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Explora Journeys has confirmed plans to expand into river cruising, two months after reports first emerged that MSC Group was considering entering the European river cruise market through its luxury brand.

The company announced on 24th September 2026 that it had signed a Letter of Intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first luxury river ships.

The agreement marks the clearest step yet towards Explora Journeys moving beyond ocean cruising, although significant details about the new operation have not yet been disclosed.

Explora Journeys has not revealed how many river ships it intends to build, when the first vessel will enter service or which European waterways will feature in its initial programme. The company has, however, confirmed that sales are planned to open in 2027.

The announcement follows reports in July that MSC Group was evaluating a potential move into European river cruising through Explora Journeys. At the time, there had been no official confirmation from the company and no shipbuilding agreement had been announced.

That position has now changed substantially, with the Letter of Intent confirming that Explora Journeys is actively pursuing the development of a river fleet.

New Ships Planned With Dutch Shipbuilder

Explora Journeys has selected Den Breejen Shipyard for the proposed new vessels. The Dutch shipbuilder, based in Hardinxveld-Giessendam, has previous experience constructing river cruise ships for operators including Scenic, Emerald and Avalon Waterways.

The company has not yet released specifications for the Explora vessels, leaving their size, passenger capacity, accommodation and onboard facilities unknown.

There is also no confirmed delivery timetable. Explora Journeys said further information covering ship design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and the first itineraries would be announced at a later date.

The line has indicated that the ships will operate on some of Europe’s best-known rivers, but has not named individual waterways or destinations.

Explora Journeys intends to bring elements of the luxury positioning it has established at sea to its river operation. The Geneva-based company is part of the privately owned MSC Group and began ocean operations in 2023.

Its ocean fleet has expanded to three ships following the arrival of EXPLORA III in 2026. EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II entered service in 2023 and 2024 respectively, while three further ocean ships are due to expand the fleet through 2028.

EXPLORA IV is scheduled to follow in early 2027, with EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI subsequently joining the fleet.

The river project will therefore develop alongside a continuing expansion of the company’s ocean operation rather than replacing or slowing its existing fleet plans.

More Ocean Cruise Brands Move Onto Europe’s Rivers

Explora Journeys’ announcement comes during a period of growing interest in river cruising from companies traditionally associated with large ocean ships.

Celebrity Cruises is preparing to launch Celebrity River Cruises in August 2027, with the Danube and Rhine among its initial destinations. Celebrity’s river cruises for 2027 and 2028 are already on sale.

Celebrity has also substantially increased the scale of its plans since its river operation was first announced. The cruise line now says it has 20 river ships on order, with the first two scheduled for delivery in 2027 and the remainder expected to arrive by 2031.

Explora Journeys has not yet indicated whether its own plans will eventually reach a comparable scale.

The decision to sign a Letter of Intent nevertheless moves the project beyond the evaluation stage reported earlier in 2026 and establishes a shipbuilding partner for the proposed fleet.

For now, several of the most important details remain outstanding, including the number of ships covered by the plans and when passengers will first be able to sail aboard them.

More information is expected ahead of the planned opening of sales in 2027.

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Holland America Line has finished a comprehensive transformation of its Bahamian private island ahead of the destination’s milestone 30th anniversary.

The transformation introduces an exclusive Beach Club concept and sweeping upgrades across the tropical retreat.

The enhanced facilities at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay will debut on more than two dozen Caribbean itineraries departing between October 2026 and April 2027. This marks one of the most significant investment periods in the island’s three-decade history.

The centrepiece of the transformation is a brand-new Beach Club, which opens for advance bookings from early October 2026.

The exclusive venue represents Holland America’s most significant addition to the island since its acquisition in the late 1990s.

Guests purchasing day passes to the Beach Club will benefit from priority tender service directly from their ship to the island. This ensures they maximise their time ashore.

The package includes dedicated waiter service throughout the day, eliminating queues and allowing guests to remain in their chosen beachfront spots.

All alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the day pass price, alongside specialty food offerings that go beyond the standard island fare.

Beach accessories such as snorkelling equipment and water sports gear are also provided as part of the premium experience. This creates a truly all-inclusive private island retreat.

Leadership Emphasises Guest-Focused Development Strategy

Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, emphasised the cruise line’s commitment to preserving the island’s existing appeal whilst elevating the overall experience.

“Every enhancement at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay is centred on creating an even more exceptional experience whilst building on everything guests already love about the island,” she stated.

The president expressed enthusiasm about the timing of the unveiling as the cruise line prepares to welcome its first visitors in October.

“It’s exciting to unveil the Beach Club as we prepare to welcome our first visitors in October,” Bodensteiner added.

The measured approach to development reflects Holland America’s longstanding reputation for sophisticated, destination-focused cruising that appeals to experienced travellers.

Rather than transforming the island into a theme park-style attraction, the line has concentrated on elevating comfort levels and service quality whilst maintaining the natural beauty that has made Half Moon Cay a favourite amongst cruise passengers for nearly three decades.

