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Special Offers on Disney Cruise Line Sailings as of December 15, 2025 • The Disney Cruise Line Blog

by Cruise NewsCruise Special OffersDisney Cruises

This week’s special offers from Disney Cruise Line include sail dates from this week into June 2026. There are 96 different sail dates, available with special offers available across the fleet for sailings from Auckland, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Honolulu, Port Canaveral, San Diego, Sydney, and Vancouver.

The Disney Dream leads the fleet adding 3 dates to 72 sailings, followed by the Disney Wish which happened to be down 10 to 32 sailings, Disney Fantasy is down 1 to 27, the Disney Magic dropped 2 to 20, Disney Treasure is down 1 to 21, and the Disney Wonder ticked dropped 5 to 6 sailings this week.

The Florida Resident rate is down 1 to 52 sail dates, the US Military Personnel offer added 11 date bringing it to 78 cruises, and the Canadian Resident offer dropped 19 to 48 sail dates. The special bonus US Military offer for $250 onboard credit announced a few weeks ago for select sailings in 2026 remains available.

Moving over to Disney Cruise Line’s other promos, the new IGT, OGT, and VGT offers valid on new bookings for select sailings with savings up to an 35% percentage off the prevailing rate remains available for select voyages this week. The special offers on Australia and New Zealand sailings remains available with up to 35% off the prevailing rate.

The final general offer is the annual 50% off initial deposit promotion for new bookings departing between March 2026 and May 2027 which do not require final payment at time of booking. This promotion is arriving early this year with the booking window spanning from October 28th to January 18, 2026. Finally, the extra savings for those with placeholder reservations where the standard 10% is applicable for some concierge levels on select sailings and a bump in the discount up to 25% off on select sailings remains active.

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 • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • 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 • At Sea • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • 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 • 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

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 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 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 • 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 • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea

Disney Wonder

10-Night Disney Magic at Sea Cruise from Auckland ending in Sydney
Auckland, New Zealand • Tauranga, New Zealand • At Sea • Napier, New Zealand • Wellington, New Zealand • Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand • At Sea • Fiordland National Park, New Zealand • At Sea • At Sea

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 • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • 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 • At Sea • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • 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

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 • 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 • 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 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

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 • 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.

DCL Blog Group Cruise VII LOGO

Last but certainly not least, I wanted to invite you to consider joining us on an upcoming DCL Blog Group Cruise! Next August 2026, 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 and stick around the next few weeks as we unpack some new details from the Disney Destiny’s maiden voyage. We look forward to seeing you aboard.

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The Full Timeline (and What It All Means)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean isn’t slowing down any time soon.

Between new private islands, record-breaking ships, and even a new home office, the next few years are shaping up to be seriously exciting.

The fleet is growing, the experiences are evolving, and the destinations are getting bigger, bolder, and splashier.

Here’s a full look at what’s coming up, what we know for sure, and what we can only dream about for now.

1. A New Private Resort In The Bahamas

Royal Beach Club: Paradise Island opens in December 2025

Royal Caribbean’s very first Royal Beach Club opens in Nassau on 23 December 2025, and it promises to bring a little slice of luxury to the already-sunny Bahamian capital.

Party Cove Royal Beach Club Paradise Island

Guests will be ferried over from the main cruise port to Paradise Island for an all-inclusive beach day, complete with golden sands, sparkling pools, and a line-up of restaurants and bars that bring a proper holiday vibe.

This project is important because it sets the tone for what’s next. Royal has made it clear that Paradise Island is the model for future beach clubs around the world.

Royal Beach Club UItimate Family Cabana

So if this one takes off, you can expect more Beach Club-style experiences appearing on cruise itineraries in the coming years.

Read more: 11 Things You Need To Know About Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club

2. A New Ship

Legend of the Seas sets sail in July 2026

Mark your calendar, because Legend of the Seas is officially launching in July 2026, and that’s not just speculation. The third ship in the Icon Class has been brought forward after rapid progress at the shipyard.

Legend of the Seas float out

Legend will debut in Europe with Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, offering sailings that mix sunshine and culture with the wow factor of the newest ship in the fleet.

Expect the biggest waterpark at sea, the buzzing Surfside family neighbourhood, and jaw-dropping entertainment venues that put cutting-edge technology front and centre.

We don’t know a huge amount yet about the ship, though it will feature the cruise line’s first two-storey casino and a restaurant themed around Hollywood.

Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean knows this is a chance to cement its presence in Europe, and the chance to bring forward Legend’s launch is a convenient one, since it allows even more opportunities for guests to sample this stunning new ship.

It keeps the excitement rolling off the back of Icon and Star of the Seas, while giving European guests the chance to experience the newest class of ships before anyone else. Finally!

3. More Ships Wil Be Refurbished

Royal Amplified Returns in 2026

If you’ve sailed with Royal Caribbean before, you’ll know their ships never sit still for long. The Royal Amplified programme is all about bringing fresh life to fan favourites, and 2026 will see three beloved ships head into the dry dock for serious makeovers.

Royal Amplified 2026

Ovation of the Seas will receive refreshed pool decks and private casitas, a new Izumi Teppanyaki restaurant, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, and a Starbucks for that essential caffeine fix.

You’ll also find new venues like Pesky Parrot, Sound Cellar, and even the Ultimate Family Suite – a hit with larger groups.

Harmony of the Seas will get an upgraded Solarium, the popular Lime & Coconut bar, Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, El Loco Fresh, Pesky Parrot, Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade, and new suite options including the Ultimate Family Suite and Ultimate Panoramic Suite.

Liberty of the Seas won’t miss out either. She’s getting a revamped pool deck and casitas, Lime & Coconut, El Loco Fresh, Izumi Teppanyaki, a new Royal Escape Room, Starbucks, and more. Just in time for her season spent cruising from Southampton!

These refreshes show Royal Caribbean’s commitment to keeping every ship competitive – well, the biggest ships at least. We don’t yet know the plans for some of the smaller, older ships in the fleet – more on that later.

Still, they’re not just focused on the next big new build; they’re giving older vessels the modern sparkle to match the fleet’s newer stars. Smart move I think!

Read more: Royal Caribbean Amplification Schedule

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…

4. Royal Caribbean HQ is Expanding

A new Miami headquarters debuts in 2026

Royal Caribbean’s massive headquarters at PortMiami is expanding, with completion expected in 2026. The ten-storey building and surrounding improvements might not have water slides or cocktail bars, but they represent something just as important: growth.

New Miami HQ for Royal Caribbean

It’s a clear sign that the company isn’t just investing in ships and destinations, but also in its people and operations.

A bigger, better HQ means a stronger base to support the world’s largest cruise line. So while it might not make the front page for passengers, it quietly hints at an even brighter, busier future behind the scenes.

