Diplomacy

In 2028, an epic cruise will depart from Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and visit everywhere from Bora Bora to Italy to Thailand before returning to Florida 150 nights later.

The cruise will take place on Crystal Symphony and visit 84 ports in 39 countries on six continents. The ship will depart from Ft. Lauderdale on January 11, 2028 and return to the same port on June 10, 2028.

Itinerary

Once the ship leaves Florida, it will visit a few ports in the Caribbean before a trip through the Panama Canal.

The cruise will then head to the South Pacific to visit bucket list destinations like Tahiti, Bora Bora and Fiji.

In March, the cruise ship will make its way over to New Zealand, Australia and Bali before heading to Asia.

Once in Asia, guests will have the change to visit Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, India and Sir Lanka. However, the incredible destinations don’t end there.

Crystal Symphony will sail through the Red Sea and offer visits to Petra and Egypt (to visit Luxor) before passing through the Suez Canal.

Once in the Mediterranean, visits to Italy, Spain, Malta, Greece and even Tunisia are on the schedule.

The final leg of this incredible cruise is crossing the Atlantic Ocean, with stops in the Azores and Bermuda, before arriving back in Ft. Lauderdale 150 days later.

Prices for this epic cruise start at $69,000 per person, based on double occupancy.

What’s Included?

The following is included in all cruise fares for this 150-night cruise:

• Business Class Airfare allowance or credit
• $1,500 ‘As You Wish’ shipboard credit
• Unlimited dining at Osteria d ‘Ovidio, Beefbar and Umi Uma (reservations required)
• Themed onboard events
• Private transfers and Luggage Valet service
• Complimentary laundry and pressing (second-day service)
• Exclusive shoreside events for full World Cruise guests
• Complimentary initial onboard medical visit

Select shore excursions will be curated in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal’s sister company and a global leader in immersive travel experiences.

Crystal Chairman and Brand Ambassador Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, gave the following statement about this cruise:

“The 2028 World Cruise will be unlike anything we’ve done before—not just in the destinations we’ll be visiting, but in the way we’re curating every moment onboard and ashore. From overnight stays in the world’s most iconic ports to new immersive experiences designed exclusively for Crystal guests, we’re setting a new standard for luxury exploration.”

Crystal is one of the finest luxury cruise lines in the world and they currently have two ships in service.

We call it Cruise Fever.  It’s that unstoppable desire to be on a cruise and the 24/7 daydreaming of being back on a cruise once you’re back on land.

For many, once they start cruising, they are hooked.  So, what makes this type of vacation so addicting?

A recent social media post asked this very question, and cruisers were quick to chime in with their reasons for wanting to be at sea so much with dozens of comments and opinions.

A cruise related subreddit asked “Why is cruising so addicting?”.  The user who posted it was even thinking about booking another cruise just to hit loyalty status – classic sign of Cruise Fever.

Here are some of the most common answers cruisers gave for this amazing addiction:

Seriously Easy to Plan

Planning a big trip can be a headache. Flights, hotels, getting around, finding places to eat every single night – it’s a lot. Cruising, though? Much simpler.

As user LeonardoDecafrio put it, “I think one of the easiest vacations to plan. Like once you select your ship and route that’s 90% of your planning done.” Boom. Most of the big stuff is sorted from the get-go. You pick your ship and where it’s going, and a huge chunk of the work is already done for you.

A Real Break from Everything

Life is busy. We’ve all got schedules, to-do lists, and worries. Cruising offers a chance to actually escape all that. One commenter described this feeling: “To me it’s the getting away from it all. No time schedule, nothing to do, nothing to worry about.” Imagine waking up and the only decision is what kind of fun you want to have (or not have).

You can be as connected or as purposely out of touch as you want. 

This was slightly easier when Wi-Fi packages weren’t so accessible and you actually had to completely unplug, but it’s still an amazing break.

Everything’s Right There (and You Only Unpack Once)

The hassle of packing and unpacking at every stop on a multi-city trip is exhausting just to think about. Cruising fixes that.