Complimentary Dining Pavilion Expands Culinary Options For All Guests

Beyond the premium Beach Club offerings, Holland America has constructed a new food pavilion that will serve all island visitors at no additional charge.

The purpose-built venue will feature an island-exclusive barbecue menu, providing guests with freshly prepared meals in a tropical setting.

The complimentary dining expansion ensures that passengers who opt not to purchase Beach Club access still benefit from the island’s transformation.

This two-tiered approach allows Holland America to cater to varying budgets and preferences amongst its diverse passenger base.

Existing bars and eateries across the island are also undergoing comprehensive renovations to modernise their facilities and improve service flow during peak periods.

The upgrades address capacity concerns that can arise when multiple ships call at the destination simultaneously. This is a growing consideration as cruise lines schedule more frequent visits to their private island retreats.

Expanded Beachfront Infrastructure Addresses Growing Demand

The physical beach infrastructure has been significantly expanded to accommodate growing passenger volumes and evolving preferences for premium outdoor experiences.

Upgraded cabanas offer enhanced privacy and comfort for families and groups seeking a more secluded island experience.

Additional daybeds have been distributed across the beach area, providing comfortable lounging options for guests who prefer a more relaxed beach day.

These raised, cushioned platforms have become increasingly popular at beach destinations worldwide, offering a middle ground between traditional beach chairs and premium cabana rentals.

Upgraded canopy loungers designed for two people provide couples with shaded, intimate spaces to enjoy the Caribbean sun without the full cost of a private cabana.

The introduction of these mid-tier options reflects the cruise industry’s broader trend towards offering multiple price points for enhanced experiences.

Additional beach chairs ensure that all guests can find comfortable seating, regardless of whether they’ve pre-booked premium amenities or are simply enjoying the complimentary beach access that comes with their cruise fare.

Active Recreation Facilities Maintained Following Successful Introduction

The four pickleball courts introduced during the previous season remain a permanent fixture of the island’s recreational offerings.

The retention of these facilities follows positive guest feedback and strong usage rates during their inaugural season.

Pickleball has experienced explosive growth across North America and increasingly appeals to the demographic that forms Holland America’s core passenger base.

The sport’s combination of social interaction, moderate physical activity, and easy learning curve makes it ideal for cruise passengers seeking active shore excursions without strenuous demands.

The courts provide a unique alternative to traditional beach activities and water sports. This allows guests who prefer land-based recreation to remain active during their island visit.

This diversification of amenities reflects Holland America’s understanding that modern cruise passengers seek varied experiences even during beach days.

Half Moon Cay Approaches Significant Anniversary Milestone

The enhancements arrive as RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay prepares to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2027.

This marks three decades since Holland America first introduced private island destinations to its Caribbean itineraries.

The Bahamian retreat has served as a cornerstone of the line’s Caribbean programming throughout this period.

Located in the southern Bahamas, the 2,400-acre island features a crescent-shaped beach stretching for more than two miles. This offers one of the most expansive private beach experiences in the cruise industry.

Only a fraction of the island has been developed, preserving its natural character whilst providing modern amenities.

The destination has consistently ranked amongst the highest-rated private islands in guest satisfaction surveys. It competes with similar retreats operated by Carnival Corporation sister brands and other major cruise lines.

This strong performance has justified continued investment in the property over three decades.

Holland America’s commitment to upgrading the island ahead of this milestone anniversary demonstrates the strategic importance of private destinations in contemporary cruise itineraries.

Such exclusive stops provide differentiation in an increasingly competitive Caribbean market. They deliver highly controlled, reliable experiences that aren’t subject to local infrastructure limitations or port congestion.

Caribbean Deployment Schedule Showcases Enhanced Destination

More than two dozen Caribbean itineraries scheduled between October 2026 and April 2027 will feature calls at the enhanced Half Moon Cay.

This gives thousands of passengers the opportunity to experience the upgrades during the peak winter Caribbean season.

This deployment schedule aligns with traditional demand patterns, as North American cruisers seek warm-weather escapes during colder months.

The October 2026 launch timing allows Holland America to debut the facilities at the beginning of the Caribbean season.

This generates early feedback that can inform any operational adjustments before peak holiday periods.

It also enables the cruise line to market the new offerings throughout the summer and early autumn booking season when many passengers finalise winter cruise plans.

The substantial number of scheduled calls reflects Half Moon Cay’s central position in Holland America’s Caribbean strategy.

Private island destinations have become essential competitive advantages, with cruise lines investing hundreds of millions of dollars in these exclusive retreats over the past decade.

Private Island Competition Intensifies Across Cruise Industry

Holland America’s investment in Half Moon Cay occurs within a broader industry context of escalating competition amongst private island destinations.

Royal Caribbean International has invested heavily in Perfect Day at CocoCay, whilst Norwegian Cruise Line has developed Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye.

MSC Cruises has established Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

These exclusive destinations have evolved from simple beach stops into sophisticated resort-style experiences featuring water parks, zip lines, beach clubs, and premium dining venues.

The arms race reflects cruise lines’ recognition that private islands deliver exceptional guest satisfaction whilst generating significant ancillary revenue through upcharge experiences.

