News

A powerful storm sweeping across the US Northeast has forced multiple cruise lines to postpone sailings from New York-area ports, leaving thousands of passengers unexpectedly docked as heavy rain, rough seas and strong winds battered the region.

The severe weather temporarily suspended pilotage services in New York Harbor – which are mandatory for all ship arrivals and departures – effectively grounding operations until conditions improve.

Multiple Major Ships Affected

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise ships, remains docked at Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey.

The 228,081-gross-ton ship, which can accommodate more than 5,500 guests, had been due to depart on 12th October 2025 for a 7-night Bahamas cruise calling at Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Instead, the ship is staying in port until the harbour and coastal conditions are deemed safe for departure.

The visits to Port Canaveral and Nassau have been cancelled, and once the ship departs it will sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay only before returning to New York.

Guests have been told that they will receive a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equivalent to the first two nights of their cruise fare, and were also offered discounted drinks on the second day of the cruise.

Anyone who had booked a Deluxe Beverage Package instead received a $35 onboard credit, in lieu of the discounted drinks.

Across the river, MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia – which carries up to 5,642 passengers – has also been affected.

The 171,598-gross-ton ship had been scheduled to depart Brooklyn Cruise Terminal the same day for a Bahamas sailing visiting Port Canaveral, Nassau, and Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island.

Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway, docked at Manhattan Cruise Terminal, was also set to leave on 12th October for a 7-night New England and Canada cruise.

The ship, which can host around 3,900 guests, will now depart on 14th October, with a revised itinerary that skips Newport and Boston. The ship will instead sail directly to Bar Harbor once conditions improve.

Guests affected by the change have been promised automatic refunds for cancelled shore excursions, according to a letter from Norwegian Cruise Line.

European Ships Also Impacted

Luxury German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS Europa, which had just completed a 21-night East Coast voyage with 400 passengers, was scheduled to depart New York for Hamburg on 13th October.

That transatlantic repositioning cruise now appears to be delayed as well.

Another German ship, Mein Schiff 1 operated by TUI Cruises, is also in port for an overnight stay with nearly 4,000 guests. The vessel is not set to sail until late on 14th October and may avoid major disruption if conditions ease by then.

Several ships have opened their gangways to allow guests to explore New York City, turning the unexpected delay into an impromptu bonus day ashore.

Widespread Storm Disruption

The powerful coastal storm has brought winds of over 60 mph (97 km/h), waves of up to 15 feet, and several inches of rain across New York, New Jersey, and parts of New England.

Beaches along the New Jersey Shore have suffered significant erosion, while some low-lying areas have experienced overnight flooding.

Both New York and New Jersey declared states of emergency through the evening of 13th October as high tides and flooding risks peaked.

The storm has also caused delays for ships at other East Coast ports, though the system is now moving away from the region.

Once seas calm and pilotage resumes, affected vessels are expected to depart on 14th October, allowing itineraries to proceed – albeit slightly shortened – after an unplanned but necessary pause for passenger safety.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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A new travel and lifestyle brand called RU5H is preparing to make waves in the cruise industry with a series of all-male, adult-oriented voyages and resort events.

The company made its public debut on 28th September 2025 at San Francisco’s Folsom Street Fair, a major annual festival celebrating LGBTQ+ and kink communities.

At the event, RU5H unveiled its branding and confirmed plans for its first full-ship charter cruise, which will be announced in mid-December 2025.

According to the company, RU5H aims to combine luxury travel with “sex-positive freedom and creative self-expression,” offering what it calls “unapologetically progressive experiences” through short cruises, resort takeovers, and themed events.

In a statement, RU5H’s founders said the brand is designed for “men who want to explore, connect, and celebrate themselves in an environment that balances indulgence and hospitality.”

The company’s concept will centre around five themes – sex, stimulation, submission, seduction, and satisfaction – represented in its stylised name, which replaces the “s” with the number five.

