TUI Cruises has appointed Kira Schikorr as the first female captain in the Mein Schiff fleet, marking a landmark moment for the German cruise line. Schikorr has assumed command of Mein Schiff 6, becoming the first woman to take overall command of any ship in the fleet.
Kira Schikorr as Staff Captain (left) prior to her promotion. Credit: Mein Schiff Crew
Her promotion comes while Mein Schiff 6 is operating in Asia and represents a significant step forward in an industry where senior bridge roles have historically been dominated by men. For TUI Cruises, it is both an individual career milestone and a visible signal of changing leadership dynamics within one of Europe’s largest cruise brands.
Career Progression Through The Mein Schiff Fleet
Schikorr joined the Mein Schiff fleet in 2018, beginning her career with TUI Cruises as a Second Officer. Over the following years, she progressed steadily through the deck ranks, gaining experience across multiple vessels.
In 2022, she was promoted to Staff Captain and served in that senior role on ships including Mein Schiff 7. Her latest appointment places her in full command of Mein Schiff 6, with responsibility for navigation, safety, crew management and the onboard experience of thousands of guests.
Beyond her formal qualifications, Schikorr has developed a strong onboard reputation. Passengers have described her as approachable and easy to engage with during interactions at sea, a leadership style that is increasingly valued on modern cruise ships, where visibility and communication are key aspects of command.
Her appointment has been widely reported across German cruise media as a first for the brand and as evidence of a new generation moving into senior maritime roles.
A Long Road For Women On The Bridge
Schikorr’s promotion sits within a much broader historical context for women in the cruise and maritime industries. During the 19th century, women were often considered bad luck at sea, a belief rooted in superstition and reinforced by myths such as mermaids and sirens.
For decades, these attitudes translated into formal barriers, with many maritime academies in countries such as Greece, Italy, England and Norway refusing to admit women.
It is only within the last 25 years that these institutions have opened their doors more widely. In England, women were barred from maritime academies as recently as the 1980s. Today, they account for around 25 percent of cruise ship captains trained in the country, illustrating just how rapidly the landscape has changed.
The first woman to captain a major cruise ship was Karin Stahre-Janson, who took command of Monarch of the Seas for Royal Caribbean in 2007. Her appointment is widely regarded as the starting point for a gradual but meaningful shift across the industry.
Since then, a small but growing number of women have followed.
Kate McCue made history in 2015 as America’s first female cruise ship captain and later became the first woman to command a mega ship.
She went on to take charge of Celebrity Edge, a vessel designed by women and launched under the leadership of Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, the first female CEO of a major cruise line.
Other milestones include Belinda Bennett, who became the world’s first Black female cruise captain with Windstar, and Serena Melani, who became the first woman to captain a newly launched cruise ship when she oversaw the debut of Seven Seas Splendor after extensive involvement at the shipyard.
Cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages have also taken a more proactive approach, actively encouraging female recruitment for bridge and leadership roles through initiatives such as the Scarlet Squad during the launch of Scarlet Lady.
While men still occupy the majority of senior, higher-paid roles at sea, the industry has begun to more visibly recognise the commitment and sacrifices made by female officers. Promotions such as Schikorr’s demonstrate that long-standing stereotypes are continuing to erode, albeit gradually.
As Kira Schikorr begins her first command with Mein Schiff 6, her appointment stands not only as a personal achievement, but as part of a wider transformation in cruising, where the bridge is slowly becoming a more representative place of the passengers and crews it serves.
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Royal Caribbean’s fourth Icon-class cruise ship has moved into a significant new stage of construction, with the first passenger cabins now installed at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.
Credit: Meyer Turku
The vessel, currently known as Icon 4, is under construction for a planned late 2027 entry into service. On 9th January 2026, the shipyard lifted the first modular cabins into place, marking a key transition from structural assembly to interior outfitting.
Meyer Turku confirmed the milestone in a social media update issued on 13th January 2026, noting that the delivery represented the first of 2,800 staterooms that will eventually be fitted on board.
“Icon 4’s assembly phase is progressing, and the vessel’s first cabins were lifted into the ship last Friday, January 9,” the shipbuilder said.
How Modular Cabins Speed Up Construction
The cabins being installed are fully prebuilt units, a method increasingly used in modern cruise ship construction to improve efficiency and quality control.
According to Meyer Turku, the staterooms are manufactured by its subsidiary Piikkio Works at a factory in Piikkio, Finland, before being transported to the shipyard for installation.
“The modular cabins are fully prebuilt by our daughter company Piikkio Works. They are then delivered to the shipyard, where they are lifted into the ship,” Meyer Turku explained.
Because the cabins are completed in advance, including bathroom units and fixtures, they can be installed rapidly once the ship’s structure is ready. This approach helps streamline the build schedule for vessels of this immense scale.
Icon 4 will eventually join three sister ships within Royal Caribbean’s Icon class.
Icon of the Seas entered service in January 2024, Star of the Seas followed in August 2025, and Legend of the Seas is scheduled to debut in July 2026. Legend of the Seas is also being built at Meyer Turku and is currently under construction alongside Icon 4.
The Icon-class ships are the largest cruise vessels ever built, each measuring approximately 248,663 gross tonnes. In double occupancy they accommodate 5,610 guests, with maximum capacity rising to around 7,600 passengers when all berths are in use.
Construction Timeline And What Comes Next
Construction of Icon 4 formally began in September 2025 with a keel-laying ceremony, a maritime tradition that involves placing commemorative coins beneath the first section of the ship’s hull for good fortune.
Like her sister ships, Icon 4 will be powered by liquefied natural gas and will incorporate alternative energy technologies, including fuel cells designed to generate electrical power while alongside in port.
