignment within 24 hours of making their final payment.
The initiative is designed to address one of the most common frustrations with guarantee bookings, where travellers can otherwise wait until just days before embarkation, or even the day of sailing, to learn where they will be staying.
Guarantee fares remain one of the cheapest ways to cruise, often undercutting the cost of selecting a specific cabin by hundreds of dollars. However, that saving comes with uncertainty over both cabin location and assignment timing.
How The Early Assign Pilot Works
The Early Assign option becomes available at the point of final payment and is currently being trialled on selected sailings. At present, the programme is limited to US bookings and applies only within defined pre-sailing windows.
For shorter itineraries of five nights or less, guests can opt in between 30 and 60 days before departure. For voyages lasting six nights or longer, the window extends from 50 to 80 days before sailing.
Once the fee is paid and the balance is settled, the assigned stateroom is confirmed within 24 business hours.
The pilot covers a range of guarantee categories, including codes such as WS, XB, XQ, XN, NQ, YO, YQ, ZI and ZQ, spanning interior, oceanview, balcony and suite options.
Importantly, guests who receive their assignment through Early Assign can request a different cabin within the same category at no extra cost, provided alternatives are still available. While this flexibility is not exclusive to the programme, receiving an earlier assignment increases the likelihood that other cabins remain unsold and open for changes.
The $30 fee applies per stateroom rather than per guest and is strictly non-refundable, even if the cruise is later cancelled. The option is not available on casino fares and may be restricted when combined with certain promotions.
Why Royal Caribbean Is Testing Early Assign
The introduction of Early Assign reflects ongoing efforts by Royal Caribbean to refine the balance between value and certainty for its passengers.
While many travellers are happy to accept a lower fare in exchange for flexibility, others find the waiting period for cabin allocation frustrating. In some cases, assignments can take weeks or months to appear, creating uncertainty right up to departure.
There is also a wider industry backdrop to consider. Oversold sailings have occasionally led to cruise lines offering incentives for guests to change plans shortly before departure. In rare scenarios, those without assigned cabins could be most vulnerable if capacity issues arise.
By offering earlier confirmation, Royal Caribbean may be aiming to reassure guests while still promoting its lower-cost guarantee fares.
Whether the fee represents good value will depend on the traveller. Those unconcerned about cabin location may see little benefit, while guests seeking peace of mind, or hoping to secure a better-positioned cabin within their category, may find the added cost worthwhile.
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Ambassador Cruise Line has changed the rules around spirits and drinks packages, cutting its standard spirit measure to 25ml while also removing the previous 15-alcoholic-drinks-per-day cap from package terms.
Current package wording, updated in April 2026, now says standard spirit measures are 25ml and still states that bar staff may refuse service to guests who appear heavily intoxicated.
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That marks a notable shift from earlier Ambassador package wording still carried on travel retailer pages, which said alcoholic drinks were limited to 15 beverages per 24-hour period, standard spirit measures were 40ml, and “Ordering a double shot is not permitted under the programme as it counts as two drinks.”
Based on that wording change, the line appears to have traded larger single measures and the old daily cap for smaller pours, while opening the door to doubles being sold within the one-drink-at-a-time rule.
For guests who buy a drinks package, the change is likely to be seen as more balanced because the removal of the daily cap gives more flexibility and the previous ban on doubles has disappeared from the latest terms.
For passengers paying as they go, though, the change is less favourable because they will now receive a smaller standard spirit measure unless they spend extra on a double. The current terms still say only one drink per person may be ordered at a time, with a minimum 15-minute wait between orders.
Recent package prices published by Ambassador show the line continuing to push pre-booked drinks bundles heavily, with the Explorer and Expedition packages sold on a per-cruise basis for short sailings and on a per-night basis for longer voyages.
What Has Changed In Ambassador’s Drinks Rules
The most important point in the updated wording is not just the reduction from 40ml to 25ml. It is that the latest terms no longer include the old sentence capping alcoholic drinks at 15 per 24-hour period, nor the previous wording that explicitly barred double shots under the programme.
Instead, Ambassador’s current online terms focus on one drink per person at any time, the 15-minute wait between orders, and the line’s right to refuse alcohol service under its responsible service policy.
That means the biggest downside falls on guests who do not buy a package. A standard spirit now comes in a smaller measure than before, according to the currently published terms and the earlier package wording still visible through cruise retailers.
At the same time, guests on packages may feel they have gained flexibility because the daily cap has been removed from the current rules.
Ambassador has also kept an important safeguard in place. Its current drinks package page states: “In line with our responsible service of alcohol policy, bar staff may refuse service if a guest appears to be heavily intoxicated.”