While marketed as an “all-gay, all-male” travel experience, RU5H clarified that it welcomes gay, bisexual, pansexual, and male-identifying guests who want to enjoy immersive and inclusive holidays “on their own terms.”

More details about the inaugural cruise, including dates, itinerary, and the partner cruise line, are expected to be revealed in December 2025.

Prospective travellers can register their interest, view a teaser video and enter a competition to win a place on a cruise at ru5h.com.

Niche and Adult-Themed Cruises on the Rise

While RU5H’s concept leans into bold, sexually expressive travel, it represents just one segment of a growing niche cruise market that caters to different lifestyles and comfort levels.

Adult-only cruises have existed for decades, ranging from sophisticated, clothing-optional sailings to LGBTQIA+ charters that focus on community, connection, and culture rather than sexual expression.

For example, nudist or clothing-optional cruises are often centred on body positivity and personal freedom, rather than eroticism.

Guests on these voyages typically value the relaxed, non-judgemental atmosphere and the chance to enjoy life at sea without social barriers – quite literally.

Similarly, LGBTQIA+ cruises are not necessarily sexual in tone. These sailings celebrate queer identity through inclusive entertainment, themed parties, and a sense of belonging, providing opportunities to make friends, form relationships, or simply enjoy a holiday among like-minded travellers.

RU5H’s upcoming launch, however, clearly targets a different audience – one that embraces sexual freedom as part of the travel experience. And for those men, these cruises could be their perfect short break cruise.

For those seeking something more relaxed, romantic, or community-focused, there is no shortage of cruises designed to provide meaningful connections, cultural immersion, and memorable escapes without crossing into explicitly adult territory.

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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has sparked backlash among loyal cruisers after announcing two major onboard and onshore changes – both of which many guests see as yet another example of the line “nickel-and-diming” passengers.

Just days after introducing a new $5 fee for second entrées in the Main Dining Room, the cruise line has quietly rolled out restrictions on room service orders (at least on one ship for now), and confirmed that its popular “More at Sea” beverage package will soon no longer apply at its private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

The timing of both policy shifts has left many NCL fans frustrated, particularly as both follow a pattern of increased onboard fees and reduced inclusions.

New Room Service Limits Leave Guests Confused

Guests onboard Norwegian Sun were the first to report the new room service restrictions, which limit each stateroom occupant to one hot item and one cold item per delivery.

The notice, displayed on cabin TVs and paper menus, reads:

“Each stateroom occupant may order 1 hot item and 1 cold item (bento box) per delivery.”

The rule appears to have been implemented between September and October sailings, and so far applies at least to Norwegian Sun’s 16-night Hawaii to Vancouver voyage – though it’s unclear if or when the policy will extend fleetwide.

The change has caused confusion among passengers, since the policy doesn’t define exactly what constitutes a “hot” or “cold” item. For instance, it’s not known whether a pot of coffee, which serves multiple people, counts as a single item or one per guest.

“I’m wondering if a pot of coffee, eggs, hash browns and toast would be considered four hot items?” one puzzled cruiser posted.

NCL’s room service already carries delivery fees – $4.95 for breakfast and $9.95 for the all-day menu – plus a 20% gratuity on all paid orders. Those fees remain unchanged, meaning guests are now paying the same rate for fewer options.

This effectively prevents guests from ordering a traditional three-course meal in their cabins, such as a salad, entrée, and dessert, unless they pay additional delivery fees for multiple orders.

“Now you cannot get a salad, an entrée, and a dessert. You can only get two items,” one guest complained.

The move comes just after NCL introduced the $5 fee for a second entrée in the main dining rooms – a change many guests saw as a needless cost-cutting measure disguised as food waste reduction.

While both updates could help the line control inventory and limit waste, loyal guests argue that they undermine the all-inclusive appeal of cruising and make NCL feel increasingly like a pay-as-you-go experience.