The next major milestone in the build process will be the ship’s float-out, when the vessel leaves the construction dock and enters the water for the first time. This stage typically takes place around a year before delivery and launch.
Royal Caribbean placed the order for the fourth Icon-class ship in August 2024, with the contract also including options for a fifth and sixth vessel in the series.
While the future homeport for Icon 4 has not yet been announced, the ship is expected to play a prominent role in the cruise line’s deployment plans once she enters service in 2027, continuing Royal Caribbean’s focus on deploying its largest ships to high-demand itineraries.
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A Royal Caribbean guest missed their cruise departure after travelling to the wrong Florida port.
The guest has also been denied permission to join the ship at a later stop.
The incident involved a passenger booked to sail aboard Utopia of the Seas, which departed from Port Canaveral on Monday, 12th January 2026.
Instead of arriving at the correct homeport, the guest mistakenly went to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, realising the error only after the ship had already sailed.
The guest later shared the experience on Reddit, confirming that the mistake was entirely their own.
“We pulled a major travel fail today. … We’ve obviously missed the ship’s departure,” they wrote.
How The Mix-Up Occurred
The passenger explained that the confusion stemmed from a previous Royal Caribbean cruise that had departed from Fort Lauderdale.
“We flew into Fort Lauderdale yesterday, the night before the cruise,” they said. “I had been on one Royal cruise previously that left from the port here in Fort Lauderdale.”
Port Everglades is currently home to several Royal Caribbean ships, including Liberty of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. The guest assumed Port Canaveral was the same port they had used in the past.
“For whatever reason I was sure Port Canaveral was the one in Fort Lauderdale that I left from last time,” they added. “Only at noon today did we figure out that the port here in FLL is Port Everglades. Obviously a very dumb mistake in hindsight.”
By the time the error was discovered, it was already too late to attempt to reach Port Canaveral. Even in ideal traffic conditions, the drive from Port Everglades to Port Canaveral takes at least three hours, not including time needed for terminal check-in and security.
Utopia of the Seas departed at 4 pm, making it impossible to arrive and board before the all-aboard deadline.
Request To Join The Ship In Nassau Rejected
Utopia of the Seas was scheduled to call at Nassau the following day, prompting the guest to immediately contact Royal Caribbean International to ask whether they could join the sailing at the Bahamian port.
The passenger also booked refundable flights from Fort Lauderdale to Nassau for early Tuesday morning while awaiting a decision.
Other travellers commenting on the post noted that Nassau is typically an easy destination to reach by air and shared advice on getting from Lynden Pindling International Airport to the cruise port, which is around 10 miles away.
However, several users also pointed out that permission to embark at a port of call does not rest with the cruise line alone and requires approval from local authorities.
One commenter even issued a light-hearted but practical warning: “Be sure you actually go to Nassau, Bahamas and not Nassau, New York.”
Despite the swift action, the request was ultimately denied.
“We regret to inform you that your request to embark in Nassau, Bahamas has been denied by port authorities,” Royal Caribbean stated in its response. “The reason provided does not meet the established criteria for authorization to embark at an alternate port of call.”
No further explanation was provided, and the decision could not be appealed.
With Utopia of the Seas operating a four-night itinerary featuring only Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay before returning to Port Canaveral, there was little opportunity for the guest to pursue alternative options in time to join the voyage.
Why Joining A Cruise Late Is Rarely Approved
While stories occasionally circulate of passengers successfully joining ships at later ports, such cases are relatively uncommon and depend heavily on immigration laws, security requirements and itinerary length.
Cruise lines submit detailed passenger manifests in advance, and changes after departure require clearance from port and border authorities. On short sailings such as Utopia of the Seas’ four-night cruises, there is often insufficient time to process approvals before the ship returns to its homeport.
It is also unclear whether the guest held travel insurance, and many policies do not cover missed embarkation when the cause is passenger error rather than flight delays or cancellations.
Despite the outcome, the guest said they hoped their experience would help others avoid making a similar mistake.
“Good to know that Royal won’t just green light you to join at a different port,” they said.
The situation serves as a reminder that verifying embarkation ports and cities is just as important as confirming flight details, particularly in regions like Florida where multiple cruise ports operate within a few hours of one another.
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Planning a cruise is one of those things that makes you feel like a kid before Christmas. You’ve got that shiny new itinerary, you’re daydreaming about turquoise water and soft-serve machines that almost never close – and then the credit card statement hits.
Cruises can absolutely be brilliant value, but once you add drinks, excursions, tips and “just one more spa treatment”, the costs build up faster than a buffet queue on embarkation day.
So, from one sea-obsessed traveller to another, here are fifteen tried-and-tested cruise hacks to keep your budget shipshape without missing out on any of the fun.
1. Book early… or ridiculously late
The biggest savings usually sit at either end of the calendar.
Cruise lines love rewarding the super-organised – book as soon as new itineraries drop (sometimes a year and a half in advance) and you’ll often lock in lower fares, plus the pick of cabins. If you’ve got your heart set on a certain ship or sailing, this is the way to go.
And I would always recommend bigger families booking ASAP, because you’ll typically get the best price by booking a family cabin instead of two connecting cabins – and those family staterooms are always the first to sell out.
At the other end of the scale, the “I’ll-pack-when-I-get-there” crowd can win big too. When a ship’s about to sail and still has empty rooms, lines will often drop prices dramatically rather than leave them unsold.
If you’re flexible with dates and can jet off at short notice, you can nab a luxury sailing for the price of an inside cabin. It’s not for planners, because we’re talking about booking a cruise with just a few days’ notice, but it’s a thrill when it works.
