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Seven Seas Navigator Given Long-Term Charter For New Residential Brand


Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has confirmed it will charter Seven Seas Navigator for nine years to a new luxury residential cruise venture, in a deal that will ultimately see the 490-guest ship leave the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet.

The agreement includes a nominal purchase option for Avora Residences, a new brand owned by Residential Cruise Holdings, which also created Villa Vie Residences and operates Villa Vie Odyssey.

Avora Lumina

Under the arrangement, Seven Seas Navigator will continue sailing for Regent Seven Seas until January 2028, after which the vessel will transfer to Avora and be renamed Avora Lumina.

The 1999-built ship will remain part of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet for the next two years, operating itineraries across Europe, the South Pacific and East Asia before undergoing a substantial refurbishment ahead of its debut in the residential cruise market.

A New Chapter As Avora Lumina

Once it joins Avora in 2028, the vessel will be comprehensively renovated to support long-term residential living. Planned enhancements include redesigned public areas tailored to full-time residents and the addition of a dedicated business centre, reflecting the needs of those living and working at sea.

“Avora Lumina represents the next evolution – purpose-built for long-duration global living, expedition capability, and a more refined residential experience,”

Mikael Petterson, founder of Avora Residences.

Currently configured with 244 all-suite cabins, around 90 per cent of which feature private balconies, the ship will be reimagined with 242 residential units. Avora has emphasised that the concept will prioritise personalisation, allowing owners to customise their homes onboard.

“These are not cruise cabins. They are designed as floating homes – primary residences that travel with their owners for years at a time,” Petterson explained.

Residences will range in size from approximately 300 square feet to nearly 1,200 square feet, with high-end finishes and expansive ocean views forming part of the core design approach.

Continuous Three-Year World Voyages Planned

Avora Lumina is expected to follow a similar operating model to sister brand Villa Vie Residences, which launched its residential ship in 2024. The plan is for Lumina to undertake continuous three-year world voyages, visiting around 140 countries and calling at more than 400 ports.

The ship will offer extended port stays of up to five days, enabling residents to spend more time exploring destinations in depth. Thanks to its polar certification, the vessel will also be capable of expedition sailings to remote regions, including Antarctica.

Culinary programming is set to be another central feature, with regionally inspired menus, locally sourced ingredients and curated food and wine experiences designed to reflect each destination visited.

Buyers will have two purchasing options. A Life-of-Ship Ownership will be priced between 545,000 US dollars and 4.2 million US dollars. Alternatively, a five-year ownership plan will be available, with prices starting from 219,600 US dollars. Avora has said the pricing structure was designed to be competitive with traditional residential property in major global cities.

Fleet Renewal Underway At Regent

The departure of Seven Seas Navigator will mark the exit of the oldest ship in the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet, as the luxury line prepares to introduce its new Prestige-class vessels.

Regent currently operates six ships, with Seven Seas Prestige under construction and scheduled to enter service in December 2026. A further three Prestige-class ships are planned for delivery in 2030, 2033 and 2036.

In February 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced an additional newbuild for each of its three brands, with all vessels to be constructed at Fincantieri in Italy, underscoring a significant period of fleet expansion and renewal for the group.

The charter agreement comes amid changes at the top of the parent company. On 12th February 2026, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings appointed board trustee John W. Chidsey as chief executive officer, replacing Harry Sommer. The leadership change followed criticism from the company’s largest shareholder, Elliott Investment Management, which had raised concerns about strategy and leadership.

While the executive reshuffle has drawn attention, the agreement with Avora Residences is understood to have been progressing well before Sommer’s departure, forming part of longer-term fleet planning within the group.

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Celebrity Solstice Emerges From $250 Million Revamp With Brand New Venues


Passengers boarding Celebrity Cruises’ newly revitalised Celebrity Solstice this week are stepping onto a ship that has undergone a sweeping transformation as part of a $250 million fleet-wide investment.

Celebrity Solstice

The 15-year-old vessel departed Singapore on 2nd March 2026 following a comprehensive bow-to-stern refurbishment, marking the first completed upgrade in the cruise line’s Solstice-class enhancement programme, first reported in March 2025.

The ship is currently operating a 12-night sailing to Hong Kong, where guests are experiencing a host of new concepts introduced during dry dock.

In total, eight new experiences have been added, alongside four venues that are completely new to the brand: Trattoria Rossa, Sunset Park, The Parlor and Boulevard Lounge.