“More at Sea” Drink Package No Longer Valid at Great Stirrup Cay

Adding to the controversy, Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed that, starting 1st March 2026, guests will no longer be able to use their “More at Sea” unlimited drink package at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas.

Until now, the package has covered beverages both onboard and ashore at the island – one of the biggest draws for many cruisers. Going forward, however, it will only apply while the ship is at sea.

“As we look to transform the on-island experience, we have evaluated our policies and made the decision that shipboard beverage packages will no longer be applicable for drinks on Great Stirrup Cay beginning March 1, 2026,” the line confirmed.

Complimentary drinks such as water, iced tea, and juice will still be available, but guests wishing to enjoy alcoholic beverages will need to purchase a new island-specific drink package, which NCL says will launch in early 2026.

No pricing details have been released yet, but it will be sold separately from the onboard package.

This decision follows NCL’s ongoing $150 million transformation of Great Stirrup Cay, which includes a new multi-ship pier (expected late 2025), an expansive pool area, upgraded lounging spaces, and the Great Tides Waterpark, opening summer 2026.

While these upgrades are intended to enhance the guest experience, many passengers see the separate drink package as a cash grab.

“NCL nickel and diming every chance they get. This is disgusting,” one cruiser wrote on Facebook.

“Your cruises are already overpriced. Here we come Royal,” said another.

Others noted that they would rather book an all-inclusive resort than pay for multiple add-on packages that used to be included in cruise fares.

Mounting Frustration Among Loyal Cruisers

The back-to-back policy changes have sparked growing frustration among NCL’s repeat guests, many of whom have sailed with the line for years.

Several long-time passengers said these latest decisions have eroded their trust, especially when compared to competitors like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, which still allow multiple entrées or apply drink packages to their private island destinations.

“It’s just one thing after another – new fees, new rules, less value,” one Platinum-level guest wrote. “I love Norwegian, but they’re making it really hard to stay loyal.”

Some speculate that NCL is tightening policies to offset higher operating costs and fund new developments such as the Prima-class expansion and the ongoing Great Stirrup Cay enhancements.

However, many believe the line risks alienating its core base of returning customers – the very travellers most likely to spend heavily onboard.

As one commenter put it:

“We understand costs are up for everyone, but these small charges add up fast. NCL used to feel premium – now it just feels petty.”

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Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled more of its 2027–2028 sailings, including a once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse voyage and the return of several fan-favourite itineraries.

The newly announced deployments include extended sailings from Texas and Europe, plus reassuring news for guests who adore the line’s classic Fantasy-class ships.

Carnival Miracle to Sail From Galveston and Europe

The Carnival Miracle will begin her 2027 season sailing from Galveston, Texas, offering a mix of 4- to 10-night voyages across the Eastern and Western Caribbean, plus a 10-night Panama Canal cruise.

Ports of call include Cozumel, Grand Turk, Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Belize, Roatán, Celebration Key, and RelaxAway Half Moon Cay – a line-up that blends beloved Caribbean favourites with Carnival’s growing collection of private destinations.

Following her spring season in Galveston, the Spirit-class ship will set sail on a 14-night transatlantic voyage on 6 May 2027, repositioning to Europe.

Along the way, she’ll visit Bermuda, Funchal (Madeira), and Ponta Delgada (Azores) before arriving in Portugal on 20 May 2027 to begin her European season.

From there, Carnival Miracle will homeport from both Dover (UK) and Civitavecchia (Rome), operating 8- to 12-night itineraries through October 2027. Sailings will explore the British Isles, Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Greek Isles, and the Mediterranean, giving cruisers a diverse range of summer adventures.

“Along with the great summer 2027 season in Europe, the combination of our large and diverse fleet and roster of U.S. homeports allows us to bring more variety and adventure to the 2027/28 season,”

Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president.

Solar Eclipse Cruise

Among the new itineraries, one stands out: an 11-night Carnival Journeys sailing departing Dover on 29th July 2027, perfectly timed to witness a solar eclipse at sea on 2nd August 2027.

