Two Vietnamese cruise passengers have drowned in a tragic accident at Sarakiniko Beach on the Greek island of Milos after being swept into the sea by powerful winds on Friday 8th August 2025.
The victims, a married couple in their 50s, were part of a cruise ship group that had disembarked earlier in the day at the island’s main port of Adamas.
According to Greek authorities, the 64-year-old woman was attempting to take a photograph on the island’s exposed northern shoreline when she was caught off balance by a strong gust and fell into the water.
Her 65-year-old husband jumped in to try to save her, but both were quickly overwhelmed by the turbulent sea conditions.
Local winds were recorded at up to 50 miles per hour (80kmph), well into gale force strength. Sarakiniko’s smooth white volcanic cliffs and lack of vegetation leave it highly exposed to the elements, and its beauty belies the hazards posed by sudden weather changes.
The couple’s bodies were later recovered by the Greek coastguard with the assistance of private boats and divers.
They were taken to a local health centre, where they were pronounced dead. The Vietnamese embassy in Greece confirmed the fatalities the following day, stating it was in contact with the victims’ families and working with Greek authorities and the travel company involved to assist with arrangements.
The embassy also urged Vietnamese nationals visiting Greece to stay away from cliff edges and avoid entering the sea during high winds.
Cruise Line Unofficially Named as Celestyal Cruises
Although the couple’s cruise ship has not been officially named, Celestyal Cruises’ Celestyal Journey was the only vessel in port at Milos on the day of the accident.
The 55,800-gross-ton ship, formerly Holland America Line’s Ryndam, is homeported from Piraeus (Athens) and was nearing the end of a seven-night Greek Isles itinerary.
Milos was her final port call before returning to Athens, and she has since departed on her next voyage.
The tragedy occurred as much of southern Greece faced severe weather. The country’s civil protection ministry issued alerts for wind speeds of up to 88kmph across the Aegean and Crete, along with warnings of a very high risk of wind-driven wildfires.
Ferry services between Athens and the Cyclades were heavily disrupted, with many sailings cancelled or delayed and travellers stranded at ports in Piraeus, Rafina and Lavrio.
Giorgos Vallis, president of the Panhellenic Association of Yacht Crews, told state broadcaster ERT that authorities should consider restricting access to certain beaches during extreme weather to prevent accidents.
“When such phenomena occur, port authorities should close off the area to prevent people from taking photos or jumping from the rocks into the sea,”
While cruise lines take extensive precautions to safeguard passengers, accidents ashore can still occur, particularly in scenic but exposed destinations such as Sarakiniko Beach.
Visitors are urged to exercise caution in strong winds, keep well clear of cliff edges, and remain aware of changing weather conditions.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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The Caribbean may be a dream cruise destination, but it’s also home to some of the world’s fiercest hurricanes.
So what if your cruise is set to sail right where a storm is brewing? Can cruise ships handle hurricanes? And what happens if your trip gets cancelled altogether?
I learned the hard way when my Royal Caribbean cruise on Navigator of the Seas was called off because of Hurricane Dorian. Since then, I’ve followed cruise line policies, government advice, and expert weather updates to create this guide – so you’ll know exactly what to expect if a hurricane threatens your cruise.
Cruise Ships Avoid Hurricanes at All Costs
The most important thing for anyone to consider during a hurricane is, undoubtedly, safety. Many people wonder if a cruise ship can withstand being hit by a hurricane. But honestly, it is extremely unlikely that that would ever happen.
The tactic taken by cruise ships during a hurricane is to avoid the hurricane by sailing out of its path.
In fact, a cruise ship is one of the safest places to be during a hurricane, as it can easily sail into safety. According to Unidata, the average forward speed of a hurricane is 15-20mph.
The average speed of a cruise ship is 23 mph, with maximum speeds reaching 34 mph. Weather forecasters have knowledge of where a hurricane is heading up to a week before it gets there. This gives cruise ships ample time to move out of the path and into calmer waters.
So, if you’re wondering what cruise ships do in hurricanes, the answer is pretty straightforward – they get out of the way!
If your cruise holiday is affected by a hurricane, your cruise line will give you information about what to do and will send you details of their hurricane policy.
If you’re already on board when the news comes in of a hurricane, the captain will advise passengers over the public address system, via written correspondence in your stateroom and via your stateroom television. If you have any questions, you should head to the guest services desk and ask.
If you haven’t yet sailed when a hurricane is announced, you will be advised by email if your cruise is affected, although you may also be able to gather information from other sources to help you with your planning.
Here’s an example of an email that I received from Royal Caribbean before my cancelled cruise…
Twitter is an excellent resource for getting the latest information about hurricanes from trusted sources.
As well as following what your cruise line is advising, you can also follow meteorologists, such as Craig Setzer, who is the chief meteorologist for Royal Caribbean, as well as accounts such as the National Hurricane Center.
Flights and other modes of transport are also affected by hurricanes. However, where a cruise itinerary may be rescheduled days in advance, the time frame for cancelling flights is often much shorter.
Hurricanes can be unpredictable, and flights may show as scheduled until it is absolutely certain that they need to be cancelled.
