Carnival Cruise Line has changed the way their frequent cruisers can redeem their complimentary drink that they earn on every cruise.
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Carnival cruisers who are Gold, Platinum and Diamond VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) receive a complimentary drink on every cruise that is five days or longer.
Gold are cruisers who have earned at least 25 points, Platinum are those with at least 75 points, and Diamond are cruisers who have earned 200+ points. Cruisers earn one point for each night of the cruise.
Up until yesterday, the complimentary drink was only available on the last night of the cruise after 5 pm for Gold members. Platinum and Diamond members received their free drink during the SeaDay Brunch.
Now, Gold, Platinum and Diamond members can redeem their free drink at anytime during the cruise.
The complimentary drink is now a Welcome Aboard – Welcome Home beverage. The first drink they is order will automatically be complimentary and they can order it anywhere on the ship.
When they order a drink, the bartender will see that they have a complimentary drink and they will not be charged.
The free drink can also be redeemed at Java Blue Cafe for a specialty coffee or milkshake.
This change applies to all Carnival cruises no matter which homeport you sail out of. Some homeports have restrictions on the cruise line’s CHEERS! package but that does not apply since the drink is complimentary.
This change was first announced by Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald a couple days ago.
Yesterday, he gave an update on this change saying that the cruise line tweaked the process a bit making the free drink easier to use.
Carnival Cruise Line is the second largest cruise line in the world and they sail from more homeports in the U.S. than any other line.
A cruise line has announced 173 new itineraries that will set sail in 2026 and 2027 that includes new ports and immersive overnight port stays.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises, one of the world’s finest ultra-luxury cruise lines, has announced their Voyage Collection cruises in 2026-2027.
The cruise line’s 173 new itineraries visit all parts of the globe including:
Africa & Arabia
Alaska
Asia
Australia & New Zealand
Canada & New England
Caribbean & Panama Canal
Mediterranean
Northern Europe
South America
South Pacific
A highlight of these new sailings is a 140 night world cruise scheduled for 2027 and four new Grand Voyages that vary from 60 to 82 nights in length.
Regent will also offer eight Immersive Overnight cruises where just about all of the port stops will feature an overnight stay. They are the only cruise line to offer this.
Regent will sail from new homeports that include Seattle, Galveston and Tampa.
There will be a total of 144 overnight stays that include Hong Kong, Bora Bora, and Mumbai.
Regent is adding 16 new ports of call that include Mombasa, Zanzibar and Melaka.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur. Photo: Cruise Fever
Andrea DeMarco, President of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, gave the following statement about these new cruises:
“Our 2026-2027 Voyage Collection Debut is an incredible array of sailings that offers luxury travelers the opportunity to experience new cultures, gain new perspectives, and create unforgettable memories across thousands of nautical miles.”
“Whether spending 7 days or 7 weeks or more on board, our guests will see the world while enjoying the highest standards of personalized service, and the most comprehensive inclusion list of any ultra luxury cruise line from spacious suites to unlimited shore excursions, from exquisite specialty dining to premium beverages.”
These new cruises announced by Regent Seven Seas Cruises will open for bookings on July 24, 2024.
If a guest books two or more of these Voyage Collection sailings, they will receive 5% off if they book by August 7, 2024.
Regent offers The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience at sea and all cruises include:
Unlimited beverages
Unlimited shore excursions
All specialty dining
Valet laundry service
Gratuities
Spa facilities
WiFi
24-hour in-suite dining
Their Ultimate All-Inclusive Fare adds in roundtrip flights and private executive chauffeur service with Blacklane.
Celebrity Cruises will host their next President’s Cruise in May 2025. This eight night sailing on Celebrity Apex will visit the Norwegian fjords.
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Celebrity Cruises’ President’s Cruise to the Norwegian fjords will depart on May 17, 2025. It will allow Celebrity’s president and executive team members to spend time with the cruise line’s Captain’s Club members.
The cruise will visit several ports in Norway including Oslo, Alesund and Bergen.
The President’s Cruise also features special events and unique experiences only offered on a President’s Cruise.
Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises, gave the following statement:
“The President’s Cruise is a massive celebration of our Captain’s Club members, and the sailing is an incredible opportunity for me and my executive team to spend time with our guests.”
“It is incredibly rewarding to hear guests’ stories and experience Celebrity through their eyes. The feedback and ideas we receive while onboard are instrumental in shaping the future of Celebrity Cruises, allowing us to innovate and enhance our offerings in ways that truly resonate with our guests.”