New Dining And Entertainment Concepts Debut

A key addition is Sunset Park, an open-air space on the top deck designed to transition from daytime activities to evening social events. During the day it hosts yoga sessions and lawn-style games, while live music features after dark. Private cabanas with dedicated attendants are also available.

Celebrity Solstice Sunset Park

The venue is complemented by the new Sunset Park Café, serving breakfast and lunch options including sandwiches, quiches, pastries, salads and wraps. Charcuterie boards are offered throughout the day. The adjacent Sunset Bar has also been expanded as part of the redesign.

For dining, Trattoria Rossa introduces a menu focused on Roman and Southern Italian cuisine, with seafood, meat dishes and house-made pasta taking centre stage.

Celebrity Solstice Fine Cut Steakhouse

Fine Cut Steakhouse, previously exclusive to the line’s Edge Series ships, has also been added to Celebrity Solstice, bringing 30-day dry-aged steaks and premium seafood options on board.

Boulevard Lounge, a new 125-seat entertainment venue, will host piano singalongs, karaoke sessions and interactive game shows. Next door, Boulevard Bar provides a dedicated cocktail space.

Celebrity Solstice Boulevard Lounge

The ship’s main theatre has debuted two new productions: “Smoke and Ivories”, inspired by 1950s-era music, and “Rockumentary”, a concert-style rock show. A candlelit string concert series has also been introduced.

The Parlor, another first for the brand, combines sport and gaming with billiards, darts and board games, alongside a menu of shareable plates and desserts.

“Celebrity Solstice launched our Solstice Series ships and defined a generation of Celebrity Cruises travel… The reimagination honors that heritage while setting a new standard for what an elevated vacation can be.”

Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.

Expanded Suites And Wellness Upgrades

The refurbishment has also delivered significant changes to accommodation. The 121,878-gross-ton ship now offers 1,479 cabins following the addition of 54 new staterooms, alongside redesigned interiors and expanded suite spaces.

Among the new categories is the Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suite, featuring a forward-facing layout that blends indoor and outdoor living through a reconfigurable window system. Two new Panoramic Ocean View Suite categories provide enlarged living areas and sweeping forward views, while a Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View option delivers a non-suite alternative.

Celebrity Solstice Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View Suite

AquaClass staterooms, designed with a wellness focus, have been refreshed with upgraded spa-inspired amenities. Enhancements include massaging showerheads, aromatherapy diffusers, in-room yoga mats, upgraded robes and slippers, and a pillow menu. Guests in this category continue to enjoy exclusive access to Blu restaurant and the Persian Garden thermal suite.

The Retreat, the ship’s suite-only enclave, has also been redesigned. Its sundeck now includes an oversized hot tub, increased shaded seating and expanded outdoor lounge areas reserved for suite guests. The private Retreat Lounge has been updated with new furnishings and finishes, while Luminae remains the dedicated restaurant for suite passengers.

Following her Asia and Australia deployments, Celebrity Solstice will sail in Alaska for the summer 2026 season before embarking on an extended Grand Voyage.

The 110-night itinerary departs on 13th September 2026 and features more than 55 unrepeated port calls across Alaska, the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and Asia. The sailing is scheduled to conclude with a New Year’s Eve arrival in Hong Kong, rounding off the ship’s first year back in service following its extensive transformation.

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Princess Cruises Adds Barbados Homeport For Expanded 2027 And 2028 Southern Caribbean Season


Princess Cruises is to expand its Southern Caribbean deployment for 2027 and 2028 by introducing Barbados as a new homeport, giving guests the option to sail either roundtrip from San Juan or roundtrip from Barbados.

Crown Princess in the Caribbean from Barbados

The move will see more than 30 voyages across 15 destinations offered during the two seasons, with sailings operated by Crown Princess and Emerald Princess.

It marks a significant boost for UK and European guests in particular, thanks to the availability of direct flights into Barbados.

Crown Princess will operate voyages from January to March 2027, while Emerald Princess will take over for the winter programme from November 2027 through to March 2028. Itineraries range from six to nine nights, with seven night cruises forming the core of the schedule.

All sailings will include a call to San Juan, regardless of departure port, and will feature a range of island combinations throughout the season. Ports of call across the programme include Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Tortola.

Greater Choice For UK Travellers

By adding Barbados as a turnaround port alongside San Juan, Princess Cruises is aiming to make access to the Southern Caribbean easier for British and European guests.