Your Cruise Itinerary May Be Changed
Cruises are very rarely cancelled due to hurricanes, but they can have itinerary changes and could be made shorter or longer in duration. Hurricane season for cruises can involve a lot of changes to planned itineraries.
In most cases, if a cruise is set to sail near a hurricane, it will simply be diverted to visit different ports of call, or you may skip a port altogether and have an extra sea day.
If the hurricane is due to hit a departure port, the port will close, and cruise ships will stay away from the port until it is safe to dock. This means that passengers on the ship will stay on board for longer, usually having an extra one, two or three nights on board.
However, this means that the cruise is then delayed for the next passengers, meaning that their cruise will be shortened by the same length of time.
If cruises are delayed or extended before departure, passengers should be given the option to cancel their cruise.
What to Do if You’re Affected
Before doing anything, you should wait for an email from your cruise line advising you of how your cruise is affected, what they are offering and what they recommend you do.
I was advised that my cruise on Navigator of the Seas would be delayed and shortened from a four-night sailing to a two-night sailing. I was given the option of continuing with the cruise or cancelling.
If you have booked your cruise directly with the cruise line, you should contact them to let them know how you wish to proceed. You don’t need to rush to do this. If you don’t respond and don’t arrive at the port, you will likely be marked as a no-show and treated the same as a cancellation.
If you have booked your cruise with a travel agent, call them and they will sort everything out for you.
I’m really glad that I booked my cruise with a travel agent. The travel agent cancelled my cruise, my flights and my hotel booking on my behalf. Because I booked it as a package holiday, the ATOL scheme in the UK meant that I would not lose any money on the flights or hotel that I had booked.
If you book your cruise, flights and hotel independently, you would not necessarily be entitled to a refund on all three elements and would have to call each company yourself.
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You Can Claim Compensation
Each cruise line has a hurricane policy, and they will advise passengers about any compensation due.
In my case, the cancellation of my cruise meant that Royal Caribbean gave me a credit to use towards a future cruise in the next 12 months. They also refunded my drinks package, wifi and shore excursions.
For cruises that are shortened, passengers are refunded pro rata for the days that they miss. They may also be given future cruise credit as a gesture of goodwill.
For Royal Caribbean cruises which are extended, no charge is made, and extras such as drinks packages, dining packages or WiFi packages will also be extended free of charge. This policy may vary by the cruise line.
For itinerary changes such as alternative ports or missed ports, no compensation is normally offered, as the cruise line reserves the right to change itineraries as needed.
Refunds
The refund policy for hurricanes is down to each cruise line. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival usually offer refunds in the form of future cruise credit only. This can take around three weeks to be processed, but it is valid for up to a year after the issue.
You can’t look up the Royal Caribbean hurricane policy or the Carnival cruise hurricane policy online, as they aren’t published anywhere. Instead, you must wait for an email from the cruise line with details of your refund.
My Advice for Cruising in Hurricane Season
Firstly, it’s important to know when hurricane season is for cruises. Hurricane season in the Caribbean officially runs from 1st June to 30th November, with the most hurricanes happening in August and September. Even though I had to cancel my cruise due to Hurricane Dorian, it would not put me off choosing to cruise in hurricane season again.
There are some great deals to be had on cruises at this time of year, and, as it coincides with school summer holidays in the UK, it is generally a convenient time for families to cruise in the Caribbean.
Although there is certainly the possibility for disruption, the vast majority of cruises during hurricane season won’t be affected by any more than a few short showers.
1. Be Flexible
If you’re considering cruising in hurricane season, it’s important to be flexible. If you’re planning a cruise for a special occasion such as a wedding, honeymoon, anniversary, or you have your heart set on visiting a certain port, then you should probably consider sailing at a different time of year.
However, if you’re happy to accept itinerary changes and want great value for money, then a cruise in hurricane season is certainly worth considering.
2. Get Good Travel Insurance
It’s always advisable to take out travel insurance for any cruise, but if you plan to cruise during hurricane season, it’s very important that you check your policy carefully.
Some travel insurance doesn’t cover cruises at all, so the first thing to check is that your policy includes ‘cruise cover’. Then you’ll want to check that hurricanes and other natural disasters are not excluded.
Next, take a look at how much you’re covered for and what the excess is. Cruises can be expensive, and some cheaper travel insurance policies have a relatively low limit on how much will be covered.
Some travel insurance policies offer cover for missed ports, but check this carefully. If you’re only offered £25 per missed port, but your excess is £100, then this isn’t actually worth anything.
Finally, you must get your travel insurance as soon as you book your cruise (or a year before you sail, whichever is sooner). If you wait until the last minute to buy your insurance and a hurricane is named before you buy it, you won’t be covered.
My Recommendation
My recommendation for cruise insurance depends on where you live.
These are trusted price comparison sites that will quickly get you lots of quotes to match your exact needs.
3. Book With a Travel Agent
I am so glad that I booked my cruise with a good travel agent. They sorted everything out for me and gave me a full refund on my hotel and flights as well as my cruise. If I had booked everything myself and my cruise was cancelled but flights weren’t, I would have had to pay for the flights or try to claim on travel insurance.