It sounds almost too simple, but this trick genuinely saves hundreds.
Search Facebook for your chosen ship and you will usually find a list of groups you can join, some of which are just fan pages for the ship, while others might be tailored towards a specific sailing.
Inside these groups, travel agents often share group rates or exclusive packages you won’t find on the cruise line’s website.
These aren’t dodgy deals; agents get bulk pricing from cruise lines and sometimes throw in extras from their own commission – onboard credit, wine, priority boarding.
Just make sure the agent’s legit: ask the group for recommendations, or check reviews before booking.
Don’t book with someone you can’t get good information on, because scams or even just over-priced bookings as possible.
But there are plenty of good, honest travel agents populating these groups who have a mission to sell cabins, and who could help you get a great value deal.
3. Use cruise comparison tools
If you’re more of a “DIY holiday researcher”, cruise search engines are your best mate. Websites like Cruise Critic, and (for UK readers) World of Cruising let you filter by destination, date, ship, cabin type, and more.
The best part? You’ll spot flash sales that last only a day or two – sometimes even before the official site updates.
Or better yet, if you sign up to my email newsletter, I can save you the work. Every week I send out the best deals that I’ve found when I’m checking all the cruise comparison websites.
So you’re getting the best prices, but I’m the one doing all the searching for you.
4. Pick the right cabin for you
If you’re new to cruising, you need to make sure you understand the different cabin options, as booking the wrong one could be a costly mistake:
Inside cabins: No windows, no natural light, cheapest option. Great if you love a good nap and don’t care about views. They’re also the smallest rooms on the ship though, so don’t book them if you like a lot of space.
Oceanview cabins: Same as inside but with a window. Perfect compromise if you like to see daylight but don’t need outdoor space. Are often similar in size to an Inside cabin, but sometimes they’re a bit bigger too.
Balcony cabins: The sweet spot for most cruisers – private outdoor space, sea breeze, and morning coffee with a view. Typically the inside part of the stateroom is similar in size to an Inside or Ocean View, and the balcony counts as your additional space.
Suites: The dream. Think butlers, priority embarkation, and fancy bathrobes. Lovely, yes, but often double or triple the price of a balcony cabin.
That’s a really broad overview, but it works as a starting point. Depending on the ship you might have all kids of sub-categories, like studio rooms with smaller beds for single travellers, or “Spacious” versions of rooms that are much bigger, with a higher price tag.
And even within suites there can be loads of different options. A Junior Suite is going to cost a fraction of the price of an Owner’s Suite, but will also come with a much smaller list of perks.
My advice? Spend your money where it matters most to you. If you’ll barely be in your room, go inside. If your idea of heaven is sunrise on your own balcony, splash a bit.
I always say I would prefer to book two cruises in an Inside cabin instead of one in a lower-end suite.
But if you think you’d hate an Inside cabin, then paying extra to get an upgraded room is going to be more valuable to you.
5. Try your luck with upgrade bidding
Upgrade programmes are one of cruising’s best-kept secrets, unless you’re someone who regularly sails and who often takes advantage of these.
After you’ve booked, keep an eye on your emails – many lines invite you to bid for a better cabin. You name your price (say, £300 extra for a balcony), and if the offer’s accepted, you get the room.
Of course, it is far from guaranteed, and you might not get all the perks of that higher category, but it’s an affordable way to level up your trip.
Sometimes you can bid the minimum and win an upgrade for a tiny fraction of what it would’ve cost you to book it outright. But other times even a high bid can fail, especially when it’s peak season and ships are selling out.
6. Watch for price drops after booking
Here’s the sneaky one: if the fare drops after you’ve booked but before your final payment date, most cruise lines will match the lower rate or offer you the difference in onboard credit.
That’s because, if it’s before your final payment date, you can cancel – and they don’t want the hassle of re-selling the cabin to someone else. It’s better value for them to retain you as a guest, and hopefully give you that small financial win that makes you more likely to book again in future.
Check your fare regularly (once a week is plenty) and if you spot a drop, call them straight away.
Cruising with little ones? These promotions can make a massive difference. Lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC and P&O Cruises often run “kids sail free” events where you’ll only pay port fees and taxes for your children.
That’s hundreds saved per child.
If the deal’s not live when you book, no panic – just note your final payment date and keep checking. You might be able to call and have the discount applied later.
I adore shoulder-season cruising. You get calmer crowds, cooler weather (no baking alive on deck), and much better prices.
Caribbean in September, Mediterranean in November, Alaska in April – all great value.
Yes, you might have the odd rain shower or slightly chillier evening, but you’ll also have space to breathe on deck and fewer queues at the buffet. I’ll take that trade any day.
The only thing to bear in mind is that you need to be a bit flexible with your itinerary. If you’re cruising when the weather is more likely to be rough, that’s when you’re at a higher risk of port visits being cancelled, if the ship can’t safely dock.
If you aren’t too fussed about every port on your itinerary, then go for it. And just make sure you’ve got cruise insurance with missed port cover anyway, so you get a bit of a refund if you do miss a port.
My Recommendation
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
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9. Think about bundled packages
If you need flights and hotels, some cruise lines or especially travel agents offer packages that combine everything – often cheaper than booking separately.
You’ll sacrifice a bit of flexibility, as the cruise line picks your flight times and hotels, but it can simplify things massively, especially for long-haul trips.
There are pros and cons here and you might get an even better deal if you put the work in and book your own extras.
But it’s always worth checking and comparing. Maybe you can save money booking a 3* hotel for the night before your cruise yourself, but for a very small extra charge a travel agent can get you a deal on a 4* one – and perhaps that’s worth it to you.