Why Responsible Service Still Matters
That part of the policy is especially relevant in light of a recent US court case involving Carnival Cruise Line.
Last week, multiple outlets reported that a Miami federal jury awarded $300,000 to Diana Sanders after finding Carnival negligent for overserving alcohol before she suffered a serious fall aboard Carnival Radiance.
Reports said Sanders, a 45-year-old California nurse, consumed at least 14 tequila shots over roughly eight and a half hours during a three-night sailing from Long Beach to Mexico on 5th January 2024.
According to the reporting, the jury assigned 60% of the responsibility to Carnival and 40% to Sanders. Her injuries were reported to include a concussion, headaches, possible traumatic brain injury and back-related injuries. Carnival has said it disagrees with the verdict and intends to pursue a new trial or appeal.
At the time of that sailing, Carnival’s official Cheers! package allowed up to 15 alcoholic drinks in a 24-hour period running from 6am to 6am. Carnival’s policy also says staff are trained not to serve guests who appear intoxicated.
“I believe a primary culprit is prepaid drink packages that encourage people to ‘get their money’s worth.’ Furthermore, servers on these cruise lines are often minimally paid workers from economically disadvantaged countries who are financially incentivized to continue serving alcohol because they are compensated by tips,”
Spencer Aronfeld, attorney.
More Cruise Lines Face Scrutiny Over Alcohol Service
The Carnival verdict is not the only case to put cruise line alcohol service under the spotlight. AP reported that the Sanders case comes amid wider scrutiny of cruise alcohol policies, while separate lawsuits filed in late 2025 accused Royal Caribbean of overserving passengers in other fatal incidents.
One lawsuit alleged a passenger was served 33 drinks before he died aboard Navigator of the Seas, while another wrongful death case alleged a guest on Allure of the Seas was overserved before going overboard.
Both cases were still being contested in court reporting, and Royal Caribbean said it would not comment further on pending litigation or that it was cooperating with authorities.
For Ambassador, the latest package rewrite may look like a mixed change rather than a straightforward cutback. Package holders now appear to have more freedom than before, but guests buying spirits individually are likely to notice the difference immediately.
Either way, the line’s own terms still make clear that service should stop once a guest appears heavily intoxicated.
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Cunard has confirmed plans for a landmark maritime event in 2028, with all four of its iconic ships set to gather in Liverpool for the first time in the company’s history.
On 16th May 2028, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne will assemble on the River Mersey, creating a rare spectacle in the cruise line’s spiritual home. The occasion represents the first time the full Cunard fleet has come together in one place.
Liverpool holds deep historical significance for Cunard, which was founded in the city in 1840. The upcoming event is expected to draw significant global attention, building on the success of previous ship gatherings on the Mersey.
A similar moment took place in 2015, when three Cunard Queens met in Liverpool to mark the company’s 175th anniversary. That celebration attracted more than one million spectators to the waterfront, setting expectations high for an even larger turnout in 2028.
Historic Voyage And Citywide Celebrations
The 2028 event will also coincide with major celebrations in Liverpool, marking 20 years since the city was named European Capital of Culture. A year-long programme of cultural, sporting and maritime events is planned, with the arrival of Cunard’s fleet expected to serve as a centrepiece.
Queen Mary 2’s role in the event will be particularly notable. The flagship will complete her first ever transatlantic crossing from New York directly to Liverpool, marking Cunard’s first eastbound arrival on this route in more than six decades.
The last such crossing took place in November 1966, when RMS Sylvania docked at Princes Landing Stage.
Passengers across the fleet will be able to take part in specially designed Four Queens Celebration voyages. Queen Mary 2 will sail from New York into Liverpool before continuing her established programme of transatlantic crossings, Canada and New England itineraries, and Caribbean voyages.
Queen Anne is scheduled to begin her 2028 season in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, including an overnight stay in Liverpool during the celebrations.
Meanwhile, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will join the Mersey gathering as part of their own itineraries. Queen Elizabeth will sail from Southampton via Le Havre, while Queen Victoria will arrive following a British Isles voyage that includes ports in Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
“Bringing our four Queens together on the Mersey for the first time will be a rare and incredibly special moment for Cunard. Liverpool is where our story began, and returning with the full fleet is a powerful celebration of that bond. It will be an unforgettable day for our guests, for the city, and for everyone who comes together to enjoy the spectacle from the shore.”
Katie McAlister, President of Cunard
City Leaders Highlight Global Impact
Local leaders have emphasised the significance of the event for Liverpool and the wider region, both culturally and economically.
“Welcoming the four Cunard Queens at the same time will be an extraordinary occasion for our city, our residents, and our visitors. We are incredibly proud of our rich maritime heritage, and this promises to be a really special moment here in Liverpool, Cunard’s spiritual home.
