Posts in category: Diplomacy

Most passengers never think twice about the medical center hidden on Deck 2, until they need it.

I learned that the hard way after a basketball mishap left me with a badly injured thumb. While getting treated on Deck 2, I started chatting with the ship’s doctor.

What he told me about life as a cruise ship physician was so interesting I almost forgot about my injury.

He was an older man who had retired from his medical profession, but when he saw the opportunity to explore the world and get paid for it, he took it.

Cruise passengers are often very curious to know what it would be like to be a doctor on a cruise ship. After all, that’s why shows like “Doctor Odyssey” came to be so popular.

But what’s the reality of being a physician at sea?

My conversation with that retired doctor made me realize the job is nothing like the dramas on TV.

To separate fact from fiction, I looked to a recent Reddit AMA where a cruise ship doctor revealed exactly what life is like.

The physician with a background in internal medicine and critical care offered an interesting look behind the scenes.

Wishing to remain anonymous, the ship doc invited questions in his online post, saying “I’m an open book except for which cruise line I work for.”

Here’s a look at some of the questions and responses that came into the post.

Why Leave a Hospital ICU for Life at Sea?

After completing residency in internal medicine and three years as an intensivist, this doctor was looking for a lifestyle change.

“I’m one of two doctors on the ship, so we get to call the shots together,” they shared.

Many colleagues worried they’d “lose skills,” but the physician said that working on a cruise ship offers a blend of emergency medicine, urgent care, and primary care on fewer resources than a hospital.

Across the industry, cruise ship doctors typically need at least three years of post-graduate experience (often in emergency or ICU), plus certifications like ACLS, and sometimes PALS or ATLS.

Contract Time and Pay

Contracts commonly run four months on, two months off, matching the doctor’s schedule and allowing time for family or temporary contract work back home.

Pay often falls in the $8,000–$15,000 per month range, but that goes along with free room, board, travel, and amenities.  In this doctor’s case, the pay is about $10,000 a month.

The Medical Setup: What Resources Are Actually on Board?

Larger ships usually have two doctors, several nurses (the doctor’s ship has four plus a paramedic), and a well-equipped infirmary.

Capabilities include lab tests like CBC (complete blood count), urinalysis, basic imaging or X-rays on many vessels, cardiac monitors, defibrillators, ventilators, and minor surgical supplies.

It’s not a full hospital but meets or exceeds American College of Emergency Physicians guidelines for maritime care.

But sometimes other passengers can swoop in to help as well if they have medical experience.

In one memorable case, the doctor recalled that the team needed help with a woman’s crushed pinky (from a door injury) and had the captain announce for passenger volunteers.  An ortho surgeon on board was able to save the woman’s pinky and save the ship from having to reroute.

Doctors on board also handle everything from routine visits to stabilizing patients for potential medevac by helicopter or Coast Guard.

Dramatic Emergencies

Because of the lack of resources, cruise ship doctors have to be creative. The doctor shared in one story that a patient with cirrhosis arrived with severe anemia and black blood in his stool.

“We don’t carry blood products on the ship, so I had to look through medical records of the crew and luckily, someone had a compatible blood type.” The doctor performed an emergency transfusion, which likely saved the patient’s life.

Other challenges include dental emergencies (limited to pain relief, antibiotics, and referral at the next port) and rare but serious events. The doctor has seen only one suicide (an overboard incident with no recovery) during their time aboard. Ships do have basic morgue capabilities for natural deaths, which are more common among older passengers.

What About Pregnancies?

Pregnancy policies are strict for any cruise line. Most of them bar women beyond 24 weeks gestation at the end of the cruise, as there’s no NICU and medevacs are a lot more complicated.

It’s mostly honor-system based, with doctor’s notes sometimes required.

Everyday Ailments: From Seasickness to Overindulgence

Most visits are for simple things and are fairly mundane, unlike the TV show. Motion sickness is the reason for most visits, especially first-time cruisers still getting their sea legs.

Other common complaints include indigestion, GERD flares, foodborne illness from overeating or unfamiliar foods, respiratory issues, and injuries from slips or activities.

Retirees who essentially live on cruise ships more often than on land account for many patients, as they lack regular land-based care.

Alcohol-related issues and minor traumas round out the list of the most common reasons for visiting the medical center.

The Tougher Side: Assaults and Vulnerabilities

Cruise ships see occasional sexual assaults as well. The doctor noted there have been a few cases, handled primarily by a trained SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) nurse, with mandatory reporting to the FBI and Coast Guard regardless of victim preference.