The special voyage will include calls to Guernsey, Lisbon, Leixões, La Coruña, Le Havre, and Zeebrugge, combining scenic destinations with an extraordinary celestial spectacle.

“While there will be many ways to view the August 2 solar eclipse, seeing it from Carnival Miracle will definitely be the most fun way to do so,” added Duffy.

This rare sailing follows the success of 2026 solar eclipse cruises across several major cruise brands – with many selling out quickly or, at least, able to justify significantly higher fares than normal without seeing a drop in sales.

With that level of enthusiasm, Carnival’s 2027 eclipse voyage is expected to be equally in-demand. Fares for this cruise are high when compared to Carnival cruises sailing out of the US, but they are relatively equivalent to the typical fare Carnival charges for European cruises.

Fantasy-Class Favourites Staying in Florida

While the Carnival Miracle explores new horizons, Carnival’s two beloved Fantasy-class ships – Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation – will continue sailing from their Florida homeports, reassuring loyal fans who prefer shorter, more traditional Caribbean getaways.

Carnival Paradise will remain in Tampa, offering 4-, 5-, and 6-night Caribbean cruises with stops in Cozumel, Belize, Roatán, Key West, Grand Cayman, Nassau, Celebration Key, Princess Cays, and RelaxAway Half Moon Cay.

Meanwhile, Carnival Elation will stay homeported in Jacksonville, also sailing 4- to 6-night itineraries to the Bahamas. Guests can expect visits to Celebration Key, Princess Cays, RelaxAway Half Moon Cay, and Nassau, depending on the itinerary.

These deployments confirm that both vessels – the last of their class in Carnival’s fleet – will continue welcoming guests through at least spring 2028, quelling speculation that retirement was imminent.

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Cruisers have a reputation for being inventive when it comes to personalising their cabins – sometimes a little too inventive.

Now, another viral clip is making waves after showing a Royal Caribbean passenger who apparently moved a rollaway bed onto her private balcony and settled in for a nap.

The short TikTok video – filmed from another ship docked nearby at Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas – shows the guest snoozing comfortably under a white comforter with a book on her lap and a makeshift nightstand beside her.

The text overlay from the original poster asked, “Why do y’all do this?”

Cruise Lines Warn: Balcony Beds Are a Safety Hazard

While many viewers found the stunt amusing, others were quick to point out that most cruise lines strictly prohibit moving furniture – especially beds – onto balconies.

The reasons are largely safety-based. Sleeping outside increases the risk of falls or slips, particularly if the ship hits rough seas or the weather suddenly changes.

In addition, keeping exits clear is crucial in case of an emergency. A bed blocking the balcony door could create a dangerous obstacle if passengers needed to evacuate via the balcony.

There’s also a practical concern: exposure to salty ocean air and moisture can damage mattresses and bedding, potentially leading to mould or corrosion.

So while the idea of falling asleep to the sound of waves might sound idyllic, it’s not something cruise lines – or their safety officers – would ever recommend.

This guest might have had every intention of moving the bed back into the room before departing Perfect Day at CocoCay – but the crew still wouldn’t have permitted it.

Viewers Say the Real Problem Was Filming Her

Surprisingly, the main debate online wasn’t about safety but about privacy.

Many TikTok users criticised the person who filmed and posted the video, accusing them of invading the woman’s privacy and mocking her unnecessarily.

“They thought it was weird to roll a bed onto a balcony but not weird to record someone who’s minding their own business?!” one commenter wrote.

“People who film others on cruises or at resorts to make fun of them should be banned,” another added. “Let people relax and mind your business.”

The reaction video by TikToker @cartelmarcel – captioned “Let people love their life lol” – received over 2,400 comments, with most defending the sleeper rather than the original poster.

Do Cruise Passengers Have Privacy on Their Balconies?

