A cruise excursion off the coast of Cartagena, Colombia turned into a terrifying ordeal for 38 passengers from AIDAbella on Thursday 20th March, 2025, when the small boat they were travelling in capsized en route to Isla Barú.
The passengers were on a routine island-hopping excursion during a 14-night voyage aboard AIDA Cruises’ AIDAbella when strong winds caused their vessel to overturn in the Caribbean Sea.
Video footage from the scene showed the overturned boat and frightened passengers struggling in the water, with several nearby boats rushing in to help.
The excursion was bound for the popular white-sand shores of Isla Barú, a popular destination known for its turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere.
But as the afternoon progressed, weather conditions deteriorated. Temperatures soared to nearly 32°C / 90°F and wind speeds increased dramatically, peaking at nearly 20 miles per hour around 3 pm.
This ultimately caused the boat to capsize, sending all the passengers into the water.
All 38 individuals – 36 German nationals and 2 Colombians – were pulled from the water and transported back to the cruise ship before its scheduled 5 pm departure.
AIDA Cruises confirmed there were no injuries among the rescued guests.
Not the first capsizing this month…
This marks the second capsizing incident involving excursion vessels near Cartagena in March. On 2nd March, another boat, carrying 42 non-cruise tourists from Argentina, Chile, Germany, and other South American countries, capsized en route to Isla Palma.
That incident was attributed to the boat’s bow failing mid-journey, allowing water to flood the vessel.
In that case, the Colombian Coast Guard and nearby vessels rescued all passengers, many of whom were wearing life jackets.
Despite the harrowing incident, AIDAbella continued on its itinerary through the Caribbean.
After departing Cartagena, the 69,203-gross-ton ship made its way to Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on 24th March, and will continue to ports in St. Kitts, Guadeloupe, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Barbados before concluding the voyage in Martinique on March 30.
The ship can accommodate 2,050 guests and is operated by German cruise line AIDA Cruises, part of the Carnival Corporation portfolio.
While boat capsizing incidents are rare in cruise excursions, the double occurrence in Colombia this month has raised safety concerns.
Colombian authorities require all boat operators to provide life jackets and comply with maritime safety regulations. However, travel advisories highlight uneven regulation and oversight for tourism providers in the country.
The Canadian government specifically warns against boarding overloaded or poorly maintained vessels and urges travellers to verify safety credentials.
Similarly, the US Department of State lists Colombia as a Level 3 advisory (“Reconsider Travel”), partly due to unreliable tourism regulation.
The UK’s advice on Colombia doesn’t mention safety standards for boats.
Though cruise lines thoroughly vet their excursion operators, incidents can still occur, particularly in regions where local oversight may vary.
Passengers are generally required to sign waivers before participating in excursions involving watercraft, wildlife encounters, or adventure sports.
While this incident ended safely, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of situational awareness when participating in shore excursions.
Always wear life jackets on water-based tours.
Research excursion providers in advance when booking outside the cruise line.
Follow weather updates and stay alert for signs of changing conditions.
Speak up if a vessel appears overloaded or unseaworthy.
Luckily for the guests of AIDAbella, a day that could have ended in tragedy instead became a reminder of how quickly things can change on even the most idyllic tropical escape.
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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 Baked Alaska parade is a cruise dining room tradition in which waiters march between the tables carrying the meringue-covered ice cream dessert, usually to music, while guests clap and wave their napkins. It is less common than it once was, but Carnival, Ambassador and Princess are among the lines still associated with it. Holland America, meanwhile, features the dessert at its new farewell dinner.
It is one of several food traditions that define the classic idea of a cruise, alongside the midnight buffet, ice sculptures, Champagne towers and the Captain’s Dinner. Here is where they came from, how they have changed and how likely you are to see them in 2026.
What is the Baked Alaska parade?
Baked Alaska is a slab of sponge cake topped with ice cream and sealed in meringue, then briefly baked or torched. The meringue acts as insulation, so the ice cream stays frozen while the outside browns.
The parade turns that dessert into a piece of theater. Dining room staff file out of the galley with the dessert held high, and loop through the restaurant to music. The dining room usually joins in by clapping or twirling napkins. It usually falls on one of the last evenings, and often doubles as a thank-you to the waiters and the galley team.
Where the cruise tradition came from
The dessert is older than the parade, and its story is contested. Britannica’s better-supported account credits Charles Ranhofer, head chef at Delmonico’s in New York, who called his version “Alaska, Florida” as a nod to the contrast of cold and hot. The Alaska reference is tied to the US purchase of the territory in 1867. The name “baked Alaska” spread after Fannie Farmer’s 1896 Boston Cooking-School Cook Book. Other accounts credit Antoine’s in New Orleans, and no single story has been proved.
The cruise connection is just as hazy. One of the earliest possible references is in John Maxtone-Graham’s maritime history The Only Way to Cross, which mentions waiters on the German liner Amerika in 1905 carrying “combinations of fire and ice” through the dining rooms. Whether that dessert was Baked Alaska is less clear. The parade seems to have become a firm fixture on cruise ships after World War II, and it was at its peak from the 1950s through the 1980s.
How the parade has changed
The biggest change is the fire. Waiters once carried desserts with real flames, which is a striking sight in a crowded dining room at sea. Many lines dropped the ceremony in the 1990s, probably because of concerns over open flames and fading interest in the dessert. Today’s parades typically use lights or sparklers instead.
Timing has changed too. With flexible dining and multiple restaurants, far fewer guests are in the main dining room at once, and a parade has less of an audience than it did in the era of two fixed sittings. As a result, some ships now serve Baked Alaska without the march.
Baked Alaska pairs frozen ice cream with a browned meringue shell. Photo: Bryce Carithers on Pexels
Which cruise lines still do the Baked Alaska parade?
Few lines promise the parade in writing, and it can vary by ship, season and crew. Use this as a starting point rather than a guarantee.
Cruise line
What to expect
Carnival
Brought Baked Alaska back in a 2017 menu revamp; the parade is linked to the final night in the main dining room
Ambassador
Actively celebrates the tradition, including its own Baked Alaska parade
Princess
Parades have been widely documented on its ships, but reports vary by sailing
Holland America
Baked Alaska features on the menu of its “Until We Sail Again” farewell dinner, being introduced fleetwide in 2026; a parade is not confirmed
Cunard
Named among lines that keep it, in some reports only on special occasions such as New Year’s Eve
Silversea
Reported to arrange it on advance request
How to make sure you see it
This is the part most guides leave out. If you have your heart set on the parade, it pays to plan a little:
Ask your head waiter early in the cruise which night it is likely to happen, since it may not be listed in the daily program.