These incidents are reported industry-wide and cruise lines treat them very seriously.  While they are a fraction of medical visits, each case is treated delicately.

Perks, Lifestyle, and Is It Worth It?

The cruise ship doctor said that the biggest draw is autonomy and travel. They enjoy four months off yearly with family and can get higher paying work during the downtime.

Housing and food costs are a non-factor, and amenities are free.

Cruise ship medicine isn’t for everyone; it demands flexibility and the willingness to be “stuck” in the lower decks of a moving vessel for long periods of time.

But for this physician, it’s a refreshing mix of medicine, adventure, and work-life balance that hospitals just can’t match.

As they put it:

“A lot of my colleagues back home thought that I would ‘lose my skills’ doing this work, but it’s actually very satisfying. A mix of emergency med, urgent care, primary care. I deal with it all on less resources than I did at the hospital.”

The first time I stepped off a cruise ship in Grand Turk, I was prepared for the turquoise water and inviting beaches. But I was not expecting a “welcoming committee” of wild donkeys.

On the road all the way to the lighthouse, I saw more donkeys than I ever thought I’d see within a mile of a cruise port (since I thought I would see exactly zero).

While the official travel brochures don’t exactly put these stubborn residents on the cover, they are staples of the island.

But besides the novelty of a donkey on the beach and a fun photo op, these creatures have a complicated history.  And a growing list of accidents are turning them into a headache for some cruisers who get too close.

From Selfies to Lawsuits

While most donkey encounters end with nothing more than a stolen hamburger (hilarious photo here on Reddit) and a funny story for the dinner table, some have landed passengers in the courtroom.

Take, for instance, a 2024 lawsuit filed by a Florida man against Carnival Cruise Line. While visiting the Grand Turk Cruise Center (a port owned and operated by Carnival) he stopped to snap a photo with a “local.”

The donkey, evidently not feeling it, delivered a kick so powerful it shattered his kneecap, requiring multiple surgeries.

His legal argument? That the cruise line failed to warn passengers that these “cute” animals are actually feral and highly unpredictable.  Who knew?

And he isn’t the only one with a bone to pick.

In March 2025, a 70-year-old cruiser reported being bitten and butted to the ground after a donkey decided it was tired of waiting for carrots.

There are even whispered “legends” of passengers losing fingertips to hungry donkeys during feeding attempts.  I’m still working to verify that one.

And then you have a recent social media post about Grand Turk that warned other cruisers that there “are many wild donkeys who suddenly jump in front your car and cause accidents”.

The “Unemployed” Residents of Grand Turk

To understand why Grand Turk has so many donkeys walking around (estimates put their numbers at 300-400) you have to look at what was once their job.

These aren’t just random strays or pets that grew too big to keep at home. They are the descendants of the 1700s salt industry. Back in the day these animals were the workforce of the island, hauling salt from the inland ponds to the ships.

When the industry collapsed after WWII, the donkeys were “laid off” and left to fend for themselves.

Today, they roam the island without a job, other than entertaining cruise passengers and causing the occasional ruckus.

But with no permanent veterinarian on Grand Turk and a population that continues to grow, more people are wondering if anything should actually be done. 

The Donkey Dilemma

As a cruise writer, I’ve seen my share of port safety warnings, but they usually involve pickpockets or other security issues, not livestock.

Here are some of the issues in the “Great Grand Turk Donkey Debate”:

• Cultural Protection: The Turks and Caicos government views the donkeys as a cultural heritage asset. They are protected by law from cruelty, but that same law doesn’t offer to pay the medical bills of someone that gets hurt.
• The Liability: Once you step outside the Cruise Center gates, you are essentially on your own. Most rental agreements for golf carts, which are the preferred way to see the 7-mile island, explicitly state that the driver is responsible for any damage, including “donkey-related collisions.”
• The Silent Traffic War: Local taxi drivers have a love-hate relationship with the donkeys. While donkeys are great for tourism, they are a nightmare for traffic. On an island this small, a donkey standing in the middle of the road creates gridlock that no one wants to volunteer to clear up.

Survival Guide for Facing the Stubborn Beasts

If you’re heading to Grand Turk, you don’t need to be afraid, but you do need to be smart. Here is how to keep your cruise vacation from becoming a headline:

1. The 3-Foot Rule: If you are close enough to see the donkey’s “smile,” you are close enough to get kicked. They have a massive blind spot directly behind them, so never approach from the rear.
2. The Carrot Trap: Feeding them is the fastest way to get swarmed. One donkey is cute.  But six donkeys demanding snacks while you’re trapped in a golf cart…you’re just asking for it.
3. Respect the Right of Way: Donkeys always have it. They aren’t afraid to play a game of “chicken”.

