News

Cunard is set to showcase its musical pedigree in 2025, with globally acclaimed jazz artists Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum headlining exclusive performances aboard Queen Victoria.

The luxury cruise line has revealed that celebrated musician and host of Later… with Jools Holland, Jools Holland, will perform two exclusive shows on Queen Victoria’s eight-night Spain and Italy voyage, departing Southampton on 4 May and concluding in Civitavecchia on 12 May.

Holland, known for his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and five-decade career, promises a captivating repertoire for music lovers on board.

Ports of call include Cadiz, Malaga, and Majorca, with the itinerary blending vibrant cultural experiences and culinary delights.

Prices start from £899 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

In April, Britain’s best-selling jazz artist and BBC Radio 2 presenter Jamie Cullum will bring his talents to Queen Victoria during a 13-night roundtrip Atlantic Islands voyage departing Southampton on 21 April.

The award-winning artist will perform hits from his celebrated career, including tracks from his breakthrough album Twentysomething.

This sailing features stops in Madeira, Tenerife, La Palma, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Cadiz. Prices start from £1,699 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.

Cunard’s tradition of musical excellence

Cunard has a long-standing reputation for collaborating with world-renowned artists.

In 2024, legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli headlined Queen Anne’s naming ceremony in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone for the cruise line.

Cunard President Katie McAlister expressed excitement about the upcoming performances aboard Queen Victoria.

“At Cunard, we take pride in curating unique and unforgettable experiences for our guests, and we can’t wait to welcome the extraordinary Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum aboard Queen Victoria in 2025. Their incredible talent, showcased in the elegant surroundings of the Royal Court Theatre, will make these sailings truly unforgettable.”

Cunard President Katie McAlister

Jools Holland shared his enthusiasm for the May sailing too, saying that he was excited to play a luxury cruise ship for the first time and see a “beautiful part of the world”. He said that he aimed to make sure his shows were uplifting events that would renew guests’ love for jazz music.

Jamie Cullum shared similar sentiments:

“I’m very much looking forward to performing for guests on board Queen Victoria in the spring. It’s been many years since I performed on a cruise ship – it’s a time that holds many great memories. There’s something unique about the whole experience, playing music whilst at sea. My band and I promise everyone a fantastic night.”

Jamie Cullum

The sailings all still have availability but it’s expected that staterooms will sell much faster following these announcements.

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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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TUI Cruises is set to host a remarkable christening event for its newest vessel, Mein Schiff Relax, featuring an exclusive performance by British pop icon Robbie Williams.

Not only that, but the event will see participation from two sister ships, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7, which are (rather unusually) serving as godmothers for the new ship.

The highly anticipated event will take place on 9th April 2025 at the Port of Malaga, Spain, as part of a grand celebration for the 4,100-guest ship under construction at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard in Italy.

Robbie Williams, famed for his solo career and time with the group Take That, will deliver a live outdoor concert as the centerpiece of the event, attended by some 15,000 cruise guests aboard Mein Schiff Relax, Mein Schiff 5, and Mein Schiff 7.

The celebration will also include the traditional champagne bottle-breaking ceremony and a dazzling light show.

Guests sailing aboard Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7 will be able to witness the festivities as part of their specially designed itineraries.

The 10-day “Atlantic Islands & Christening Event Mein Schiff Relax in Málaga” cruise aboard Mein Schiff 5 departs Santa Cruz on 3rd April 2025.

The 14-day “Canary Islands & Christening Event Mein Schiff Relax in Málaga” aboard Mein Schiff 7 begins on 30th March 2025.

Innovative features and sustainable design

Mein Schiff Relax is the first of TUI Cruises’ new InTUItion class, marking a departure from the line’s numeric ship naming tradition.

The LNG-powered ship incorporates advanced emissions-reducing technology, wastewater treatment systems, and shore power connectivity.

Construction of the ship began in 2022, with successful sea trials completed in October and December 2024, testing propulsion, safety, and maneuverability.

The vessel is set to offer a range of modern amenities, including a two-story theatre, diverse dining venues such as the Japanese-inspired Fugu and the French Sur-mer-Bistro, and expansive indoor and outdoor fitness facilities.

Following her christening, Mein Schiff Relax will operate 7- to 10-night Western Mediterranean cruises, sailing between Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, and roundtrip from Palma de Mallorca.