You get on board, unpack, and that’s it.

Your floating hotel takes you from place to place. Plus, not having to stress about where to eat for every single meal is a game-changer for many.

User No_Owl_7380 mentioned this ease, saying, “For me it’s the ease of it and not having to worry about accommodations and what to eat every day plus unpacking once.” It’s like an all-inclusive resort that moves.

Your Own Little Walkable City (That Travels)

A cruise ship is kind of like its own little town. You can walk to restaurants, cafes, pools, shows, and shops. It’s incredibly convenient and depending on the cruise line, mostly all paid for.

Another comment on the post pointed out the uniqueness of this: “I think part of it is that it’s the only time some of us ever get to live in a totally walkable community.”

And then, bam, you wake up in a whole new place or even a new country. It’s an amazing way to see different places while sleeping in the same bed each night.

The feeling of waking up, looking out the window and being in a totally new place from the day before it something I still get giddy about.

They Just Want You to Be Happy (and Fed and Entertained)

At the end of the day, a cruise ship’s main goal is pretty simple: make sure you have a good time. The staff are generally focused on making your trip enjoyable, and there are always options for food and fun.

It’s the service, the fact that someone else is handling the cooking and cleaning, and that the crew is there to make your vacation smooth. As user BrainDad-208 commented, it’s “ultimately satisfying when you get great service, something decent you didn’t have to cook or clean up, and then a show you don’t have to drive home from.”

That experience of having the details handled allows you to actually relax on your vacation.  We’ve all been on vacations where it felt like we needed another week off just to recover, right?  With most cruises, it’s different.

Bottom Line

So, while the idea of being “addicted” might make it seem like something for which we need therapy, the reasons behind why people love cruising and keep coming back are pretty clear.

It’s the mix of easy planning, genuine relaxation, all-in-one convenience, the unique onboard experience, and the feeling that the whole trip is designed for your enjoyment.

Cruise Fever was started for these reasons, and we hope to continue to inspire and offer helpful insights for all our readers.

Read more: Cruisers Give Top 10 Reasons Cruising is the Best Vacation

For several days this week, a massive cruise ship capable of carrying over 5,000 passengers has been going nowhere, docked in Portland, Maine.

MSC Meraviglia’s extended stay at the Ocean Gateway Terminal, along with a noticeable lack cruise passengers, has left many local residents wondering why such a large vessel is simply sitting in port.  

Reason for the Ship Staying Put

The U.S. Coast Guard has confirmed that MSC Meraviglia is in Portland to undergo important mechanical work, specifically involving its propeller blades.

Dive teams are currently still working underwater to fix or replace the propeller blades, and the Coast Guard has been warning small boats to avoid the area while the repair work is being done.

Because of this problem, the ship had to cancel its last trip.  The MSC vessel was supposed to sail from New York to Port Canaveral, Nassau, and Ocean Cay. But the mechanical issue meant the ship couldn’t travel fast enough.

MSC Cruises sent a message to passengers impacted by the cancelation saying,

“Due to a mechanical issue affecting the ship’s ability to operate at standard cruising speeds, we must proceed with necessary repairs. As a result, and with deep regret, we have made the very difficult decision to cancel your upcoming sailing.”

All the passengers who were booked on that trip got off the ship before it came to Portland. And that’s why local residents are only seeing crew members on board, and no passengers.

MSC Cruises offered guests on the canceled sailing two main options:

• Rebook a different cruise: Guests could choose any other MSC Cruises sailing, and their payments would be transferred to the new booking. If they rebooked by May 2, 2025, they also received a $100 per person onboard credit (up to $200 per stateroom) and a 50% Future Cruise Credit for a future trip.
• Receive a full refund: Guests could opt for a complete refund of the cruise fare paid. Those choosing a refund also received the 50% Future Cruise Credit.

The cancelation caused frustration for many passengers, particularly those who faced extra costs for changing travel plans like flights. Some guests also felt the ship might have had ongoing speed problems, citing delays and canceled activities on earlier cruises this year.

The ship is expected to remain in Portland for the necessary repairs at least until May 16th.