For most cruise passengers visiting Grand Turk, donkeys will be the least of their worries.  I saw dozens of them during my visit, but most of the time they were minding their own business, looking like they were just hitchhiking along the roadside, replacing thumbs for hooves.

Bottom Line

Grand Turk remains one of the most beautiful, laid-back stops in the Caribbean.  Just writing this article makes me want to go back and soak in the view of that water again.

There is plenty to see outside of the cruise port area, if reading this didn’t scare you from coming across a donkey.  The Grand Turk Lighthouse is probably the most famous landmark on the island and dates back to 1852.

Just remember, you will probably encounter a few donkeys along the 7-mile stretch, and the traffic in Cockburn Town may not be the only congestion you face.

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas is changing homeports again. The cruise line quietly announced this week that the Oasis-class ship will leave Galveston, Texas, and begin sailing out of Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Florida, for the 2027 season.

Instead of the 4- to 8-night Western Caribbean trips many guests expected from Texas, Symphony will offer 6- and 8-night Caribbean itineraries from Florida.

This is a redeployment, not a cancelation. According to Royal Caribbean, no existing sailings are being cut.

News reports on the change state that the cruise line will contact guests and travel agents directly with details and options for anyone whose 2027 booking is affected.

Yes, Symphony is Homeporting in Miami Right Now

A lot of cruisers are scratching their heads because the ship is still sailing out of PortMiami right now.

Here’s the simple timeline to clear things up:

• Right now (through late April 2026): Symphony of the Seas is homeported in Miami, Florida.
• Starting May 2026: The ship moves to Galveston, Texas, where it was scheduled to stay for the rest of 2026 and all of 2027.
• Starting January 2027: Instead of staying in Galveston long-term, Symphony will reposition again, this time to Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale), Florida. It will offer 6- and 8-night Caribbean cruises from there.

In short, Symphony is only in Galveston for about 8–9 months (May 2026 through early 2027) before heading back to Florida.

There’s also some current confusion because the website has not been updated yet and still shows bookings from Galveston well into 2027.

Currently, Royal Caribbean’s website does show options for sailing on Symphony of the Seas out of Port Everglades, but the dates start in August 2027 and run through February 2028.

Either they are still updating things, or the announced dates will change. We’ll keep on eye on it.

Why the Change?

Cruise lines regularly shift ships to match demand, fill new terminals, and keep things fresh for repeat guests. Royal Caribbean described the move as part of “thoughtfully evolving our deployment strategy” while still giving guests the big-ship experiences they love.

The company also said that its commitment to Galveston is still strong.

What This Means for Galveston

Galveston won’t lose Royal Caribbean’s presence. Two ships will still sail from there in 2027:

• Liberty of the Seas (fresh off an amplification with new pool deck, casitas, and more) will handle shorter 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean runs.
• Icon of the Seas, the first Icon-class ship to call Galveston home, will arrive in August 2027 and offer 7-night sailings.

So, Texas cruisers still get plenty of big-ship options, just on different vessels than originally planned.

If you’re booked on Symphony from Galveston in 2027:

• Early 2027 sailings (January through spring) are most likely to be affected.
• Royal Caribbean is reaching out with options, which often include switching to the same or similar dates on Liberty or Icon from Galveston, adjusting dates, or moving to the new Florida sailings on Symphony. We haven’t heard any solid info on this just yet.
• Some guests have already reported their reservations being automatically updated to Liberty of the Seas, but we haven’t verified this.

Fan’s React

While some Cruise Fever readers were thrilled to see this update, not everyone was on board with the excitement, especially those who have already booked a cruise on the ship in 2027 and have not heard anything from the cruise line yet. 

One comment on our Facebook page stated, “I specifically chose to cruise this boat out of texas in feb 2027.”

Without an official press release from the cruise line, it was more of a quiet news release on this one.  Which is probably why some are even doubting if this news is true.

“They sure made a big deal about Symphony moving to Galveston just to move it back to Florida halfway through the season,” another cruise fan stated.

Bottom Line

Symphony of the Seas is not staying in Galveston as long as first anticipated, but Royal Caribbean is keeping Texas well-covered with Liberty and Icon. It’s a classic cruise-line rotation, and who really knows the exact reason for the change. If you’re booked on one of the impacted dates, stay tuned for an update from the cruise line.

Norwegian Cruise Line currently has 20 cruise ships in its fleet. In terms of passengers carried, it is the 4th largest cruise line in the world, behind Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruises and MSC Cruises.