Eat in the main dining room on the last two nights. Guests who book a specialty restaurant for the final evening often miss it.
If you use flexible dining, ask about arrival time. An early table may be finished before the parade starts, so ask when it is planned.
Mention allergies in advance. Baked Alaska typically contains egg, dairy and gluten, and the waiters can often offer an alternative dessert.
The midnight buffet: mostly gone, not forgotten
The midnight buffet was once the highlight of a cruise, particularly the once-a-voyage gala version with elaborate desserts, fruit carvings and ice sculptures. Passengers would queue up simply to photograph it before anyone was allowed to eat.
Most lines phased these out over the past two decades or so. Rising costs and food waste played a part, as did the arrival of 24-hour dining. What remains is more casual:
Carnival phased out its Grand Gala Buffet about 20 years ago, but now runs a late-night buffet of snacks such as pizza and chicken tenders, reported in early 2026 as open from 11:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.
MSC has continued to offer more traditional midnight spreads on select ships and itineraries.
Celebrity has been reported to serve a late-night buffet until about 1 a.m.
Princess passengers have occasionally reported midnight spreads on longer voyages.
Champagne towers are still a highlight of some formal evenings at sea. Photo: 🇻🇳🇻🇳Nguyễn Tiến Thịnh 🇻🇳🇻🇳 on Pexels
Champagne waterfalls and ice sculptures
The Champagne waterfall involves a pyramid of stacked coupes filled from the top, so the wine cascades down the tiers. Princess is the line most closely tied to it, generally staging it around an early formal night. It remains a popular photo moment, though it is worth confirming in your daily program, since details vary by ship.
Ice sculptures have become rarer now that the big midnight displays have gone. You may still see them at gala receptions, on deck or in culinary demonstrations, especially on longer voyages and more traditional lines, but they are no longer a given.
The Captain’s Dinner and other formal traditions
The Captain’s Dinner usually refers to a gala-night menu, or to an invitation-only table hosted by a senior officer. Very few guests dine with the captain in person, and invitations tend to go to frequent cruisers or top-suite passengers. A more realistic experience for most guests is the captain’s welcome toast, often held on a formal night.
Traditions like this are also being reinvented. Holland America’s “Until We Sail Again” farewell dinner, reported in June 2026, features live string music, with the captain, officers and crew circulating to thank guests on the final night, and Baked Alaska among the desserts. If food is your main reason for sailing, our guide to the cruise lines with the best food compares the leading options, and you can take it ashore with our list of the best food-themed shore excursions.
FAQs
What is a Baked Alaska parade?
It is a dining room ritual in which waiters march between tables carrying Baked Alaska, usually to music, while guests clap and wave napkins. It usually happens toward the end of a cruise.
Where did Baked Alaska originate?
Its origins are disputed. Britannica’s better-supported account credits Charles Ranhofer, chef at Delmonico’s in New York, who linked his dessert to Alaska after the US purchased the territory in 1867.
Which cruise lines still do the Baked Alaska parade?
Carnival, Ambassador and Princess are among the lines associated with it, and Holland America and Cunard have also been named in recent reports. Practice varies by ship, so check with your line.
Do cruise ships still have midnight buffets?
Very few do in the traditional sense. MSC has kept them on select ships and itineraries, and Carnival now serves a casual late-night buffet instead.
Is the Baked Alaska on a cruise really on fire?
Mostly no. Many lines now use lights or sparklers rather than open flames, although a small flaming touch may appear on some desserts.
Think you can drink on a cruise at 18 just because you’re legal at home? Think again!
Cruise rules are completely different, and they could ruin those cocktail dreams of yours before they even begin.
There are some sneaky age rules that catch a lot of people out – but don’t worry, once you know them, you’ll know exactly who to book with and where to sail if you don’t want to miss out.
Most cruise lines have a minimum drinking age of 21
On most cruises, the minimum drinking age is 21. Some cruise lines have a lower drinking age of 18, and on some cruise lines, it depends on where the ship is sailing – with most cruises that include ports in the US or Middle East having the higher legal age of 21.
The policy does vary by cruise line though. There are some cruise lines which let guests drink on Europe voyages, and others that permit drinking for 18- to 20-year-olds in some regions if parents sign a waiver.
So if you’re 18, 19 or 20 years old and you want to drink on your cruise, it’s important you choose the right cruise line.
There are also some cruise lines which follow Norwegian drinking law, which is slightly different. On those, guests aged 18 to 20 may be able to drink beer and wine, depending on parental permission, but spirits are not allowed until guests turn 21. So that cocktail of the day might just be out of reach for a couple of years.
There’s also one interesting unique policy, and it’s that of P&O Cruises. On a P&O ship, guests aged 16 and 17 are allowed to drink “modest amounts” of beer, cider and wine to be consumed with a meal on the ship, provided they’re accompanied by a parent or guardian.
It’s the same law as applies when in a licensed premises in the UK. But again, it excludes spirits.
“Modest” is a bit vague though, isn’t it?
When in port, local laws will apply
When you’re sailing on a cruise and you disembark the ship, you must follow the local drinking laws. This means there may be some cruises where 18-year-old guests are not allowed to drink on the ship, but they are permitted to drink while ashore.
Similarly, there may be some ports such as Amsterdam, where you’re allowed to smoke weed ashore but not on the ship!
Senior Frogs Bar in the Bahamas
The laws for cruise ships are about serving alcohol, not about having intoxicated people on the ship – so you will be allowed to board if you’ve had a couple of drinks while visiting a licensed premises ashore.
However, you’ll be subject to the same rules as adults when it comes to being drunk – if you’ve had too much while you’re ashore you may not be allowed back onto the ship.
It’s also worth clarifying that cruise lines’ private islands are treated the same as being on-board, so for example, even though the Bahamas has a legal drinking age of 18, if you’re on a cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas and the drinking age on the ship is 21, it’ll be 21 on the island too.
Some cruise lines have a drinking age of 18!
The only cruise lines that have a permanent minimum drinking age of 18 are British cruise lines such as P&O Cruises, Fred. Olsen and Marella Cruises as well as Virgin Voyages.
Most other cruise lines will permit drinking on itineraries that avoid the US and Middle East, although for Carnival it’s only cruises from Australia where the age limit changes.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the legal drinking age rules:
For most cruises that have a US or Middle East port on the itinerary, you won’t be permitted to drink at 18, even when the ship is in international waters. A drinking age limit will apply to the whole itinerary.