10. Bring your own drinks
Most ships let you bring limited drinks onboard – usually one bottle of wine per adult and a small pack of soft drinks or water.
Doesn’t sound like much, but considering wine can cost £30 a bottle onboard, that’s an easy £60–£80 saved.
Just double-check your cruise line’s policy before packing – they vary. And yes, a sneaky bottle of your favourite rosé on the balcony at sunset tastes far better when you didn’t pay ship prices for it.
Just ask your cabin steward or room service for some wine glasses, and ice if you like.
The automatic gratuities that most cruise lines charge will often increase year-on-year, so paying them in advance locks in the current rate. It also means you won’t get that “surprise” bill at the end of your trip.
A few people grumble about tipping, but here’s the truth: those crew members work insanely hard, seven days a week, often months at sea. Prepaying means everyone gets looked after properly, and you can relax knowing it’s already handled.
Look out for deals offering onboard credit when you book. It’s basically cruise cash that can be used anywhere onboard – cocktails, spa treatments, gift shops, you name it.
Some travel agents also offer it as an incentive for booking through them. Even if it only seems like a small amount, it’s a nice bonus to get.
Treat it like found money – but remember, it doesn’t carry over. Use it before disembarking or you lose it.
13. Be smart about excursions
Booking excursions through the cruise line is easy, but you’ll pay for the privilege. Independent tours can be half the price – and often much better.
Smaller groups, more flexible timings, and fewer selfie sticks in the background of your photos.
Just plan wisely and leave plenty of time to get back to the port. I always aim to be back an hour before the all-aboard time, just in case.
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14. Pack like a pro
You really don’t need half your wardrobe. Most people overpack massively for cruises. Remember, there’s laundry service onboard (or self-service on some lines), and the airline baggage fee for an extra case is often higher than the cost of getting your clothes washed mid-cruise.
Think mix-and-match, lightweight layers, and leave space for souvenirs. And if you’re a snorkelling lover, bring your own kit – better quality, more hygienic, and saves money long-term.
15. Avoid onboard spending traps
This is the big one. Cruise ships are designed to tempt you – art auctions, spa deals, casinos, “souvenir” photos. Before you go, set a budget for onboard spending and stick to it.
Work out what genuinely makes your cruise better and skip the rest. Or if you want to try a bit of everything, make sure you budget for it all – don’t just turn up and hope it all works out by the time you get your final bill. You’ll enjoy yourself more when you’re not dreading it towards the end of your cruise.
Cruising doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. With a little planning and a few insider tricks, you can stretch your budget and still have an unforgettable trip.
At the end of the day, the best parts of cruising – the ocean views, the sunsets, the laughter – don’t cost a thing. So grab that glass of wine (preferably the one you brought onboard), find a deck chair, and toast to smart sailing.
Cruise ships run like floating cities, with strict rules designed to keep everything safe, professional and picture-perfect.
But behind the smiles and uniforms, crew life is a world of long hours, cramped cabins, and the occasional bit of quiet rebellion.
How do we know this? Well, Lucy Southerton is a popular YouTuber who shares stories of life at sea on her channel ‘Cruising as Crew’, and she was interviewed by Dan and Jay of Sail Away Magazine on some of the rules that crew members break.
From secret romances to sneaky phone breaks, here are seven of the most common rules crew members break when they think no one’s looking – and why you might find them strangely understandable.
It’s strictly forbidden, and for good reason: cruise lines have to protect both their staff and their guests from awkward situations or worse.
And by worse, imagine those guests who regret their consensual encounters and decide to sue the cruise line big for sexual assault or worse. That’s why it’s so serious – it has happened.
Still, the rule doesn’t stop everyone. Crew/guest encounters happen – sometimes ending in tears, sometimes in trouble, and occasionally in serious accusations when things go wrong.
It’s risky territory, but when people work long hours far from home, emotions can blur. Crew and passengers share small spaces, the same social events, and a constant sense of adventure – which makes it tempting.
For those caught, the best-case scenario is being sent home. The worst-case scenario can involve police and legal trouble. It’s one rule that’s broken often enough that everyone onboard knows it goes on – even if no one admits it out loud.
However, and let me be absolutely clear on this, that doesn’t mean it’s happening with every crew member. Far from it. It might be well-known, but it is still only a small minority that are involved.
So do not, under any circumstances, assume that the crew are up for a bit of fun at sea if you’re single and cruising. Be respectful and don’t chase them.
2. Crew–Crew Hookups
You’d think crew members would at least be allowed to date each other freely – and it’s sort of true, but not quite.
Officially, romantic relationships between crew are discouraged, especially between staff from different departments or ranks. It’s meant to keep things professional and avoid drama in tight quarters.
After all, you might be cooped up on the ship with the same people for six months or more. Do you want to get into a relationship with someone only for it to end badly after a month, with another five months to go?
Still, in reality, shipboard romances are common.
One particularly memorable tale from Lucy involves a crewmate being found handcuffed to her bunk after a “game” gone wrong – proof that even at sea, love (or lust) finds a way.
Cabins are tiny, privacy is non-existent, and emotions can run high. Crew work, eat, socialise and often live within arm’s reach of one another for months. It’s a pressure cooker environment where friendships and flirtations naturally cross the line.
While the rules say no, the sea has a funny way of ignoring them – especially after a few drinks in the crew bar.
3. Breaking the Alcohol Limit
Crew members are allowed to drink, but only a little.
The legal onboard limit is usually 0.05% – roughly one beer – and it’s enforced because staff must always be ready for an emergency. If something happens, passengers rely on the crew to stay sober and in control.
Still, it’s an open secret that many push their luck.