Direct flights to Barbados operate from Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham, providing a straightforward option for travellers wishing to join a fly cruise.

Flights can be arranged independently or through the line’s Plane Sailing programme, which offers additional protection in the event of flight delays, including late arrival cover for the ship’s departure.

“This expansion to include Barbados departures adds even greater variety in the highly sought after Southern Caribbean and provides greater convenience to our guests travelling from the UK.

“Our Southern Caribbean itineraries include a mix of standout islands and hidden gems, from the lush scenery of St. Lucia to the calm beauty of Tortola, all paired with the exceptional service that Princess is renowned for.”

Eithne Williamson, vice president for Princess Cruises UK, Ireland and EMEA

Sample Fares And Key Dates

A seven night Southern Caribbean cruise on Crown Princess, sailing roundtrip from Barbados and calling at San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Dominica and Grenada, is priced from £699 per person. The sailing departs on 12th March 2027.

Meanwhile, Emerald Princess will offer a winter and spring 2027 to 2028 programme that includes both Christmas and New Year holiday departures.

A seven night festive sailing departing 24th December 2027 from Barbados, with calls to San Juan, Tortola, St. Kitts, Dominica and Grenada, is available from £759 per person.

The new Barbados roundtrip cruises are due to go on sale at 8:00am on Thursday 5th March 2026.

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Six Cruise Ships Stranded In Middle East As Conflict Escalates And Sailings Cancelled


Six cruise ships remain unable to leave the Middle East after the joint US and Israeli strike on Iran on 28th February 2026 triggered a rapid escalation in the region, forcing cruise lines to cancel departures and keep vessels in port.

MSC Euribia

With Iran retaliating and the Strait of Hormuz currently closed to shipping, vessels cannot reposition to safer waters without entering a zone considered highly dangerous.

At the same time, attacks on regional airports have made it unsafe for many guests to fly home, leaving thousands stranded onboard with no confirmed timeline for departure.

As of 1st March 2026, ships from MSC Cruises, TUI Cruises, Celestyal Cruises and Aroya Cruises remain affected.

MSC Cruises Holds Euribia In Dubai

MSC Cruises has confirmed that MSC Euribia will remain docked in Dubai until further notice after cancelling its 1st March 2026 sailing from Doha, Qatar.

The LNG-powered vessel had been scheduled to call in Dubai between 27th and 28th February and is now berthed at Cruise Terminal 3 at Port Rashid.

“In alignment with the national authorities, it has been decided to remain in the port of Dubai until further notice,” MSC wrote in a letter to impacted guests.

Passengers are permitted to go ashore during the extended stay but have been advised to remain within the cruise terminal area for safety reasons.

TUI Cruises Cancels Multiple Sailings

TUI Cruises has two ships caught up in the disruption, with Mein Schiff 4 in Abu Dhabi and Mein Schiff 5 in Doha when tensions escalated.

Passengers onboard both ships have been instructed to remain indoors and away from windows while the line assesses developments in coordination with authorities.

“We are monitoring the situation very closely and are in constant contact with the relevant authorities as well as the security departments of our parent companies TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Group,” the cruise line said in an update.

By the afternoon of 28th February, the cruise line had cancelled Mein Schiff 4’s planned 7-night departures on 1st and 2nd March. Mein Schiff 5’s 10-night sailing scheduled to begin on 28th February was also scrapped.

Further changes remain possible. On 1st March, TUI issued a notice to guests booked on Mein Schiff 6 concerning flights from Singapore from 3rd March 2026 via Doha, Abu Dhabi or Dubai, warning that last-minute alterations could be required.

“We are already in close contact with the airlines. Should any last-minute changes to your itinerary be necessary, we will contact you immediately and proactively,” the update stated.

Tensions were brought into sharp focus on 1st March when two drones crash landed in Port Zayed, Abu Dhabi, while Mein Schiff 4 was alongside. Guests were assembled in the theatre as a precaution while crew assessed the situation. Onboard operations have since resumed as normally as possible.

Passengers aboard the 2,506-guest vessel have reported that crew are reviewing supplies, including medication and baby essentials, to ensure sufficient provisions for at least a week if required. A dedicated family hotline has also been established for relatives seeking updates.

Celestyal Extends Port Stays

Celestyal Cruises initially paused operations for 24 hours but has since extended the delay for at least one vessel.