Royal Caribbean has given a first look at Perfect Day Mexico, a new port they are opening in 2027. Highlights are a two mile long beach, the world’s longest lazy river (an hour ride), and over 30 waterslides.

Perfect Day Mexico will have 30 waterslides including the world’s first sombrero slide, the tallest waterslides in North or South America and the tallest family raft slide. The port will have 12 dining options and 24 bars, including six swim-up bars.

Perfect Day Mexico

The port will open in 2027 and be divided into seven neighborhoods. Here’s a first look at Perfect Day Mexico from Royal Caribbean.

Loco Waterpark

The waterpark more than 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest waterslide tower – and waterslides – across North and South America. The 170-foot-tall Jaguar’s Peak will feature two dueling slides, taking riders through more than two minutes of pure thrill and the longest coaster waterslide in the world.

Cruisers will enjoy the tower’s 10 slides, and they can even do so together on the tallest family raft slide, designed for four to six riders at once.

There are more thrills across the waterpark with hydrolaunch slides that shoot riders into the air and the world’s first sombrero slide, modeled after Mexico’s iconic sombrero. Plus, adventure pools, a wave pool and slides designed for younger kids ensure there’s something for everyone.

Splash Cove

Splash Cove will be the central neighborhood for guests of all ages to go all-in will introduce the longest lazy river in the world, with a crazy side.

Along the hour-long float are multiple entry and exit points. It will have float-up bars and a cupholder in every tube. And for those who want a little extra fun, there will be an optional crazy section of the river features unexpected twists and turns with waves, rapids and spins.

In the center of it all is a seemingly never-ending 100,000 square foot pool. It will be just one of Perfect Day Mexico’s more than 10 expansive pools that together span the size of four football fields.

The little ones have their own adventures at Royal Caribbean’s largest Splashaway Bay with waterslides sized just for them. The first-ever Splashaway Cabanas right nearby make it the perfect home base for families.

El Hideaway

This adults-only neighborhood is for day pass holders 18 years and older where they can party all day long with a zero-entry pool, swim-up bar and in-pool DJ.

Those looking to celebrate big can max out the party vibes at the new Ultimate Party Cabana for 20 guests, with its own pool and bar. For unmatched chill, El Hideaway sets the scene with live music, toes-in-the-sand bars and cabanas.

Costa Beach Club

No Royal Caribbean Perfect Day is complete without a Beach Club. The Costa Beach Club will offer exclusivity where guests can enjoy the white sand beaches, heated infinity pool and premium dining of the Beach Club.

And for the ultimate retreat, adventurers can spend the day in a private cabana with a personal cabana attendant, thoughtful amenities and a dedicated pool.

2 Mile Chill Beach North and South

Cruisers looking to kick back can enjoy the natural beauty of Mexico along nearly 2 miles of white sand beaches at Chill Beach, spanning north and south from the pier.

Guests can enjoy complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels at all beaches and pools at Perfect Day Mexico.

Fiesta Plaza

This is where all the festivities begin. It will be a vibrant arrival area that transports guests straight to the heart of Mexico with live music and dance.

Plus, the world’s largest sombrero will sit atop the Tipsy Sombrero bar, welcoming Royal Caribbean cruisers with margaritas, cervezas and more.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group, gave the following statement:

“We’re committed to pushing the boundaries of what a modern-day vacation can be – delivering innovative experiences that create unforgettable memories for our guests and value for the communities we visit.

“As we continue to innovate and expand our offerings at sea and on land, our ambition is to offer our guests a diverse range of experiences that grow with them, turning the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations.”

Kara Wallace, chief marketing officer, Royal Caribbean, added:

“At Royal Caribbean, our ambition is bigger than ever, and so is our lineup of amazing experiences we are designing, all centered on our guests. Vacationers trust us to help them make every moment a memory, which is why we are changing the game with unforgettable experiences at Perfect Day Mexico and beyond.”

A small island that is a popular port of call for Norther European cruises is looking to add a new tax to both limit cruise passengers and generate extra revenue from them as well.