Drinks in the crew bar are cheap, stress levels are high, and off-duty socialising almost always involves alcohol.
As Lucy said, the real problem isn’t having a drink – it’s getting caught. Random breath tests can happen, and if you’re over the limit, you’ll likely be disembarked at the next port.
Some captains are known to schedule tests late in the day so crew have a fair chance to sober up, while others prefer to “catch them out” early in the morning.
Either way, most crew quickly learn how much they can get away with – and when it’s safe to have “just one more.”
4. Petty Theft at Sea
Just like on land, not everyone can resist temptation.
Lucy revealed stories of crew quietly helping themselves to goods from the onboard shops – anything from expensive face cream to chairs and even a painting from the ship’s art gallery.
Most cruise staff are hardworking and honest, but small acts of theft do happen. It’s easy to see why: they work surrounded by luxury items that passengers can buy, but that they themselves can’t afford.
Sometimes it’s boredom, sometimes greed, and sometimes it’s just the thrill of seeing if they can get away with it.
Security teams usually handle these cases quietly to avoid scandal, but when someone is caught, the consequences are immediate – dismissal and repatriation.
Still, stories like the one Lucy tells (of a crew member caught with three chairs and a painting) show that a few people at sea are every bit as daring as the ocean itself.
5. Happy Endings In The Spa
It’s not something cruise lines ever want to acknowledge, but it does happen.
Lucy admitted that during her years working in the onboard spa, some therapists offered “extras” for a cash tip.
As with everything on this list, it’s not common, and certainly not every therapist would dream of it, but it’s a well-known secret in the industry.
The mix of privacy, tips, and lonely passengers can lead to blurred lines.
For some crew, it’s a way to make fast money – a “side hustle” that can earn more than their regular wage. For others, it’s purely rumour. Either way, the rule is clear: any kind of sexual service, paid or not, is grounds for instant dismissal.
It’s one of those uncomfortable realities of ship life – a reminder that when people live and work in such intense, isolated conditions, the normal rules of behaviour can start to drift.
6. Using Mobile Phones on Duty
Most cruise lines have strict policies banning phone use during work hours. Crew are meant to stay professional, focused, and available to guests.
But just like anywhere else, temptation wins.
Phones are lifelines for crew far from home. They’re a way to message family, scroll through social media, or simply escape for a moment of normality.
It’s possible you might see cleaners or maintenance staff “taking a break” somewhere quiet, pretending to scrub a surface while really checking their messages.
One of the most amusing sights is a cleaner standing in a toilet cubicle with a mop in hand, apparently polishing the same spot for ten minutes – when in reality, they’re catching up on WhatsApp.
It’s against the rules, yes, but when you’re working twelve-hour shifts with little downtime, it’s hard to blame them for wanting a few minutes of connection.
7. Cabin Rules and Crew Misbehaviour
Crew cabins are private spaces, but they’re also strictly controlled. Crew are only allowed in their own or authorised cabins, and visitors are usually banned.
Still, it can happen that crew members can either enter a cabin that they shouldn’t be in, or they may linger unnecessarily when they have the authority to be there.
If that sounds ominous, don’t worry. I’ve my own story to share here and it’s really not too bad.
I once walked into my cabin to find two of the cabin attendants in there playing a little game of football using my son’s ball!
Some of you might be mortified but I honestly found it really funny, and didn’t mind at all. Even the most professional workers need a bit of fun sometimes.
Of course, many crew enter cabins as part of their cleaning or maintenance duties – that’s completely normal.
What’s not allowed is lingering, socialising, or playing games inside. Still, moments like that show that at sea, even the staff can feel like mischievous kids now and then.
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Final Word
Life at sea isn’t as polished as the brochures make it look. Behind the uniforms and rehearsed smiles are real people trying to balance discipline with a sense of normality.
Cruise crew work incredibly long hours, live in cramped conditions, and spend months away from home – so it’s hardly surprising that some rules get quietly bent along the way.
From sneaky phone breaks to secret romances, these stories aren’t about bad behaviour as much as they are about being human. For most crew, the small rule-breaking moments are what keep them sane in a world where work and life blur together.
So next time you’re on a cruise, spare a thought for the crew who make your holiday effortless. They’re not just part of the ship – they’re the heartbeat of it, doing their best to follow the rules… and sometimes breaking them a little.
Here’s Lucy’s interview with Dan and Jay in full, if you want to see more:
This week’s special offers from Disney Cruise Line include sail dates from this week into June 2026. There are 89 different sail dates, available with special offers available across the fleet for sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Honolulu, Port Canaveral, San Diego, Sydney, and Vancouver.
The Disney Dream, down 9 dates, remains in the lead with 50 sailings, followed by the Disney Wish is holding at 41 sailings, Disney Magic is down 5 to 21 dates, Disney Fantasy is down 6 to 19, the Disney Treasure is down 2 to 17, and the Disney Wonder remains at 10 sailings this week.
The Florida Resident rate is down 8 to 41 sail dates, the US Military Personnel offer dropped 12 dates bringing it down to 61 cruises, and the Canadian Resident offer dropped 2 to 56 sail dates. The special bonus US Military offer for $250 onboard credit announced a in November for select sailings in 2026 remains available.
The special offers listed below are available to book today while inventory lasts.
Special Offers for U.S. Military Personnel
Special Rates for U.S. Military Personnel (MTO) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid for new bookings only.