Bahamas cruises and drinking ages
The legal drinking age in the Bahamas is 18, so provided guests are disembarking the ship and drinking at a private establishment, they are allowed to drink at 18 whilst on a cruise.
Cruise line-owned destinations will apply the same drinking age as they would for drinks on the ship.
Caribbean cruises and drinking ages
Most Caribbean cruises include a US port, even if it is just the home port, and so guests must be 21 or older to drink while on the ship, even while sailing the Caribbean.
18- to 20-year-olds can disembark at most Caribbean islands and drink in private bars not run by the cruise line, though.
Mexico cruises and drinking ages
Provided a Mexican cruise itinerary does not include any US port, guests aged 18 or over can drink onboard on most cruise lines. If a US port is included on the itinerary, 18- to 20-year-olds can only drink while ashore in Mexico, but not on the ship.
Carnival’s drinking age is usually 21, but…
On most Carnival cruises, the minimum age to buy and consume alcoholic drinks on the ship is 21. The only exception is for cruises sailing from Australia, where the minimum drinking age is 18.
Norwegian Cruise Line lets 18-year-olds drink, itinerary permitting
18-year-olds are allowed to drink beer and wine on an NCL cruise, provided that the cruise does not have a US port on the itinerary. Also, an accompanying parent must be on the cruise and must sign the Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver, except on round-trip European and Australian cruises.
Disney’s European cruises allow 18-year-olds to drink
Guests on a Disney Cruise Line ship in Europe may drink alcohol if they are aged 18 to 20 and their parents or guardians on the same cruise sign a Beverage Consent Form. The form is not needed for round-trip cruises from Australia and New Zealand. Elsewhere in the world the drinking age on Disney ships is 21.
Royal Caribbean also allows 18-year-olds to drink in select situations
You can drink on a Royal Caribbean cruise if you are aged 18 or older and your cruise originated from a port in South America, Europe, Asia, Australia or New Zealand. Any other cruises have a drinking age of 21. The minimum drinking age is also 21 on Royal Caribbean’s private islands, regardless of where the cruise originated.
MSC Cruises allows guests aged 18 and older to drink on all cruises except those which feature a North American or Caribbean port of call. Those cruises have a higher drinking age of 21.
Read MSC’s Boarding Condititions to see the alcohol policy. It’s a long document so use search to find the relevant section.
It only states that minors can’t drink alcohol, but it defines minors earlier in the document as those under the legal drinking age of the area the ship is cruising in.
Legal drinking age by cruise line
Here’s a look at the minimum drinking age for the major cruise lines depending on where the ship is sailing, according to their own policies.
I’ve not added a column for cruises in the US or Middle East because the same rule applies across the board – if a cruise line is visiting a US port then the minimum drinking age is 21.
Even cruise lines like Fred Olsen and Marella Cruises, on their rare calls to North American ports, raise their typical drinking age to 21.
Cruise Line
Drinking age on non-US or non-Middle East cruises
Azamara
18
Carnival
21
Celebrity Cruises
18
Costa Cruises
18
Cunard
18
Disney Cruise Line
18 with parental permission
Fred. Olsen
18
Holland America Line
18 (20 in Japan)
Hurtigruten
18 for beer and wine. 20 for spirits.
Marella Cruises
18
MSC Cruises
18
Norwegian Cruise Line
18 with parental permission. 18 without parental permission in Europe and Australasia only. Beer and wine only.
Oceania Cruises
21
P&O Cruises
18 (16 with a meal)
Princess Cruises
18 (20 in Japan)
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
21
Royal Caribbean
18
Seabourn Cruises
18
Silversea Cruises
21
Viking Cruises
21
Virgin Voyages
18
Final word
There you have it then – a comprehensive list of the legal drinking age for cruise ships, and when you’ll be allowed to have a drink depending on where in the world you are sailing.
For any guests planning on travelling without their parents, you’ll want to also check the rules as some cruise lines treat all under-21s as minors, so it may not be allowed.
I’ve made it easy for you though – my guide to the best cruises for 18-year-olds without parents has everything you need to find the cruise lines where you can travel, drink and have fun on your first independent cruise sailing.
And of course, whatever age you are, drink responsibly! Getting kicked off a ship for being too drunk will leave you with more than just a horrendous hangover to deal with – it’ll be a lot of stress too!
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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.
Looking for the best cruise blogs to read? I’ve put together a handy list of the most-read cruise blogs and websites of 2025…
How I sourced the data
It can be tricky to know how popular a website is. With cruise YouTube channels or social media pages, you can easily see how many followers someone has. But with cruise blogs, we have to use special tools.
For the monthly visitors, I used SimilarWeb, which is recognised as the most accurate way to measure website traffic.
Please bear in mind that data from tools can only ever be an estimate, and in many cases, the actual traffic numbers will be considerably higher, particularly for blogs with traffic outside of the US.
Here’s some more information about the world’s most popular cruise blogs and websites:
1. Cruise Critic
Much more than just a cruise blog, Cruise Critic hosts the largest cruise community in the world where cruisers can leave reviews and post questions in the popular Cruise Critic forums. The site was launched in 1995 and bought by TripAdvisor in 2007.
2. Royal Caribbean Blog
The unofficial fan blog for Royal Caribbean hosts a wealth of information about the world’s most popular cruise line. The site was started in 2010 and along with The Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube channel, it continues to be the go-to place for all things Royal Caribbean.
3. Cruise Hive
Established in 2008 as one of the first cruise blogs in the world, Cruise Hive provides the latest cruise industry news and has an active forum. It’s updated multiple times per day by a team of expert travel writers.
4. Cruise Blog
The creation of Matt Hochberg who owns Royal Caribbean Blog, Cruise Blog offers a similar format, but with content about all cruise lines, not just Royal Caribbean.
5. Cruise Mummy
Originally focused on family cruising from the UK, the blog has evolved to cover all aspects of cruising with a global audience. Cruise Mummy was voted ‘Best Cruise Influencer’ in the Wave Awards in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
6. Gang Waze
Gang Waze offers a huge selection of cruise excursions, hotels and insurance as well as blog posts to help you plan your cruise.
7. Disney Cruise Line Blog
Disney Cruise Line Blog is a go-to resource for fans of Disney cruises, offering news, tips and reviews on everything from ship updates to onboard experiences.