5. Royal Caribbean’s Miami Cruise Terminal Is Getting A Glow-Up

PortMiami’s Terminal G will be transformed in 2027

Royal Caribbean already has the spectacular Terminal A at PortMiami, but now it’s turning its attention just down the street to Terminal G, which is finally getting the major glow-up it deserves.

Up to now, Terminal G has been the “other” Royal Caribbean terminal – the one that handled smaller or older ships while the icons of the fleet took centre stage at Terminal A.

Royal Caribbean's new terminal G at PortMiami

Built in 1999 for Voyager of the Seas, it’s more than ready for a refresh, and that’s exactly what’s happening.

Demolition is already underway, with the brand-new Terminal G set to open in 2027. Once complete, it will be able to handle up to 7,000 passengers a day, making it capable of hosting even an Icon or Oasis Class ship.

A smart multi-level design will separate arriving and departing guests by floor, easing congestion and making boarding and disembarkation much faster and smoother.

Once open, Terminal G will serve ships from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea, giving all three brands a modern, efficient hub. It’s part of a wider $2.8 billion redevelopment deal at PortMiami, which also includes Royal Caribbean’s new headquarters and a long-term lease through to 2072.

6. A Private Destination Opens In The South Pacific

Lelepa in Vanuatu opens in 2027

In 2027, Royal Caribbean will open its highly anticipated private destination on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu.

Royal Caribbean Lelepa

While it sits somewhere between a Royal Beach Club and a Perfect Day experience, it’s set to offer something completely unique.

This will be a more laid-back and environmentally sensitive destination, designed specifically with Australian and New Zealand cruisers in mind.

Royal Caribbean Lelepa

Expect pristine beaches, lagoon swimming, and a touch of local culture woven throughout. It’s all about relaxed island vibes rather than high-energy thrill rides, giving South Pacific guests their own signature escape.

7. Another new ship

A fourth Icon-class ship will join the fleet in 2027

Details are still under wraps, but if history is any guide, Icon 4 will continue refining the formula we’ve seen with her predecessors. Expect the same mix of innovation, immersive neighbourhoods, and eye-catching entertainment, but with subtle design tweaks based on guest feedback.

Royal Caribbean Icon Class Ship being built

At this point, Royal Caribbean has nailed its formula for the modern mega-ship, so Icon 4 will likely feel familiar but fresh.

It’s the next step in what’s quickly becoming one of the most successful ship classes in cruise history.

8. A Private Destination Opens In Mexico

Perfect Day Mexico will open in 2027

Now this one looks special. In late 2027, Royal Caribbean will open Perfect Day Mexico, a massive new private destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast near Costa Maya.

Perfect Day Mexico Tower

This isn’t just another beach stop. The plans are bold, with seven themed neighbourhoods, a 170-foot-tall slide tower known as Jaguar’s Peak, and what’s expected to be the world’s longest lazy river.

Perfect Day Mexico Transport

It will blend adrenaline-pumping fun with tropical relaxation, giving cruisers out of Florida and Texas a new “must-visit” port on Western Caribbean itineraries.

I can’t wait – I’ll definitely have to visit this one!

Read more: Royal Caribbean Announces Perfect Day Mexico

9. Two New Mega-Ships Will Set Sail

Royal Caribbean plans to deliver two enormous new ships by 2028

First up is Oasis 7, the next generation of the beloved Oasis Class. Even with all the attention on the Icon series, Royal Caribbean clearly believes there’s still plenty of life in this ground-breaking design. Expect tweaks, improvements, and a few surprises to keep it at the top of the game.

Huge Royal Caribbean ships

Then comes Icon 5, also due in 2028.

This one was confirmed as definitely happening in September 2025, with the contracts all signed. The cruise line already had the option, meaning it had been pencilled into the shipyard’s schedule, but it’s all now official.

If both ships arrive on schedule, 2028 will be a blockbuster year for ship launches.

10. A New Class Of Ship?

The Discovery Class of ships is TBC

Royal Caribbean has dropped hints about an entirely new ship class, internally referred to as the Discovery Class.

These would be smaller, more nimble ships designed to visit ports the larger vessels simply can’t reach.

Royal Caribbean mystery ship

It’s early days, and nothing official has been announced yet (even though at this point it feels more like an open secret), but it’s an exciting idea.

A new mid-sized ship would allow Royal to explore new regions and itineraries, appealing to guests who love the brand but prefer a more intimate cruising experience.

And it could well signal the end for some of the smaller ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet that haven’t been given the significant upgrades of some of the larger ships.

Don’t be surprised if the Vision Class ships are sold or scrapped within the next few years. Again, nothing has been announced (and maybe I’m wrong) but it feels like those four ships, built between 1996 and 1998, are coming to the end of their Royal Caribbean lifespans.

11. Two More Icon-Class Ships?

There may be sixth and seventh members of the Icon-class fleet

Finally, Royal Caribbean holds options for two more Icon-class ships, numbers six and seven. These aren’t firm orders yet, but they’re very much on the table.

Icon of the Seas Aerial

If the current run of Icons continues to perform well, it’s safe to assume we’ll see these options exercised before too long.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…

Final Word

It’s fair to say there’s never been a more exciting time to be a Royal Caribbean fan. The next few years are packed with new ships, refreshed favourites, brand-new beach clubs and even a smarter, smoother home port experience in Miami.

From soaking up the sun at Paradise Island to sliding down Jaguar’s Peak in Mexico, or stepping aboard the dazzling new Legend of the Seas next summer, there’s something big coming for every type of cruiser.

Whether you’re drawn to adventure, family fun or simply the thrill of being among the first to sail somewhere new, Royal Caribbean’s horizon has never looked brighter. The only real question left is… which one will you book first?

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Woman Who Lives on Cruise Ships Reveals the ONE Thing She Finds Absolutely Gross

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsLive On A Ship

Living full-time on a cruise ship might sound like the ultimate escape – no chores, no commute, and a new view outside your window every morning. But for 44-year-old Christine Kesteloo, it’s not a fantasy, it’s just… life.

Christine used to work as a cruise director before swapping schedules and staff meetings for social media and sea days. Now she spends at least six months a year on board with her husband, who’s a staff chief engineer, sharing glimpses of her floating home with millions of followers online.

It all looks idyllic – but as Christine admits, there’s one thing about ship life that really turns her stomach.

From Cruise Director to Digital Nomad at Sea

Christine’s love affair with cruising started long before her TikTok fame.

She spent years working for Holland America Line, where she met her husband. When the global shutdown hit in 2020, her time at sea came to an abrupt halt, so she reinvented herself online.

@dutchworld_americangirl I will be back on ship on July 2, but May 22 I will be heading to Alaska. We travel full-time and I film every single day What I can and cannot do living on a cruise ship I filmed this video a couple years ago #livingonacruiseship ♬ original sound – I LIVE on a SHIP

Now known to nearly three million followers as @dutchworld_americangirl, she’s carved out a career sharing stories, tips, and behind-the-scenes peeks into what it’s like to live where other people holiday.