For Holland America, which positions itself in the premium segment with a focus on destination immersion and sophisticated experiences, the measured enhancement approach maintains brand consistency.

Rather than introducing thrilling attractions that might appeal to families with young children, the line has concentrated on elevated comfort and culinary experiences that resonate with its core demographic of experienced, affluent travellers.

The Beach Club concept, in particular, aligns with broader luxury travel trends emphasising personalised service and all-inclusive convenience over adventure activities.

This strategic positioning differentiates Half Moon Cay from more action-oriented private islands whilst potentially commanding premium pricing that enhances profitability.

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Royal Caribbean International’s Icon of the Seas will remain docked overnight at PortMiami following embarkation on 26th September 2026. This change forces the cancellation of a scheduled port call and triggers compensation for affected passengers.

The world’s largest cruise ship requires maintenance work that will delay departure by approximately 24 hours. However, the cruise line has not disclosed the nature of the technical issues.

Guests booked on the seven-night sailing are still required to board Icon of the Seas on Saturday, 26th September as originally scheduled. This is in compliance with United States Customs and Border Protection regulations.

Instead of the ship departing that evening as planned, passengers will remain aboard whilst docked in Miami until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, 27th September.

Royal Caribbean communicated the change directly to booked guests via email, which has since been shared across social media platforms including Reddit. “Due to required maintenance, we’ll now depart from Miami, Florida on Sunday, September 27, 2026, instead of Saturday, September 26, 2026,” the notification confirmed.

The unexpected overnight stay transforms what would typically be an embarkation day into an extended pre-cruise experience. This change is constrained by federal maritime regulations that limit certain onboard operations whilst in port.

Limited Facilities Available During Extended Port Stay

Whilst Icon of the Seas remains docked at PortMiami, passengers will have access to most of the ship’s extensive amenities. These include bars, lounges, entertainment venues, dining establishments, and spa services.

The 250,800-gross-tonne vessel boasts an impressive array of facilities across its 20 decks, many of which will remain operational during the extended port call.

However, certain revenue-generating areas must remain closed until the ship officially departs United States waters. Casino Royale, the ship’s onboard gaming facility, and all retail shops will be unavailable to guests throughout Saturday night and Sunday morning.

This is in accordance with maritime law governing casino operations and duty-free shopping. The regulatory restriction is standard procedure for all cruise vessels whilst in American ports.

It is designed to protect local businesses and ensure compliance with gaming legislation. Once Icon of the Seas departs at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, these facilities will open for passenger use.

Shore Leave Granted With Specific Time Restrictions

Recognising that passengers may wish to explore Miami rather than remain aboard a stationary vessel, Royal Caribbean will permit guests to disembark for time ashore.

The gangway will remain open following embarkation on Saturday, allowing passengers to venture into the city. However, they must return by 8:00 p.m. that evening when the gangway closes for the night.

On Sunday morning, shore access will resume, with the gangway reopening at a time to be announced by the ship’s crew. Passengers will again be permitted to leave the vessel, but must observe an all-aboard time of 2:30 p.m.

This allows for 90 minutes before the scheduled 4:00 p.m. departure. This flexibility offers guests an opportunity to experience Miami’s attractions, dining, and nightlife during what would otherwise be a frustrating delay.

The cruise line’s decision to grant shore leave demonstrates a passenger-focused approach to an unavoidable operational challenge. However, guests should factor in additional expenses for meals and activities ashore during this unplanned time.

Costa Maya Port Call Eliminated From Revised Itinerary

The 24-hour delay in departure has forced Royal Caribbean to cancel Icon of the Seas’ scheduled call at Costa Maya, Mexico, originally planned for Monday, 28th September from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Instead, passengers will spend Monday as an additional sea day, altering the cruise’s overall port-to-sea-day ratio.

The original itinerary featured four port calls across the seven-night voyage. This offered passengers diverse experiences across three destinations in Mexico and Honduras, plus Royal Caribbean’s private island destination.

With Costa Maya’s removal, the sailing now includes three ports of call. All remaining port visits continue as scheduled, with no further modifications to the itinerary.

Icon of the Seas will still call at Roatan, Honduras on Tuesday, 29th September from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by Cozumel, Mexico on Wednesday, 30th September from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

After a full sea day on Thursday, the ship will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay – Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island – on Friday, 2nd October from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., before returning to Miami on Saturday, 3rd October.

Substantial Onboard Credit Offered As Compensation

Royal Caribbean has proactively offered affected passengers refundable onboard credit as a “gesture of goodwill” for both the delayed departure and the loss of the Costa Maya port call.

The compensation varies by stateroom category, reflecting the different price points passengers paid for their accommodations. Guests staying in inside and oceanview staterooms will receive $300 USD per cabin.

Those in balcony accommodations will receive $350 USD. Suite passengers, who typically pay premium prices for enhanced accommodations and services, will receive $800 USD per stateroom.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean will provide an extra $50 USD for third and fourth guests booked within the same stateroom, regardless of cabin category. This per-person addition acknowledges that larger travelling parties experience proportionally greater inconvenience from the itinerary change.