This year’s President’s Cruise was a six night sailing on Celebrity Beyond to the Caribbean. It also visited Perfect Day at CocoCay that had surprises like jet ski and flyboard stunt performers.
Two unforgettable sea days were filled with one-of-a-kind activities. A pool party like no other featured performances from members of the Team USA Artistic Swimming team, entertainment from Guinness World Record holding hula hoopers, and crowd-favorite games like the Officers vs Guests pool volleyball game, umpired by Hodges Bethge.
“A Conversation with Celebrity” provided the opportunity to ask unfiltered questions to Celebrity executives and guests were also treated to unique performances from West End star Marisha Wallace and Celebrity Reflection captain, Captain Kyriakos Matragkas, who put on a rock show like none other.
Princess Cruises has announced that three of the new features that are on the top deck of their newest cruise ship, Sun Princess, will not be opening.
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Sun Princess debuted several months ago but areas of Park19 never opened. The cruise line said at the time that they were waiting on safety certifications for several of the features before they could open.
When I sailed on the ship in March, they were running safety checks on the RollGlider and Ropes Course.
Three of the features of Park19 on Sun Princess that will not be opening are:
RollGlider
Coastal Climb
Ropes Course
The Ropes Course on Sun Princess will not be opening.
Sea Breeze RollGlider was going to the first ever hang-gliding inspired experience on a cruise ship. It would allow guests to glide around an overhead track at speeds up to 11 mph. The 60–90 second ride would also have been ADA accessible as well.
Why are areas of Park19 not opening? Princess Cruises sent the following statement to Cruise Fever:
“We regret to announce that Princess is unable to accept delivery of the RollGlider, Coastal Climb, and Ropes Course features within Park19 aboard Sun Princess and those experiences will not be opening. We are actively evaluating these areas for future recreational opportunities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all our guests.”
There are five areas of Park19 that are open for guests to enjoy. They are:
Infinite Horizon: Leaning tilt walls that cantilever over the side of the ship, allowing guests to peer out from deck 19 and look down to deck nine and beyond.
Hammock Area: Relaxing hammocks that offer a great way to hang out with family and friends.
Splash Zone: A whimsical splash area with pop jets and a beautiful water sculpture offering a refreshing and relaxing area to chill.
Recreational Court: This multifunctional sports court offers a number of options, including cornhole, ping pong, shuffleboard, and more.
Jogging Track: A refreshing open-air track where guests can walk, jog, or run at their own leisure and pace.
It will be interesting to see what Princess Cruises does with this space on Sun Princess.
Celestyal Cruises has added a special offer on select Steps of Paul Cruises that depart in 2024.
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These seven night cruises from Athens follow the footstep of the Apostle Paul with a port stop on every day of the cruise.
The cruise will visit the following ports in Greece and Turkey:
Thessaloniki
Kavala
Istanbul
Dikili
Kusadasi (Ephesus)
Patmos
On this cruise, you will have the opportunity to visit famous landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse, the Faustina Baths of Miletus and the ancient city of Ephesus, the best-preserved historical site in the Mediterranean.
To see all of the excursions that are available on this cruise, you can visit Celestyal’s brochure here.
Celestyal Cruises is offering over 50% savings on these cruises with fares starting at $889 per person for an inside cabin.
This deal is good if booked by August 31, 2024.
Celestyal Cruises is a small ship cruise line that operates cruises in the Mediterranean and Middle East. They currently have two ships in their fleet, Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery.
It’s been almost 20 years since a cruise line has sailed out of the “City of Brotherly Love”.
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Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that it will begin offering sailings out of Philadelphia, PA, with the first cruises scheduled for April 16, 2026.
The cruise ship Norwegian Jewel will offer 7- and 9-day sailings to Bermuda from the Pennsylvania cruise port at the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex.
The local government of Philadelphia is currently working on plans to develop the facilities at the port which has not seen a cruise ship in almost 2 decades.
Norwegian will be the only cruise line to operate out of the port and is scheduled to offer cruises through October of 2026.
According to reports of the announcement, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, David J. Herrera, said he wants to make cruising more accessible to residents of the region.
“We remain committed to delivering more experiences for our guests to create unforgettable memories, so they can vacation better with us,” Herrera stated. “We are particularly proud to partner with PhilaPort to launch cruising in the area, making it even more accessible to the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region.”