Alongside her content creation, she also runs her travel business, Dune Travels, and takes on marketing work – all from her cabin. It’s a busy lifestyle, but one she’s not complaining about.

“I’ve been to 109 countries…I don’t pay for petrol, food, or cleaning, and I never have to make the bed or do the laundry.”

It’s easy to see why she calls it “a constant vacation.”

Life at Sea Isn’t All Smooth Sailing

Of course, even paradise comes with its small print. For Christine, there are moments when the charm of life at sea wears thin.

She misses having a car, reliable WiFi, and the little luxuries of life on land – like what she calls a “crisp McDonald’s Diet Coke.”

And as an animal lover, the biggest downside is not being able to have a pet. “I’d love a cat,” she said wistfully, explaining that for now, she and her husband settle for watching funny animal videos together.

Read more: Cruising With A Cat on the Villa Vie Odyssey

Still, their travel plans are enough to make anyone envious.

The couple will soon set sail through Greece, Norway, and Canada, followed by epic 91-day voyages around Australia, Hawaii, and the Vanuatu Islands, and then another long cruise to Antarctica.

@dutchworld_americangirl January through March, we will be in the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, Hawaii AND YOU’RE COMING WITH US @Holland America Line ♬ Traveling – Melodion

Home, for now, is wherever the ship drops anchor.

The Habit That Makes Her Skin Crawl

You might assume the worst part of ship life would be the constant crowds or endless buffets – but for Christine, it’s something far less obvious.

What really grosses her out? Passengers who hit the buffet right after the gym without washing their hands.

@dutchworld_americangirl Six things that annoy me about cruise ship passengers, whether it be hiding ducks or what you wear on a cruise ship or the weather or what cruise line you’re sailing or the currency conversion. We’re gonna talk about it. #6things #sixthings #annoying #cruiseship #weather #hidingducks #cruisepay #pay #wages #cruiseline @carnival @Princess Cruises @Virgin Voyages @Celebrity Cruises @Holland America Line @Royal Caribbean @Norwegian Cruise Line ♬ Peer Gynt Suite, Morning mood – AllMusicGallery

“As far as gross things go, that’s the one that really gets me,” she told Unilad. The idea of sweaty, unwashed hands grabbing shared serving utensils is enough to ruin anyone’s appetite.

Having spent so long on ships, Christine knows better than most how quickly germs can spread in a floating city.

Read more: 21 Cruise Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Cruise (From an Experienced Cruiser)

It’s a small act of laziness that can make a big difference – and one that never fails to make her cringe.

Why Cruise Ships Are So Obsessed with Handwashing

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you’ll know that hand hygiene isn’t optional. There’s a reason crew members practically (or actually) sing about it.

Cruise ships occasionally battle outbreaks of Norovirus, a highly contagious stomach bug that can spread rapidly in enclosed environments.

Read more: Norovirus On Cruise Ships: Shocking Stats And How to Stay Healthy!

One infected person touching a buffet utensil or door handle can set off a chain reaction – and before you know it, hundreds of passengers are ill.

That’s why cruise lines take handwashing so seriously. It’s common to see hand sanitising stations at every restaurant entrance, and staff reminding guests to “washy washy” before meals.

An automated hand washing station on a Costa cruise ship, featuring motion-activated soap dispensers and sinks, encourages hygiene with a convenient and contactless method, set against a backdrop of warm wood paneling.

Some ships even make it fun – with crew performing catchy “wash your hands” songs and dances as people enter the buffet area.

What might seem like a bit of light-hearted entertainment is actually an important health measure.

Even with strict cleaning protocols and advanced air filtration systems, a single lapse in hygiene can have major consequences at sea.

What’s Next for Christine

Christine and her husband plan to keep their sea-based life going for the next few years, with her husband’s retirement on the horizon. When that day finally arrives, the pair might settle down on dry land.

She’s already daydreaming about what that might look like – adopting a cat, enjoying high-speed internet, and getting back behind the wheel.

Until then, she’s more than happy drifting from port to port, creating content, running her business, and soaking up the adventure – as long as everyone remembers to wash their hands before lunch.

TODAY’S BEST CRUISE DEALS!

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13 New Cruise Ships Launching In 2026

by Choosing a cruiseCruise LinesCruise News

I LOVE new cruise ships! I always think it’s really exciting to see what new ideas cruise lines are trying, and it’s just fab to see cruise lines launching new ships with even more opportunities for people to cruise.

New Cruise Ships 2026

We saw an impressive 14 new ships launch in 2025, and we’re almost getting the same in 2026 – another 13 are set to make their debut during the year!

Of course, things can happen that could delay these – shipyard delays aren’t super uncommon – but let’s not worry about that for now, as these are the ships currently set to launch in 2026.

Which are you most excited about?

1. Norwegian Luna

NCL Norwegian Luna
  • Cruise line: Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Gross Tonnage: 156,300
  • Capacity: 3,550
  • Expected delivery: March 2026

Norwegian Luna is the second ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Plus class, following in the wake of Norwegian Aqua with a few exciting new surprises of her own.

Expect the same sleek modern design and open-air spaces that have become a signature of the class, but with added refinement and a touch more sparkle.

There’ll be new dining concepts and entertainment options to discover, along with returning favourites like the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster and the glass-floored Oceanwalk.

Norwegian Luna is designed to take that “wow” factor and push it just a little bit further. Her inaugural season will see her sailing from Miami around the Caribbean, bringing warm breezes and turquoise waters to match her vibrant personality.

Read more: These Are The Newest NCL Ships You Can Book Right Now

2. Disney Adventure

Disney Adventure Toy Story Place
  • Cruise line: Disney Cruise Line
  • Gross Tonnage: 208,000
  • Capacity: 6,000
  • Expected delivery: March 2026

Disney’s newest ship promises to be a blockbuster – a vast, story-driven playground where every deck leans into that Heroes & Villains theme. Expect whole neighbourhoods that feel like you’ve stepped into your favourite films, from San Fransokyo-style streets and a serene Wayfinder Bay to a joyful Toy Story splash zone for little ones.

Disney Adventure will feature a next-gen AquaMouse ride with fresh scenes. Meanwhile, original shows – think swashbuckling adventures with Captain Jack and adorable moments with Duffy & Friends – add that only-Disney sparkle.

Rotational dining continues with imaginative restaurants that blur the line between dinner and theatre, there are polished adults-only escapes when you want some quiet, and family cabins are cleverly designed so everyone gets the space they need.

It’s Disney magic dialled up for sea days and island calls alike.