Celestyal Journey

Celestyal Journey will now remain docked in Doha until 7th March.

“We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East in coordination with the relevant authorities…Both ships will remain in port for 24 hours while the situation is assessed,” Celestyal Cruises stated earlier in the crisis.

In a subsequent update shared on social media, the line confirmed: “Celestyal Journey will remain alongside in Doha until March 7. Subject to operating conditions, we then plan to resume our scheduled Desert Days itinerary.”

“Guests currently onboard may choose to remain on Journey until March 7 or disembark in Doha in the interim.”

Embarkations for 7-night sailings scheduled on 28th February and 2nd March for the 1,260-guest ship have been cancelled.

Meanwhile, Celestyal Discovery remains alongside in Dubai. The ship was due to operate a 7-night sailing from Dubai on 28th February and a 4-night cruise from Abu Dhabi on 2nd March, both of which have been cancelled.

“Celestyal Discovery is currently alongside in Dubai. At present, in line with instructions from local authorities, we are unable to disembark guests,” the cruise line added.

Affected passengers are being offered either full refunds or future cruise credit options.

Aroya Cruises Monitoring Situation

Saudi Arabian operator Aroya Cruises also has a vessel impacted. Its only ship, Aroya Manara, which carries up to 3,362 guests, is currently docked in Dubai according to tracking data.

While no official cancellations have yet been announced, the line has cautioned that changes may follow.

“The safety of our guests is our absolute priority…We will keep you informed of any further updates or changes,” Aroya Cruises said in a social media statement.

Strait Of Hormuz Closure Creates Major Challenge

A key factor complicating evacuation or repositioning efforts is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane bordering Iran. Any attempt to sail out of the Gulf would require transit through waters now deemed unsafe.

With commercial aviation also disrupted by attacks on regional airports, cruise lines face limited options to repatriate guests quickly.

The situation remains highly fluid. Cruise operators have advised passengers currently onboard or due to travel to monitor official communications closely and follow all safety instructions as geopolitical tensions continue to unfold.

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Royal Caribbean To Remove Coca-Cola Freestyle Cups From Key Drink Packages


Royal Caribbean International will remove its Coca-Cola souvenir cups from selected onboard drink packages from 15th March 2026, restricting guest access to the popular Coca-Cola Freestyle machines across most of the fleet.

Royal Caribbean Freestyle Cup

The change, which has not been formally announced by the cruise line, was first noticed by guests logging into their upcoming sailings to review beverage package pricing and inclusions. Discussions quickly emerged online after passengers spotted that the cups were no longer listed as part of the Deluxe Beverage Package and the Refreshment Package.

Under the revised terms, guests purchasing either package will no longer receive the Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir cup as standard. Without the cup, passengers cannot access the self-service Freestyle machines, which allow users to create more than 100 drink combinations using touchscreen dispensers.

The adjustment also applies to guests adding a Royal Beach Club Open Bar Day Pass to their package, with the cup similarly excluded.

Souvenir Cup Still Available At Extra Cost

While the cup is being removed as a complimentary inclusion, it has not disappeared entirely. Guests can still purchase the Coca-Cola Freestyle cup as an add-on for a one-off charge of $4.99. The fee is a single payment rather than a daily supplement.

It remains unclear how the change will affect guests who have already prepaid for beverage packages for sailings departing after 15th March 2026. However, it appears likely that sailings departing on or after that date will no longer include the cup as part of the standard package offering.

Importantly, canned and fountain sodas remain included within the applicable drink packages. The only exclusion relates specifically to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. Guests without the souvenir cup will need to order soft drinks directly from a bar or through onboard servers rather than helping themselves at the machines.

Freestyle Coke Machines Independence of the Seas

The Classic Soda Package continues to include one Coca-Cola Freestyle cup per package. Should the cup be lost during the voyage, a replacement can be purchased for the same charge.

Mixed Reactions From Guests

Although Royal Caribbean has not publicly outlined the reasoning behind the decision, some regular cruisers believe misuse of the cups may have played a role.

One guest commented online: “Too many people handed the cup to their kid to use. Just another hack people used that ruined it for others.”

The cruise line has previously tightened drink package policies. In mid-2025, Royal Caribbean introduced stricter enforcement measures aimed at preventing guests from sharing alcoholic beverages covered under package deals.