From unique hull-art that stand out at sea to new innovations onboard, Norwegian Cruise Line has never been afraid to try something new.

This is the cruise line that invented the term “Freestyle Dining” which was a unique concept at the time and has really caught on. Norwegian also introduced Go-Kart tracks to cruise ships with a Ferrari-branded two-level track found on some ships.

With a majority Norwegian’s sailings travel to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Norwegian also offers cruises to Alaska and Europe and even has a dedicated ship for sailings in Hawaii.

Future cruise ships coming to Norwegian’s fleet:

• Norwegian Aura, a 172,000 GT vessel, is set to be delivered in 2027 and another Prima Plus class ship is scheduled for 2028.
• It was recently reported that 5 mega-ships with a gross tonnage of 200,000 will be coming in 2030 – 2037. These vessels are expected to have a passenger capacity of 5,000.

Here is a list of every ship currently sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line.  The list will be updated as new ships are added so feel free to bookmark this page for future reference.

Norwegian Luna

Norwegian Luna is a Prima Plus class ship and debuted in March 2026. It is a 156,300 gross ton vessel with a double-capacity of 3,565.

Norwegian Aqua

Norwegian Aqua the first Prima Plus class ship with NCL. The cruise ship debuted in April 2025. It is 156,300 gross tons in size and will carries 3,571 guests at double occupancy.

Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Viva took her maiden voyage in August of 2023 and is the second Prima-class ship with NCL. Viva is 143,535 gross tons with a capacity of 3,215.

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima is the 1st of 6 Prima-class cruise ships.  The vessel was launched in August of 2021. With a gross tonnage of 142,500, the ship is 981 feet long and can carry 3,100 guests at double capacity.

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore is the final Breakaway Plus class cruise ship from NCL. The cruise ship features a go-kart track, a 10,000 sq ft virtual reality center, a laser tag arena themed after the Lost City of Atlantis, and 29 venues for food and drinks. Take a Video Tour of Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss entered service in April of 2018. It is the 3rd of the Breakaway Plus class ships and is 168,028 gross tons in size.

Norwegian Joy

Custom built for the Chinese market, Norwegian Joy debuted in March of 2017. In 2018 the ship was moved to the US for cruises to Alaska and Mexico. At 167,725 gross tons Norwegian Joy has a capacity of over 3,800 guests. See 6 cool things about Norwegian Joy. The ship was recently updated to include a new thermal suite among other features.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape was the first Breakaway Class Plus ship, debuting in October of 2015.   At 164,600 gross tons, Escape has a guest capacity of 4,266. See our article on top 10 reasons to sail on Norwegian Escape.

Norwegian Getaway

The second Breakaway-class ship, Norwegian Getaway debuted in February of 2014.  At 145,655 gross tons, Getaway has a capacity of 3,969 guests.  At the time of its launch it was the 9th largest cruise ship in the world.

Norwegian Breakaway

Debuting in April of 2013 Norwegian Breakaway was the 1st ship in “Project Breakaway”, named from a public contest. The 145,655 gross ton ship can carry 3,963 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Epic

Epic is the only ship in its class, although there are a few similarities in the subsequent class of Breakaway. Debuting in July of 2009, Norwegian Epic was the 3rd largest ship in the world at the time. At 155,873 gross tons, the ship can carry 4,100 passengers at double capacity.  Read our review on Norwegian Epic here.

Norwegian Gem

Norwegian Gem was the last Jewel-class ship made by Norwegian. Having debuted in October of 2007, Gem is 93,530 gross tons in size and has a double capacity of 2,394.

Norwegian Pearl

Launched in October of 2006, Norwegian Pearl is the 3rd Jewel-class ship with the line. At 93,530 gross tons, Pearl has a double capacity of 2,394 guests.

Norwegian Jade

The second Jewel class ship to be built, Norwegian Jade debuted in February of 2006.  However, the ship was originally built as Pride of Hawaii. Jade registers at 93,558 gross tons and has a guest capacity of 2,402 at double capacity.

Norwegian Jewel

The 1st of the Jewel class ships, Norwegian Jewel was launched in June of 2005. At 93,502 gross tons, the ship can carry 2,376 passengers at double capacity.  See what we loved about sailing on Norwegian Jewel.

Pride of America

The only ship in its class, Norwegian’s Pride of America is registered in Hawaii and offers week-long itineraries around the islands. The ship debuted in September of 2002 and can carry 2,500 passengers. Pride of America is registered at 80,439 gross tons.  Read our article on 12 reasons to sail on this ship.