The onboard credit is refundable, meaning passengers can choose to receive a cash refund rather than apply the compensation towards onboard purchases. This flexibility is noteworthy, as cruise lines typically offer non-refundable credits.

These must be spent aboard the vessel on items such as drinks packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, or speciality dining.

Shore Excursions Automatically Cancelled And Refunded

Passengers who pre-booked shore excursions in Costa Maya through Royal Caribbean will see those tours automatically cancelled. Full refunds will be processed to the original form of payment.

This standard procedure for port cancellations removes the administrative burden from guests. They need not contact the cruise line separately to request refunds.

However, passengers who independently arranged tours, transport, or activities in Costa Maya through third-party operators must manage those cancellations themselves.

Royal Caribbean bears no responsibility for refunds or cancellation fees associated with independently booked services. This highlights the protection advantages of purchasing shore excursions directly through the cruise line.

The cruise line has confirmed that shore excursions for Roatan, Cozumel, and Perfect Day at CocoCay remain unchanged and will operate as originally scheduled. Passengers who booked tours at these destinations should experience no disruption to their planned activities.

Nature Of Required Maintenance Remains Undisclosed

Royal Caribbean has not publicly disclosed the specific nature of the “required maintenance” necessitating Icon of the Seas’ extended port stay. This lack of detail leaves passengers and industry observers speculating about whether the work addresses a minor technical issue, a regulatory compliance matter, or a more significant mechanical concern.

Modern cruise vessels are extraordinarily complex operations, with systems governing propulsion, electrical generation, water treatment, safety equipment, and countless other functions. Routine maintenance is carefully scheduled during planned drydock periods.

This makes unplanned maintenance somewhat unusual – though not unprecedented – in the cruise industry. The fact that Royal Caribbean characterises the work as “required” rather than “optional” or “precautionary” suggests the maintenance addresses a compliance or safety issue that cannot be deferred.

Maritime regulations enforced by classification societies and flag state authorities mandate specific standards for vessel operations. Cruise lines cannot sail if systems fall below these thresholds.

Icon of the Seas entered service in January 2024 as Royal Caribbean’s newest and most innovative vessel. It represents a $2 billion investment in cutting-edge cruise technology.

At just over two years old at the time of this incident, the ship remains relatively new. However, even modern vessels occasionally require unscheduled maintenance.

Icon Of The Seas Represents Royal Caribbean’s Flagship Innovation

Icon of the Seas holds the distinction of being the world’s largest cruise ship, with capacity for 5,610 passengers at double occupancy. It can accommodate up to 7,600 guests at maximum capacity.

The vessel spans 1,198 feet in length and features 20 passenger-accessible decks, offering an unprecedented range of amenities and entertainment options. The ship introduced numerous industry firsts when it debuted.

These include the largest waterpark at sea, six waterslides, seven pools, and the Caribbean’s first suspended infinity pool. Category 6, the ship’s waterpark, features thrilling slides such as Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea.

Royal Caribbean invested heavily in creating distinct neighbourhood concepts aboard Icon of the Seas. This divides the vessel into eight themed areas including Thrill Island, Chill Island, the Aquadome, Central Park, the Royal Promenade, the Surfside family neighbourhood, the Suite Neighbourhood, and the Hideaway adults-only retreat.

This design philosophy aims to offer something for every type of cruiser whilst managing passenger flow across the massive vessel.

The ship’s propulsion system incorporates advanced environmental technology, including liquefied natural gas capability. This makes it one of the industry’s most environmentally progressive vessels.

This commitment to sustainability represents a significant investment in reducing the environmental impact of cruise operations.

No Impact Reported On Subsequent Sailings

Royal Caribbean has indicated that at present, no additional sailings are affected by the maintenance work being performed on Icon of the Seas. The cruise line expects to complete the required work during the extended overnight stay in Miami.

This allows the ship to resume its regular operational schedule following the delayed 26th September departure. However, the cruise line has advised booked guests on upcoming sailings to maintain close contact with Royal Caribbean in case of further updates.

This precautionary guidance suggests the possibility that if maintenance cannot be completed as planned, additional itinerary changes might become necessary.

Icon of the Seas operates year-round seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from PortMiami. This makes the vessel a cornerstone of Royal Caribbean’s deployment strategy in the world’s most popular cruise market.

Any extended operational disruption would affect thousands of passengers and generate significant financial implications for the cruise line.

The ship’s popularity since entering service has been extraordinary. Many sailings have achieved near-capacity bookings well in advance.

This strong demand reflects consumer enthusiasm for Icon of the Seas’ innovative features and Royal Caribbean’s reputation as a leader in contemporary cruise experiences. The cruise line will undoubtedly work expeditiously to resolve the maintenance issues and preserve passenger confidence in this flagship vessel.

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Royal Caribbean has revised the 25th September sailing of Navigator of the Seas from Los Angeles as powerful Hurricane Polo moves off Mexico’s Pacific coast, cancelling planned calls at Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas and adding Puerto Vallarta to the itinerary.