Disney Dream
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
Disney Wonder
10-Night Hawaiian Cruise from Honolulu ending in Vancouver Honolulu, Hawai’i • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i • Kahului (Maui), Hawai’i • Hilo, Hawai’i • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
15-Night South Pacific Cruise from Sydney ending in Honolulu Sydney, Australia • At Sea • At Sea • Nouméa, New Caledonia • At Sea • Suva, Fiji • International Date Line (Repeat Day) • Pago Pago, American Samoa • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Nawiliwili, Hawai’i
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver ending in San Diego Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
Special military rates are available to retired and active US military personnel (and their spouses), including US Coast Guard, US National Guard and US Military Reserves. Members of the US National Guard or the US Military Reserves (or their spouses) must show active-duty orders dated January 1st of the previous year to qualify. Third and fourth Guest prices valid with 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom. Rates may vary by sail date and category. Other restrictions may apply. Other categories and sail dates may be available. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Active and retired members (or spouse) of the US military must provide valid identification at time of check-in. Valid for new bookings only.
Special Offers for Florida Residents
Special Rates for Florida Residents (FLR) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Dream
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
To take advantage of Florida residency cruise rates, proof of Florida Residency for at least one adult in each stateroom must be presented at time of check-in. Guests unable to show proper proof of Florida residency at check-in will have their cruise re-priced and the balance must be paid before being allowed to sail.
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
Florida Driver’s License
Florida Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following—dated within the past 2 months—verifying a Florida residential address and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates are also available to Guests ages 3 through 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Canadian Resident Rates
Special Rates for Canadian Residents with savings on prevailing rates as quoted on Disneycruise.com for non-concierge Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside Staterooms on select cruises. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Proof of residency is required an you must mention the special offer code CAN when booking. NOTE: Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested when calling in. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits.
Disney Dream
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
The Canadian Resident rate excludes suites and categories with restrictions (VGT, OGT, and IGT). Proof of Canada residency will be required at time of check-in. Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses are not included. If booking through Disney Cruise Line’s Contact Center, you must mention code CAN. Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested by caller. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits. Offer valid for new and existing reservations.
Please note, the offers listed are not to be taken as official quotes. Prices and availability can change at any time without notice. More importantly, the deals listed above are a snapshot in time based on DCL’s online cruise search tool.
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to invite you to consider joining us on an upcoming DCL Blog Group Cruise! This summer, we are heading to Fort Lauderdale to sail to the Western Caribbean on the all new Disney Destiny. Click here to learn more out this group opportunity. We look forward to seeing you aboard.
A US-based residential cruise company has revealed a set of extended world voyages designed to keep travellers at sea for years at a time, including itineraries that would see passengers return home only after the next US presidential inauguration.
Villa Vie Residences offers a range of cruise options, with a perpetual 3.5-year itinerary that has previously been marketed at Americans who would prefer to spend the entirety of Donald Trump’s second term outside the United States.
The announcement follows the US presidential election and appears to tap into strong post-election emotions. Speaking to Newsweek, Villa Vie chief executive Mikael Petterson insisted the idea was not politically driven.
“We came up with this marketing campaign before we even knew who would win. Regardless of who would have won, you would have half of the population upset,”
“Quite frankly, we don’t have a political view one way or the other. We just wanted to give people who feel threatened to have a way to get out.”
According to The Independent, the company saw a significant surge in interest when launching the cruise after the election.
And despite Trump’s term as president now being a quarter completed, there are likely many Americans who would enjoy a long-term cruise as an escape from the politics at home.
Life At Sea Comes At A Premium
The extended voyages are not aimed at budget travellers.
A 5-year residential plan starts at $49,999 for the residence, if you choose the lowest-grade cabin. Monthly fees then apply – $2,999 for solo travellers, or $3,999 for two travellers.
In return, residents receive accommodation, all meals, non-alcoholic drinks, WiFi and onboard medical visits. Weekly housekeeping and bi-weekly laundry services are included, though alcoholic drinks are only covered during dinner service.
For Americans concerned about being cut off from the political process entirely, Villa Vie says arrangements are in place to allow residents to vote while at sea.
Passengers will be able to take part in the 2026 midterm elections and the 2028 presidential election using mail-in ballots, sent to the company’s corporate office before being forwarded to the ship.
The Villa Vie Odyssey is designed to host up to 600 residents and has already begun what the company describes as a 15-year continuous global journey.
Over that time, the ship is scheduled to call at more than 425 ports across 140 countries, covering all seven continents, 13 World Wonders and over 100 tropical islands.
Early segments of the itinerary include a month cruising the Caribbean, followed by four months in South America. Highlights are set to include two transits of the Panama Canal, the Chilean fjords, an Antarctic sail-by, Carnival in Rio de Janeiro and an eight-day expedition along the Amazon River.
Anne Alms, head of sales for Villa Vie Residences, said the appeal lies in the slower pace of travel. “Villa Vie offers a unique one-of-a-kind way see the whole world at a slow pace where you have enough time to actually experience the cultural vibe of every port,” she said. “Your villa is your bedroom, and the ship is your home, she’ll take you across the globe to endless horizons.”
The Odyssey’s launch was not without complications. The ship was delayed for several months earlier this year after becoming stranded in Belfast due to unexpected technical issues. Originally due to depart in May 2024, it eventually set sail in late September.
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A Caribbean birthday cruise with Carnival Cruise Line ended in distress for a US Coast Guard veteran after he was wrongly detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents while the ship was docked in Miami.
Jose Martinez, a US citizen from Phoenix, Arizona, had been sailing with his wife, Tamara Verhas, and a group of friends to celebrate his birthday alongside that of a close friend. The voyage concluded in Miami, Florida, on the morning of 5th January 2026, when passengers were preparing to disembark.
While the exact ship has not been confirmed, three Carnival vessels were in port that morning, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Horizon and Carnival Sunrise.