Read more: Disney Cruise Ships: Newest To Oldest

3. Four Seasons 1

Four Seasons Yacht
  • Cruise line: Four Seasons
  • Gross Tonnage: 34,000
  • Capacity: Approximately 200
  • Expected delivery: April 2026

Luxury hotel and resort chain, Four Seasons, is set to make waves in 2026 with its very first yacht, simply named Four Seasons 1. It’s less “cruise ship” and more “floating boutique hotel” – an ultra-luxury vessel that’s all about exclusivity and elegance.

Every detail has been designed for indulgence, from expansive suites with wraparound terraces to dining experiences that rival the brand’s top land-based properties.

There’ll be a full-length marina at the stern for swimming and watersports, plus serene lounges where you can sip Champagne while watching the sunset.

The Four Seasons 1 will debut in early 2026.

Read more: Four Seasons Yachts To Offer Stunning Floating Marina And Limo Tenders

4. American Maverick

American Maverick
  • Cruise line: American Cruise Lines
  • Gross Tonnage: 3,000
  • Capacity: 130
  • Expected delivery: June 2026

The American Maverick continues American Cruise Lines’ mission to reimagine small-ship cruising along the U.S. coastline.

Designed for intimacy and comfort, she’ll carry just over a hundred guests in spacious, balcony-equipped suites – more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise ship.

This new Patriot-class vessel will sail scenic coastal routes, allowing passengers to discover charming ports and historical towns at a relaxed pace.

Inside, expect refined décor, panoramic lounges, and locally inspired cuisine. The atmosphere is friendly and personal, with crew members who’ll soon know your name. It’s small-ship cruising done the American way.

Read more: Why American Cruise Lines Is SO Expensive! (And If It’s Worth It)

5. Viking Mira

Viking Ocean Explorers Lounge
  • Cruise line: Viking
  • Gross Tonnage: 54,300
  • Capacity: 998
  • Expected delivery: June 2026

Viking Mira will be the latest addition to Viking’s ever-growing ocean fleet – a collection of elegant, identical ships designed to take guests to the heart of every destination.

She’ll carry fewer than a thousand passengers, meaning you can expect the same calm, grown-up atmosphere that Viking does so well.

As with her sister ships, all staterooms come with a veranda, and the décor blends Scandi minimalism with homely warmth.

Expect serene lounges, al fresco dining, and long evenings spent watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Her maiden voyages will explore the Mediterranean before heading north to cooler climes – perfect for those who prefer understated luxury to showy spectacle.

Read more: Who Owns Viking Cruises?

6. Legend of the Seas

Legend of the Seas
  • Cruise line: Royal Caribbean
  • Gross Tonnage: 250,800
  • Capacity: 7,600
  • Expected delivery: July 2026

Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship, Legend of the Seas, promises to take everything people loved about Icon and Star of the Seas and turn the volume up another notch.

Expect the same jaw-dropping scale and neighbourhood-style layout, but with new entertainment venues, redesigned pool decks and even more family-friendly attractions.

There’ll be a refreshed waterpark, next-generation digital tech throughout the ship, and updated dining experiences that reflect a wider range of global cuisines.

It’s big, bold and built for fun – a floating city designed to thrill everyone from toddlers to grandparents.

Even more exciting, Legend of the Seas will make her debut in Europe, the first Icon-class ship to sail this side of the Atlantic (and she’s coming back to Europe in 2027 too!). Over winter she’ll be heading to the Caribbean for some sunshine.

Read more: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World (and the Mega-Ships Coming Soon!)

7. Explora III

Explora Journeys
  • Cruise line: Explora Journeys
  • Gross Tonnage: 64,000
  • Capacity: 1,473
  • Expected delivery: August 2026

Luxury line Explora Journeys continues its ambitious expansion with Explora III, the third in its Ocean Terrace fleet.

She follows in the footsteps of Explora I and II, but each new ship brings subtle enhancements and new itineraries designed for those who crave slow, stylish exploration.

On board, the atmosphere is that of a high-end resort – chic, spacious, and elegant without ever feeling stuffy. Think floor-to-ceiling sea views, elevated gastronomy across multiple restaurants, and some of the largest oceanfront suites at sea.

Explora III will launch into a series of Northern Europe and Arctic itineraries, offering immersive, destination-driven cruising with all the trimmings of a true luxury escape.

I loved my Explora Journeys cruise and am very excited about this launch!

Read more: 9 Things Explora Journeys Does Better Than Other Cruise Lines

8. Mein Schiff Flow

Mein Schiff Flow
  • Cruise line: TUI Cruises
  • Gross Tonnage: 161,000
  • Capacity: 4,000
  • Expected delivery: August 2026

TUI’s follow-up to Mein Schiff Relax keeps the calm, contemporary vibe that German cruisers love, but adds a little more fizz.

As the second InTUItion-class ship, Flow focuses on easy living – long, open promenades for sea-air strolls, plenty of shaded loungers, and spa and fitness spaces that make wellness feel effortless.

Solo travellers are finally spoiled with dedicated single cabins, while families and friends can stretch out in stylish suites that bring apartment-like comfort to sea. Dining stays pleasantly un-fussy with TUI’s generous included approach and a choice of venues that favour quality over gimmicks.

If you like your ships serene, spacious and quietly smart – with a glass of something chilled on deck at sunset – Flow will be very your speed.

Read more: Marella Loses Out as TUI Sends New Ships to Mein Schiff Instead

9. American Ranger

American Maverick
  • Cruise line: American Cruise Lines
  • Gross Tonnage: 3,000
  • Capacity: 130
  • Expected delivery: September 2026

American Ranger will follow later in the year as the sister ship to American Maverick.

Like her twin, she’ll offer an intimate way to explore the U.S. coastline, with spacious suites, panoramic views, and personalised service.

Expect relaxed coastal itineraries, plenty of outdoor space, and that trademark “small ship, big comfort” feel.

10. MSC World Asia

MSC World Europa
  • Cruise line: MSC Cruises
  • Gross Tonnage: 215,863
  • Capacity: 6,782
  • Expected delivery: December 2026

The third ship in MSC’s World Class, MSC World Asia will continue the line’s push toward ultra-modern, eco-friendly mega-ships.

Despite her name, she’ll debut in the Mediterranean before eventually moving east, bringing with her a vibrant mix of global dining, futuristic technology and sustainable innovation.

World Asia will feature several new entertainment zones and the longest dry slide at sea, along with a range of new Asian-inspired venues that nod to her namesake region.

Expect dazzling design, incredible nightlife, and family-friendly fun across every deck – the perfect balance of glitz, glamour and global flair.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About MSC’s Newest Ships (In Order)

11. Seven Seas Prestige

Seven Seas Prestige suite
  • Cruise line: Regent Seven Seas
  • Gross Tonnage: 77,000
  • Capacity: 850
  • Expected delivery: December 2026

Regent’s first ship in a brand-new class turns luxury up a notch, even by Regent standards.