Executive director and CEO of PhilaPort also announced excitement over the partnership between the cruise port and Norwegian, stating,
“The Port of Philadelphia is extremely excited to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, one of the world’s premier cruise lines. Philadelphia has so much to offer, as the birthplace of freedom and the home to much of our nation’s history, we look forward to connecting cruisers with our world class city. This new service rounds out the portfolio of services offered at PhilaPort, and we look forward to this next phase of growth.”
Romantic Cruise Trip: The Perfect Swimsuits for a Couple’s Retreat
A romantic cruise trip offers an unparalleled experience for couples looking to bond, unwind, and create lasting memories. With the promise of crystal-clear waters, luxurious amenities, and picturesque sunsets, planning the perfect swimsuit wardrobe becomes essential. From coordinating couple outfits to stylish individual pieces, here are some ideas for the best swimsuits to pack for your dream getaway.
Coordinating Couple Ensembles
While you don’t need to match every day of your trip, a few coordinated looks can certainly add a sweet and playful touch to your cruise wardrobe. Imagine stepping out on the deck of the ship wearing matching or color-coordinated swimsuits that showcase your unity and style.
For men, classic swim trunks in solid colors or simple patterns can be easily paired with a spouse’s bikini or one-piece swimsuit. Consider patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or even tropical themes like palm leaves and flowers. Women can opt for versatile bikini bottoms that match their partner’s trunks. This way, you both look effortlessly synchronized, whether strolling along the beach or lounging by the pool.
Chic One-Piece Swimsuits for Women
One-piece swimsuits have made a tremendous comeback and are a favorite among fashion-forward women. They offer a sophisticated look that’s flattering to various body types. Look for designs with unique necklines, cut-outs, or stylish belts that add flair and function. One-pieces are perfect for participating in cruise activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, or beach volleyball, as they provide both comfort and coverage.
Color-blocking and asymmetrical designs continue to trend, giving a modern twist to classic styles. For added romance, consider a one-piece with delicate lace or ruffle details. These designs can transition seamlessly from the pool to a casual onshore lunch, making them incredibly versatile additions to your cruise wardrobe.
Stylish Swim Trunks for Men
Men are no longer limited to basic swimwear options. Today, swim trunks come in a variety of styles, patterns, and lengths to suit every personality and body type. Opt for trunks with allover prints, including tropical patterns, geometric designs, or even cheeky phrases for a fun and light-hearted touch.
For a classic yet stylish look, solid colors in shades like navy, olive green, or burgundy are excellent choices. Trunks with side stripes or contrasting waistbands add subtle detail without overwhelming the overall look. Whatever your preference, select materials that dry quickly and provide comfort during long days of sun and sea.
Mix-and-Match Options
One of the perks of packing multiple swimsuits is the ability to mix and match pieces to create new looks. For women, having both bikini tops and bottoms in complementary colors and patterns allows for maximum versatility. You can also bring a couple of one-piece swimsuits to further diversify your options. Men can benefit from packing a few pairs of trunks that coordinate with their partner’s interchangeable pieces.
For example, a navy bikini top can be paired with striped bikini bottoms one day and solid white bottoms the next. This method extends your wardrobe and makes packing more efficient.
Accessorising Your Swimwear
No swimsuit ensemble is complete without the right accessories. For women, consider packing lightweight cover-ups like sarongs, kaftans, or breezy tunics that easily slip on and off. Wide-brim hats, sunglasses, and wedge sandals add a chic and functional touch, protecting you from the sun while enhancing your look.
Men can elevate their swimwear with simple additions such as a stylish rash guard, a classic straw hat, and polarized sunglasses. A casual button-down shirt worn open can also serve as a fashionable cover-up when you head for lunch or a beachside ice cream.
Conclusion
A romantic cruise is the perfect occasion to embrace stylish and thoughtfully chosen swimwear. With vibrant bikini bottoms, elegant one-pieces, and trendy swim trunks, a couple can reflect their unique chemistry and personal style. Coordinating outfits and versatile mix-and-match options make it easier to stay stylish throughout your journey. Don’t forget the finishing touch of accessories to ensure comfort and flair.
By carefully selecting your cruise wardrobe, you set the stage for an unforgettable retreat filled with love, adventure, and idyllic moments. Bon Voyage!
The world’s largest cruise line isn’t slowing down. The cruise line is developing a new class of cruise ships called the Discovery Class.