8. Cruzely
Since its launch in 2016, Cruzely has grown to become one of the most popular cruise websites in the world. It features hundreds of articles including some very useful guides for cruise ports in the United States.
9. World of Cruising
One of the UK’s largest cruise websites, World of Cruising shows all the latest cruise prices from a variety of travel agents, as well as cruise news and reviews.
10. Cruise Radio
Founded in 2009, Cruise Radio is primarily a podcast. However, the corresponding website also features a wealth of cruise news, reviews and useful tips.
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I’ve included all of the top trending cruise websites and blogs that I could find, but if I’ve missed any, please email me at [email protected]and I’ll be happy to add your suggestion to the list.
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.
Imagine having your own private retreat at sea — no crowds, no scrambling for a sunbed, just pure relaxation. That’s exactly what NCL’s Vibe Beach Club promises.
But is it really as exclusive and luxurious as it sounds? And more importantly, is it worth the extra cost?
Before you book, there are a few things you need to know… including one big catch that might change your mind!
Vibe Beach Club Is Only For VIPs
The Vibe Beach Club is an exclusive area of some NCL ships. It is an outdoor area that’s a little more sheltered and private, and you need to pay for a pass to access it.
The Vibe Beach Club is open to anyone, no matter your stateroom category, but passes are limited.
Vibe Beach Club on Norwegian Bliss
The Vibe Beach Club isn’t some feature-packed area of the ship, but instead it’s an exclusive sun deck space with whirlpools, loungers and a bar. Some of the ships have an infinity pool, and others have private cabanas you can rent for an additional fee.
Really, you’re paying for the exclusivity – the fact that only a limited number of guests are allowed to book passes to the area. That means it’s quieter, so you don’t have to worry about how loud or crowded the space is, and it just feels more serene and relaxing.
Because it’s quieter, the bar staff are able to be more attentive too. You’ll be able to enjoy fresh cocktails (including a couple of exclusive drinks, which can change throughout the cruise) with the bar attendants often wandering around the deck space, so you can relax on your lounger or day bed without moving.
Vibe Beach Clubs Don’t Have Pools
You might see some references to an infinity pool on the Prima-class ships (Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva), but none of the Vibe Beach Clubs have actual pools.
These two ships do have extended hot tubs, but NCL does classify them as a hot tub rather than a swimming pool.
Infinity hot tub on Norwegian Prima
If you’re hoping to swim, you’ll have to leave the club and head to the regular pool. The other Vibe Beach Clubs have smaller whirlpools only, not the big infinity hot tubs…
Whirlpool on Norwegian Encore
Even with the exclusivity of the Vibe Beach Club, don’t assume that you’ll get a spacious pool area where you can enjoy a soak.
Passes Cost A Whopping $99 Per Day!
You do need to pay for the Vibe Beach Club, and you need to book it in advance to secure a pass as despite the high price tag, they usually sell out.
You can expect to pay around $99 for a day pass if they are available, although week-long passes are better if you want to secure your place for your whole cruise. The price of these varies, but it’s likely to be around $250 for 7 days.
If your cruise is longer than a week, the price won’t jump up much – it’s unlikely that you’ll pay more than $350 per person for a full cruise up to two weeks, so the longer itineraries tend to offer even more value.
Cabanas Are Even More Expensive
For the ships that have cabanas, these need to be booked too. Instead of paying a solo price for a pass to the Vibe Beach Club, you have to buy a couples pass, and it’ll typically cost around $680-750 for a cruise.
Per person, that’s only $340 to $375, so it’s not a huge sum more than buying the passes without the cabana hire.
Cabanas on Norwegian Bliss
People Are Lining Up To Splurge
The Vibe Beach Club is designed to be exclusive so the prices aren’t cheap. The limited numbers also mean that you need to be quick to buy a pass once they become available.
While the number of passes sold hasn’t been revealed by NCL, it appears to be around 80-100 passes per cruise, likely depending on the capacity of the sailing. That’s not many at all.
And it’s important to note that they don’t have a set time to go on sale either. Some people have reported being able to call up over 200 days before their cruise to book a pass, while others say that they can book them via the NCL website from anywhere between 80-140 days before the cruise departs.
The best advice, if you want to get a pass for the Vibe Beach Club, is to call NCL directly and ask to add it on or ask when the passes will go on sale. Otherwise, check once a week once you get to 140 days out from your cruise date, and you should be able to secure one.
Another good idea is to check cruise forums and social media for discussions related to your specific sailing. People will often post in there as soon as the Vibe Beach Club passes go on sale (once they have secured their own pass, of course!)
Day passes will only be available if the week-long passes don’t sell out, or if there are cancellations.
Vibe Beach Club on Norwegian Breakaway
Vibe Beach Club Is Only On The Newest NCL Ships…
The ships that have Vibe Beach Club for NCL are the Breakaway-class ships (Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway), the Breakaway Plus-class ships (Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Encore) and the Prima-class ships (Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Aqua).
This means you won’t find Vibe Beach Club on the following:
Norwegian Dawn
Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Gem
Norwegian Jade
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Pearl
Norwegian Sky
Norwegian Spirit
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Sun
Pride of America
Vibe Beach Club on Norwegian Bliss
As a guide, here are the features you can expect to find on the ships that do have Vibe Beach Club:
Ship
Bar
Loungers & Daybeds
Showers
Cabanas
Whirlpools
Infinity Pools
Norwegian Breakaway
YES
YES
YES
YES
1
No
Norwegian Getaway
YES
YES
YES
YES
1
No
Norwegian Escape
YES
YES
YES
No
1
No
Norwegian Joy
YES
YES
YES
YES
1
No
Norwegian Bliss
YES
YES
YES
YES
1
No
Norwegian Encore
YES
YES
YES
YES
1
No
Norwegian Prima
YES
YES
YES
No
2
YES
Norwegian Viva
YES
YES
YES
No
2
YES
Take a look at this video for a closer look inside the Vibe Beach Club on Norwegian Prima…
You Can Get A Refund If You Change Your Mind
Vibe Beach Club passes are refundable if you purchase them before your cruise, provided you also cancel before you’ve boarded the ship. Some people on social media have reported being told they cannot be cancelled, but others have cancelled successfully, so it clearly is possible.
To cancel your Vibe Beach Club passes and get a refund, you’ll need to call NCL and ask for them to be removed. It seems like the answers can be inconsistent, so if you’re told you can’t, try again.