What should have been a routine end to the cruise instead became a traumatic experience following what appears to have been a case of mistaken identity during a law enforcement operation.
ICE Agents Enter Stateroom At Dawn
According to Martinez, the incident unfolded at around 6:45 am as he and his wife were asleep in their stateroom. ICE agents suddenly forced their way inside without warning.
“[The door] burst open. Three men came in with flashlights shining them in our faces and giving us commands,” Martinez told 12 News.
He said agents ordered him out of bed, placed him against a wall and handcuffed him, leaving him confused and frightened.
“They ordered me out of bed and put me against the wall, and handcuffed me. I had no idea what was going on. I was asking what this was about; it was a flurry of just confusion,” he said.
Martinez told ABC 15 Arizona that he attempted to show identification proving his citizenship, but said his explanations were ignored. His wife also tried to record the encounter, but her phone was confiscated. When it was returned, the video footage had been deleted.
He was escorted off the ship and taken to a holding cell at PortMiami, where he was fingerprinted and questioned for around an hour and a half before being released.
Mistaken Identity At The Root
Martinez later learned that he had been mistaken for another individual with the same name who allegedly has multiple outstanding arrest warrants.
The veteran told ABC 15 Arizona that he has experienced confusion with authorities in the past due to his common Hispanic name, but said nothing had ever escalated to this level.
“From what I understand, all of this was based off my first and last name, a very common Hispanic name. They thought I was someone who had warrants for drug trafficking or some sort of offender,” Martinez said.
After nearly two hours, he was allowed to return to the cruise terminal. Martinez claims he never received an apology from authorities for the wrongful detention.
At the time of writing, US Customs and Border Protection have not issued a public comment on the incident.
Carnival And Customs Procedures
As part of standard arrival procedures, passenger manifests are reviewed by US authorities ahead of disembarkation. These documents include passenger names, dates of birth and citizenship information.
In this case, ICE agents are believed to have flagged Martinez during that process and then coordinated with the ship’s security team to access the stateroom. Carnival Cruise Line confirmed it cooperated with law enforcement.
“We are aware that U.S. Customs and Border Protection took a guest into custody as a person of interest. As this is a law-enforcement matter, we defer all further questions to the appropriate authorities,” the cruise line said in a statement.
It remains unclear whether Carnival has since contacted Martinez or his wife following the ordeal, which the couple say has left them shaken after what was meant to be a celebratory cruise.
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Norwegian Cruise Line has officially opened a sweeping collection of new attractions at Great Stirrup Cay, its private island destination in the Bahamas, marking one of the most significant upgrades in the island’s history.
The headline addition is Great Life Lagoon, a striking 1.4-acre pool complex that forms the centrepiece of the cruise line’s newly branded Escape to The Great Life experience. The enhancements are already welcoming guests and are designed to handle rising visitor numbers as Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its fleet and itineraries.
The 268-acre island is expected to host around one million cruise passengers during 2026, according to the cruise line.
Island Transformation And New Infrastructure
The redevelopment of Great Stirrup Cay goes well beyond the new pool area. A two-ship pier, which opened on 28th December 2025, now allows vessels to dock directly at the island, eliminating the need for tender boats. The first ship to use the new pier was Norwegian Getaway.
The pier is available not only to ships from Norwegian Cruise Line but also to vessels operated by Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, both sister brands under Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
Guests are now welcomed via a new arrival centre and can move around the island using an island-wide tram service, designed to make accessing beaches, dining areas and attractions easier, particularly during busy port days.
“Great Stirrup Cay has always been a favorite for our guests, and these new enhancements make it even easier for guests to trade the winter weather for the warm tropics and enjoy an ‘Escape to the Great Life.‘
“With the fun versatility of Great Life Lagoon, and family-friendly spots like Splash Harbor, we’ve created an island where everyone can unwind, play and make lasting memories,”
Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd
What Guests Can Expect From The New Attractions
Great Life Lagoon is larger than two Olympic-sized swimming pools placed side by side and includes two swim-up bars, extensive sun loungers and private cabanas available for an additional charge. Integrated into the lagoon area is Splash Harbor, a new water play zone designed specifically for younger guests.
Adults seeking a quieter experience can purchase a day pass to the Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only beachfront retreat for guests aged 18 and over.
The venue mirrors the popular Vibe Beach Club found onboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships and includes its own private bar and cabanas.
Further expansion is already underway. The upcoming Great Tides Waterpark, scheduled to open in summer 2026, will feature 19 waterslides, an 800-foot river attraction and a cliff-jumping experience. Its centrepiece, the Tidal Tower, will stand 170 feet tall and house multiple slide experiences, including racing and tube slides.
Ships Visiting Great Stirrup Cay In 2026
A wide range of Norwegian Cruise Line ships are scheduled to call at Great Stirrup Cay throughout 2026.
These include Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Prima sailing from Port Canaveral, Norwegian Gem from Jacksonville, Norwegian Breakaway from New York, Norwegian Getaway from PortMiami and Norwegian Viva from Galveston.
The cruise line’s newest vessel, Norwegian Luna, is due to enter service in March 2026 and will also feature visits to the island on sailings from PortMiami.
With the new pier, expanded attractions and additional infrastructure now in place, Great Stirrup Cay is set to play an increasingly central role in Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries as the company looks to enhance its private destination offering across the Caribbean.
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Gratuities are once again a hot topic in cruising – and this time, the conversation is being led by someone who knows ship life from the inside.
A former cruise ship crew member has launched a petition calling on cruise lines that currently charge gratuities separately to include them in the upfront cruise fare instead. The aim, he says, is to bring more transparency for passengers and greater financial certainty for crew.