The 3,990-passenger ship had been due to visit Ensenada on Saturday, 26th September, followed by Cabo San Lucas on Monday, 28th September. Neither port will now be visited as Royal Caribbean adjusts the route to keep the vessel away from the storm.

Guests were informed of the changes in a letter sent on 23rd September.

“Due to inclement weather from Hurricane Polo near Western Mexico, we’ll now enjoy a relaxing Sea Day instead of our scheduled visit to Ensenada, Mexico.”

The revised itinerary will also see Navigator of the Seas visit Mazatlan on Monday, 28th September, one day earlier than originally scheduled.

Puerto Vallarta Added To Revised Route

Royal Caribbean has added Puerto Vallarta to the cruise on Tuesday, 29th September, with Navigator of the Seas scheduled to remain in port from 8am until 6pm.

The ship will then spend two full days at sea while returning to Los Angeles, where the sailing is scheduled to end on 2nd October.

Royal Caribbean said the alterations were being made with passenger and crew safety in mind.

“We’re sorry for the last-minute change caused by the weather – your safety is our top priority. Please know being onboard is one of the safest places to be because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather.”

Guests who purchased Royal Caribbean shore excursions for Ensenada or Cabo San Lucas will receive refunds to their SeaPass accounts in the form of onboard credit.

Category 5 Hurricane Polo Off Mexico

The itinerary changes come as Hurricane Polo remains an extremely powerful Category 5 storm off the southwestern coast of Mexico.

According to the National Hurricane Center’s Advisory 14, Polo had maximum sustained winds of 160mph and was positioned around 240 miles southeast of Manzanillo. The hurricane was moving northwest at approximately 6mph.

The storm’s position and projected movement place it close to areas normally visited during Mexican Riviera cruises from Southern California, prompting Royal Caribbean to move Navigator of the Seas away from its original route.

Another Royal Caribbean ship, Ovation of the Seas, is currently scheduled to visit Ensenada on 29th September during a three-night sailing from Los Angeles departing on 28th September.

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Passengers joining Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas in Southampton on 25th September 2026 will embark and disembark at different cruise terminals, with parking arrangements adjusted to accommodate the change.

The 3,948-guest ship is due to begin its eight-night sailing from Horizon Cruise Terminal on Friday before returning to City Cruise Terminal on 3rd October.

ABParking has contacted passengers with parking reservations to explain how the arrangements will work. According to the parking operator, the terminal change was requested by Royal Caribbean so the ship can use shore power supplied from the local electricity grid while alongside.

“We are writing to advise you of the parking arrangements for your upcoming sailing on Liberty of the Seas, which is scheduled to depart from Horizon Cruise Terminal on 25th September 2026 and returning to City Cruise Terminal on 3rd October 2026,” the email read.

“Please note that these arrangements have been requested by your cruise line, rather than ABParking, to allow shore power from the local grid to supply the ship while it is in port.”

Parking arrangements for passengers

Guests arriving by car for embarkation have been advised to enter the Port of Southampton through Dock Gate 8, at the eastern end of Herbert Walker Avenue.

Parking staff are expected to direct arriving drivers to the appropriate area, while porters will be available to collect luggage once vehicles have been parked.

Passengers using accessible Blue Badge parking will also have access to a complimentary shuttle between the car park and terminal. The service is designed to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

ABParking has asked guests to print their parking permits in advance and display them clearly when approaching the terminal to help keep traffic moving.

The change should cause relatively little inconvenience when passengers return because Horizon Cruise Terminal and City Cruise Terminal are next to one another and are approximately a quarter of a mile apart.

Liberty of the Seas is scheduled to arrive back at City Cruise Terminal on Saturday, 3rd October, leaving passengers with only a short distance to reach the relevant parking area after disembarkation.

Boat show could add to Southampton traffic

The terminal arrangements come as Southampton is also hosting the Southampton International Boat Show, which is running from 18th to 27th September 2026 at Mayflower Park and the neighbouring marina.

The event traditionally attracts around 100,000 visitors and takes place close to City Cruise Terminal, increasing the prospect of heavier traffic in the port area during Liberty of the Seas’ embarkation day.

The show includes live music, boats and marine exhibits, trade stands, talks and on-water activities including paddleboarding, kayaking and diving experiences.

Passengers travelling to the port by road may therefore encounter congestion or temporary traffic restrictions and should allow additional time to reach Horizon Cruise Terminal ahead of embarkation.

Liberty of the Seas is scheduled to depart Southampton at 5pm on 25th September. No changes have been announced to the ship’s itinerary, which includes calls at Le Havre, Bilbao, La Coruna, Vigo and Cherbourg before returning to Southampton on 3rd October.

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Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has overhauled its Oceans Loyalty Club, introducing a new top membership tier for its most frequent guests and expanding the benefits available across the programme.

The new Signature level will be awarded to guests who have accumulated at least 1,001 nights with Fred. Olsen, placing it above Diamond as the highest of six membership levels.