Norwegian Dawn

A Dawn-class vessel, Norwegian Dawn entered service for Norwegian in June of 2002 after originally being intended to operate with Star Cruises. At 92,250 gross tons, the ship can carry 2,340 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Star

Also a Dawn-class vessel, Norwegian Star entered service for Norwegian in November of 2001. The ship was originally intended for Star Cruises before it was transferred to Norwegian Cruise Line. At 91,740 gross tons, Norwegian Star has a capacity of 2,348.

Norwegian Sun

A Sun-class vessel, Norwegian Sun entered service for the company in 2001. At 78,309 gross tons, the ship can carry 1,936 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Sky

Another Sun-class ship, Norwegian Sky was originally ordered by Costa Cruises.  From 2004-2008 the ship sailed as Pride of Aloha and now Sky does short sailings to the Caribbean. Christened in 1999 as Norwegian Sky, the vessel is registered at 77,104 gross tons and has a capacity of 1,928 guests.  Read our review on Norwegian Sky here.

Norwegian Spirit

The oldest ship in the fleet, Norwegian Spirit was launched in 1998 but was acquired by Norwegian in 2004.  Originally the ship was built for Star Cruises and was named Superstar Leo.  At 74,500 gross tons, Norwegian Star has a capacity of 1,996 passengers.

Meyer Werft is unveiling the world’s first 100% battery powered cruise ship that is over 80,000 gross tons in size. This groundbreaking ship will be presented at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami next week.

Project Vision is an 82,000 gross ton cruise ship that will be able to accommodate 1,856 passengers. Since the ship will run 100% on battery power, it demonstrates how sustainable innovations can redefine the future of cruise industry. This will result in a 95% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

With the battery system, a large portion of typical European cruise itineraries can be covered. This includes the popular route from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome).

By 2030, around one hundred ports across Europe will offer the required charging infrastructure. Upon request, the cruise ships can also be built as hybrids with small generators, enabling, for example, transatlantic crossings.

The shipyard said that if the technology was available today, they would be able to deliver the first ship in Project Vision in 2031.

The ship will also introduce new architectural approaches to cruise ship design that include eliminating the vertical exhaust shaft that runs through the ship. This enables an entirely new sun deck design with unobstructed views.

This all-weather ship will have an indoor waterpark at the stern that will allow it to be used year round.

Tim Krug from the MEYER WERFT Concept Development Group, gave the following statement:

“We asked ourselves how we can use innovation to reduce CO₂ and contribute to decarbonization — not in 50 years, but much sooner. We enable a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 95%. Every year, MEYER WERFT presents an entirely new and innovative concept at Seatrade Cruise Global, the world’s largest industry trade show, underlining its position as a technological leader.”

Johannes Bade, responsible at MEYER WERFT for the development program behind “Vision,” added:

“With battery‑electric cruise ships, we offer a competitive product that relies on existing technologies. We are opening up entirely new opportunities for our customers to operate sustainably and profitably in the long term.”

It didn’t take long for the official Star Trek cruise of 2027 to sell out.  In fact, you could say it sold out at warp speed. 

The popular themed sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas will be enjoying the 10^th anniversary for “Star Trek: The Cruise” on February 20-27, 2027.

The week-long cruise, still ten months away, sold out in record time, with more than 3,000 devoted Trekkies booking up every cabin on the Voyager-class vessel.

But this isn’t just another Royal Caribbean cruise. It’s a full-ship takeover where the Star Trek universe meets the most loyal fans, and fans have a chance to interact with actors from the show which debuted almost 60 years ago.

What Is Star Trek: The Cruise X?

This isn’t your average Caribbean sailing. Star Trek: The Cruise has been using cruise ships as unique fan conventions since 2017, and 2027 is the 10th anniversary of the event itself, hence the “X”.

The cruise also lines up perfectly with other big Star Trek birthdays like 40 years of Star Trek: The Next Generation, 10 years of Star Trek: Discovery, and 5 years of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.

Having the event on a cruise ship gives it an even more exclusive feel, and since this is the big 10 for the event, it’s no wonder it sold out so fast.

The Ship

Home for the week will be Mariner of the Seas, the last of the Voyager-class vessels. The ship was built in 2003 but overwent a major overhaul and upgrade in 2018 in which things were added like FlowRider, new waterslides, an escape room, Playmakers, Izumi Hibachi, Jamie’s Italian and more.

But of course, everything onboard will get a Star Trek twist, turning the ship into one giant “Un-Conventional Voyage” (the official theme).