Haven Suite Guests Should AVOID The Vibe Beach Club
Haven Suite guests do not have automatic access to the Vibe Beach Club on an NCL ship. They are entitled to buy their own Vibe Beach Club passes if they wish, but there’s no need, since it offers a similar experience to the Haven sun deck anyway.
When you book a Haven Suite, you’re essentially paying for access to the Haven, and so also purchaisng access to the Vibe Beach Club would be a waste of money, in my experience.
The Vibe Beach Club is open to all guests on an NCL ship, not just suite guests, provided you’ve bought a pass. Nobody gets a free pass, even if you buy the best suites on the ship.
The Haven Sundeck
There’s No Smoking In The Vibe Beach Club
You aren’t allowed to smoke in the Vibe Beach Club on an NCL ship – it’s a non-smoking area, just like most of the spaces on the rest of the ship. This includes vaping, which is also only permitted in selected smoking areas on the ship.
So, Is Vibe Beach Club Worth It?
Whether the Vibe Beach Club is worth it for you depends on how much you’ve paid for your cruise, and how much you value being able to relax in a quieter location on the ship.
If your main aim on a cruise is to take it easy and sip cocktails from a lounger or daybed, and you don’t like crowds, then it can be absolutely worth purchasing a week-long pass for the Vibe Beach Club, and getting an exclusive quiet corner of the ship to use.
Vibe Beach Club on Norwegian Viva
But if you’re more likely to spend the week taking part in all the fun activities around the ship, or you don’t mind the busy vibe, then you can probably put the money to better use.
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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.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has launched a new “Freedom Fare” package, designed to offer an all-inclusive cruising experience.
This package simplifies holiday planning by including a wide range of amenities and services in the initial fare, allowing guests to enjoy their holiday without worrying about additional costs.
Drinks Now Included
Starting with sailings in January 2026 onwards, guests will be able to enjoy house beers, wines, spirits and draught soft drinks with lunch and dinner at no extra cost.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines will also introduce a new Premium Drinks Package as an optional upgrade, with guests who have already booked a drinks package for a cruise in 2026 being automatically upgraded to the new package at no extra cost.
Here’s What’s Included In The Freedom Fare
1. Accommodation
Fred Olsen’s Freedom Fare package features accommodation in well-appointed cabins and suites, each equipped with modern amenities such as climate control, interactive smart TVs, hairdryers, desks, phones, and food and drink coolers.
Tea and coffee making facilities are also available in each room, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
2. Dining
Dining options are extensive, with full board dining that includes five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, and late-night snacks.
Guests can choose their restaurant and dining times at the time of booking, with the option to request specific table sizes for dinner.
3. Entertainment
Entertainment is a key component of the “Freedom Fare” package, offering a variety of evening activities such as cabaret shows, live music performances, and dancing.
For those seeking intellectual engagement, enrichment lectures and talks led by local experts are available on cruises longer than 14 nights.
4. Leisure activities
Leisure facilities on board include swimming pools, Jacuzzis, and a fully equipped Fitness Centre, with a variety of fitness classes catering to different interests and fitness levels.
5. Shore experiences
The package also provides complimentary guided walks ashore in selected destinations. This is something unique to Fred. Olsen.
You can also enjoy shuttle services for ports located more than a mile from the ship, ensuring guests can explore destinations with ease.
6. Taxes, port fees and tips
The Freedom Fare package covers port taxes, fees and gratuities for the crew members. This approach eliminates the need for guests to worry about additional charges, allowing them to enjoy a seamless and stress-free holiday.
Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, commented:
“We know that cruising provides exceptional value for money when compared with many overland equivalents, but feedback from our guests told us that this wasn’t always clear.
“It’s really important to us that every cruise is relaxing and carefree, and that should start right from the moment a booking is made. That’s why we’ve listened to our guests, and made our pricing simpler, clearer, and more inclusive – so that guests can look ahead to exploring the world with us without worrying about extra costs.”
Doug explains more in this video…
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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.
For many cruisers, exploring onboard shops, galleries, and art auctions is an integral part of the cruise experience. However, one family’s excitement quickly turned to disappointment during an art auction…
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For many cruisers, exploring onboard shops, galleries, and art auctions is an integral part of the cruise experience. However, one family’s excitement quickly turned to disappointment during an art auction on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas.
The incident occurred at a Park West Gallery auction aboard the 4,515-passenger ship. Initially delighted, the family believed they had successfully bid on a piece of art for $650 after the auctioneer struck the gavel, confirming the sale.
Yet, their joy soon turned into disbelief when gallery representatives informed them later that, due to an error, the artwork’s actual price was $2,700—more than four times the original bid.
Art Auction on my Royal Caribbean cruise
“My wife and I, along with our two kids, attended their art auction, and the whole family was drawn to a specific piece of art,” explained the father. He described how gallery staff actively encouraged their participation, assuring them of the ‘reserve’ lowest price.
After winning the bid and even planning where to display their new artwork, the family was shocked to discover they could only obtain it by paying a significantly higher price.
Frustrated and feeling deceived, the father expressed his concerns on Reddit. He stated, “I feel like it was a scam—announcing one price publicly, then privately backing out.”
Despite raising the issue with Royal Caribbean’s Guest Services, the family was informed that Park West operates independently onboard and that the cruise line holds no responsibility for the gallery’s practices.
This explanation provided little comfort to the disappointed passenger, who argued, “Royal Caribbean should make sure they honour the auction price announced in front of everyone, especially as the gallery operates on their ship and under their brand.”
Enjoying the free drinks at the auction
Park West Gallery: A History of Controversy
Park West Gallery, present on nearly 100 cruise ships across brands like Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises, has long faced criticism. With an average rating of just 1.7 stars out of 5 on TrustPilot, numerous online reviewers have raised significant concerns about the gallery’s transparency and business ethics.
Other passengers on social media echoed widespread criticisms of Park West. One user stated, “Everyone knows about Park West. There are tons of complaints.” Another passenger offered practical advice, suggesting, “Use the $650 you just saved and book an awesome excursion. Promise your kids would enjoy that more than a picture to hang on your wall back home.”
Many cruisers reinforced the idea that Park West’s pricing is inflated. A commenter advised, “If you see something you like at Park West, nine times out of ten you can find it from an online gallery for half the price or less.” Another cruiser bluntly remarked, “Pretty common knowledge the art auction is a scam.”
The Importance of Vigilance
Although cruise lines typically lease onboard retail spaces without assuming direct liability for tenants’ activities, this incident highlights the critical importance of passenger awareness and vigilance. Cruise enthusiasts are advised to research onboard vendors, especially when considering significant purchases.