However, other passengers questioned whether the move would significantly curb misuse, noting that those determined to share access could still pay the $4.99 for the cup and continue similar behaviour.

Some guests suggested the change could also reduce waste, as not all passengers made use of the souvenir cups even when they were included.

“I rarely used it. My kid and I had the soda package and 99.9% of the time we just went to the bar to get a soda. My wife and son had an alcohol package. They never used it,” one guest shared.

“At the end of the cruise we left them in the room because I don’t need another souvenir cup at home and they couldn’t be used on a future cruise.”

Others simply prefer canned soft drinks or find it more convenient to order from a nearby bar rather than seek out a Freestyle machine.

Freestyle Machines Available On Most Ships

Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are installed across the majority of the Royal Caribbean fleet, typically located in high-traffic areas such as the Windjammer Marketplace buffet, near Sorrento’s Pizza outlets, and sometimes along the Royal Promenade.

There are currently four ships without the machines: Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

In August 2025, the cruise line added Freestyle machines to Liberty of the Seas, signalling continued investment in the self-serve beverage concept. It remains possible that the remaining vessels could receive the machines in future refits.

The Freestyle dispensers offer a wide variety of Coca-Cola branded beverages, including flavoured sodas, iced tea, lemonade, fruit punch and still water. Availability can vary by ship and sailing depending on supply and demand.

For now, however, guests booking Deluxe and Refreshment packages for sailings departing from mid-March 2026 onwards will need to decide whether access to those expanded options is worth the additional $4.99 fee.

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Carnival Ends Third Party Gift Surprises After Champagne Mix Up In Children’s Cabin


Carnival Cruise Line has halted all third-party gift requests after an administrative error resulted in a bottle of champagne being delivered to a cabin occupied by children.

Carnival Cruise Director John Heald

The decision follows an incident involving the line’s long-standing brand ambassador, John Heald, who regularly arranges small celebratory gestures for guests marking special occasions at sea.

The mistake, which stemmed from an incorrect cabin number supplied by the person making the request, prompted an angry complaint and has led to a firm change in policy.

Heald, who receives hundreds of messages each week from passengers celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, retirements and other milestones, shared details of the incident with his followers on Facebook.

“One of the fun parts of my job is to be able to help people celebrate. People write to me and say it’s my birthday, it’s an anniversary or a honeymoon or whatever, divorce, I’m celebrating and I always do my best to send a little something,” he explained.

While he works within a set budget on each ship and cannot fulfil every request, Heald has traditionally tried to accommodate as many as possible. Gifts have ranged from cookies and medallions to bottles of champagne and, on rare occasions, the much sought-after ship-on-a-stick trophy.

How The Mix Up Happened

The issue arose when a frequent Carnival guest contacted Heald to arrange a surprise for close friends who were retiring from the police force. The individual making the request was not sailing but wanted to treat their friends onboard.

champagne

“I sent a bottle of champagne and a medallion,” Heald confirmed.

However, the cabin number provided in the request was incorrect. Instead of reaching the newly retired officer, the champagne and medallion were delivered to a stateroom occupied by two grandchildren.

“I had sent a bottle of champagne to two children,” Heald said. “They had no idea who I was, they just went to Guest Services.”

After spending several days in Miami attending corporate meetings and ship visits, Heald returned home to find an angry email from the intended recipient. According to Heald, the guest accused him of various failings and expressed strong frustration over the delivery.

Heald said he immediately apologised and acknowledged the seriousness of the error, noting that he would have been equally upset had it involved his own daughter.

Policy Change Follows Error

In response, Carnival Cruise Line has introduced a blanket ban on third-party gift requests arranged through Heald and his colleague Jacinta.

“I’m not going to put myself or my colleague Jacinta into that particular nest of vipers,” he said.

He later reiterated the position when responding to further requests. “We are very happy and glad to be able to send something to people actually cruising on the ship but third-party requests are not something that we are permitted to do anymore,” he responded to a more recent request. “Thank you for your understanding.”

The new approach means celebratory gifts can still be arranged for guests who contact Heald directly while sailing, subject to availability and budget, but surprises organised by friends or family not travelling will no longer be facilitated.

Cruise lines maintain strict controls over alcohol service onboard, particularly where minors are concerned, and any misdirected delivery involving alcohol is treated seriously. While the error was caused by incorrect information rather than a systems failure, the incident highlights the logistical challenges of coordinating personalised gestures across large vessels carrying thousands of passengers.