Final Word
I hope this article has helped anyone whose cruise has been affected by a hurricane or who is concerned about cruising in hurricane season. This is just my experience of having a cruise booked with Royal Caribbean during Hurricane Dorian. Other cruise lines and other hurricanes may be slightly different.
Have you ever taken a cruise that was affected by a hurricane? Let me know, in the comments below, what your experiences were. And if you have any questions, please ask, and if I don’t know, I’ll do my best to find the answers.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
When Disney Cruise Line invited me to Germany to visit the Meyer Werft shipyard where Disney Destiny was being built, of course I snatched the opportunity with both hands!
Meyer Werft’s shipyard in Papenburg is the largest covered building dock in the world – and it’s shrouded in secrecy.
Usually, nobody except the construction workers are allowed to see inside. And even on the rare occasion that outsiders are allowed through the doors, there’s mega tight security and a strict no cameras policy.
Boarding a cruise ship that was still under construction was a surreal experience. I saw things that most passengers couldn’t even imagine.
As my phone was locked inside a sealed bag, I don’t have photos. But, I am able to share with you the most surprising things I discovered at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg…
Required PPE for a shipyard visit
The outside was almost ready – the inside was a different story
As we walked around the outside of the ship, kitted up in full PPE of hard hat, steel-toe-capped boots, yellow hi-vis vest and safety glasses, the freshly-painted Disney Destiny looked just like any other Disney ship.
Sure, she was inside a giant metal hall, and floating a little higher in the water than usual, but from the outside, the ship looked finished.
We scanned our security passes, went through the turnstile and up the steep gangway and into the tender boarding area. It’s at that moment that it became clear that this ship was far from complete.
We ducked around wires that hung down from the bare ceilings, dodged pieces of timber and pots of paint scattered across the floor, and navigated all sorts of uneven surfaces. It was like an obstacle course.
With 104 days until the maiden voyage, and just a few hours until the ship would be floated out of the shipyard accompanied by fireworks, there was a lot of work to be done.
Disney Destiny floating out of the shipyard
German efficiency at its finest
Of course, while the ship was still very much a construction site, that was all part of the perfectly-detailed plan.
We all know the Germans have something of a reputation for being efficient – and the shipyard is a testament to that. Every single task is done at the exact right time to maximise efficiency so that not a moment is wasted.
On the wall, we saw a chart with deadlines for tasks. I can only imagine the number of spreadsheets that are involved in planning the exact date when every single task is set to be completed.
We were told that the Disney Destiny had 1,500 to 2,000 construction workers onboard at any one time during peak periods. With two shifts per day, the longer shift starts early in the morning. When those workers go home, more people come aboard for a shorter shift in the afternoon and evening.
Outside of Meyer Werft shipyard, Papenburg
Ships are built from front to back
Our guide, from the Walt Disney Imagineering department, explained how work is completed from bow to stern.
This became apparent as we entered the theatre at the very front of the ship. It had a stage, carpets, all of the seats were in place and even the light fittings were up, albeit covered in plastic.
The restaurant at the aft, however, was a stark contrast. It was an empty shell, with piles of materials covered in tarpaulin. The walls, floor and ceiling were still plain steel – albeit with a lot of colour-coded wiring ready to be connected up.
An emotional experience
Touring the ship was an assault on the senses. Everywhere I looked, tradespeople were busy taking care of wiring, fitting ceilings, adding wall coverings and a million other tasks. Strong chemical smells filled the hot and stuffy air and the constant clatter of construction was jarring.
With no elevators, we climbed many decks of stairs during the tour. This included some crew stairways, which I discovered were actually much, much steeper than the guest stairways we’re used to.
We regularly give praise to the people who work aboard cruise ships while we sail – the bartenders, waiters, cabin stewards and entertainers who work tirelessly to serve their guests.
But nobody thinks about the thousands of men and women who work in shipyards, enduring challenging (and sometimes dangerous) conditions and strict deadlines to make dreams into reality.
Laser steel-cutting machine
As I stepped in to the Grand Hall as one of the first guests to ever enter the space, everything felt suddenly calm. Such is the grandeur and majesty of this space, that even in its half done state, it blew me away.
As one of the design team explained how the colours and materials were chosen to suit the Black Panther theming, I felt a rush of emotion. It was overwhelming to see and hear just how much work goes into creating something as magical as a Disney cruise ship.
Artist rendering of the Grand Hall on Disney Destiny
Cruise ships are 1000-piece jigsaws
Ships like Disney Destiny are built in blocks. This ship has 100 blocks, and each block is made up of 10 sections. So you could imagine it being like a 1,000 piece jigsaw.
Diagram showing the 100 blocks of a Wish-class ship
Each section is cut out of steel with a laser, with pieces welded together. They’re constructed upside down, to make it easier to fit the pipes and cables in the ceiling.
Once the ten sections of the block are ready (and turned over to be the right way up), they’re joined together to create a block.
A block is about 5 decks high and weighs around 800 tons (the same as 500 cars). It might be a group of cabins, the bridge or some public spaces. Each is unique and follows a very strict 3D plan, with a tolerance of just 20mm.