While filming strangers is generally frowned upon, cruise ship balconies occupy a grey area when it comes to privacy expectations.

Balconies are semi-public spaces – easily visible from neighbouring cabins, ships docked nearby, and even people ashore during port calls.

That means passengers should be aware that they’re often in plain view, even if they feel they’re in a private space.

Earlier this year, one Carnival passenger even requested the cruise line remind guests to close their curtains before docking, after she and her husband – who like to sleep nude – accidentally gave onlookers a morning show when their ship arrived in port.

And there was that time when a couple decided to mark the occasion of a cruise ship sail-away with some frisky business on their balcony…

In today’s world of smartphones and instant sharing, the reality is simple: if you wouldn’t want it on social media, don’t do it in view of others.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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A bride-to-be celebrating her bachelorette cruise has been banned for life from Carnival Cruise Line after being caught smuggling alcohol onboard and posting about it on social media.

The passenger, known as Maddie on TikTok (@madisonwest2000), shared a now-viral video showing how she disguised alcohol inside feminine hygiene product wrappers to sneak it onto the ship.

In the clip, she poured the hidden liquor into her drink while onboard – something that quickly drew attention from fellow TikTok users, many of whom tagged Carnival Cruise Line.

It didn’t take long for ship security to come knocking. In a follow-up video, Maddie said that crew members searched her cabin and found more of the disguised alcohol in her mini fridge.

“He made me change my written statement from ‘brought’ to ‘smuggled’. Again, this was on me and I accept my punishment,” Maddie wrote.

She later confirmed that she received an email from Carnival after disembarking, informing her of a lifetime ban from sailing with the line.

TikTok Troubles Lead to Lifetime Ban

Many of Maddie’s viewers suggested that her mistake was posting the video while still onboard.

However, Carnival can and does take action even after a cruise has ended – as seen earlier this year when another guest was banned for posting a similar smuggling video weeks after returning home.

Under Carnival’s strict alcohol policy, guests are only permitted to bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed wine or champagne per adult in their carry-on luggage.

All other alcoholic beverages are prohibited and will be confiscated without compensation.

“All liquor, beer, and other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages outside of the exceptions referenced above are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage,” the cruise line’s policy states.

The policy exists for several reasons: safety, responsible service, and – primarily – revenue. Cruise lines must monitor alcohol consumption carefully to prevent dangerous behaviour onboard, and they rely heavily on bar and beverage sales as part of their overall income.

“Please Let Me Back On”

After receiving her ban, Maddie admitted regret in a follow-up post, saying Carnival held a special place in her heart because she met her fiancé on one of the line’s cruises.

“Me and my husband actually met on a Carnival cruise so Carnival means a lot to us. So it kinda sucks that I got banned. So I take it all back. Just let me back on, please,” she pleaded.

Unfortunately for her, cruise lines rarely overturn lifetime bans once they’ve been issued.

Little Sympathy From Cruise Fans

While some viewers sympathised with her disappointment, most commenters were unsympathetic, noting that Carnival’s alcohol policy is clear and that her punishment was self-inflicted.

“I’m sorry because I got caught. Actions have consequences,” one person wrote.

“Please don’t hold me accountable for decisions I make as an adult. What a joke,” another added sarcastically.

The incident serves as a cautionary tale for would-be rule breakers. Smuggling alcohol onto a cruise ship might seem like a harmless prank, but as Maddie learned, it can cost you your cruising future.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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CroisiEurope, Europe’s largest river cruise operator, is introducing the first-ever paddlewheel cruises on the River Seine in 2026, unveiling two brand-new itineraries aboard its elegant paddlewheel ship, MS R.E. Waydelich L.J.

The new cruises will offer guests the chance to explore some of France’s most scenic and culturally rich regions, combining Parisian landmarks, royal palaces, and charming riverside villages with the distinctive experience of paddlewheel cruising.