Seven Seas Prestige keeps the line’s all-suite, all-balcony DNA, but pushes for more al fresco moments – think enlarged terraces, breezy lounge spaces and intimate outdoor tables where dinner lingers into moonlit conversation.

Inside, the look is polished and residential, with warm textures, curated art and thoughtful lighting that flatters every setting.

Expect new dining concepts alongside beloved signatures, a refined take on afternoon tea, and a wellness programme that feels indulgent rather than obligatory.

As ever with Regent, immersive shore experiences and gracious service do the heavy lifting – Prestige simply gives them a sleeker stage.

12. Viking Libra

Viking vesta cruising the seas
  • Cruise line: Viking
  • Gross Tonnage: 54,300
  • Capacity: 998
  • Expected delivery: December 2026

Following just months after Mira, Viking Libra will join the fleet as her near-identical sister ship.

Expect the same elegant design, serene ambience, and destination-focused itineraries that define the Viking experience – though Libra will also push the brand further toward sustainable cruising, with the ability to operate on alternative fuel systems.

She’ll sail a mixture of Mediterranean and Northern European routes, offering all the refined touches Viking guests have come to love.

13. Star Explorer

Windstar Star Explorer
  • Cruise line: Windstar Cruises
  • Gross Tonnage: 9,923
  • Capacity: 224
  • Expected delivery: December 2026

Windstar’s Star Explorer will round off the year in classic style, joining the fleet as the sister to 2025’s Star Seeker. She’ll offer that same blend of small-ship intimacy and casual luxury that Windstar does best.

Guests can expect a relaxed atmosphere, all-suite accommodations, and the signature water sports platform that lets you dive straight into the sea from the back of the ship.

The décor will be warm and contemporary, and the dining – as ever with Windstar – will be exceptional.

Star Explorer’s maiden season will see her exploring the Mediterranean and beyond, perfect for those who love discovering smaller ports with a sense of adventure.

Read more: Windstar Cruises Fleet Guide

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Final Word

There you go – all the ships (currently) scheduled to launch throughout 2026.

Do you have one that you’re most excited for? Maybe you already have a cruise booked on one? Or are there any that you would never want to cruise on?

It’s a cliché, but there is a ship for everyone, so I hope you’re as excited as I am for 2026 even if you aren’t keen on all of the ships on this list!

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Grandmother Jailed in Bahamas After Boarding Royal Caribbean Ship With Firearm

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

A US cruise guest has been jailed and fined in the Bahamas after accidentally travelling with a firearm on a Royal Caribbean cruise, despite passing through embarkation security in Florida.

US Grandmother Arrested Royal Caribbean
Image credit: GoFundMe

Mary Robinson, a 69-year-old grandmother from Oklahoma, boarded Liberty of the Seas in Fort Lauderdale on 1st December 2025 with a handgun and ammunition unknowingly inside her purse.

The weapon was not discovered until the following day, when the ship docked in Nassau and Robinson attempted to reboard after going ashore.

Robinson had been due to enjoy a four-night cruise to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, sailing with family to celebrate her adopted son’s 12th birthday.

Instead, the holiday ended abruptly when Bahamian authorities discovered a black Kel-Tec .380 pistol and four rounds of ammunition during security screening on 2nd December.

“On Tuesday December 2nd police arrested a 69-year-old female of US nationality after she was found in possession of a fireman and ammunition,” the Royal Bahamas Police Force said in a statement.

Robinson was arrested at the port and transferred to Fox Hill Prison in Nassau, a facility that has previously been criticised by the US government for overcrowding and poor living conditions.

She was travelling with a friend, who agreed to care for the child while Robinson remained in custody.

Court Appearance Leads to Fine Instead of Sentence

Robinson appeared before Bahamas Magistrate Lennox Coleby Sr. on 4th December 2025, where she pleaded guilty to unlicensed possession of a firearm and ammunition.

She apologised in court and explained that she had forgotten the weapon was in her purse. Her attorney told the court the incident was unintentional.

“She simply forgot that she had the gun and I’m instructed that she has a touch of dementia,” Robinson’s attorney, Attorney Bjorn Ferguson, explained.

Under Bahamian law, possession of an unlicensed firearm or ammunition carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 24 months in prison. However, the magistrate agreed to waive the custodial sentence on the condition that Robinson paid an $8,000 fine.

As she was unable to pay immediately, Robinson spent nearly a week at Fox Hill Prison. Her granddaughter, Graci Exendine, launched a GoFundMe campaign on 3rd December to raise the required funds, which surpassed $12,000 within just over a week.

In a social media update, Exendine later confirmed Robinson’s release on 8th December.

“I just talked to Mary, she is OUT!!,” she wrote, thanking donors and supporters.

Following her release, Robinson remained in Nassau while arrangements were made for her return home.

Cruise Weapons Incidents Highlight Zero-Tolerance Policies

While cruise terminals and ships operate layered security systems, Robinson’s case is not the first time a weapon has made it onto, or nearly onto, a cruise ship.

In October, a 77-year-old American passenger was detained and deported in Ravenna, Italy, after attempting to board a cruise ship with a firearm. Earlier this year, a 73-year-old US passenger was arrested at Japan’s Kobe Cruise Terminal after a handgun was discovered in his luggage.

There have also been cases involving intentional attempts to bypass security. Last year, two Carnival cruise guests were banned for life after smuggling a handgun onboard and later boasting about it online.

Royal Caribbean, like all major cruise lines, enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on weapons. Firearms, ammunition, replicas, and even toy weapons are prohibited onboard, regardless of intent.

It’s unclear how Robinson was able to board with the firearm in her possession.

Although Robinson’s actions were described in court as a genuine mistake, such incidents are often treated as serious security breaches.

Cruise lines reserve the right to impose permanent bans on guests whose actions could endanger others, meaning Robinson may no longer be permitted to sail with Royal Caribbean in the future.

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Princess Cruises Sued After Theatre Seat Collapse Injures Guest

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

A Princess Cruises guest has filed a lawsuit against the cruise line after suffering injuries when a seat collapsed during an onboard theatre performance earlier this year.

Princess Cruises theatre chair broken
Chair image credit: TMZ

The legal claim was lodged in December by Marie Cassano, who is seeking compensation following an incident that occurred during her January 2025 cruise. The specific Princess Cruises ship involved has not been publicly identified.

According to the lawsuit, Cassano was seated in the ship’s main theatre when her “seat suddenly came apart and collapsed, causing her severe and permanent injuries.” Details of the injuries have not been disclosed publicly.

Princess Cruises, which is owned by Carnival Corporation, has not issued a public comment on the case.

Lawsuit Alleges Faulty Seating Was Known Risk

Cassano’s claim argues that Princess Cruises either knew, or should have known, that the chair was defective and failed to take adequate steps to prevent guests from using it.