The completed blocks are craned into place by a huge crane known as the Golden Eagle. The smaller cranes are also named after birds.
Shipyard cranes
Cabins are constructed off-site
Each of the 1,254 staterooms of the Disney Destiny was built 500 metres away at another location and then transported into the hall to be slotted into place.
I was absolutely stunned to learn just how much of the cabin is completed before being inserted into the ship. This isn’t just an empty steel shell – each cabin is complete with wall coverings, carpets, fully-fitted bathrooms, wardrobes, TVs and fridges!
The beds, mattresses and sofa bed are in place, and even the artwork is hung on the walls before the cabin ever meets the rest of the ship!
Of course, this makes perfect sense. Carrying thousands of sofa beds along the tight corridors just wouldn’t be practical at all, when you think about it.
As we walked along the corridor of cabins, I saw that each of the stateroom numbers was written on the door in marker pen. There were also the names of people, along with the word ‘OK’ to show that the rooms had passed the necessary quality checks.
One in, one out
The Meyer Werft shipyard builds multiple ships at the same time, up to six at once. Two or three ships are completed each year.
With several buildings in which the construction takes place, welders were already working on the next ship that would occupy the ‘big hall’ once the Disney Destiny was floated out.
And Disney Cruise Line is also ramping up production of its cruise ships. Prior to 2022, the cruise line launched two ships every 10 years, and had just four ships in the fleet.
Then, we saw the Wish-class ships, Disney Wish and Disney Treasure launch in 2022 and 2024. Disney Destiny is the third Wish-class ship, and the cruise line is set to launch six more ships over the next six years. This will take the fleet to 13 ships by 2031.
On the day we toured the Disney Destiny before the float out, we also had the privilege of being present at the steel-cutting ceremony for the fourth, as yet unnamed, Wish-class ship.
The cutting of the first piece of steel marks the official start of construction, and is a key moment in the development of a new ship – a process that takes four to five years, from ideation until the maiden voyage.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Thousands of cruise guests embarking on P&O Cruises’ Ventura in Southampton on 9th August 2025 faced an alarming start to their holiday after a bomb threat prompted an evacuation of the ship and its terminal.
The incident unfolded at the Mayflower Cruise Ferry Terminal just as embarkation was underway for Ventura’s 14-night voyage to Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands.
At approximately 11:46 am, Hampshire Constabulary officers responded after an unidentified man claimed to be in possession of an explosive device.
Swift Police Response
With heightened summer security already in place at the UK’s busiest cruise homeport, additional police were on hand to secure the area quickly.
A 200-metre (656-foot) cordon was established while bomb disposal experts searched a motor truck belonging to the suspect, as well as the surrounding area.
Ventura and the terminal building were evacuated “out of an abundance of caution” after being identified within the potential blast zone.
“The captain made an announcement that we were in the bomb zone and we had to get out,” one 28-year-old passenger told The Daily Echo.
By early afternoon, police confirmed there was no credible threat and the cordon was lifted.
“We are satisfied that there is no risk to the public,” a Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said.
Statement from P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises later issued an official statement confirming the evacuation and thanking guests for their cooperation.
“Due to an earlier police incident and in an abundance of caution, we made the decision to evacuate Ventura and the passenger terminal. This incident has now been resolved and normal embarkation operations have resumed. The safety of our guests, crew and port staff is our highest priority and we are grateful for the co-operation of the authorities,”
P&O Cruises Statement
Impact on Other Ships in Port
Southampton was particularly busy during the incident, with Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess, P&O Cruises’ Iona, and MSC Cruises’ MSC Virtuosa also docked.
However, those ships were far enough from the Mayflower terminal to avoid direct disruption.
Only one cruise ship can berth at the Mayflower at a time, meaning Ventura was the sole vessel affected.
Departure Delay but No Itinerary Change
With embarkation temporarily halted, Ventura’s departure was pushed back several hours. Guests reported an expected sailing time of 6:15 pm, and by 6:30 pm cruise tracking data confirmed the 116,017-gross-ton vessel was making her way out of the harbour.
The delay is not expected to impact Ventura’s itinerary, with the ship still on track to reach her first scheduled port of call, Funchal, Madeira, on 13th August.
A related road closure at Dock 10 also caused temporary congestion within the port but has since reopened.
Suspect Taken into Custody
Guests watching from Ventura’s decks witnessed the arrest of the suspect, who was seen being detained by armed officers in the terminal car park.
Passenger Andy Palmer told The Mirror:
“I was enjoying an early lunch when I saw a guy being dragged out of his car by six armed policemen.”
The man was taken into custody, and depending on the charges, could face anything from a substantial fine to several years in prison if found guilty.
UK law treats bomb hoaxes as a serious criminal offence, citing the misuse of emergency resources and the potential panic such threats cause.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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It was a magical day at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, on 9th August 2025, as Disney Cruise Line’s newest Wish-class vessel, Disney Destiny, floated out of Hall 6 for the very first time.
The highly anticipated moment marks the ship’s transition from dry dock to wet dock – a key milestone signalling that exterior construction is now complete.