On the heels of Mexico backing off a $42 tax on cruise passengers, a Scottish cruise port is still looking to add a “visitor levy” to better control the tourist population.

Where This Is Happening

The small island of Orkney is located off the northeastern coast of Scotland. It is part of an archipelago of around 70 islands. It’s capital, Kirkwall, serves as a popular stop on Northern European and British Isles cruise itineraries.

Recent reports from local sources highlight just how popular it is: Orkney is actually the top cruise ship destination for the whole of the UK, according to the Orkney News.

About 450,000 tourists visit Orkney every year, with about half of that coming from cruise ships.  On some days, over 6,000 people will visit by way of cruise ship.

It should be noted that the island has a resident population of around 22,000.

Read more: 3 cruise ports where fees could start going up

The Issue Orkney is Discussing

Local officials and proponents of a new tax on cruise visitors claim that the extra foot traffic creates strain on public services, infrastructure like roads and facilities, historic sites, and the daily life of the local communities.

The local council wants “better control” and better management of the impact generated by the population cruise ships bring into town.

The Visitor Levy

The Orkney Islands Council is exploring a visitor tax, often called a “levy.” This has become possible thanks to the new Visitor Levy (Scotland) Act 2024, which gives the island the power to make this kind of change.

It’s worth noting the Scottish Government has clarified they don’t plan a nationwide cruise tax, leaving the decision to individual councils.

The goal of this local levy would be to generate revenue.  That revenue would be used to pay for infrastructure updates and services that could better handle the large number of visitors to the island.

Focusing on Cruise Ships

For those visiting by cruise ship, this proposal could add an extra expense. While a separate levy for people staying overnight is also being considered locally, a specific levy on cruise ship passengers is a major focus.

Data shows Orkney welcomes a large number of cruise passengers. Over 200,000 visited in both 2023 and 2024 (203,250 and 213,785 respectively), with similar numbers projected for 2025.

Discussions are ongoing about managing visitor flow at popular sites like the UNESCO World Heritage Heart of Neolithic Orkney.  Areas like the car park often get jammed with tour buses, especially on days when cruise ships are in town.

The cruise industry is estimated to contribute £12-15 million annually to the local economy in Orkney, which is equivalent to about $16 million to $20 million US dollars each year.

What Happens Next

It’s not a done deal yet. Right now, the possibility of this tax is just in the discussion phase. The Scottish Government is trying to get feedback on a cruise ship levy. They want to hear from everyone potentially affected, including the cruise industry itself and the local community. This consultation is open now, but it closes soon, on May 30th, 2025.

At this time, a specific tax or “levy” amount has not been proposed.  According to the Orkney Harbour’s Schedule of Charges for 2025-26, the current port fees in Orkney are set at £5.00 per passenger.

Azamara Cruises, a premium small-ship destination focused cruise line, has announced 68 new cruises for the summer of 2027.

Since the cruise line places a heavy focus on destinations that they visit, they have added 89 overnight port stays and 381 late night port visits.

It’s all part of the cruise line’s goal to spend more time in port, offer unmatched access to marquee events, and visit lesser-traveled ports with longer stays in each destination.

These new cruises include 38 sailings and six Grand Voyages across their fleet of four cruise ships.

The cruise line also announced 22 new PerryGolf cruises and 10 country-intensive cruises.

Guests booking early can take advantage of an Early Booking Bonus from Azamara, which includes 20% off cruise fare.

Those who book a Veranda cabin or Suite will also receive the Experience More Essentials Package that includes:

• $300 onboard credit
• Premium beverage package for two
• Free Wi-Fi
• Plus the Always Azamara inclusions, valued at over $4,500

Azamara has a fleet of four nearly identical cruise ships that carry 680 passengers and are 30,000 gross tons in size.