This story serves as a stark reminder that excitement can quickly turn to frustration if precautions are not taken. Always approach onboard transactions cautiously, ensuring your cruise memories remain positive and free from costly disappointments.
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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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Embarking on a Princess Cruise is an exciting adventure, and of course, you’ll want to make sure that you pack appropriately.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, understanding the Princess Cruises dress code and packing efficiently will ensure you’re prepared for every moment of your getaway.
Let’s dive into the must-know details to help you dress to impress and pack like a pro for yourupcoming cruise.
Understanding The Princess Cruises Dress Code
Princess Cruises offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, but it’s important to be aware of the recommended dress options while you’re onboard.
The cruise line doesn’t actually have a strict dress code, and hasn’t done for a while. But instead it has suggestions on what you might want to wear.
This reviewer gives a good overview that I agree with…
Daytime attire
During the day, the vibe on a Princess Cruise is casual and laid-back. You can feel free to wear:
Shorts
T-shirts
Sundresses
Casual skirts
Tank tops
These items are perfectly acceptable, even in the dining room for breakfast and lunch. The key is to keep it tasteful and comfortable as you enjoy onboard activities or explore ports of call.
Also avoid leaning too far into casual. When you’re in an indoor space, including the buffet restaurant, you need to make sure you’ve got something on your feet and that you’re not just in your swimwear.
If you are planning to spend the day by the pool, and just nip away for food, then make sure you dry off and that you throw on a t-shirt and shorts or a skirt before you go grab a bite.
Evening dress codes
The recommendations for your Princess cruise in the evenings will depend on the night. Most nights are just smart casual:
For women: Skirts, dresses, trousers and cardigans
For men: Trousers and open-neck shirts
But, there’ll also be formal nights, where the suggestion is that, if you want to, you can dress a little more sophisticated:
For women: Evening gowns and cocktail dresses
For men: Tuxedos, dinner jackets, or suits with an optional tie
Note that it’s recommended only. If you follow the smart casual dress code, you’ll still be able to dine in any of the restaurants on formal night. You won’t get turned away.
Even if you turn up in jeans on formal night, you’ll be fine – though there’s a slim chance you could get some of the older crowd (who still value that traditional experience) making subtle comments or looking unimpressed.
And if you’d rather dine in shorts then there are always casual venues where you can eat without anyone giving you a glare.
Formal night frequency
The number of formal nights depends on the length of your cruise:
1-4 night cruises: No formal nights
5-6 night cruises: 1 formal night
7-13 night cruises: 2 formal nights
14-20 night cruises: 3 formal nights
21-28 night cruises: 4 formal nights
29+ night cruises: 5 formal nights
Knowing this breakdown will help you pack the right clothes for your voyage.
Essential Packing List for Princess Cruises
Now that you understand the ‘dress code’, as it were, let’s look at what you should pack for your Princess cruise holiday…
Accessories can elevate your outfits and add functionality to your cruise wardrobe, so consider packing:
Jewellery to complement your evening wear
Sunglasses and sun hats for sun protection
A small clutch or evening bag for formal nights
A day bag for shore excursions, such as a backpack/rucksack
Packing smart: beyond clothing
While your wardrobe is crucial, there are other essentials you’ll need for a comfortable cruise experience.
You won’t want to forget any of these – some of them will be sold in the onboard shops but hardly at the same price you’d get them at home!
Toiletries and personal care
Sunscreen with high SPF
Insect repellent (especially for tropical destinations)
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant)
Hair styling tools and products
Basic makeup and skincare products
Electronics and entertainment
Smartphone for snapping pics and staying in touch – though I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you this one!
Chargers (including plug adapters) and portable power banks
E-readers or tablets for entertainment
Small games or cards for leisure time
Princess ships all have US-style outlets so if you’re travelling from the UK or Europe, you’ll definitely need some adapters. There will be some USB ports too for direct charging for your phone.
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Health and safety essentials
Travel insurance documentation
Medications in their original containers
Copy of prescriptions and medical information
Basic first-aid kit with band-aids and pain relievers
Tips for Efficient Packing
Packing light and smart can enhance your vacation experience. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
Space-saving techniques
Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles
Use packing cubes to organize and compress your items
Wear your bulkiest shoes and jacket on travel days to save luggage space
Pack versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits
Weather considerations
So many people don’t bother to check the weather forecast before they cruise – assuming that a cruise to the Mediterranean will be warm, or that the Fjords will be cold.
But weather’s fickle and you never know – so check before you travel as you might want to pack more layers, or make sure you’ve got some nice t-shirts when there’s an unexpected heatwave.
Make sure you pack:
Light rain jacket or umbrella for unexpected showers
Warm layers for cooler climates or air-conditioned spaces on the ship
Breathable fabrics for hot and humid locations
Even if you take a tropical cruise in summer, you may find that the ship’s air conditioning can sometimes be turned up higher than you like. So always pack a cardigan or shawl to wear in the evenings if its chilly on board.
Prohibited items like weapons, illegal drugs, or flammable materials
That’s a quick summary, but it covers the most common things that people either think of bringing aboard or that they might not have thought about checking.
If you’re planning on bringing something ‘unusual’ then it’s worth checking the full Princess Cruises FAQ all about prohibited items as that has a comprehensive list. However, they could still confiscate something that’s not on the list if they feel it’d be dangerous or used inappropriately.
Packing for a Princess Cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There’s not a strict dress code, so as long as you know the sort of outfits that people tend to wear, and by following these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a stylish and comfortable voyage.
Remember to pack light, choose versatile pieces, and don’t forget the essentials for your health and enjoyment. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to make the most of every moment on your Princess Cruise, from casual pool days to elegant formal nights.
So get ready to set sail in style and comfort on your next Princess cruise adventure!
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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.
Celestyal Cruises isn’t the most well-known of cruise lines, but could it be just what you’re looking for?
This Cypriot-owned cruise line is still a relative newcomer to the cruise market, being established in 2014. That’s not long at all, especially when compared to world-famous cruise lines like P&O Cruises which has been cruising for over 180 years!
Celestyal Cruises is a small cruise line by most standards, with only two ships, a handful of embarkation ports and a smaller range of destinations. But, if you like the idea of a port-intensive Greek Island cruise or a specialist itinerary around the Arabian Gulf, then Celestyal Cruises could be just the ticket.
1. Celestyal Cruises are all about the destinations
Me in Santorini
On a Celestyal cruise, exploring new places is the highlight of your holiday. Yes, the ships are beautiful, but spending time at sea isn’t the main reason to take a cruise with this cruise line.