Most passengers will be packing some very elaborate Star Trek costumes, if this year is anything like previous years.  And while some will wonder how they even fit those costumes into their suitcases, special theme nights make for an even more immersive experience.

Where Is It Going?

The 7-night cruise sets sail on February 20, 2027, from New Orleans, Louisiana.  This is a first-time departure port for the event.

The itinerary includes stops at:

• Cozumel, Mexico
• George Town, Grand Cayman
• Montego Bay, Jamaica

Then the ship returns to New Orleans on February 27.

The Star-Studded Crew

What really sets this cruise apart is the incredible lineup of Star Trek stars who will sail with the fans. Confirmed guests include legends and fan favorites from across the franchise:

• George Takei (Sulu from The Original Series)
• Jonathan Frakes (Riker from The Next Generation)
• LeVar Burton (Geordi La Forge)
• Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher)
• John de Lancie (Q)
• Denise Crosby, Nana Visitor, Chase Masterson, Casey Biggs, Robert Picardo, Garrett Wang, Tim Russ, Connor Trinneer
• Newer stars like Jason Isaacs, Mary Wiseman, Wilson Cruz, Mary Chieffo, Todd Stashwick, Mica Burton, Celia Rose Gooding, Melissa Navia, Dan Jeannotte, Dawnn Lewis, and Noël Wells

Plus, there’s a “Science Squad” of directors, lecturers, and authors that will offer their insight during the cruise.

Cruisers can expect panels, Q&As, meet-and-greets, photo ops, and surprise appearances throughout the week.

What Will the Cruise Actually Be Like?

While you might think of this cruise as just another Star Trek convention, but it’s not called the “Un-Conventional Voyage” for nothing.  It’s billed as a way more relaxed and immersive experience.

The cruise will offer things like:

• Themed parties and night-time events (including Starfleet uniform nights and cosplay)
• Live shows, improv, trivia, karaoke, game shows, and script readings
• Yoga, tastings, blackjack tournaments, all with a Trek spin
• Panels and behind-the-scenes stories from the stars
• Non-stop opportunities to hang out with fellow fans and celebrities

How Much Does It Cost?

The bad news is that the ship is already sold out.  You can join the waiting list, but who knows how many other people are already on that same list.

Pricing is per person based on double occupancy (two people sharing a cabin) and includes all the special Star Trek events, parties, and entertainment.

Here’s a quick look at starting rates (before $400 per person in taxes, fees, and gratuities):

• Interior cabins: From about $2,570 (past guests) to $3,470 (new guests)
• Oceanview cabins: From about $3,730 to $4,790
• Balcony cabins: From about $4,580 to $5,170
• Suites: From about $5,810 up to $12,990 for the Royal Suite

Payment plans are available, and there are discounts for military, past guests, and those who pay in full early.

Why Is It So Popular in the Star Trek Community?

Nowhere else can you spend a full week living and breathing Star Trek with the actual actors who made the shows famous.  Plus, you’re on a cruise ship sailing the Caribbean. 

The fact that it sold out so quickly shows how passionate the fanbase really is,  and how special this event has become over the past decade.

If you missed out this time, keep an eye on the waitlist. Star Trek: The Cruise has a habit of selling out fast.

You can head to startrekthecruise.com for the latest updates and waitlist info.

It only took me one cruise to come down with an incurable case of “Cruise Fever”.  And this very website is a testament to how much we love to cruise. 

But even loyal cruisers have those moments on the ship when it just makes them stop and think, “There has to be a better way to do this.”

A recent Reddit thread asked a community of cruise lovers a simple question:

“What is your least favorite aspect of cruising?”

In less than 24 hours, over 600 comments poured in. These weren’t from “cruise haters,” but from people who cruise often because they love it.  They had plenty to say about everything from “buffet etiquette” to the dreaded “luggage dance.”

After diving into the discussion, I’ve compiled the 12 most common themes that drive even the most loyal cruisers crazy. 

I can relate with most of these, so it helps to know it’s not just me wishing a few tweaks could be made while enjoying the best vacation possible.

1. The Disembarkation Luggage Dance

Nothing kills the last morning vibe faster than having to pack the night before, line your bags in the hallway, and wake up earlier than any other day of the cruise. 

Getting up early isn’t so bad if you have an amazing port of call to look forward to.  But when it’s time to go home, it’s got to be the worst part of any cruise.

Even if you mostly pack in the morning, like I do since I always do self-assist, the early departure requirement and navigating elevators and stairs with luggage in hand tends to leave a bittersweet feeling (mostly bitter).