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Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley, briefly talked about this new class of ships during a press conference on their newest ship, Utopia of the Seas.
While Bayley didn’t give any details on this new class, he confirmed that their next class of cruise ships will be called Discovery Class.
Royal Caribbean is the world’s largest cruise line and they have more guests sail on their ships than any other cruise line.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of Seas in PortMiami
Last night, the cruise line celebrated the christening and official naming of their newest ship, Utopia of the Seas. Meghan Trainor served as the godmother of Royal Caribbean’s 6th Oasis class ship.
Royal Caribbean currently has the seven largest cruise ships in the world with another three on order. This includes two more Icon class ships and another Oasis class.
It will be interesting to see what Royal Caribbean is planning for this new Discovery class.
Cruise Fever will have all the latest info on this new class from Royal Caribbean when more details become available.
Princess Cruises set a new GUINESS WORLD RECORDS Title this week then they held the world’s largest pizza party on their cruise ships.
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During the record breaking pizza party, Princess Cruises served more than 60,000 slices of pizza across their fleet. The pizza party was a celebration of the cruise line’s new partnership with pizza guru Chef Tony Gemignani.
“There was great excitement on board as Princess Cruises set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the World’s Largest Pizza Party at multiple venues,” said Callie Smith, Adjudicator from Guinness World Records.
Stats from this record breaking pizza party by Princess Cruises included the following:
Total Weight of Dough Used: 6,512 pounds
Total Weight of Flour Used: 3,417 pounds
Total Weight of Pepperoni Slices Used:1,393 pounds
Total Weight of Cheese Used: 2,323 pounds
John Padgett, Princess President, said the following:
“Princess is about delivering great experiences and there is no more important element than Pizza. While Princess has long been known for have the best pizza at sea, we decided to take it up an entirely new level with legendary Tony Gemignani and also set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title in the process. Tony is the ‘GOAT’ with unparalleled world championships, expertise and passion for crafting the perfect pizza.”
Chef Gemignani has won 13 World Pizza Champions and he’s created brand new pizzas for Princess Cruises.
Chef Gemignani gave the following statement:
“Princess is the original Love Boat and its magnificent ships are known to all the world. Bringing my original recipe hand-crafted pizzas inspired by the destinations Princess visits, to the world-class line up of culinary offerings onboard their ships is not only exciting but an honor.”
This isn’t the first GUINESS WORLD RECORDS that Princess Cruises has won. Four years ago, they set the record for the largest marriage vow renewal at sea with 1,443 couples across three cruise ships.
Carnival Cruise Line sent out an update today about two of their cruise ships that are scheduled to leave out of Galveston, Texas tomorrow.
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While both cruises will depart on time on their original schedules, Carnival Cruise Line gave cruisers on one of the ships a heads up about conditions that they can expect at one of the terminals.
Terminal 28 in Galveston has limited air conditioning after Hurricane Beryl passed through several days ago. Carnival is advising their guests that temperatures in the terminal may be in their words, “less than ideal”.
They are asking guests sailing on Carnival Dream to adhere to their pre-selected arrival times. Carnival Dream will be departing from Terminal 28. Guests who arrive before their scheduled times will be turned away and asked to come back.
The two updates that Carnival Cruise Line sent out this evening about their cruises out of Galveston are as follows:
Carnival Dream 07/13/2024
“The ship will depart tomorrow as scheduled from Terminal 28. Areas of the terminal remain without air conditioning and the temperature may be less than ideal during check-in.”
“So, to ensure a smooth embarkation, please adhere to your pre-selected terminal arrival appointment. Guests who arrive earlier will be asked to return later. Remember you must be on board by the final boarding time printed on your boarding pass. See you soon!”
Carnival Dream is sailing an eight night cruise to Florida and The Bahamas with port stops in Key West, Freeport, Half Moon Cay, and Nassau.
Carnival Jubilee 07/13/2024
“The ship will depart tomorrow as scheduled from Terminal 25. To ensure a smooth embarkation, please adhere to your pre-selected terminal arrival appointment.”
“We must allow debarking guests to leave before we can accommodate your arrival. Guests who arrive earlier will be asked to return later. Remember you must be on board by the final boarding time printed on your boarding pass. See you soon!”
Carnival Jubilee is sailing a seven night cruise to the Western Caribbean with port stops in Cozumel, Costa Maya and Roatan.
Carnival Cruise Line currently has three cruise ships based in Galveston: Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream, and Carnival Jubilee.