For many loyal Carnival guests, Heald’s small surprises have long been a cherished part of the onboard experience. However, this latest incident demonstrates how even well-intentioned efforts can carry unintended consequences, prompting the line to tighten procedures to avoid a repeat situation.

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Royal Caribbean Revises Liberty Of The Seas Itinerary To Secure Prime Viewing For 12th August 2026 Solar Eclipse


Royal Caribbean has altered the itinerary of Liberty of the Seas to ensure guests enjoy optimal viewing of the total solar eclipse on 12th August 2026, removing a scheduled call to Lisbon in favour of a revised route through northern Spain and France.

Liberty of the Seas

The 9-night sailing, departing Southampton on 7th August 2026, will now position the 155,900-gross-ton ship directly within the path of totality, maximising the chances for the ship’s 4,960 guests to witness the full celestial spectacle at sea.

In a message sent to booked passengers, the cruise line confirmed the change. “To give everyone the best possible total solar eclipse viewing experience during our sailing, we’ll adjust our route after our visit to Gijon, Spain,”.

Itinerary Adjusted To Maximise Totality

Under the revised schedule, Liberty of the Seas will no longer visit Lisbon, Portugal. Instead, after calling at Gijon, the ship will sail directly to Vigo, ensuring it is positioned squarely in the eclipse’s path of totality on 12th August.

Originally, the ship was expected to remain within the 94 to 98 per cent totality zone. While that would have provided a dramatic partial eclipse, it falls short of the complete darkness and full corona visibility that only 100 per cent totality can deliver.

The updated itinerary is now as follows:

  • Friday 7th August – Depart Southampton at 5 pm
  • Saturday 8th August – Day at sea
  • Sunday 9th August – Bilbao, Spain from 8 am to 6 pm
  • Monday 10th August – Gijon, Spain from 9 am to 6 pm
  • Tuesday 11th August – Vigo, Spain from 10 am to 7 pm
  • Wednesday 12th August – Solar eclipse day at sea
  • Thursday 13th August – La Coruna, Spain from 7 am to 6 pm
  • Friday 14th August – Day at sea
  • Saturday 15th August – Le Havre, France from 8 am to 9 pm
  • Sunday 16th August – Arrive Southampton at 5:30 am

Le Havre will serve as the gateway to Paris, replacing what was previously scheduled as a day at sea. La Coruna moves to 13th August, while Vigo shifts forward to 11th August to accommodate the new routing.

Royal Caribbean has confirmed that shore excursions booked for Lisbon will be automatically cancelled, with refunds issued to the original form of payment. Excursions in Vigo and La Coruna will be adjusted to reflect the new dates and times.

Strong Guest Reaction To The Change

While itinerary alterations can often prompt frustration, reaction from booked guests on social media has been largely positive, particularly among those who selected the sailing specifically for the eclipse.

Solar Eclipse

Total solar eclipses are rare events that are highly location dependent. According to TimeandDate, the next total solar eclipse after 12th August 2026 will occur on 2nd August 2027, with the path of totality largely crossing northern Africa.

That trajectory is expected to limit opportunities for cruise ships to position themselves for optimal at-sea viewing compared with the 2026 event.

Despite careful planning and route adjustments, eclipse viewing remains weather dependent. Cloud cover or poor visibility could still impact the experience, regardless of the ship’s precise position within the totality path.

For now, however, Royal Caribbean’s proactive schedule change appears to have reassured guests that the cruise line is committed to delivering what many are billing as a once-in-a-lifetime astronomical experience at sea.

There is still availability for this cruise (book here if you’re interested) although cabins are limited.

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Former Norwegian Cruise Line Executive Arrested In Argentina Over $2 Million Fraud Case


A former senior executive at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has been arrested in Argentina in connection with an alleged fraud scheme said to have cost the cruise giant more than $2 million.

NCL Senior Exec Fraud

Thomas “Tom” Markwell, 54, was taken into custody in Buenos Aires on Monday 23rd February 2026. According to local media outlet Infobae, Interpol agents arrested him in the Palermo neighbourhood in the northern part of the Argentine capital. He is now awaiting extradition to the United States to face multiple criminal charges.

The case was first opened in October 2023, when prosecutors alleged that Markwell and two accomplices orchestrated a long-running scheme involving fraudulent invoices submitted to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. The total amount in question exceeds $2 million.