While the LNG-powered ship was “floated up” back in March to allow early testing of engines and onboard systems, this is the first time she has floated freely in open water.
A Celebration Fit for Disney
Disney Cruise Line made sure the occasion was unforgettable.
As the 144,000-gross ton ship emerged into the sunshine, colourful fireworks filled the sky – aptly reflecting the fact that Disney remains the only cruise line to offer fireworks at sea.
Guests and shipyard workers – including me, as I had been invited to attend – were also treated to the debut of the ship’s signature theme song, an upbeat anthem repeating the lyrics: “This is your Destiny! Seize the moment, it’s your time.” The track perfectly ties into the ship’s “Heroes and Villains” theme.
To cap off the ceremony, Disney Destiny’s horn played the line’s signature tune, When You Wish Upon a Star, for the very first time – sending a nostalgic ripple through the crowd.
First Look at the Finished Exterior
The float out provided the first full view of the ship’s completed exterior. Leading the stern artwork is none other than Spider-Man, flanked by his famous Spider-Bots – making Disney Destiny the first cruise ship in history to feature a Marvel character in its hull art.
At the bow, Minnie Mouse takes pride of place, dressed in a special superhero outfit to match the ship’s theme. Minnie was also on hand in person to welcome the newest addition to the fleet.
What Happens Next?
Following her float out, Disney Destiny was successfully docked at the shipyard’s equipment pier for the first time. Meyer Werft praised the “precise and dedicated work” of its team and will now focus on completing the ship’s interior.
Sea trials are planned for the coming months before the ship makes her way to Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) ahead of her maiden voyage on 20th November 2025.
The inaugural sailing will visit both of Disney’s private islands in the Bahamas.
A Busy Year for Disney Cruise Line
Disney Destiny’s float out comes just months after Disney Adventure, the largest ship ever built for the line, emerged from the same shipyard on 19th April 2025 ahead of her debut in Asia this December.
And only a day before Destiny’s big moment, Meyer Werft hosted the steel-cutting ceremony for Disney Cruise Line’s fourth Wish-class ship, due to launch in 2027.
The event was attended by Captain Mickey himself, who pressed the ceremonial red button to begin the first cut of steel – shaping a symbolic ship outline to mark the start of construction.
I was even lucky enough to sign the piece of steel myself!
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The most reliable way to deal with seasickness on a cruise is to combine a low, midship cabin on a larger ship with a calmer itinerary and, if you are prone to it, a suitable motion sickness medicine taken before the ship starts moving. Fresh air, a view of the horizon and light meals help too. Wristbands, ginger and most other popular remedies have much weaker evidence, so treat them as extras rather than a plan.
This guide explains how to prevent seasickness on a cruise using advice from health bodies such as the NHS, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Mayo Clinic. It is general information, not medical advice. For anything involving medicines, follow the pack label and ask a pharmacist or doctor, especially for children, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or if you take other medicines.
Why seasickness on a cruise happens
Motion sickness is usually explained as a mismatch: your inner ear senses movement while your eyes, fixed on a cabin wall or a screen, report that nothing is moving. The result can be nausea, dizziness, cold sweats, headache and tiredness.
The CDC notes that some people are simply more susceptible. Children, women, and people with migraine or vestibular conditions tend to be affected more, and genetics explains much of the difference between individuals. Poor sleep, alcohol and smoking can all make symptoms worse.
The good news is that the body usually adapts. Many passengers feel better within a few days, and habituation is the most effective countermeasure the CDC identifies, although it takes time.
Best cabin for seasickness: low and midship
A ship tends to pivot around a point roughly in its middle and near the waterline, so the further you are from that point, the more movement you notice. That makes cabin choice one of the few decisions you can make well before you sail.
Choose midship rather than the very front or back of the ship.
Choose a lower passenger deck. High decks exaggerate side-to-side motion.
Weigh up a window or balcony. It will not reduce movement, but being able to see the horizon and get fresh air can help. An inside cabin can suit people who sleep well in the dark, but offers no visual reference if you feel unwell.
Check what is overhead and underneath on the deck plan. A midship cabin is less restful if it sits under a busy pool deck or above a late-night venue, and poor sleep can worsen symptoms.
If you start to feel unwell on board, go to a low, central public area or an open deck rather than returning to a high cabin at the front or back of the ship.
Does ship size matter?
Yes, as a general rule. Large, heavy ships respond less to short waves than small ones, and most modern cruise ships have stabilisers that reduce rolling. Stabilisers are not a complete fix, though. They do much less for pitching, the up-and-down motion of bow and stern, which is common in long ocean swell.
That matters for luxury and expedition cruising, where the most appealing ships are often the smallest. A small ship can be perfectly comfortable in sheltered waters, but if you know you are prone to motion sickness, look carefully at open-water crossings before booking.