TUI Cruises is primarily aimed at the German market but welcomes guests from around Europe and further afield. The cruise line is part-owned by the TUI Group and by Royal Caribbean. It is separate from Marella Cruises, also owned (solely) by the TUI Group.

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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 dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard…

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A dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard Symphony of the Seas.

The legal action comes nearly a year after the shocking video voyeurism case came to light.

The lawsuit, filed on 30th December 2024 in Florida, represents 12 passengers who sailed on multiple voyages between December 2023 and January 2024.

The plaintiffs allege that Mirasol placed hidden cameras in their stateroom bathrooms, filming both adults and minors.

Mirasol, a 34-year-old stateroom attendant from the Philippines, was arrested in March after a passenger discovered a camera under her bathroom sink and alerted ship security.

Following his arrest, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison in August.

Attorney Spencer Aronfeld, representing the plaintiffs, expressed concern over the long-term impact on victims:

“The fact that many of the victims we represent still do not know if and how their images have been used or circulated is incredibly disturbing. Some of the plaintiffs are children – and once an image is on the internet, it is there forever.”

Spencer Aronfeld, attorney for the plaintiffs

The lawsuit accuses Royal Caribbean of negligence and failing to properly screen and monitor its crew.

It also charges the cruise line with a breach of faith for allegedly withholding information about the incident from affected guests, a move plaintiffs argue was financially motivated.

The filing states that the affected guests suffered “mental anguish, post-traumatic stress disorder, and loss of enjoyment of life,” with injuries described as “permanent and continuing.” The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial and financial compensation for damages and punitive damages.

Hundreds of potential victims

Court documents indicate that Mirasol’s actions may have impacted guests across multiple voyages, departing on 24th December 2023 as well as throughout January and February 2024.

With Mirasol responsible for servicing up to 20 staterooms per voyage, each accommodating up to four guests, the potential number of victims could exceed 900.

Despite this, Royal Caribbean has not issued notifications to affected guests, according to the lawsuit. The plaintiffs argue this was an intentional effort by the cruise line to avoid legal claims within the company’s contractually-shortened statute of limitations.

Unsurprisingly, Royal Caribbean has not commented on the lawsuit, adhering to its policy of not discussing ongoing legal matters.

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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

The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…

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A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard “for fun”.

Megan Million, who has over 130,000 followers on TikTok and over 24 million likes, shared several videos from her latest cruise.

In one of them, she approached a member of the crew and told them that she planned to jump overboard that night, but that she was doing it for fun.

The crew member is clearly caught off guard, at first showing concern but then smiling along with Megan as they try to gauge what her real intentions are.

Megan faced an initial backlash from some in her TikTok comments, defending herself by claiming that she had told the crew member she was joking at the “next dinner”.

But the backlash has spread further, with cruisers around social media condemning the “prank” for the distress it could’ve caused the crew member.

And it appears from this screenshot circulated online that NCL, the cruise line that Megan was sailing with, has been made aware of the video and is taking further action. Credit to content creator and cruise fan Alex Roberson for bringing it to their attention.

It wouldn’t be surprising if she was banned from the cruise line, as they take these matters extremely seriously.

Of course, anyone jumping overboard from a cruise ship is likely to lose their life, even if they jump from a lower deck. It’s not really something you would ever do for “fun”.

And there are some incidents even within the past few months of people going overboard and being lost at sea, or rescued but still dying, which renders Megan’s video even more tasteless.

Megan’s TikTok channel claims to offer pranks and “good vibes” but it could definitely be argued that this isn’t a good vibe video!

Related posts

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

The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…

Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week. Bug died following complications from a routine…

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The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

These new orders signal robust confidence in the sector, which is poised to see a surge in passenger numbers and demand for diverse cruising experiences.

Several of the newbuilds are game-changers in their respective categories, offering innovation in design, sustainability, and passenger experiences.

In February, Carnival Cruise Line placed orders for its fourth and fifth Excel Class vessels, each accommodating 5,400 guests and weighing in at 183,900 gross tons.

Built by Meyer Werft in Germany, these ships are scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2028, continuing Carnival’s commitment to LNG-powered ships.

Royal Caribbean International added to its groundbreaking Oasis and Icon Class fleets with a seventh Oasis Class ship (231,000 gross tons) from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, due in 2028, and a fourth Icon Class ship (250,800 gross tons) from Meyer Turku in Finland, set for 2027.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings made headlines with a multi-billion-dollar order in April, commissioning eight new ships for Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent.