Alleged Invoice Scheme Spanned Years

Markwell most recently served as Senior Director of Events for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, a role he held from July 2019 until September 2023. While the cruise company has not detailed his precise responsibilities, the position would typically involve organising corporate events, liaising with shareholders and partners, and coordinating corporate gifting and sponsorship activities.

Prosecutors allege that Markwell exploited his authority to approve payments by working with two external accomplices who were not employed by the cruise line or any related company. The pair allegedly issued invoices through a fraudulent supply business known as “The Gifting Company”.

The invoices were reportedly structured to fall below internal financial thresholds that would have triggered additional scrutiny or audit alerts. Authorities claim the documents did not fully disclose the services or products supposedly provided, yet remained within Markwell’s authorised approval limits.

Once the invoices were processed and paid by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, investigators allege that Markwell and his accomplices diverted and shared the funds.

Norwegian Jewel

Court documents state that dozens of transactions were used to carry out the scheme. Among them were at least two payments totalling $165,000, as well as an $82,000 transfer allegedly made directly into his girlfriend’s bank account.

In addition to fraud-related offences, Markwell is facing identity fraud and theft charges. Prosecutors allege he used his girlfriend’s account as part of the operation. There has been no indication that she was aware of or involved in the alleged criminal activity, and she has not been named.

At least seven charges of wire fraud and identity theft have been filed against Markwell. If convicted, he could face a minimum sentence of 20 years in prison under US law.

Markwell, who was born in Illinois, has spent decades working in the travel industry. He was educated at Eastern Illinois University and Robert Morris University, also in Illinois.

Cruise Fraud Cases Continue To Surface

While this case is one of the most significant to directly involve a senior cruise line executive, it is not the only example of alleged fraud connected to the cruise sector in recent years.

There was a recent story of a New York woman accused of operating a fraudulent travel agency that failed to book clients’ holidays, as well as incidents involving fake cruise gift cards, onboard theft and credit card fraud targeting passengers.

In other cases, cruise guests have been arrested in ports such as Miami and in Brazil over financial crimes linked to sailings.

However, allegations involving an executive at a major cruise corporation are comparatively rare, making this one of the largest cases of its kind to surface within the industry.

As extradition proceedings move forward, further details are expected to emerge regarding the extent of the alleged scheme and the status of Markwell’s two unnamed accomplices, whose whereabouts have not been disclosed.

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Storm Disrupts Multiple Cruise Departures From New York And Florida


A powerful winter storm has continued to disrupt cruise operations along the US east coast, with several ships from different lines facing delayed departures and altered itineraries.

Odyssey of the Seas mocked up with snow

According to the National Weather Service, the system has brought blizzard conditions to parts of New York and New Jersey, with between 12 and 24 inches of snow forecast and wind gusts reaching 40 to 70 miles per hour.

The storm has also caused widespread power outages and moderate coastal flooding, directly impacting major cruise homeports in the region. At the same time, a separate weather system in the southern Bahamas has created rough sea conditions, affecting sailings further south.

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas and Star of the Seas, MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway have all been caught up in the disruption.

New York Departures Delayed By Blizzard Conditions

Royal Caribbean International confirmed over the weekend that Odyssey of the Seas would not depart from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey on Sunday 22nd February as originally planned. The decision was made the day before embarkation as the so called bomb cyclone intensified across the north east.

The Quantum Ultra Class ship, which can carry up to 5,510 guests, remained in New Jersey while waiting for conditions to improve sufficiently for a safe departure. It was able to depart the following day.

Guests onboard have shared that they’ve been making the most of it, with several balcony snowmen pictures circulating online!

Across the harbour in Brooklyn, MSC Meraviglia has faced similar challenges. The 171,600 gross ton vessel was also due to sail on Sunday 22nd February for a seven night Bahamas cruise to Port Canaveral, MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve and Nassau.

Guests onboard have reported schedule updates via the MSC for Me app indicating that calls to Port Canaveral and Ocean Cay have been moved to later in the voyage. Nassau now appears to have been removed from the itinerary altogether, though MSC Cruises has yet to publish a formal confirmation of the revised schedule.

In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway did depart Manhattan Cruise Terminal as scheduled on Sunday 22nd February, embarking on her 12 night Caribbean cruise despite challenging conditions.