Two New Seine Itineraries

The first sailing, Little Gems of the Seine, is a five-night roundtrip cruise from Paris calling at Melun, Saint-Mammes, Corbeil-Essonnes, and La Roche-Guyon.

Highlights include visits to the Château de Fontainebleau, once home to kings and emperors; Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris; Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny; and La Roche-Guyon, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France with its stunning château nestled between the Seine and chalk cliffs.

The cruise is priced from $1,694 per person, including all meals, drinks, WiFi, port fees, and repatriation insurance.

Departures are available between March and November 2026.

The second itinerary, The History of France: From Paris to Normandy, is a seven-night roundtrip voyage from Paris, offering a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.

This longer itinerary visits Melun, Mantes-La-Jolie, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen, and La Roche-Guyon, with excursions to Versailles, Fontainebleau, Monet’s gardens, and the MuseoSeine, which explores the history of navigation on the river.

Fares start from $2,398 per person, including all meals, drinks, WiFi, port fees, and repatriation insurance, with departures between April and September 2026.

Modern Paddlewheel Comfort

Sailings take place aboard the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J., a modern paddlewheel vessel designed to navigate the shallow stretches of the Seine with minimal environmental impact.

The ship accommodates 81 guests across 42 cabins and features a restaurant, lounge bar with dancefloor, and a spacious sun deck – offering a relaxed, boutique cruising experience in quintessential CroisiEurope style.

CroisiEurope’s paddlewheel design has already proven successful on other European rivers, such as the Elbe and the Loire, where traditional propulsion systems are less suitable.

This innovative approach combines old-world charm with modern technology – offering smooth navigation and a distinctively nostalgic experience.

About CroisiEurope

Founded in 1976, CroisiEurope is a family-owned company based in Strasbourg, France, and is widely recognised as Europe’s leading river cruise line.

The brand operates more than 50 ships, including river vessels, canal barges, and coastal cruisers that sail across Europe and beyond -from the Rhine, Danube, and Douro to the Mekong and Africa’s Chobe River.

The company is known for its French heritage and hospitality, with cuisine inspired by regional traditions and menus created by top French chefs.

Onboard, guests enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere with a distinctly European flair – smaller ships, friendly service, and itineraries that visit lesser-known ports and cultural landmarks.

CroisiEurope has also been a pioneer in sustainable cruising, introducing innovative propulsion systems, hybrid engines, and paddlewheel technology to reduce fuel consumption and minimise the environmental footprint of its vessels.

With the launch of the new Seine itineraries, the line continues its tradition of innovation – combining French elegance, historical exploration, and eco-conscious design in one unique offering.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Royal Caribbean is promising its “most legendary vacation yet” with the upcoming Legend of the Seas, the third ship in the cruise line’s groundbreaking Icon class.

Although the ship won’t set sail until July 2026, the cruise line has lifted the curtain on a spectacular line-up of entertainment, dining, and adventure experiences designed to redefine family cruising.

“With Legend of the Seas, we are bringing to life our most legendary vacation yet as we continue to push the boundaries with more of what guests know and love,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean.

Legendary Entertainment at Sea

Headlining the ship’s entertainment programme will be a full-scale ocean-going production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

The Broadway hit, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, will blend whimsical storytelling with Royal Caribbean’s hallmark high-tech stage magic and elaborate set design.

Guests can also expect the return of Royal Caribbean’s signature AquaTheater spectaculars, featuring divers, dancers, acrobats, and robotics performing amid fountains and projection effects.

On ice, Legend of the Seas will host the fleet’s largest skating arena, Absolute Zero, where guests can even lace up their own skates for open sessions.

Adrenaline Meets Innovation

Adventure-seekers will have plenty to look forward to with the Category 6 waterpark, boasting six twisting slides, including free-fall drops and multi-rider raft slides.