The revised programme will apply to sailings departing after 30th September 2026 and includes changes to rewards ranging from cruise and shore tour discounts to Wi-Fi, cabin upgrades and onboard benefits.

New Signature Tier For 1,001-Night Guests

Oceans Loyalty Club members progress through the programme according to the number of nights they have sailed with Fred. Olsen. Membership begins at Bronze after the first night, followed by Silver at 31 nights, Gold at 101, Platinum at 251 and Diamond at 501.

Signature now becomes the sixth and highest tier, requiring at least 1,001 nights at sea with the cruise line.

Among the benefits for Signature members are complimentary standard Wi-Fi throughout a cruise and a 17.5% onboard discount. Members also receive a 12.5% shore tours discount, along with a 5% cruise discount regardless of how far in advance they book.

Other Signature benefits include dedicated check-in and priority disembarkation on cruises departing from the UK, priority table reservations and invitations to shoreside events on World Cruises and Grand Voyages of at least 70 nights.

Signature members booking a Freedom Fare will also be eligible for a complimentary cabin upgrade, subject to availability, which is applied close to departure.

Diamond, previously known as Diamond-Elite, remains the second-highest level and continues to apply from 501 nights. Fred. Olsen said the “Elite” wording has been dropped following guest feedback, with Signature becoming the new tier above it.

Diamond members receive a 15% onboard discount and 10% shore tours discount, as well as a 50% reduction on standard Wi-Fi packages. They also retain benefits including priority table reservations, dedicated check-in and priority disembarkation on UK departures.

Changes Across Oceans Membership Levels

The revised Oceans programme continues to offer benefits from the lower membership levels, although the rewards increase as guests accumulate more nights.

Bronze members, starting from one night, can receive 5% off cruises when booking at least 12 months in advance. The same cruise discount becomes available closer to departure as members move through the tiers, with Silver requiring a booking at least nine months ahead, Gold six months and Platinum three months. Diamond and Signature members can receive the 5% discount when booking at any time.

Onboard discounts begin at 5% for Silver and Gold members before increasing to 10% at Platinum, 15% at Diamond and 17.5% at Signature. The onboard discount cannot be combined with Fred. Olsen’s Premium Drinks Package.

Shore tour discounts start at Gold level, where members can receive 5% off tours booked before their cruise. Platinum members receive a 7.5% discount, increasing to 10% for Diamond and 12.5% for Signature.

Welcome benefits also vary by tier. Gold members receive a bag of chocolates per cabin on eligible cruises, while Platinum, Diamond and Signature guests can choose between laundry vouchers and a number of hot drinks, with the entitlement increasing at the higher levels.

Oceans parties are available to Silver members and above on cruises of at least seven nights, while Diamond and Signature members can also attend exclusive Oceans coffee mornings on voyages of 14 nights or longer.

Fred. Olsen has also retained its Introduce a Friend benefit. Members can receive onboard credit when an eligible friend sails, with the amount ranging from £25 per person at the lower tiers to £50 per person for Diamond and Signature members.

Oceans membership is automatically linked to time spent sailing with Fred. Olsen, with one cruise point earned for each night onboard. Points are added after a voyage, although they become void if more than five years passes between cruises. Guests booking Saver Fares can continue earning points but do not receive the full range of onboard Oceans benefits available with Freedom Fares.

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A Royal Caribbean passenger barred from sailing after being accused of breaking casino rules, including through card counting, has won the right to pursue a consumer claim seeking A$22,000 over five cruises he says he had earned through casino play.

Mark Timothy Grant took the dispute to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal after arriving at the Brisbane cruise terminal with his partner and son and being refused boarding.

Grant had expected to embark on the first of five Royal Caribbean cruises which he says were awarded through his casino activity. However, the cruise line had placed him on a “no sail” list.

He is seeking A$22,000, representing the value he places on the five cruises.

The case does not establish that Grant engaged in card counting or other prohibited casino activity, nor has the tribunal determined that Royal Caribbean is liable to compensate him.

Tribunal Allows Consumer Claim To Continue

Grant’s claim was initially dismissed by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, but he appealed that decision.

On 14th September 2026, Senior Member Samantha Traves allowed the consumer dispute to proceed, clearing the way for Grant to continue pursuing his claim against the cruise line.

The appeal decision concerns whether the dispute can proceed rather than determining the underlying allegations or whether Grant is entitled to the A$22,000 he is seeking.

Royal Caribbean operates its Club Royale casino loyalty programme aboard its ships, allowing guests to accumulate points through casino play and potentially receive benefits and offers, including complimentary cruises.

The programme’s terms provide for benefits and offers to be withdrawn in certain circumstances, including when members breach applicable rules or are prohibited from sailing or gambling.

Whether those provisions entitled Royal Caribbean to take the action it did against Grant will form part of the underlying dispute rather than having been settled by the appeal decision.

Previous Casino Exclusion Dispute

Grant has previously been involved in legal proceedings concerning so-called advantage play at casinos, although that case involved a different operator and circumstances.

In a separate dispute involving The Star casinos in Queensland, Grant and another player challenged decisions to exclude them following allegations involving edge sorting.