“2028 is shaping up to be a very exciting year for us – with the Four Queens’ visit, hosting Euro 2028 matches, and the 20th anniversary of Liverpool Capital of Culture, we’ve got a brilliant programme of events and activities in store.
“We are looking forward to bringing people together once again and helping to deliver an experience that will be remembered long after the ships have sailed.”
Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council
Councillor Harry Doyle added: “Cunard and its vessels are synonymous with Liverpool’s waterfront and our maritime history.
“A visit by one of their liners is always a magnificent spectacle, so to have all four in the city together will be a moment that will live forever in people’s memories and be a major part of our celebrations to mark the 20th anniversary of our year as European Capital of Culture.”
“The visit of all four Cunard Queens to Liverpool in May 2028 will be a truly landmark moment for our city region.
“It is a powerful tribute to Liverpool’s proud maritime heritage, our enduring relationship with Cunard, and our growing reputation as a welcoming world class destination.
“Events of this scale generate global attention and lasting economic and cultural benefits, and we look forward to showcasing the very best of the Liverpool City Region to visitors from across the world.”
Lord Hall, Chair of the Liverpool City Region Destination Partnership Board
Further details on Cunard’s 2028 itineraries and booking dates are expected to be released in due course.
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MSC Cruises’ newest flagship has made an immediate impact with passengers, while one of its long-standing favourites has suffered a sharp fall in the latest annual ship rankings based on customer reviews.
Newly compiled data for 2026 shows MSC World America entering straight into second place despite only launching in 2025, an unusually strong debut for a ship still in its early months of service.
At the same time, MSC Divina has dropped dramatically from fourth place last year to 17th, marking the biggest fall of any vessel in the fleet.
The rankings are based on aggregated review scores from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com and TripAdvisor, offering a broad snapshot of passenger sentiment across MSC’s 23-ship fleet.
New Ship Makes Immediate Impact
MSC World America’s high placement stands out as one of the most notable developments in this year’s rankings.
Brand-new ships often take time to climb review tables, as early sailings can expose operational teething issues while crew and onboard systems settle. However, early feedback for MSC World America has been largely positive, with guests praising the ship’s modern design, wide range of entertainment and overall value.
The ship, built with the North American market in mind, features large-scale venues, water attractions and a resort-style layout. While some passengers have pointed to crowding and occasional food quality concerns, these criticisms have not prevented the vessel from achieving one of the highest scores in the fleet.
Its strong debut suggests MSC may be refining how it launches new ships, particularly compared with earlier vessels that initially struggled before improving over time.
MSC Divina’s Sharp Decline Explained
In contrast, MSC Divina’s fall from fourth to 17th place highlights a shift in how passengers are rating some of the cruise line’s older ships.
While still described as a solid all-rounder, recent reviews point to growing dissatisfaction in several areas. Feedback frequently mentions inconsistent food quality, overcrowded buffet areas and a general sense that the ship is beginning to feel dated compared with newer additions to the fleet.
Recent sailings in late 2025 and early 2026 reinforce this mixed picture. Some guests continue to praise the ship’s value, friendly crew and enjoyable itineraries, particularly during holiday cruises.
However, others describe operational issues, including disorganised processes, long waits and poor communication during embarkation and disembarkation.
Dining remains one of the most commonly cited concerns. Reviews highlight meals being served at inconsistent temperatures, limited variety and difficulties navigating busy buffet layouts. Entertainment has also drawn criticism from some passengers, with complaints about limited variety and underwhelming performances.
Operational shortcomings have also been noted, including reports of understaffing affecting service levels, as well as issues with onboard communication and app usability. Crowding is another recurring theme, with some passengers describing congested public areas and long queues for services.
Despite this, MSC Divina still attracts positive feedback from repeat cruisers who value its pricing and traditional cruise atmosphere. However, the ship appears to be losing ground as MSC continues to introduce larger, more modern ships with broader facilities.
Newer Ships Driving Changing Perceptions
The contrasting fortunes of MSC World America and MSC Divina reflect a wider trend across the MSC fleet.
Newer ships, particularly those launched in the last decade, are dominating the upper end of the rankings, offering more attractions, updated designs and features tailored to families and international markets. Meanwhile, older vessels are increasingly judged against these newer standards, even when they continue to offer good value.
This year’s rankings also show that while MSC’s newer ships attract strong interest, they are not without criticism. Larger ships frequently receive complaints about crowding and service levels, suggesting that scale remains a challenge for the line.
Overall, the latest results underline how quickly passenger preferences can shift in a rapidly evolving fleet, with new ships setting higher expectations and older favourites struggling to keep pace.
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