The Crown’s Edge ropes course will suspend guests 154 feet above the ocean, while Adrenaline Peak rock climbing, the Lost Dunes mini-golf course (a re-design for this ship), and seven pools provide endless outdoor thrills.

Younger sailors will have their own fun at Splashaway Bay, while adults can unwind in any of the 10 whirlpools or take a peaceful stroll through Central Park, home to more than 30,000 living plants and live evening music.

New Dining Concepts

Legend of the Seas will debut several new dining venues.

The immersive Royal Railway: Legend Station will offer a multi-course tasting journey inspired by the ancient Silk Routes, featuring flavours from China, India, and Italy.

It’s not a brand-new concept, but it’s the first time a venue like this will appear on an Icon-class ship. The only prior Royal Railway venue is on Utopia of the Seas, the newest Oasis-class ship.

Another highlight is the Hollywoodland Supper Club, a glamorous dinner-and-show experience channelling 1930s elegance, complete with jazz, cocktails, and fine dining.

This is similar to the Empire Supper Club on Icon of the Seas, and Lincoln Park Supper Club on Star of the Seas.

The AquaDome Market will add a casual, food-hall-style experience with five diverse stalls and a juice and smoothie bar. Classic Royal Caribbean favourites – including Chops Grille, Izumi, Hooked Seafood, and Sorrento’s Pizza – will also return.

Legendary Accommodation

We already know that Legend of the Seas will feature a host of amazing cabin choices, from Insides through to Suites.

It’s now been confirmed that the Ultimate Family Townhouse is returning with a redesign, which includes several upgrades.

There are now two separate kids sleeping areas, while the parents’ bedroom has even more space and storage too.

This suite still comes with a hefty price tag – expect to pay £20,000+ per person for a typical cruise!

A Legendary Journey Awaits

Currently under construction at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard, Legend of the Seas is running ahead of schedule and will now debut three weeks early.

Her inaugural Mediterranean season will begin in July 2026, with sailings from Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona visiting destinations including Naples, Palma de Mallorca, Marseille, and La Spezia.

Following her European season, the ship will cross the Atlantic on 25th October 2026 on a 13-night voyage to Fort Lauderdale, before offering a series of Caribbean itineraries.

Guests can choose from 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean cruises, with all routes including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

“Those looking to get the most out of their vacation can have it all with Legend’s combination of adventure-packed experiences and incredible destinations in Europe and the Caribbean,” added Bayley.

With her mix of high-tech entertainment, immersive dining, and family-friendly design, Legend of the Seas looks set to live up to her name when she joins the fleet in summer 2026.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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P&O Cruises will open its two adult-only ships, Arcadia and Aurora, to guests of all ages on select sailings from December 2026, allowing families to experience the smaller, more traditional vessels for the first time.

The change marks a significant shift for the line, which has long positioned both ships as exclusive to adults.

However, from late 2026, a selection of festive and school holiday sailings will welcome children onboard, expanding options for multi-generational travel.

More Cruise Choice for Families

A total of 20 cruises – 12 on Aurora and 8 on Arcadia – will be available to families between December 2026 and September 2027, with more holidays for winter 2027–28 set to go on sale from 14th October 2025.

Bookings for the new family-friendly voyages open on 7th October 2025, with the first sailing departing Aurora on 11th December 2026, and Arcadia following on 21st December 2026.

The move will add 23% more family cruise options from Southampton during the 2027 summer holidays and provide new opportunities for multi-generational groups to travel together.

Facilities and Activities for All Ages

Both ships will offer menus and facilities designed with younger guests in mind, including children’s dining, baby-changing areas, and bottle-warming stations.

Entertainment and activities suitable for all ages will be available, alongside the quieter spaces and more refined atmosphere for which Arcadia and Aurora are known.

Carnival UK and P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said the decision was based on guest demand and reflected changing travel trends.