“One of the hardest parts is having to be packed and out so early on the last day — it ruins the relaxed vacation feel,” one comment stated.

2. Pool Chair Hoggers

Another popular complaint is one that sadly has been an issue for a while now.  And although cruise lines have attempted to monitor pool-side loungers, leave little warning notes, and even remove belongings if they remained unattended for too long, it’s still a problem.

Towels mysteriously appear on prime loungers at sunrise, “saving” spots for hours while their owners are nowhere to be found.

The crew don’t really have time to act as meter maids, effectively putting “boots” on those parked towels and beach bags, but I will admit there has been some progress in this area.

Some cruisers decide to take matters into their own hands.

“I throw their stuff off and sit down every single time,” one said.  With another wanting more enforcement:  “Wish cruise lines would actually enforce their rules around hogging chairs.”

3. Elevator Etiquette

Waiting forever for an elevator only to watch groups cram in for just one or two floors or fail to let people off first is a headache some wish would go away.

Many cruisers note that stairs would often be faster for able-bodied passengers.
“It astounds me how lazy people can be… at least 85% of the people waiting for a lift to go up two floors could easily walk it.”

A while back I wrote an entire “survival guide” on elevator etiquette for cruise ships that you can check out here.

I recommend taking the stairs as much as possible so you can avoid the gym and not feel guilty about all those extra calories you’re consuming on the ship, but even if you do take the elevator, a bit of patience can go a long way.

4. Aggressive Art & Jewelry Sales

The constant hard sell at art auctions, jewelry shops, and “special” events feels relentless to some, especially when basic items like sunscreen or toothpaste are nowhere to be found.

Stories of impulse buys (and immediate regret) were a common theme in the hundreds of comments.
“Art and jewelry sales.” (the single most-upvoted complaint in the thread)

5. Buffet Hygiene

Watching fellow passengers skip hand-washing, touch their faces or worse, then dive straight into the communal tongs is enough to make anyone lose their appetite.  

Even with the “Washy Washy” songs sung so frequently that they haunt my dreams days after the cruise is over, apparently, some have still not gotten the memo:

You need to wash your hands.

And on top of that, there are certain behaviors like using the tongs, putting the tongs back where they were in the first place etc. that many wish were more commonplace.

Multiple cruisers shared stories that turned them off the buffet for the rest of the sailing.

6. Rude Scooter Behavior

Another complaint was that scooters and large mobility devices sometimes zip through crowds or block gangways and elevators.

While the genuine need is respected by the community overall, the lack of consideration from some was a frustration. 

“Some lady literally ran into my wife’s ankle… looked at her like she was the issue and motored away without saying a word,” one comment stated.

I had a scooter run over my foot in an elevator while on Carnival Celebration one time, and while it was a complete accident, I do blame how small the elevators were and not the person controlling the scooter.   A bigger issue is people who are using scooters who don’t need them, but that’s another discussion. 

People with mobility issues by all means should have access to scooters, but cruise ships do make it challenging.

7. Not Enough Time in Port

This has always been my biggest problem with cruise ships.  I want more time in port.

Short port calls (often just 6–8 hours) and early departures leave cruisers feeling like they only get a rushed “taste” of destinations rather than a real experience.  This is why I often call cruising the appetizer of travel.

Lack of overnights means missing out on nightlife and relaxed exploration.  While some cruise lines are offering more overnights and extended stays in port, it’s more the exception than the rule.

It’s a much more relaxing experience when you have two days in port, and you can see more sites that are further away from the port itself.

8. Obnoxious Fellow Passengers

Unfortunately, there’s not a lot we can do about this one, although longer duration cruises tend to be on the quieter and less hectic side.

From unsupervised kids jumping lines to loud know-it-alls bragging about their status, the sheer number of people on board can test even the most sociable cruiser’s patience. 

Here were a couple common complaints:
“Far too many of the other people.”
“We love the cruises, just not always the people.”

Finding the right cruise line for you is an anecdote for this as well, as like-minded travelers will have a better experience.  But with thousands of people on a mega ship, there is bound to be at least one person that drives you crazy. 

9. Loud Pool Deck Music

Cruise lines have recently cracked down on Bluetooth speakers in public spaces.  I’m surprised they were even allowed in the first place since there’s enough “noise pollution” in certain areas.

But even the ship’s own music can be pretty loud.

Many cruisers wished for the option of a calmer zone without earbuds as the only escape.

“The super loud music on the pool deck makes the space completely unusable for me,” one commenter admitted.

But if you truly want a calmer pool deck you can look into a cruise line like Viking or Holland America.