Edge sorting is a technique in which a player attempts to identify cards by recognising differences or irregularities in their backs.

In a 2022 decision, the tribunal found there were no reasonable grounds for the exclusions under the legislation being considered in that case and set them aside.

That ruling related to The Star, different events and a separate legal question. It therefore does not determine the outcome of Grant’s current consumer claim involving Royal Caribbean.

The latest tribunal decision leaves the substantive dispute unresolved, with Grant now able to pursue his claim over the five cruises he says he was prevented from taking.

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Ambassador Cruise Line has acquired Oceania Cruises’ Sirena and will use the vessel to launch a new German operation in 2028, while also securing a recurring winter charter arrangement with Semester at Sea.

The 30,200-ton, 670-passenger ship was purchased from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and will initially remain with Oceania under a leaseback agreement through spring 2028.

After leaving the Oceania fleet, Sirena will be renamed Ambella and begin sailing for the newly created Ambassador Kreuzfahrten brand. The move will take Ambassador into Germany alongside its existing operations in the UK and France.

Ambassador’s entry into Germany follows its expansion into the French market through the acquisition of CFC, which has since been renamed Ambassador Croisière.

Ambella To Launch From Germany In 2028

Ambella is scheduled to begin its first Ambassador season in May 2028, operating an adults-only product developed specifically for German-speaking passengers.

The inaugural programme will run until September and comprise 11 cruises departing from Bremerhaven and Kiel, together with two repositioning voyages. Bookings are due to open in November 2026.

Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea will feature prominently in the programme, while selected itineraries will also take Ambella to Southern Europe.

Ambassador said the vessel’s relatively small size will allow the new brand to include destinations and ports that are less suitable for larger cruise ships.

The company plans to position Ambassador Kreuzfahrten towards experienced cruise passengers, couples and river cruise customers interested in moving into ocean cruising. Its onboard offering is expected to emphasise personalised service and upscale dining while retaining Ambassador’s focus on value.

Germany represents a significant expansion for the company as it seeks to build a broader European presence in the over-50s cruise market.

“The acquisition of the Oceania Sirena, its future launch as the Ambella, and the launch of Ambassador Kreuzfahrten represent a significant milestone in our journey to establish Ambassador as Europe’s leading cruise provider for affordable quality in the silver segment,” said CEO Christian Verhounig.

“When we launched Ambassador in 2021, we recognized a clear market gap for an affordable, high-quality cruise experience that is authentic, welcoming and accessible. We set out to combine the traditions of classic cruising with the standards and expectations of today’s guests, and this philosophy remains fundamental to our success,” he added.

Semester At Sea To Use Ambella During Winter

Ambella will not remain with Ambassador throughout the year. After completing its first German summer season, the vessel is due to be chartered to the Institute for Shipboard Education, which operates the Semester at Sea programme.

The ship is scheduled to host the fall 2028 and spring 2029 Semester at Sea programmes before returning to Ambassador for its summer 2029 cruise season.

Ambassador expects the alternating arrangement to continue over the longer term, effectively dividing the vessel’s annual deployment between summer cruise operations in Europe and Semester at Sea voyages during the winter period.

The acquisition also resolves the identity of Sirena’s previously undisclosed buyer. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings had announced the sale of the vessel earlier in 2026 without naming its new owner.

Sirena entered service in 2000 and was originally built for Renaissance Cruises as the fourth vessel in its eight-ship R-class series. The design subsequently became widely represented across the premium and luxury cruise sectors.

The ship will continue sailing for Oceania Cruises under the leaseback arrangement before its transition to Ambassador and conversion to the Ambella identity ahead of the 2028 German programme.

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Royal Caribbean Group is reportedly in talks to acquire a majority stake in Sandals Resorts International, a potential deal that would significantly expand the cruise company’s presence in the Caribbean holiday market beyond ships and private destinations.

The negotiations have not resulted in a final agreement and could still collapse, according to the Financial Times, which first reported the talks. Neither Royal Caribbean Group nor Sandals Resorts International has publicly confirmed that a transaction will take place.

Sandals, the Jamaica-based operator of all-inclusive Caribbean resorts, has been valued at more than $6 billion. If an agreement is reached, Royal Caribbean could become the controlling shareholder in the resort company, with the possibility of ultimately taking full control.

Sandals Resorts International has said it does not comment on market speculation, while Royal Caribbean Group has not issued a public statement on the reported negotiations.

Potential Deal Would Push Royal Caribbean Further Into Land Holidays

An investment in Sandals would mark a major expansion of Royal Caribbean Group’s interests outside cruising and give the company a substantial position in the Caribbean’s land-based resort sector.

Sandals operates couples-focused all-inclusive resorts across Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Barbados, the Bahamas, Antigua, Curaçao, Grenada and Saint Vincent. The company also operates Beaches Resorts, its family-oriented sister brand.

Founded in Jamaica in 1981 by Gordon “Butch” Stewart, Sandals opened its first property in Montego Bay and has since developed into one of the Caribbean’s best-known all-inclusive resort businesses. Together, Sandals and Beaches are also among the region’s largest private employers.