The petition has been started by Zlatko Simovski of OwnTheShip.com, who spent six years working at sea. He says the ongoing debate around tips is starting to harm both cruising’s reputation and crew morale.
The Crew Worker Behind the Petition
Zlatko worked on cruise ships for six years, mainly as a pool attendant and lifeguard. Before joining the cruise industry, he grew up in a small developing country, working in construction from the age of 12 while also studying biotechnical sciences.
He says working on cruise ships was extremely important, giving him opportunities he wouldn’t otherwise have had – which is why he feels strongly about speaking up now.
“The cruise industry gave me everything I have in life, and I couldn’t stand aside and watch cruising get a bad name over gratuities,”
How Cruise Gratuities Work
On most cruise lines, gratuities (sometimes called service charges or crew appreciation) are a daily charge added per person, designed to cover tips for crew members who look after guests throughout the cruise.
The exact amount varies by cruise line and cabin type, but on most mainstream cruise lines gratuities typically range from around $14 to $20 per person, per day. Suites usually attract a slightly higher daily rate.
These charges help cover a wide range of crew roles, including cabin stewards, dining staff, and behind-the-scenes crew you may never meet.
There are usually two ways gratuities are handled:
Prepaid gratuities– Some passengers choose to pay them before sailing, often when booking the cruise or as part of an add-on.
Paid onboard – If not prepaid, gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account each day and settled at the end of the cruise.
In most cases, you don’t need to do anything – the charges appear automatically unless you’ve already prepaid them.
Technically, on many cruise lines, gratuities can be adjusted or removed by visiting guest services onboard. Policies vary by cruise line, and while it is possible, it’s worth noting that gratuities form a significant part of many crew members’ income.
This is where much of the ongoing debate around cruise gratuities comes from, with passengers holding a wide range of views.
Not all cruise lines handle gratuities the same way.
Many British cruise lines, such as P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises, include gratuities in the cruise fare as standard.
Ultra-luxury cruise lines often include gratuities (along with drinks and other extras) as part of an all-inclusive model.
Most American cruise lines, however, still charge gratuities separately as a daily onboard fee.
Because of these differences, two cruises with very similar headline prices can end up costing different amounts once gratuities are taken into account.
The Petition & Why Now Is The Right Time
According to Zlatko, the growing number of passengers choosing to remove daily service charges has created uncertainty for crew and tension between guests and staff.
He also believes that passengers aren’t necessarily in the wrong.
“Passengers only want things to be more transparent and straightforward – no surprises, no second thoughts, just one clear price,” he says.
At the same time, he acknowledges that cruise lines are unlikely to act alone.
“In a situation where there’s no law requiring them to include gratuities in the fare, no cruise line will take that step on its own and make its offer look less attractive than the competition.”
His petition calls on cruise lines to act together and agree on a shared approach.
Removing Gratuities Genuinely Affects Crew
One of the most common questions cruisers ask is whether removing gratuities really makes a difference to crew pay.
Based on his experience, Zlatko says the impact varies significantly depending on the role.
Cabin attendants and dining staff, who serve a fixed group of guests, are often the most affected. If several passengers remove gratuities, their pay can change noticeably from one contract to the next.
Public-facing roles such as pool attendants and cleaners usually receive gratuities through a pooled system. Their earnings are typically lower, but more stable.
Behind-the-scenes crew, including laundry and crew-area cleaners, also receive pooled gratuities but do not benefit from cash tips given directly to individual staff.
He adds that when passengers remove gratuities and tip selectively in cash, not all crew benefit equally.
A Common Misconception About Cruise Gratuities…
One of the biggest misunderstandings, according to Zlatko, is the belief that cruise lines keep part of the gratuities.
“In today’s world, even a single leak could seriously damage a cruise line’s reputation,” he says. “The last thing these companies would risk playing with is money that belongs to the crew.”
Cruise lines themselves consistently state that service charges are distributed among eligible crew, though exact systems vary by company and role.
There’s a Good Reason Not to Make Gratuities Completely Optional
Many cruisers strongly believe gratuities should remain optional, allowing guests to reward good service as they see fit.
Zlatko’s view is that gratuities already function as part of the overall cost – just framed differently.
“Charging gratuities separately is meant to make the cruise line’s offer look more attractive,” he says. “In every business, the customer pays staff wages one way or another.”
He compares cruising with hotels, where service costs are typically built into higher nightly rates rather than itemised separately.
That said, others argue that optional gratuities give passengers more control and encourage higher service standards – a debate that shows no sign of disappearing anytime soon.
Current Crew Are Reluctant to Speak Up
When asked whether current crew members feel able to speak freely, Zlatko says many are reluctant – not necessarily because they are forbidden to talk, but because cruise work is such a vital opportunity.
“For many crew from developing countries, working on cruise ships is their best chance to support their families,” he says. “Most would rather not take any risk, even if they technically could speak openly.”
The petition’s goal is not to remove gratuities entirely, but to see them included in the cruise fare, similar to how many luxury cruise lines already operate.
Zlatko hopes this would:
Create clearer, all-in pricing for passengers
Reduce tension and judgement around tipping
Provide crew with more predictable income
“Either gratuities are included, or we keep wasting time discussing them instead of focusing on enjoying our cruise,” he says.
Final Word
Gratuities remain one of the most divisive topics in cruising, with strong opinions on all sides.
While some passengers appreciate lower headline fares and flexibility, others would prefer a single, transparent price – even if it’s higher.
This petition represents one former crew member’s perspective, shaped by years of life at sea.
Whether cruise lines will ever agree on a unified approach remains to be seen, but the conversation around tipping clearly isn’t going away.
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