“A recent study showed that multi-generational travel is a rising trend. Over 30% of families are now cruising with at least two generations onboard, and nearly a third travel with three to five generations,

“So, following guest feedback, we are inviting all ages to join Arcadia and Aurora on selected holidays so the whole family can come together to experience these elegant ships.”

While both ships will remain adult-only for the majority of the year, Ludlow said the change gives families “more ways to travel together during peak periods.”

Family-Friendly Itineraries

Among Aurora’s new all-ages cruises are a 14-night Christmas voyage to Scandinavia departing 15th December 2026, a series of short European breaks, and summer itineraries to Spain, Portugal, and the Western Mediterranean.

Arcadia’s all-ages sailings include a 16-night Christmas voyage to the Canary Islands, a 14-night Northern Europe itinerary in May 2027, and a 24-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise in August 2027.

One of Arcadia’s cruises, the Norway and Iceland itinerary (20th July 2027), will only be available to children aged 12 months and older.

Balancing Tradition with Family Appeal

The decision blends P&O Cruises’ heritage of elegant, traditional sailing with the growing demand for family holidays at sea.

While Iona and Arvia have long catered to families with their modern design and extensive children’s facilities, this marks the first time in years that Aurora and Arcadia will welcome younger guests.

For families looking for a quieter alternative to the larger family-focused ships, the move offers a unique opportunity to experience two of P&O Cruises’ most classic vessels – just in time for Christmas 2026.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Victoria Cruises Line (VCL), which promoted itself as the world’s first “affordable residential cruise,” is facing mounting criticism after years of delays, unfulfilled promises, and unrefunded deposits.

The line advertised a three-year voyage visiting 115 countries, with cabins starting at US$3,840 (£2,858) per month, and promised travellers they could stay onboard for as long as they wished.

But three years after excited customers signed up – some selling homes, giving up pets, or putting belongings in storage – the cruise has never departed. VCL does not even own or lease the ship it has long advertised, the BBC has revealed.

Broken Promises and Financial Losses

Dennis and Taryna Wawn, a couple from Perth, Australia, were among those who paid thousands in deposits after being drawn in by slick adverts on Facebook. Like many others, they believed they were securing a retirement “home at sea.”

They paid US$10,000 (£7,450) in 2022, but the scheduled May 2023 departure was postponed due to “low occupancy.” Several more delays followed, and no cruise has ever sailed.

Some would-be residents told the BBC they had sold homes or moved into retirement communities while waiting. One woman even put down her sick dog, believing she would be away for years.

Consumer advocate Adam Glezer said: “People were sold a dream – it has turned into a nightmare. What VCL has done is disgusting.”

VCL’s Defence

The company admits it has not leased a ship, arguing it must first reach about 80% occupancy. VCL continues to advertise the cruise and insists refunds are not warranted, blaming “administrative issues” and incomplete paperwork when customers demand their money back.

In a statement to the BBC, the line said: “Our company has never disappeared, we have responded to every email, so we are not a phantom company.”

It acknowledged 132 cancellations and dozens of refund requests but claims none were justified.

Legal Challenges and Investigations

Some passengers have taken VCL to court, but enforcement has proved difficult as the business shifts registrations between Hungary and Italy.

In the US, a complaint in Utah found VCL had not booked a departure berth as advertised, and people shown on its website as crew had never been hired. The company’s US representative has since been barred from promoting similar services.

Despite the findings, VCL’s glossy marketing campaigns continue across Facebook and Instagram, using stock images of passengers and crew.

Consumer groups have accused social media platforms of enabling the adverts, though Meta says it found no violations of its policies.

A Dream Turned Sour

The cruise was last scheduled to depart on 26 July 2025, but, once again, never sailed.

While some new “residents” are still being lured by discounts and cashback schemes, many of those who signed up years ago have given up hope of ever boarding.

For Dennis and Taryna, now in their mid-60s, the experience has been devastating.

“It was a dream for us and we were really focusing on it as a lovely adventure,” Taryna said. “It’s been traumatising.”

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

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