An image of the damaged seat, first published by TMZ, shows the chair broken and resting on the floor, with yellow caution tape placed across the area to prevent other passengers from sitting there.

The lawsuit raises questions about onboard maintenance and whether the condition of the seating had been identified before the incident occurred.

Adding to those concerns, other Princess Cruises guests have since reported similar issues with theatre seating on different sailings, although it is unclear whether these reports are directly connected to Cassano’s case.

Interior view of the Princess Theatre on a Princess cruise ship, showcasing a sea of purple seats facing a large stage with a red curtain and a screen displaying 'Princess Theatre'. The ceiling is dotted with lights, enhancing the venue's vibrant atmosphere.

“I had to look twice at the provided photo, because that same seat on the opposite side has been broken since we boarded the Royal on 11/29,” one recent Royal Princess guest said after learning about the lawsuit.

“There’s not even a ‘We’re on it!’ sign on it (as there are many on board),” they continued.

Princess Cruises operates large theatres that typically seat between 900 and 1,000 guests, making constant pre-show inspection of every individual seat impractical. Cruise ships also operate continuously, 24 hours a day throughout the year, which increases wear and tear across public venues.

While cruise lines generally maintain that they follow strict safety and maintenance procedures, incidents such as this can still occur. In cases involving passenger injuries, guests are typically offered medical assistance onboard and an incident report is filed as part of standard procedure.

Latest In A Series Of Cruise Line Injury Claims

Legal action is an unavoidable reality for companies operating in the cruise industry, particularly those carrying thousands of passengers at a time. Princess Cruises has faced multiple injury-related lawsuits in recent years.

On 7th November 2025, another lawsuit was filed against the cruise line in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida. That case was brought by Elizabeth Knigge, who alleges she slipped and fell onboard Enchanted Princess during a July 2024 sailing after encountering a greasy or oily substance on a stairway between Deck 16 and Deck 18.

Princess Cruises is not alone in facing legal scrutiny. Royal Caribbean is currently dealing with a wrongful death lawsuit related to a 2024 incident aboard Navigator of the Seas, in which a passenger, Michael Virgil, allegedly died after being overserved alcohol.

Carnival Corporation has also faced recent legal challenges, including a lawsuit filed in November by two passengers who claim they encountered a bedbug infestation during their cruise.

As Cassano’s case proceeds, it adds to a growing list of legal claims highlighting the ongoing safety and liability challenges faced by the cruise industry.

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MSC Cruises Bans Smart Glasses From Public Areas To Protect Guest Privacy

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

MSC Cruises has updated its onboard security policies to prohibit the use of smart glasses and other discreet recording devices in public areas across its fleet, citing privacy and safety concerns.

MSC Smart Glasses Ban

According to the cruise line’s luggage and prohibited items policy, devices capable of covert or unobtrusive recording, including smart glasses, are not permitted in shipboard public spaces.

The restriction applies regardless of brand and includes wearable technology such as Google Glass, Meta Ray-Ban Stories, and AI-enabled glasses.

Hard Line Drawn

While guests may still carry smartphones, cameras, and other visible recording devices, MSC Cruises draws a distinction between traditional equipment and wearable technology that may record without the knowledge of nearby passengers or crew.

Port security teams are authorized to confiscate prohibited items during screening or onboard inspections.

MSC notes that these measures are intended to prevent unauthorized recording in sensitive or communal environments, including spa facilities, restrooms, and restricted operational areas.

The policy change follows broader industry discussions about privacy as wearable technology becomes more advanced and less noticeable.

Cruise ship security guard

Cruise lines have increasingly emphasized passenger comfort and consent, particularly in crowded shared spaces where recording may be difficult to detect.

MSC Cruises has not indicated whether guests may store smart glasses in their cabins for personal use outside public areas, and travellers are advised to review the most current prohibited items list prior to embarkation.

Cruise Lines Crack Down On Prohibited Items

Cruise lines are constantly updating their rules on permitted and prohibited items as new tech becomes more widespread, but also as new complaints become apparent.

A recent move by Carnival saw portable speakers banned from cruises due to their misuse, with several cruisers complaining about the music others were playing at high volume.

Some cruisers pushed back against the ban and called it unfair, although the cruise line justified its decision by saying that portable speakers could drown out important announcements over the ship’s own speaker system.

The ban on smart glasses from MSC is likely to spread to other cruise lines, and cruisers should always check the latest list of banned items when packing for any sailing to avoid awkward conversations at security.

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Royal Caribbean Guest Punches Crew Member During Icon Of The Seas Sailing

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Royal Caribbean is investigating an onboard altercation after a guest struck a crew member aboard Icon of the Seas during a recent Caribbean sailing, an incident that was captured on video and widely shared on social media.

Icon of the Seas crew member assaulted

The confrontation occurred on the ship’s open decks during a 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage that departed Miami on 6th December 2025.

Video footage shows a male guest in swimwear engaged in a heated exchange with crew members before throwing punches, including one that knocked a uniformed crew member to the deck.

The crew member, believed to be part of the ship’s lifeguard or deck safety team based on attire, did not retaliate.

Another crew member intervened to restrain the guest briefly before security personnel followed the individual away from the area.

The incident appears to have taken place near the ship’s waterslide complex, with signage and deck features visible in the footage. The guest is later seen walking away while making obscene gestures toward onlookers.

Lifetime Ban Likely

Royal Caribbean has not yet issued a public statement confirming what disciplinary action was taken, but the cruise line maintains a zero-tolerance policy for violence toward crew members.

Under company policy, guests involved in physical altercations may face confinement, removal at the next port, notification of local authorities, and permanent bans from sailing.

Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, carries more than 7,600 guests at maximum capacity and features extensive security coverage, including cameras throughout public areas.

She currently offers alternating itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, all lasting 7 nights.

Understandably, many cruisers on social media have criticised the guest after watching the video, hopeful that they will face criminal charges once they disembark.

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Claim Up to $250 Onboard Credit

by CarnivalCruise LinesCruise NewsCruise Tips

Carnival Corporation & PLC is one of the biggest cruise companies in the world, with a huge portfolio of brands – including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard, Seabourn and more. If you own shares in the company, you don’t just invest in the business… you also unlock some pretty generous perks.

One of the best is the Carnival shareholder benefit, which gives anyone holding 100+ shares onboard credit on every cruise they take with a Carnival-owned brand.

Carnival Cruise Line ships sailing on the ocean

Here’s exactly how the benefit works, which cruise lines are included and how to claim your onboard credit before you sail.

Free Money Every Time You Cruise!

Anyone who owns 100 shares or more of the Carnival Corporation can enjoy an amount of onboard credit on their next cruise, up to $250 on sailings on cruise lines operating out of the US.