Looking at the horizon gives your eyes a stable point of reference. Photo: Alexander Popadin on Pexels
Pick an itinerary and season that suit you
Where and when you sail can matter as much as the ship. No route is guaranteed to be calm, but some have a clear reputation:
Generally calmer
More likely to be lively
Inside Passage in Alaska
Open Gulf of Alaska crossings
Mediterranean in summer
Bay of Biscay and North Atlantic, especially in winter
Eastern and southern Caribbean outside storm season
Atlantic and Caribbean during hurricane season, which runs June to November
Rivers and sheltered coastal routes
Drake Passage on the way to Antarctica
Port-heavy itineraries also give you regular time on land, while transatlantic crossings and long runs of sea days do not. If you are new to cruising, a short sailing with plenty of port calls is a low-risk way to find out how you cope. Our first-time cruise tips from past guests cover other things worth deciding before you book.
Motion sickness medicine for a cruise: the main types
Medicines are generally more effective at preventing symptoms than stopping them once they have started, partly because nausea slows absorption from the stomach. The pack or your pharmacist will tell you how long before sailing to take a product and how much to take. This guide deliberately does not give doses.
Drowsiness is common. The NHS advises avoiding alcohol with cinnarizine because it can make you much sleepier.
Hyoscine tablets
Hyoscine hydrobromide (Kwells)
Pharmacy medicine in the UK. Can cause drowsiness and dry mouth. The NHS lists people aged 60 or over among those it may not suit, along with people who have glaucoma, epilepsy or some heart conditions.
Scopolamine (hyoscine) patches
Transderm Scop in the US
Prescription in the US, and availability varies elsewhere. Mayo Clinic highlights an FDA warning about overheating. Never cut a patch, and do not use one on a child unless a doctor has advised it.
Three points are easy to miss:
Newer “non-drowsy” antihistamines are not a substitute. The CDC says minimally sedating antihistamines, and anti-sickness medicines such as ondansetron, are not effective for motion sickness.
Try a medicine at home first if you can. Finding out that a product leaves you groggy is better done on an ordinary day than on the first day of your holiday. Check with your pharmacist that this is appropriate for you.
Get specific advice for vulnerable groups. The NHS says cinnarizine and hyoscine are not usually recommended in pregnancy, and age limits differ between products. The CDC warns that over-sedating young children can be dangerous, so always ask a pharmacist or doctor before giving a child any of these medicines.
Pack your chosen medicine in your hand luggage so you have it before your cases arrive. Our cruise packing tips cover what else to keep with you on embarkation day.
Fresh air and a clear view can ease mild queasiness. Photo: Rachel Claire on Pexels
Motion sickness cruise remedies: what the evidence says
Plenty of remedies are recommended with confidence in cruise forums. Here is how they compare with what health sources report.
Remedy
Evidence
Verdict
Horizon gazing, fresh air, keeping your head still
Partly effective, per the CDC
Free and worth doing
Slow, controlled breathing
About half as effective as anti-sickness drugs in lab trials, per the CDC
Underrated, with no side effects
Acupressure wristbands
No better than placebo in lab trials, per the CDC
Harmless to try, but do not rely on them
Ginger
Weak and contradictory; small studies give mixed results
May help some people, but unproven
Vitamins, supplements and special diets
Weak and contradictory, per the CDC
Not worth relying on
Green apples and crackers
Traditional advice with little research behind it; plain snacks are simply easy on the stomach
Fine as food, not as treatment
Acupressure bands
Bands such as Sea-Band press on a point on the inner wrist. The NHS notes that they don’t work for everyone. Placebo effects can be strong, though, and the CDC accepts that someone who finds them helpful may still choose to use them. They are cheap and drug-free, which makes them a reasonable addition but a poor sole strategy for a rough crossing.
Ginger
Mayo Clinic and NHS self-care guidance both list ginger as something to try, while the CDC describes its evidence as weak. One review of seven studies found mixed results and called for better trials. Check with a pharmacist before taking ginger supplements if you are pregnant or use blood thinners.
Food, alcohol and habits on board
Eat lightly and regularly. Avoid large, spicy or greasy meals. Plain food such as crackers with cold water is a sensible choice if you feel queasy.
Limit alcohol. It can worsen motion sickness and adds to the drowsiness caused by many medicines. Keep that in mind if your fare includes drinks.
Stay hydrated and get enough sleep. Lost sleep is a known trigger.
Put the screen down. Reading or watching a phone focuses your eyes on something that appears still while your body moves.
Keep away from strong smells and smoky areas.
Look ahead. When you feel unwell, find the horizon or lie down, close your eyes and breathe slowly.
Getting help from the ship’s medical centre
If symptoms become severe, or you cannot keep fluids down, contact the ship’s medical centre. Treatment options can include an injection, which the CDC notes may be needed when tablets are no longer practical. Some ships also offer basic tablets at guest services, but this varies and should not be assumed.
Shipboard medical care is usually private and charged to your onboard account. One cruise guide puts a standard consultation at around US$100 to $200 before medicines, with after-hours visits costing more. Ask about the fee first if you are not in urgent need.
UK travellers should note that the NHS Business Services Authority says a GHIC or EHIC does not cover treatment received on board a cruise. US health plans may also offer limited or no cover at sea. It is worth reading our cruise insurance buyer’s guide and keeping receipts for any treatment you need.
Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe headache, confusion, or vomiting that will not stop, as these may not be seasickness at all.
Seasickness is not the only bug cruisers worry about; our guide to norovirus on cruise ships covers real outbreak statistics and prevention.
FAQs
Is seasickness on a cruise common?
Mild queasiness is fairly common in rough weather, but many passengers on large ships in calm seas feel nothing at all. Susceptibility varies widely and is partly inherited, and most people adapt within a few days at sea.
Where is the worst place on a cruise ship for motion sickness?
Generally high decks at the very front or back of the ship, where movement is most noticeable. A low, midship location usually moves least, so head there if you start to feel unwell.
Are you more likely to get seasick on a small ship?
Usually, yes. Smaller vessels respond more to waves and swell, so a small expedition ship on an open-water crossing will normally move more than a large ship on the same sea, although stabilisers and weather make a big difference.
Is meclizine (Bonine) or dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) better for a cruise?
Both are antihistamines used for motion sickness, and both can make you drowsy. Which suits you depends on your health and other medicines, so ask a pharmacist or doctor and follow the label.
How can I tell if I will get seasick on a cruise?
You can’t know for certain, but a history of car or travel sickness, migraine or vestibular problems raises the odds. If you are unsure, start with a large ship, a midship cabin and a calmer itinerary.
Carnival UK has officially reversed the travel ban previously imposed on the editors of Sail Away Magazine, following weeks of controversy, confusion, and backlash from cruise fans and media professionals alike.
In a brief press release issued on 8th August 2025, Sail Away Magazine confirmed the travel restriction – originally applied across Carnival UK-managed brands P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Princess Cruises – has been withdrawn with immediate effect.
“We welcome this decision and regard it as a positive step forward,
“Our editors, Dan and Jay, are long-standing advocates for the cruise industry and have always championed cruising as the very best way to travel.
“Sail Away Magazine looks forward to working more constructively with Carnival UK in the future.”
Sail Away Magazine press release
While no further comment will be made by the publication, the reversal marks a significant turnaround from what many had seen as a worrying precedent for freedom of speech within the cruise sector.
What Happened: The Timeline of the Ban
The issue first emerged in early June 2025, when Sail Away editors Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon received a letter from Carnival UK stating they were banned from all Carnival Group brands for five years due to a pattern of complaints and reviews suggesting the cruise lines could not “offer the holiday [they] are looking for.”
“It is thus no longer appropriate for you to travel with us, or any of the Carnival group brands,” the letter stated, concluding with: “No further correspondence will be entered into on this matter.”
At face value, this appeared to be a blanket ban across all eight Carnival Corporation brands – Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn, AIDA, and Costa Cruises.
Dan and Jay cancelled future bookings and charter arrangements, including a September sailing on Princess Cruises and a June voyage on Holland America’s Rotterdam, costing them thousands in deposits and production expenses.
However, by late June, Carnival clarified that the ban only applied to Carnival UK-managed brands – namely P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Princess Cruises (though Princess’ inclusion remains structurally ambiguous, as it operates under both US and UK management).
Why Were They Banned?
Dan and Jay are known for Sail Away Magazine, a cruise-focused publication with a print magazine, podcast, and YouTube channel reaching over 40,000 followers.
While supportive of cruising as a travel style, they are also known for their forthright reviews, which often touch on service cuts, guest complaints, and industry transparency.
Some of their most critical recent stories included:
A negative review of Carnival Miracle, calling it “the worst cruise we’ve done”
Publicising a reader poll that found 72% of cruisers believe standards have fallen under Carnival UK leadership
Criticising P&O Cruises for a last-minute cancellation of Aurora
Challenging Cunard’s decision to charge for room service
A tense interaction with Carnival UK’s PR team, where they referred to staff as “delusional”
Carnival UK did not cite specific reasons for the ban, nor did they accuse the pair of defamation or misconduct.
The vague language in the original letter led many to see the move as retaliatory censorship rather than a commercial or safety-based decision.
A Question of Influence and Accountability
The ban sparked widespread debate across the cruise community and beyond. Should a company blacklist guests for being too honest – or critical – online? Does this send a message that public commentary could carry serious consequences for those in the travel media?
Supporters of Dan and Jay argued that their transparency helps push the industry forward.
What’s Next?
With the ban now lifted, Dan and Jay are free to cruise once again with P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Princess Cruises.
The reversal is being viewed as a win for independent media, but also a cautionary tale of corporate communication gone awry.
The incident raised broader questions around the boundaries between influencer marketing, editorial integrity, and customer relations in the age of social media.
While Sail Away Magazine has stated the matter is now closed, the legacy of the ban may well influence how other travel brands approach criticism – and how media creators choose to share it.
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A high-adrenaline ride aboard Icon of the Seas turned dangerous on the evening of 7th August 2025, when a clear panel on the ship’s Frightening Bolt waterslide unexpectedly shattered during use, injuring one passenger and causing a water deluge onto the deck below.
The incident occurred in Thrill Island’s Category 6 Waterpark – the largest waterpark at sea – home to several record-breaking slides.