Azamara 2027 Highlights

• Six Grand Voyages that range from 35- to 41-nights in length
• Europe in Full Bloom, see Europe in its most vibrant season
• Back to Beloved Ports – Azamara returns to Dartmouth and Fowey
• 22 new PerryGolf cruises
• 10 new country-intensive cruises
• Immersive Access to Asia
• More late night and overnight stays

Michael Pawlus, Head of Itinerary Planning at Azamara Cruises, gave the following statement:

“The 2027 summer sailings will be our most diverse yet, continuing to demonstrate Azamara’s commitment to immersive, enriching travel. From returning to beloved U.K. ports like Dartmouth and Fowey to sailings timed with iconic events like the Monaco Grand Prix and Japan’s Cherry Blossom season, Summer 2027 is all about delivering meaningful, in-depth travel experiences.

“Our Grand Voyages, in particular, some spanning more than 40 nights, are the epitome of our Destination Immersion Elevated ethos—designed for curious travelers who want to see more, stay longer, and dive deeper into every destination, all while enjoying the intimate atmosphere and personalized service of our small ships.”

Cruise lines are constantly warning passengers about staying on “ship time”, which is often different than the local time in a port of call.  But inevitably, there are almost always a few cruisers left at the pier as the ship sails to the next port.

John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s candid Brand Ambassador, recently posted a video on Facebook, highlighting a message he received from a guest who had missed her ship in Costa Maya.

Heald often shares messages from passengers. He said this letter was “quite a serious one.” The passenger who wrote it was very upset after having to spend hundreds of dollars to reunite with the ship at the next port in Cozumel.

The Costly Time Zone Mistake

She admitted that missing the ship was their fault. “We missed the ship. It was our fault,” she wrote. The cruise couple were in Costa Maya and decided to rent a Jeep. But they made a simple, costly mistake: they relied on the clock in the Jeep, and the clock showed local time.

“Something we didn’t realize until way too late,” the woman explained. Because of this, they got back to the pier too late. The ship’s ramp, or “gangway,” was already gone. They arrived “15 minutes after the gangway had been hauled up.”

Then came the worst part. They had to stand there and watch. They “watched for another 17 minutes precisely before they hauled the lines and departed.” The ship left them behind.

Left Behind and Facing Costs

The passenger felt terrible, not just about missing the ship. She was upset about the people watching.

“When you say that it is OK to have people sneer and jeer at you, John, think of people like us,” she wrote. She said she felt “ridiculed by hundreds of people,” as passengers on the ship took part in the almost-ritualistic practice of cheering on pier runners.

But the “biggest slap in the face”, according to the message, was the extra cost that came with being left behind. They had to pay for a hotel that night. Then they paid for a taxi and a ferry “to get to join the ship next day in Cozumel.”

They wondered why Carnival didn’t help them financially. “There was no help financially from Carnival. Why?” she asked.

John Heald Explains Carnival’s Stance

John Heald replied in his video that he did feel for them. “Well, I do have sympathy,” he told his viewers. He also addressed the part about people watching. He said, “in my own defense, I don’t think I’ve ever said that it’s okay for people to applaud and cheer when we have the famous and so-named ‘pier runners’.” He added that missing the ship “is never nice.”

He explained why the ship couldn’t just put the ramp back out for them. He said if they had been right there before the ship’s ropes (“lines”) were untied, maybe. But once the ropes were released, “which is why we couldn’t get you back on the ship again,” it’s too late. The ship has a schedule it needs to keep.

John also had to be clear about who pays for what. “Yes, it is your responsibility, I’m afraid, to pay for the charges of your hotel and all the transportation charges,” he stated. If you miss the ship because you were late, you have to pay your own way to catch up. But he was happy they “were able to join the ship the next day.”

Bottom Line

Finally, John gave two very important pieces of advice, so others don’t make the same mistake:

1. If you rent a car or other vehicle in port, “please be very careful.” Plan your time well.
2. Pay attention to the time. “If there’s a clock in that car in any of the islands, ignore it. Stay on ship’s time unless you’ve been told otherwise by the ship.” This is the most crucial point. Always follow the ship’s time.

The practice of both cheering and perhaps even jeering at pier runners is probably not going away any time soon.  And as much as people enjoy being on the ship side of this practice, it’s equally as disappointing when passengers miss their ship.