A controlling interest would give Royal Caribbean a business capable of selling conventional resort stays alongside the cruise holidays already offered through its brands. It could also create opportunities for cruise-and-stay packages or other combinations of land and sea holidays, although no such plans have been announced.

Sandals’ existing model differs from Royal Caribbean’s cruise operations but targets some overlapping segments of the Caribbean holiday market. Its resort packages include accommodation, dining, drinks, WiFi, airport transfers, gratuities and selected water and land activities within the overall holiday price.

The Sandals brand focuses on couples and has developed a substantial wedding and honeymoon business, while Beaches caters to families.

Royal Caribbean Has Been Building Its Land-Based Portfolio

The reported talks come as Royal Caribbean continues to invest in destinations designed to extend its holiday offering beyond the ships themselves.

Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas has become a major part of Royal Caribbean International’s Caribbean itineraries, while the company has also been expanding its Royal Beach Club concept.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau is part of that strategy, with additional destination developments planned for Cozumel in Mexico, Santorini in Greece and Lelepa in Vanuatu.

Those projects remain closely connected to Royal Caribbean’s cruise business, providing destinations and experiences for passengers travelling aboard its ships. An investment in Sandals would represent a different type of expansion by giving the group a direct interest in multi-night resort holidays that can operate independently of a cruise itinerary.

It could consequently broaden the company’s exposure to Caribbean tourism while opening opportunities to market different types of holidays to customers already familiar with its cruise brands.

There are also differences between the businesses. Royal Caribbean International caters to families, couples and groups rather than operating as an adults-only cruise line, whereas the Sandals brand specialises in couples-only resorts. Beaches, however, provides an established family-focused counterpart within the wider Sandals business.

Despite the potential significance of the negotiations, there is no certainty that they will produce a transaction. The reported discussions remain just that, and the companies have not announced an agreement, purchase price, ownership structure or timetable.

Until a deal is formally reached and confirmed, Sandals Resorts International remains independent and Royal Caribbean’s reported interest represents a potential expansion rather than a completed acquisition.

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Pete Tong performed an exclusive 90-minute DJ set for P&O Cruises guests aboard Arvia during the ship’s late-night visit to Ibiza on Saturday, 19th September.

More than 900 guests attended the performance in Arvia’s SkyDome while the ship was berthed at Ibiza’s Botafoc Pier as part of a 14-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Southampton.

The event brought one of dance music’s best-known figures to a venue aboard the 184,700-gross-tonne ship, with the SkyDome transformed into an Ibiza-style nightclub for the evening. Big Zuu and Melvin Odoom were among those attending the performance.

Tong said: “I’m still thinking about Saturday night. I loved playing in the SkyDome on Arvia. Thanks to everyone who came along and made it so special.”

An Ibiza-themed food and drink offering accompanied the performance. Guests were served Hierbas Ibicencas, a traditional herbal liqueur produced in Ibiza and Formentera using a blend of 18 locally sourced botanicals, including thyme, rosemary, mountain mint and citrus peels.

Ibiza-inspired cocktails and regional dishes were also available at Arvia’s Sunset Bar.

Pete Tong’s career in dance music

Tong has spent more than three decades as a DJ, producer, broadcaster and music industry executive and is closely associated with the development and international promotion of electronic dance music.

His broadcasting career has included presenting dance music programming on BBC Radio 1, while his work as a DJ has taken him to clubs and arenas around the world.

His career was recognised with the Music Industry Trusts Award in 2021 for his contribution to music and broadcasting.

Tong has also released a series of albums combining electronic music with orchestral arrangements. Classic House reached number one on the UK Albums Chart following its release in 2016, with subsequent projects continuing the concept.

“Bringing Pete Tong to Arvia in Ibiza was a fantastic opportunity to create something truly special for our guests.

“Pete has played such an important role in shaping the global dance music scene and having him perform exclusively for P&O Cruises in Arvia’s SkyDome felt like a perfect fit. We are always looking for ways to surprise and delight our guests with experiences they wouldn’t expect to find on a cruise holiday, and this was a brilliant example of that.”

Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises

Arvia continues Western Mediterranean itinerary

The Pete Tong performance took place during a 14-night roundtrip cruise from Southampton which departed on 13th September.

The Western Mediterranean itinerary included calls at La Coruña, Malaga, Alicante, Ibiza, Marseille, Barcelona and Cadiz, with Arvia remaining in Ibiza for a late-night departure.

Arvia’s SkyDome is a glass-enclosed pool and entertainment space designed to host activities throughout the day before becoming an evening entertainment venue. Previous performers in the space have included the ship’s godmother Nicole Scherzinger and Take That singer Gary Barlow.

The ship entered service for P&O Cruises in December 2022 and operates a mixture of Mediterranean, Caribbean and Canary Islands itineraries.

The Pete Tong appearance added another high-profile music event to P&O Cruises’ onboard entertainment programme, with the Ibiza call providing a direct connection between the performance and an island that has played a significant role in Tong’s career and the development of modern club culture.

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