With deliveries staggered from 2026 to 2036, the fleet will cater to diverse audiences, including Norwegian’s 5,100-guest megaships and Regent’s 850-guest luxury vessels.

The expedition cruise segment also saw significant investments, with Antarctica21 ordering the Magellan Discoverer (100 guests) for delivery in 2026 and Emerald Cruises announcing the Emerald Kaia, an 11,000-ton luxury ship, also slated for 2026.

American Cruise Lines, a leader in small-ship cruising, expanded its coastal and river fleet with two coastal ships and two riverboats, with deliveries planned for 2026 and 2027.

Expanding fleets and future opportunities

Luxury cruise brand Crystal announced a trio of newbuilds in June and November, featuring smaller, more exclusive ships designed for just 690 guests.

These vessels, built by Fincantieri, are expected to elevate the brand’s premium offerings with the first delivery in 2028.

In the family cruising space, Disney Cruise Line revealed plans for four new 160,000-ton ships featuring a fresh design. Deliveries will be between 2027 and 2030, enhancing Disney’s fleet with advanced features catering to families.

Even with global economic uncertainties, the cruise industry’s expansion underscores sustained confidence in its resilience and growth potential.

The diverse range of vessels, from expedition ships to record-breaking megaships, reflects the broadening appeal of cruising as a preferred holiday option.

This wave of ship orders also aligns with the industry’s increasing focus on sustainability, with many newbuilds incorporating LNG propulsion systems and other green technologies to reduce environmental impact.

With the first of these ships expected to debut as early as 2026, passengers can look forward to more choices, destinations, and onboard innovations in the coming years.

Related posts

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

Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week. Bug died following complications from a routine…

A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard…

2024 gave us a lot to be excited about in the world of cruising, including some brand-new cruise ships! I mean you can tell from the title – we had…

Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo following the US State Department’s issuance of a level 4 “do not travel” advisory for Colima, the state where…

Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week.

Bug died following complications from a routine dental cleaning and tooth extraction on the 26th December. Bug had her own social media account with an extensive following – almost 85,000 followers on Instagram. She was 8 years old.

“Our little girl is gone. Our hearts are shattered,”

Captain Kate McCue

Bug had been by Captain McCue’s side for her entire life, becoming a beloved figure aboard Celebrity Beyond and capturing the hearts of countless crew members and guests.

Her adventures, from her unique presence on the bridge to her appearances at onboard events, will remain fond memories for those who had the privilege of meeting her.

Remembering Bug Naked’s extraordinary life at sea

Bug Naked was more than a pet; she was a true maritime personality.

Born on March 20, 2016, and named after Captain McCue’s childhood nickname “Love Bug,” the elf-eared sphynx cat sailed to destinations around the globe, sporting an impressive wardrobe of over 100 outfits and even holding her own EU passport.

Known as the ship’s unofficial “Maneuvering Support Mammal,” Bug often joined Captain McCue on the bridge, observing docking maneuvers with regal poise.

Her presence at onboard trivia games, where winners earned the rare opportunity to meet her, was a highlight for many guests.

Beyond her official duties, Bug Naked was an active part of ship life. She attended weddings, strolled the corridors in her stroller, and basked in sunbeams across Celebrity Beyond.

Her daily adventures were documented on her Instagram account.

Bug’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, crew members, and guests who had the chance to share in her unique spirit.

A short but impactful life

While Bug’s time was tragically brief, her life was filled with love and adventure.

Sphynx cats are known for their shorter-than-average lifespans, with an average of just 6.68 years according to studies in feline medicine. Bug Naked, however, surpassed expectations, living a full and joyous 8.5 years under Captain McCue’s devoted care.

Although pets are typically not allowed aboard cruise ships, Bug’s status as Captain McCue’s companion granted her special exemptions. This connection brought joy not just to the captain but to the entire Celebrity Cruises family.

Bug’s legacy will remain a treasured part of Celebrity Cruises’ history, and she will forever be remembered as a one-of-a-kind seafaring companion who enriched the lives of all who sailed with her.