Each Celestyal cruise focuses on showing you the most exciting, historic and romantic port cities and islands of the eastern Mediterranean or the Middle East. If you want to see a lot of this part of the world in a week or less, a cruise ship is certainly the best way to travel.
Celestyal Cruises visits a relatively small number of countries:
Greece
Turkey
Cyprus
Croatia
Italy
Montenegro
Bahrain
Oman
Qatar
UAE
Concentrating on just these destinations, rather than the whole world, means that Celestyal Cruises can be a specialist in this area. Each itinerary is carefully crafted to showcase the most awe-inspiring scenery, architecture and natural wonders as you cruise between volcanic islands to explore vibrant cities and admire beautiful beaches.
Celestyal Cruises offers a choice of three-night, four-night or seven-night itineraries. If you want a longer cruise, you can take two different seven-night cruises back to back to create a 14-night itinerary.
It used to be that each cruise departed from Athens – an easy city to fly to from anywhere in the world. But you do now have more options, including Abu Dhabi and Doha in the Middle East.
As well as popular tourist destinations like Santorini, Mykonos and Istanbul, you can expect to visit lesser-known hidden gems like the Greek islands of Syros and Patmos.
2. Celestyal Cruises call at multiple ports per day
Mykonos
On a three-night cruise, you can expect to visit as many as seven ports of call. This means that on some days, you’ll get off the ship in the early morning, back on-board for lunch and then get off again to explore somewhere new in the afternoon and evening.
To make the most of your cruise, you’ll need to be ready to disembark as early as 7 am. If your annual leave is running out and you want to pack as much adventure as possible into a short cruise, then a Celestyal cruise is ideal.
Most cruise lines would take at least ten days to visit seven ports, so the fact that Celestyal Cruises can do this in four is amazing. There’s certainly no time to be bored.
You might think that visiting so many ports would make your cruise feel rushed. However, in some ports like Santorini and Istanbul, your ship will dock overnight and popular ports like Mykonos have 24-hour stays on some itineraries.
To make the most of your time on-board, you can board the ship as early as 9 am on embarkation day, for a sailaway before lunch.
3. Excursions deals are available with Celestyal Cruises
Ephesus
Each Celestyal cruise offers a huge range of excursion options that you can book. You can choose what you’d like to see – whether that be to experience new cultures, learn about ancient history or just find somewhere scenic to relax.
Specialist local expert guides will take you to attractions like Ephesus and the Palace of Knossos – all without you having to pay a penny more!
And to sweeten the deal, you can save on excursion bundles – up to 20% off depending on how many you book!
4. Celestyal Cruise ships are spacious and relaxing
Each of the Celestyal Cruises ships is medium-sized, with lots of space to relax. Many cruisers feel that this is the ideal size for a cruise ship – small enough to reach the ports that bigger cruise ships can’t access, yet big enough to offer a choice of dining and entertainment options.
Celestyal Cruises ships can accommodate the following guests:
Celestyal Discovery – 1,266 guests
Celestyal Journey – 1,258 guests
5. There are no set dining times on Celestyal Cruises
The Amalthea restaurant
There’s no need to rush to arrive for dinner at your allocated time, as Celestyal Cruises have a much more relaxed approach to dining.
Food is servedat the following times:
Breakfast – 6 am until 9 am
Lunch – 12 pm until 2 pm
Afternoon tea: 4 pm until 5 pm
Dinner – 7.30 pm until 10.30 pm
Outside of these times, you’ll find that plenty of snacks are available.
6. Celestyal Cruises offer several different formal nights
Live music in the Main Dining Room
If you like a formal night then you’ll love the different evening events that take place on Celestyal ships:
Gala nights – Formal dress
Captain’s Cocktail nights – Formal dress
Greek nights – Dress in blue and white (the colours of the Greek flag)
If formal nights aren’t your thing, you’ll be relieved to know that there’s no pressure to dress up. On most evenings, the dress code is smart-casual.
Celestyal Cruises did used to offer some all-inclusive fares, but they’ve moved away from that now. Instead, they have a simple fare that includes unlimited free pour sodas with your meals, along with tea, coffee and juice.
Then if you want any alcoholic drinks, you’ll just pay for them individually, or you can prepay a drinks tab and get bonus credit included as a special deal.
8. There are no gratuities to pay on Celestyal Cruises
Enjoying drinks on-board
While we all want to recognise the great service that cruise ship staff provide, nobody likes getting a big bill at the end of their cruise.
Celestyal cruise line includes all staff tips in the price of your cruise ticket, which means that you can relax knowing that’s all taken care of. If you wanted to tip any extra in cash to certain staff members you can do, but this is in no way expected.
9. Celestyal Cruises are very affordable
Cruising around the Greek Islands
The ticket price for a Celestyal cruise includes all your food, soft drinks, tips, and two shore excursions, so it represents amazing value for money. If you were to stay in hotels, eat out on land and take guided excursions this would undoubtedly cost you a lot more. A Celestyal cruise is one of the most affordable ways to travel in the eastern Mediterranean.
As most people will need flights to get to Athens, these can be packaged up, along with transfers and a pre-cruise hotel stay to create a great-value package holiday.
One highlight of a Celestyal cruise is the delicious locally-sourced food. Guests can enjoy pizzas cooked in a wood-burning oven, Greek gyros and an outdoor barbecue.
Celestyal cruise ships each have an authentic Greek feel. You can eat al-fresco on white wooden chairs whilst enjoying the wonderful sea views. Some of the bars have Greek names and are decorated with Greek flags. You’ll definitely know you’re in Greece!
At breakfast, you can expect international dishes with a Greek twist, including freshly baked muffins and Danish pastries, healthy Greek yoghurts and fresh fruit, as well as a full hot buffet.
At lunch and dinner, you can enjoy starters, salads, soups, a choice of main courses and the most incredible desserts, all paired with locally-sourced wines.
If you have a special diet such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or halal, you’ll be well-catered for on board. You’ll just need to communicate your request in good time before you travel. You can see photos of the vegan food I enjoyed on board in my Celestyal Cruises review.
11. Each Celestyal Cruise has a jam-packed program of activities
Music and dancing in the evenings
The whole time your ship is at sea there’ll be something to do. On a Celestyal cruise, the activities start early and continue all day long and well into the evening.