Frightening Bolt, in particular, is known for having the tallest drop at sea at 46 feet, a dramatic trapdoor launch, and a full 360° loop.
Unexpected Mid-Ride Malfunction
According to reports from fellow passengers and confirmed by Royal Caribbean, an unidentified male guest suffered “skin laceration injuries from his legs to his hands” after the acrylic section of the slide broke while he was riding through the transparent tube.
When the clear portion shattered, water burst through the opening, soaking guests relaxing on the deck and creating slippery conditions. No additional injuries were reported.
“Our team provided medical care to an adult guest when acrylic glass broke off a water slide as the guest passed through the slide,
“The guest is being treated for his injuries. The water slide is closed for the remainder of the sailing pending an investigation.”
Royal Caribbean statement
The surrounding area on Deck 15 was also temporarily closed as a safety precaution.
Icon’s Itinerary Continues
The 248,663-gross ton Icon of the Seas is currently wrapping up a 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary, which departed PortMiami on 2nd August.
Port calls included St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
It is unclear whether the slide will be reopened in time for the next sailing, another week-long cruise departing Miami on 9th August.
Slide Incidents Rare, But Not Unheard Of
Despite the shocking nature of this malfunction, waterslide accidents on cruise ships are extremely rare. Cruise lines are subject to rigorous safety regulations and all onboard attractions are inspected regularly for structural integrity and safety compliance.
Icon of the Seas, which entered service in early 2024, is one of the newest vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet and is filled with high-tech amenities.
This incident, however, raises questions among some guests about possible manufacturing or installation faults.
That said, Royal Caribbean has stressed that the Frightening Bolt will remain closed until expert engineers can confirm it is safe to reopen.
Sister ship Star of the Seas is set to launch next week too and will also feature Frightening Bolt – there’s no word yet on whether the slide will be impacted on that ship.
Recent Similar Incidents
This is not the first structural failure involving glass on a Royal Caribbean ship this summer.
Cruise lines are expected to investigate all such occurrences thoroughly, not only to make immediate repairs but also to ensure similar incidents do not occur elsewhere across the fleet.
For now we can only wish the injured guest a speedy recovery, and hope that Royal Caribbean can identify the cause of the issue and make sure it doesn’t happen again.
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Guests onboard Celebrity Millennium faced an unexpected delay returning to Yokohama, Japan, on Wednesday, 6th August 2025, after a sunken vessel in the harbour required underwater inspections to ensure safe passage.
The 91,000-gross-ton cruise ship had been concluding a 12-night “Best of Japan” sailing, and the delay impacted not only debarking guests but also those scheduled to embark later that day.
With a passenger capacity of 2,138 per voyage, more than 4,200 passengers were potentially affected by the disruption, depending on how sold out each sailing was.
Three-Hour Delay Due to Submerged Obstruction
Satellite tracking data and guest reports confirm the ship slowed considerably upon approach to Yokohama, awaiting clearance from port authorities.
Underwater checks were required to ensure that debris from the sunken vessel would not interfere with the cruise ship’s arrival or pose navigational hazards.
Though Celebrity Cruises has not officially confirmed the cause, it’s believed to be linked to a fire-related incident on 4th August, when two fireworks barges caught fire in the harbour.
While there were no injuries reported, the burning barges may have left debris requiring removal or inspection.
Communication and Adjustments Onboard
Throughout the delay, crew members kept passengers informed and added extra activities to help ease the wait. Reports from onboard note that the delay lasted approximately 3 to 4 hours, with Celebrity Millennium ultimately arriving safely and without technical issues.
For guests awaiting embarkation, the cruise line sent email updates advising them to postpone arrival at the terminal to avoid overcrowding and ensure a smooth boarding process.
“Our arrival time remains fluid, and we kindly ask that you delay your arrival to the port until we advise you of your new arrival time,
“We are committed to remaining in contact every hour so you can plan your arrival appropriately.”
Adjusted Arrival Windows
To manage the shifted schedule, Celebrity Cruises issued new arrival times for embarking guests.
For instance, those with an 11 am arrival slot were asked to arrive at 2 pm instead. The 1 pm group was shifted to 4 pm, and guests in the final arrival windows (2–3 pm) were advised to arrive no later than 5 pm.
“All guests should be checked-in and onboard by 6:00 PM and we’ll set sail at 7:00 PM,” the cruise line emphasised.
The smooth boarding process ultimately allowed the ship to set sail on time for its next 12-night cruise, visiting Japanese ports such as Shimizu, Osaka, and Hiroshima, along with a stop in Busan, South Korea.
No Damage to Ship
It’s important to note that Celebrity Cruises was never at fault with the incident, and that Celebrity Millennium did not suffer any damage during the delay.
There were no technical concerns with the ship itself. The delay was purely a safety precaution to ensure the harbour was free of obstacles.
The Millennium-class vessel has been sailing successfully from her Yokohama homeport this season and remains on schedule for upcoming voyages.
With no other cruise ships scheduled at Yokohama until Diamond Princess arrives on 15th August, port authorities now have ample time to fully clear and assess the harbour following the recent disruptions – whether due to the barge fire or recent tsunami-related activity in the region.
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