The 145,655 gross ton ship has been navigating winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour on her southbound route. While there have been no confirmed itinerary changes, the line may still adjust course or speed to avoid the worst of the weather. The current schedule includes calls at Puerto Plata, San Juan, Tortola, St Kitts, St Maarten and St Thomas, before returning to New York on Friday 6th March.

The differing operational decisions between the three ships sailing from New York and New Jersey have prompted confusion among some guests, particularly as two vessels remained alongside while one set sail.

Bahamas Weather Forces CocoCay Cancellation

Further south, Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas has also experienced itinerary changes, though for a different reason.

The ship departed Port Canaveral on Sunday 22nd February for a seven night Eastern Caribbean sailing. However, guests were informed that the call to Perfect Day at CocoCay scheduled for Monday 23rd February would be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions in the Bahamas.

“Due to a weather system expected to bring unfavorable conditions and rough seas to Perfect Day at CocoCay on Monday, February 23, we will be skipping our visit and enjoying a Sea Day instead,” the notification email confirmed.

To compensate for the missed private island visit, Royal Caribbean has extended the ship’s time in St Thomas. Instead of arriving in Charlotte Amalie at 12.30pm on Wednesday 25th February, Star of the Seas arrived at 8am, giving passengers significantly more time ashore.

Weather related disruptions are not uncommon during the winter months, particularly along the US east coast. Cruise lines typically prioritise safety when making decisions about delayed departures and port cancellations, even if it results in last minute changes for guests.

Travellers sailing in affected regions are being advised to monitor official communications closely for the latest updates.

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Robert Downey Jr Named Godparent Of Disney Adventure Ahead Of Singapore Debut


Hollywood star Robert Downey Jr. has been confirmed as the official godparent of Disney Cruise Line’s newest and largest vessel, Disney Adventure, in a major announcement made on 23rd February 2026.

Robert Downey Jr Disney Adventure

The 208,000 gross ton ship, which has been purpose-built for the Asian market, will become the biggest vessel in the fleet and is scheduled to begin sailings from Singapore next month.

The casting of Downey in the ceremonial role strengthens the ship’s ties to the Marvel franchise, a cornerstone of Disney’s global entertainment portfolio.

Announcing the appointment, Josh D’Amaro, incoming Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, said: “Our new ship continues Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of bringing great stories to life at sea, and we are honored that Robert Downey Jr., who has guided audiences through unforgettable Marvel stories, is the official godparent for the Disney Adventure.”

Downey, who won an Academy Award and is widely associated with the Marvel Cinematic Universe, also shared his thoughts on the appointment.

“It’s impossible to describe the majesty of the Adventure, and to be its godparent is an honor. As the largest ship in the Disney fleet, a gargantuan blessing must be bestowed … I’ll do my darndest,”

Marvel Connection At Sea

Downey’s appointment is closely aligned with the onboard experiences planned for the 6,700-guest ship. The actor portrayed Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man, for 11 years, culminating in blockbuster hits including Avengers: Endgame, which generated more than $2.79 billion at the global box office.

He is also set to return to the franchise in Phase Six with Avengers: Doomsday, although this time he will take on the role of Doctor Doom rather than the hero he previously embodied.

On board Disney Adventure, guests will find the first-ever Marvel Landing, an expansive themed zone featuring three headline attractions. Among them is Ironcycle Test Run, billed as the longest roller coaster at sea and inspired by Iron Man. Two further rides, Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin, draw on Ant-Man and The Wasp and Guardians of the Galaxy respectively.

Passengers will also have opportunities to meet Marvel characters during their sailing, with appearances expected to include Iron Man.

Singapore Sailings Set To Begin In March

After several months of delay, Disney Adventure is now preparing to enter service. The vessel was officially delivered to Disney in December 2025 and made a brief call at Port Canaveral while repositioning to Asia.

At the time of writing, the ship has arrived in East Asia and is sailing towards Tokyo. Her permanent homeport will be Singapore, where she will operate three and four-night cruises to nowhere.

The maiden voyage is scheduled for 10th March 2026 and will be a three-night sailing. While the official christening date has not yet been revealed, it is widely expected to take place in the days leading up to the inaugural cruise.

Disney Adventure represents a significant expansion for Disney Cruise Line in the Asian market, marking the first time the company has designed and built a ship specifically with the region in mind. With a Hollywood A-lister now confirmed as godparent and a strong Marvel presence on board, the line is clearly aiming to make a high-profile statement as it enters this new chapter.

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