Examples of on-board activities include:
Dancing lessons
Exercise classes
Handicraft
Lectures
Sports tournaments
Language lessons
Live shows
Traditional Greek music
Karaoke nights
Circus shows
That’s not to say that you need to take part in everything, of course. If you’d rather sit and watch the ocean scenery with a quiet drink then there’ll be lots of time for that too.
12. Celestyal Cruises attract all kinds of guests
Me with Celestyal Olympia, a ship that used to sail for the cruise line
Celestyal is a cruise line that attracts guests of all ages. Many are over 50, but there are lots of younger people on board too, and in the school holidays there will be plenty of families.
You can expect an international crowd, as Celestyal cruises are popular with guests from over 140 different countries.
Although Celestyal Cruises is a Cypriot-owned cruise line that’s based in Greece, you don’t need to worry about understanding the language at all. There are usually about eight different languages spoken at any given time, so you’ll be able to communicate in whichever you’re fluent in.
13. Celestyal Cruises offers reasonable prices for solo travellers
With Celestyal, single supplements are just 30% of the cruise fare for inside, outside and balcony cabins. This means that, unlike most other cruise lines which would charge you double, you’ll only pay for yourself plus 30%. If you want a suite to yourself, the supplement is 70%.
These solo-friendly fares have earned Celestyal Cruises an award as the best ocean cruise line for solo travellers in the Solo Travel Awards.
14. Celestyal Cruises are great for kids
Kids club
You’ll find lots of children onboard Celestyal Cruises’ ships during the summer season. Kids can enjoy organised activities on a daily basis during the hours when the ship is at sea. As long as you don’t expect waterslides and zip lines, your kids are sure to have a great time.
A Celestyal cruise can be an educational experience for children of all ages and they’ll learn a lot while visiting destinations like the palace of Knossos in Crete and the ruins of Ephesus in Turkey.
On Celestyal cruises, babies can cruise from three months of age. Most other cruise lines require them to be at least six months old. So if you can’t wait to see the world with your newest addition to the family, then this would be a great option.
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Conclusion
Celestyal Cruises seems like a great option for anyone looking to experience the best bits of Greece and Turkey on a cruise. The itineraries are short and action-packed.
This cruise line offers outstanding value for money, including things like soft drinks, tips and WiFi, which most other cruise companies would charge extra for.
If you’re wondering whether a Celestyal cruise would be good for families, I think that this seems like a holiday that most kids would enjoy. This cruise line is certainly on my list of cruises that I’d love to take with my kids once we’re able to.
To learn more about Celestyal Cruises, visit Celestyal.com.
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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.
While you can’t buy shares in P&O Cruises directly, you can become a shareholder in the cruise line’s parent company, Carnival Corporation. Carnival Corporation owns a number of cruise lines around the world, including P&O Cruises both in the UK and in Australia.
If you own enough shares in Carnival, then you are entitled to claim P&O shareholder benefits every time you sail – and not just on your P&O cruise, but on any cruise you take with any of the lines owned by the Carnival group.
I cruise with P&O Cruises a lot, so for me, buying enough shares in Carnival Corporation to get free onboard credit was well worth it! Now, every time I cruise, I get free money to spend, which is a great feeling!
Let’s take a look at the benefits of owning stock in Carnival, and how you make sure you can claim them when you cruise with P&O Cruises.
Benefit of owning shares – free money!
The Carnival shareholder benefits are available to anyone sailing on a cruise line owned by the Carnival group, as long as you own 100 shares or more. You can’t buy specific P&O shares – only Carnival Group shares. If you do, then you can claim the following on your P&O UK cruise:
£150 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 14 days or longer
£60 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 7 to 13 days
£40 of onboard credit to spend per stateroom on cruises of 6 days or fewer
It’s important to note that the benefit can only be claimed once per stateroom. If you and your partner were to invest in Carnival separately, and both own 100 shares each, then you couldn’t double up on the onboard credit.
Also, there are a few other caveats. If you’re employed by the cruise line, or one of your immediate relatives is, then you won’t be able to claim it. You can’t claim it if you’re also claiming another offer that gives you onboard credit for your cruise.
And there are certain things you aren’t able to spend this free amount on – like the casino. Giving away free gambling credit to shareholders would open up some sketchy legal issues.
That’s the downsides out of the way. The good news is that this isn’t a one-time offer. As long as you remain a shareholder of Carnival, you can claim this benefit every single time you book a P&O cruise, or any cruise with another sister cruise line.
So if you were to book a British cruise with Cunard or Princess Cruises, you’d get the same onboard credit added to your account.
If you book with one of the other cruise lines, the values change slightly depending on the currency on board.
For US-based cruises on Carnival, Holland America Line, Costa, Princess Cruises and Seabourn, you’ll get $250, $100 or $50 depending on how long the sailing is.
Cruises in Australia have the same value, just in Australian Dollars – AUS$250, $100 or $50.
And cruises on Costa or AIDA that use Euros get you €200, €75 or €40.
Cruise Line
14+ Days
7-13 Days
Up to 6 Days
US-owned
$250
$100
$50
UK-owned
£150
£60
£30
Australian-owned
$250
$100
$50
European-owned
€200
€75
€40
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
Buying your shares
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?
Claiming benefits is easy
It’s important to know that the P&O shareholder benefits you receive for owning stocks in Carnival aren’t applied automatically. You need to claim them by contacting Carnival.
You need to make your claim at least four weeks before you are due to sail, but the sooner the better. And you’ll need to provide:
Your legal name
Your booking number
Your ship and sailing date
Proof of your stock ownership
You won’t be able to claim if you miss your deadline, so try to be organised to provide this information as early as possible. And you have to go through this process every time you book a cruise with P&O or any other cruise line in the group – so don’t forget on each new sailing.
Important – Whereas P&O Cruises 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:
You can get all the details you need from the shareholder platform you use – so eToro for me.
I received my On Board Account Statement at the end of the sailing and I could see that the credit had been applied. It was seven nights, so I received £60 of onboard credit.
Here’s what that looked like…
To conclude
Making the decision to become a stockholder in a cruise line is not something to take lightly. Any kind of stocks and shares investment is risky, and the value of your investment could drop. Just look at what happened to cruise line share prices during the shutdown to see an example.
However, if you do invest and buy 100 shares, you will enhance every subsequent cruise you sail on. You might want to spend your credit on shore excursions, or speciality dining on-board, or put it towards a drink package.
Just make sure you claim your credit – it’d be a shame to miss out on that free money you’re entitled to just because you didn’t get your details to the cruise line on time.
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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.