10. Casino Smoke (or Smoke in General)

Even on ships that claim to have non-smoking areas, the casino is often one of the few places where smoking is still allowed.  And sometimes that smoke travels.

Non-smokers frequently complain about the strong odor drifting into nearby lounges, walkways, and public spaces, making it hard to enjoy certain parts of the ship.

As one cruiser put it, the smoke in the casino is a major downside for anyone trying to avoid it entirely. 

Newer cruise ships have done a better job of sealing off any smoke issues, but every cruise line handles it differently.  Celebrity Cruises is known to be more strict with smoking, banning it from indoor spaces altogether, even in the casino.

11. Constant Upselling & Nickel-and-Diming

From day-one specialty dining pushes to overpriced “experiences,” the aggressive sales tactics can feel exhausting even to veteran cruisers.

There were quite a few comments that stated they resented being treated like walking wallets after already spending thousands on the trip.

“How even my favorite line has devolved into a constant money grab…” one comment mentioned.

Again, every cruise line is different, and some are more inclusive than others.  But for that ultra cheap cruise vacation fare advertised online, realize that every other little detail will more than likely carry an extra charge.

If you don’t want to go through the “nickel-and-diming” experience, you can look into all-inclusive cruise lines.

12. Flying to the Port

Unfortunately, some of us don’t live right next to a cruise port.  The only options are either a very long drive or a flight.

The stress of airport connections can add some chaos to the trip.  That’s why I always recommend flying to the port city the day before the cruise departs. 

Even a small delay can mean missing your ship entirely if you fly on the day of the cruise.  But that also means booking an extra night at a hotel and getting transportation to the cruise port the next day.  Admittedly, it’s a hassle.

Some commenters stated they’d rather drive to the port for the extra flexibility.  Other just didn’t like the extra variables with flights.

Bottom Line

The truth? While these annoyances above can drive you crazy, I’ll still take a cruise over almost any other type of vacation.  From waking up and opening your curtain to a completely different destination, to incredible food and experiences all within walking distance to your stateroom, cruising still wins for me.  And with new cruise ships pushing the boundaries of technology and experiential travel, I can’t wait to see what the future holds. 

At the same time, wash your hands, be kind, and realize you’re sharing that vacation with a lot of other people.

VidantaWorld Voyages is days away from making their debut at sea with a ship named ELEGANT. The cruise line cut the ship’s capacity by 65% from 600 passengers down to just 216 guests, giving guests more space than ever before.

ELEGANT is promising to be a luxurious ultra-yacht that’s designed for an unhurried experience. The ship will sail seven-night cruises in the Mediterranean with itineraries visiting the French Riviera, Spanish Coast, Azores & Portugal, Greek Islands and Adriatic Sea, and Italian Shores.

The ship will specialize in overnight stays and late night departures. This will allow guests to experience things they normally miss on a cruise. This includes things like enjoying seaside dinners after dark, evening promenades, live music, and nightlife.

The cruise line took a ship that accommodated over 600 guests and cut capacity down to just 216. The result is an ultra-yacht that offers expansive personal accommodations and larger, more numerous lounges to a reimagined dining approach without a traditional main dining room.

The design eliminates the lines, bottlenecks, and congestion typical of conventional cruise experiences, creating a sense of openness, flow, and ease across every deck.

The cruise experience on ELEGANT will be defined by the following:

• Expansive, elegantly appointed suites and staterooms with residential proportions
• Near 1:1 crew-to-guest service levels
• Butler service in the ship’s top-tier accommodations
• Magnificent deck space and generously scaled public areas
• Exceptional openness and width throughout, eliminating congestion and crowding
• Extended stays, late departures, and overnight calls in marquee Mediterranean ports
• Tenders on demand, allowing guests to explore destinations freely and without rigid schedules

ELEGANT will offer a dedicated shore excursion portfolio that’s thoughtfully tailored in every port to cater to discerning guests. From iconic monuments and cultural traditions to the finest regional gastronomy, each experience is curated to reveal the very best of each destination.

The ship will have three destination driven restaurants, eight bar and lounge concepts, and casual cafes and snack venues.

Ivan Chavez, Executive Vice President of Grupo Vidanta, gave the following statement:

“From the beginning, our focus has been about redefining what luxury at sea could feel like. By dramatically reducing guest count, elevating service to near one-to-one levels, prioritizing space and building itineraries around longer stays and late departures, we’ve created a voyage that delivers the high-end experience and flexibility today’s luxury travelers are seeking.”

ELEGANT will sail in the Mediterranean from April 11 through October 2, 2026 and will return May through September 2027.