The amount of on-board credit you get depends on the length of your sailing, but for cruises on a Carnival ship, you will get:

  • $250 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 14 days or longer
  • $100 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 7 to 13 days
  • $50 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 6 days or fewer

And the good news is that this isn’t a one-time benefit. It is available for every cruise you book on a Carnival ship, or on any ship belonging to a cruise line under the Carnival Corporation, as long as you hold 100 shares of CCL stock or more.

If you decide to cash in your shares, that does mean you lose the benefit entitlement.

The Carnival cruise stock benefits vary a little depending on which cruise line you’re sailing with. Those figures above are what you get when you sail on any of the cruise lines operating with US dollars as their onboard currency.

Cruise lines you can use your Carnival shareholder benefit with:

  • Carnival
  • Holland America Line
  • Princess Cruises
  • P&O Cruises (UK & Australia)
  • Seabourn
  • Aida Cruises
  • Selected Cunard sailings
  • Selected Costa sailings

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You do still get the benefit if you’re cruising with a cruise line operating with a different currency; it’s just that the values are tweaked to match.

For example, here’s the On Board Account Statement from one of my cruises with P&O Cruises that shows that I received £60 of company cruise credit, thanks to owning shares in Carnival.

Carnival cruise credit applied to P&O Cruises

For sailings on P&O Cruises Australia, or Princess sailings in Australia, the figures are the same but in Australian dollars – $250, $100 and $50.

For cruises in Europe on board a Costa ship or AIDA ship that uses Euros as their currency, the on-board values are €200, €75 and €40.

And finally, for sailings out of the UK on a P&O Cruises, Cunard or Princess Cruises ship, the values are £150, £60 and £30.

Cruise Line 14+ Days 7-13 Days Up to 6 Days
Carnival $250 $100 $50
Other US Sailing $250 $100 $50
Australian Cruise Line $250 $100 $50
European Cruise Line €200 €75 €40
UK Cruise Line £150 £60 £30

Since I mentioned the benefits of buying Carnival shares in my weekly email, I’ve had lots of people email me to say that they’ve also bought shares and are happy to receive the free onboard credit. Like this one…

“We took your advice and bought 100 Carnival shares which cost £550. Two Cunard trips gave us £250 each extra onboard spend and another gave us $200 (£175) total £675, also the shares have gone up £175. Best investment I’ve ever made, thankyou, keep up the good work.”

Robert and Veronica Dennehy

Where to Buy Shares in Carnival

To buy shares in any company, you’ll typically need to use a stockbroker. This can be either a human being or an online platform. There are various fees involved with this, but an online platform is usually the cheapest and easiest way.

I can’t advise you which is the best, but I personally chose to buy my Carnival shares through an investing platform called eToro. I chose this one because it is one of the most popular platforms with 20 million registered users and has great reviews and low fees.

I’ve been very happy with my share-buying experience and found it really easy to do.

(eToro is a multi-asset investment platform. The value of your investments may go up or down. Your capital is at risk.)

Read more: Should You Invest In Carnival Corp?

Me on a cruise ship

You Need to Claim Your Benefit Each Time!

Unfortunately, the Carnival stock benefits are not applied to your cruise automatically. They’re handled by a separate team and need to be manually applied to your account every time you sail.

This means if you want to take advantage of the free onboard credit, you need to ask for it every time you have a cruise booked. You also have to make your claim at least four weeks before your sailing date.

The information you need to provide includes:

  • Your legal name
  • Your booking number
  • Your ship and sailing date
  • Proof of your stock ownership

Important – Whereas the Carnival brands used to let you claim the credit via fax and then later email, now it’s all handled via an app called Stockperks.

You’ll need to download the app to your smartphone, then verify the stock you own by taking a photo of the key details.

Here’s a video showing you how the Stockperks app works:

As long as you provide these details in time, the amount will be added to your account, ready for you to enjoy on your sailing. If you miss the deadline, then you won’t be able to request it, so get your application in early.

You can get all the details you need from the shareholder platform you use – so etoro for me.

Important Terms to Be Aware Of

There are a few terms and conditions that you need to be aware of with the shareholder benefits for Carnival.

Firstly, as is usually the case with special offers like these, you can’t claim onboard credit as a Carnival shareholder if you’re an employee of the company. This applies across the board, so if you work for Princess Cruises, you can’t claim it on a Carnival cruise.

It’s also a benefit that applies on a per-stateroom basis. So you can’t buy 200 shares, register half with yourself and half with your partner, and then both claim the onboard credit if you’re sharing a stateroom.

But the good news for solo travellers is that you don’t need to own 200 shares if you’re cruising on a single occupancy fare – 100 is still the minimum amount.

You can use the credit for most things on board, but there are some limitations. It can’t be put towards your outstanding cruise balance, and you can’t use it for gratuities or at the casino. Check out this guide to find out the best way to spend your credit: 12 Ways To Use Your Carnival Onboard Credit Like a Pro.

Canival Cruise Line ships sailing on the ocean

To Conclude

Buying shares is inherently a risk, and so I can’t tell you whether it’s a good idea or a bad idea to invest in Carnival stock.

However, if you do decide that it’s a risk you want to take with your funds, you can enjoy a healthy amount of onboard credit with every cruise on a Carnival Corporation ship in the future.

If you book cruises every year as I do, then over time, you might even make back the cost of your investment, whilst hopefully seeing your invested money grow at the same time. Just make sure you always remember to claim your credit before every sailing.

You can check the current share price here.

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dining.jpg

What to Wear & 6 Must-Know Rules

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsPackingRoyal Caribbean

For many cruisers, formal night is a highlight of the trip – the perfect excuse to dress up, feel a little glamorous and enjoy a special evening onboard.

For others, the idea of getting fancy isn’t quite as appealing, and the good news is that Royal Caribbean gives you plenty of ways to opt out without hiding in your stateroom.

formal dining

Whether you love it or plan to avoid it, here’s everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s formal night before you sail.

Yes, Formal Nights Are Still a Thing

Royal Caribbean does have formal nights on cruises, but they aren’t strict. There is a Royal Caribbean dress code that guests can follow, but there are plenty of relaxed places on the ship if you don’t want to dress up.

If you want to know more about formal nights on Royal Caribbean cruises, then these are six things to be aware of before you sail:

1. Most Cruises Have 1-2 Formal Nights

The number of formal nights on a Royal Caribbean cruise depends on the length of the itinerary. For cruises up to 5 nights, there is normally one formal night. 6-7 night cruises will have two formal nights. Longer cruises may have a third formal night.

Royal knows that packing your formalwear means that you’ll want to make the most of it. If you’re sailing for a week, it would feel like a shame to only wear it for one night, which is why you get two opportunities.