Read more: How to never miss your ship and get left behind

Royal Caribbean has released the 10th and final segment of their opening deployment schedule for cruises in 2026-2027.

Royal Caribbean has been announcing their ship deployment schedules for 2026-2027 for the past six months. This final segment will have Navigator of the Seas sailing from Singapore for the first time ever starting in October 2026.

Navigator of the Seas will sail three- to 12-night cruises from Singapore that visit some of Asia’s most-loved destinations.

Shorter three- to five-night cruises will visit Malaysia and Phuket, Thailand.

A one-of-kind 10-night cruise will travel to Vietnam and Thailand visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and an overnight stay in Bangkok.

In February 2027, Navigator of the Seas will offer 11- and 12-night cruises from both Singapore and Tokyo. These cruises will visit destinations in East Asia that include Tokyo, Hong Kong and Taipei.

Chad Grospe, vice president and managing director, APAC, Royal Caribbean, gave the following statement:

“With Navigator of the Seas, we are bringing an adventure-packed holiday experience tailored to Asian travelers, especially families and large groups. From thrilling activities to world-class entertainment and dining, there’s something for everyone from every generation to enjoy together.

“We’re committed to delivering unforgettable vacations with industry-first innovations, ensuring our guests all around the world can create lasting memories.”

Navigator of the Seas brings to life experiences for everyone across signature favorites and new ways for holidaymakers to make memories.

There are thrills and ways to chill for all ages that include:

• An awe-inspiring Caribbean pool deck
• Two daring waterslides, The Blaster and Riptide
• The first blow dry bar at sea, To Dry For
• Flowrider
• Rock climbing wall
• Glow-in-the-dark laser tag
• Royal Escape Room
• Johnny Rockets Express
• Bamboo Room, a Polynesian inspired bar

Plus, there’s a lineup of ways to dine, drink and be entertained that will make its way to Asia for the first time, including original productions at the Royal Theater and spectacular ice skating shows at Studio B.

These new cruises on Navigator of the Seas are now open for bookings.

Margaritaville at Sea is growing once again after the cruise line announced the addition of a third and largest ship to their fleet.

Last week, Costa Cruises announced that they were selling one of their ships to another cruise line. Now we know where that ship is going.

Margaritaville at Sea has announced that they are purchasing Costa Fortuna from Costa Cruises and adding it to their fleet in 2026. This will be the third ship added by the cruise line in the past three years.

Costa Fortuna will be the largest ship in Margaritaville’s fleet at 102,500 gross tons. The ship can accommodate 3,450 passengers in 1,340 cabins.

The name, homeport, and itineraries for the ship have yet to be announced. The vessel will continue sailing with Costa until late 2026. The ship currently has cruises scheduled through November 27, 2026.

The ship will receive a remodel before entering service with Margaritaville so they can add their signature experiences to the vessel.

Margaritaville has yet to give a launch date for the ship, but it will likely be in late December 2026 or early 2027.

Christopher Ivy, Chief Executive Officer of Margaritaville at Sea, gave the following statement:

“Over the last three years we have been incredibly focused on building Margaritaville at Sea by delivering more of what our guests love – a uniquely laid-back island attitude with award-winning hospitality. With the acquisition of our third ship in three years, we are proud to once again invite guests to step into the Margaritaville state of mind on the open ocean.

“The launch of the Margaritaville at Sea Islander was a significant moment for our company, and the acquisition of the Costa Fortuna, our largest ship to date, gives us another exciting opportunity to bring even more fun and escapism to guests from a new homeport in 2026.”

John Cohlan, CEO of Margaritaville, added:

“Margaritaville at Sea has been on an exceptional trajectory since its launch only a few short years ago. We’re thrilled to once again expand the experience of our brand on the water and share the cruise line’s signature experiences and amenities with even more guests.”

Margaritaville at Sea currently has two ships in their fleet, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise (homeports in Port of Palm Beach) and Margaritaville at Sea Islander (homeports in Tampa).