But there has to be a balance because going to the effort of getting dressed up for formal night too regularly becomes a chore, which isn’t exactly how a holiday should feel.

Which is why there’s a good balance between the length of the cruise and the number of formal nights – not so many that you feel like you’re on an old-timey formal vacation and you can’t properly relax, but enough to make it feel like bringing that cocktail dress and pressed suit on board was worth the effort.

Cruise Mummy and daughter dressed up for formal night

2. Expect the First Formal Night on Day 2 of Your Cruise

Most Royal Caribbean cruises have a formal night on the second day of your cruise itinerary, regardless of the length of the cruise. If your cruise is long enough to have a second formal night, this will either be on day 5 or day 6.

For 6-night cruises, it will of course always be day 5 for the second formal night – on day 6, you’ll be enjoying the last night of your cruise, and since your luggage may be getting collected that evening ahead of your departure, you don’t want to have to carry your formalwear around in your overnight bag with you.

7-night cruises tend to have the second formal night on day 6, although it depends on your ship. On the Oasis-class ships, it depends on where you are sailing – western itineraries tend to have the second formal night on day 5, while eastern itineraries move it to day 6 (source).

If you’re sailing on a longer cruise, then the formal nights can vary – it’s best to speak to the cruise line directly to find out when they are, if you need to know in advance. Otherwise, you’ll get a full itinerary once you board the ship.

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3. It’s Not Even Called ‘Formal Night’

Formal night on Royal Caribbean isn’t too formal. It’s been renamed as ‘Dress to Impress’, and while the suggested dress code lists suits with ties, tuxedos, evening gowns and cocktail dresses, there’s no requirement to dress up to the nines if you don’t want to.

The Royal Caribbean dinner dress code is fairly chilled, and there’s no listed dress code for children. Feel free to dress them up in shirts, trousers, waistcoats and party dresses too. But if your kid wants to wear tennis shoes or won’t wear a tie, that’s absolutely fine.

Overall, don’t expect a really stuffy night. It’s not meant to be really upper-class and uncomfortable, but more the chance to have fun getting ready, getting some photos taken, looking your glam best, and making the night something of a treat.

I’ve found that on cruises from Southampton on Anthem of the Seas, people generally dress up more than they do on Royal Caribbean cruises in the Bahamas and Caribbean. This could be because Brits like to get dressed up more than Americans do, or it could be because the hot weather of the Caribbean puts people off from wearing sequins, floor-length gowns and dinner jackets.

If dressing up really isn’t something that you’ll enjoy, don’t let it put you off a cruise, because it’s much more relaxed, and you have options available to avoid feeling like you’re out of place.

The formality only extends to the dress code, and even that is suggested. There aren’t any other formal procedures you have to go through, although expect a long queue for the ship’s photographers, as a lot of people will want to get their photos taken when dressed in their best. These aren’t mandatory, though, so skip those queues if you aren’t fussed.

little girl in a beautiful dress

4. Don’t Fancy It? No Problem

You don’t have to dress up for formal night on a Royal Caribbean cruise, and you don’t have to wear a full suit or dress. It’s optional – you won’t be turned away from the main dining venues if you’ve dressed smart casual, and there are venues you can go to when dressed casually if you prefer.

Formal night used to be something that was more strictly enforced, but times are changing. Royal Caribbean are one of the few cruise lines to still publish its formal dress code, but that doesn’t mean you absolutely must adhere to it. The priority is the comfort of yourself and of other guests too.

There are some strict rules that will be enforced – you’re not meant to wear shorts to the main dining rooms (although you will get away with smart shorts and a collared shirt), and you can never wear pool wear into the dining rooms either.

I saw a child get turned away from the buffet when he tried to go in to grab some ketchup while wearing swimming shorts and no shirt, so this is strictly enforced.

For a formal night, you should aim for smart casual, really at a minimum. If you plan to eat at the Chef’s Table on formal night, that’s somewhere where the formal dress code will be enforced, so bear that in mind.

It’s important to wear what makes you feel comfortable, but other guests don’t want to get dolled up to then sit next to a table of people in shorts and t-shirts, so it’s a balance.

kids wearing comfortable clothes

5. Feel Free to Get Glammed Up If You Want To – Suits & Dresses Are Common

If you want to adhere to the formal dress code on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you should wear either a suit with a tie or a tuxedo, or an evening gown or cocktail dress. 

Crucially, it doesn’t specify that those rules apply to men and women respectively, so women who wish to wear a suit or tuxedo, or men who wish to wear a dress, can do so, provided it is done with sincerity.

Remember that you don’t have to adhere to this code, though, and provided you’ve made the effort to dress smart casual, you won’t be turned away from the main dining room. In fact, you probably won’t be turned away if you wear casual clothes, but it’s nice to make some effort for everyone else.

So jeans with a jacket, or trousers with a collared shirt or blouse top will be perfectly fine. Ideally, avoid the ripped jeans look, but again, that’s up to you.

If you’re worried that your clothes will look creased after being stuffed into your suitcase, don’t be. Royal Caribbean offers an ‘Express Press Special’ on arrival day, so that you can have all of your nicest outfits ironed and delivered to you ready for the big night.

express press special information

6. It’s Super-Relaxed, Don’t Worry

Formal night on Royal Caribbean is not strict. The dress code only applies to the Main Dining Room and speciality restaurants. Even if you don’t adhere to the formal dress suggestions, you’ll still be allowed to enter, provided you aren’t in pool wear or barefoot.

The speciality restaurants on the ship have their own dress code, which supersedes the formal night dress code, so don’t feel like you have to get overdressed to visit these restaurants if you have a booking.

And if you don’t even want to be surrounded by the feel of formal night at all, then the Windjammer buffet restaurant is open throughout the formal night as a casual venue, where you’ll be fine dressed in shorts and a t-shirt.

Windjammer Marketplace buffet

Formal night isn’t designed to be intimidating or exclusive, but gives cruisers the chance to feel the nostalgia of classical cruising and to dress to impress their loved ones. People often love to get their glad-rags on and have some beautiful formal pictures taken.

But spend five minutes on cruise forums, and you’ll see plenty who don’t like formal nights as well, and who don’t take part. So whatever you’d prefer to do, you won’t feel like you stick out on the night. There’ll be a real mix of people dressed up and not.

The Bottom Line

The key thing to remember is that formal night is meant to be fun, not something that makes you anxious or uncomfortable.

The idea is that you can have fun getting dressed up if you want to, and you won’t feel strange since there’ll be a lot of other people dressed up and embracing the theme too. But there’ll equally be a lot of people who don’t go all out, and that’s fine too.

Looking for some inspiration on dresses you might want to wear on your cruise? Take a look at these pictures of cruise dresses for formal night for some ideas.

Let me know in the comments if you prefer to get dressed up, or you’re someone who just wants to enjoy a more relaxed holiday.

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