Related posts

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

A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard…

2024 gave us a lot to be excited about in the world of cruising, including some brand-new cruise ships! I mean you can tell from the title – we had…

Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo following the US State Department’s issuance of a level 4 “do not travel” advisory for Colima, the state where…

Carnival Cruise Line has made adjustments to its Premier Cruise program, sparking discussions among frequent cruisers who enjoy the perks tied to their casino activity. Traditionally, the Premier program offered…

An 82-year-old cruise passenger tragically lost her life in a heart-breaking accident in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on 26th December, 2024.

According to the Police Force of Sint Maarten, the incident occurred around 5 pm local time when the woman fell into the water from her electric wheelchair, which is suspected to have malfunctioned.

It remains unclear whether the device was her personal wheelchair or a rental for the duration of her cruise.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that a malfunction in the victim’s electric wheelchair, an 82-year-old female, may have contributed to her fall into the water. Despite the best efforts of medical personnel to administer emergency resuscitation, the victim sadly succumbed at the scene.”

Police Force of Sint Maarten

Emergency services arrived promptly and performed life-saving measures, but the victim could not be revived.

The exact injuries sustained during the accident and whether pre-existing health conditions played a role in her death have not been disclosed.

The identity of the deceased passenger and the cruise ship she was traveling on have not been confirmed, though reports from a visitor in port that day suggest she was a guest aboard AIDA Cruises’ AIDAmar.

In addition to AIDAmar, five other cruise ships, including Queen Mary 2, Symphony of the Seas, and Celebrity Ascent, were docked at the busy port.

A series of tragic incidents for the cruise industry

This fatal accident is the latest in a series of sombre incidents for the cruise industry in December 2024.

Just one day earlier, on Christmas Day, a 51-year-old man went overboard from Norwegian Epic while the ship was en route from Ocho Rios, Jamaica, to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.

Despite an extensive search and rescue operation involving Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam, the effort ended without success.

Earlier in the month, on 21st December, a passenger aboard Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess attempted to jump overboard but tragically hit a lifeboat and fell to a lower deck, succumbing to her injuries despite the medical team’s efforts.

Similarly, Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess experienced a man-overboard situation earlier in December, with the case remaining under investigation as the missing passenger was not reported until the end of the cruise.

While rare, such incidents highlight the importance of vigilance and safety measures onboard and ashore to prevent further tragedies.

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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

Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo following the US State Department’s issuance of a level 4 “do not travel” advisory for Colima, the state where…

Carnival Cruise Line has made adjustments to its Premier Cruise program, sparking discussions among frequent cruisers who enjoy the perks tied to their casino activity. Traditionally, the Premier program offered…

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Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo following the US State Department’s issuance of a level 4 “do not travel” advisory for Colima, the state where the port is located.

The advisory cites concerns over violent crime and gang activity, including targeted assassinations and kidnapping.

Manzanillo, a popular stop on Mexican Riviera itineraries, is now deemed too risky for Royal Caribbean itineraries.

However, Carnival Corporation’s Princess Cruises still lists Manzanillo on sailings scheduled for February and September 2025, underscoring differences in how cruise lines are responding to the advisory.

The US State Department’s advisory highlights the dangers in Colima, where travel for government employees is strictly limited to tourist and port areas of Manzanillo. Despite those areas being permitted, Royal Caribbean clearly doesn’t want to take any risks.

The updated travel warning describes widespread violent crime and gang activity in the region, with many homicides tied to organised criminal groups.

The statement adds that bystanders have been injured or killed in gang-related shootings, further amplifying concerns for tourist safety.

While Royal Caribbean no longer features the port on any itineraries, Princess Cruises and other lines continue to offer stops in the city.

The cruise lines have yet to issue statements explaining how they are balancing travel warnings with guest demand and operational logistics.

Other destinations impacted by cruise line itinerary changes

The decision to drop Manzanillo isn’t the first time cruise lines have altered schedules due to safety concerns.

Royal Caribbean previously suspended port calls to Labadee, Haiti, for several months in 2024, citing civil unrest and safety concerns near the private beach destination.

Although Labadee is a private destination with controlled access, nearby instability posed a potential risk to guest safety.

Similarly, in 2023, several cruise lines removed stops in Mazatlán, Mexico, from itineraries following reports of violence in the area. Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Holland America Line adjusted routes to avoid the city temporarily until conditions improved.

The safety of guests and crew members is a top priority for cruise lines, which closely monitor global security developments and follow recommendations from government agencies, such as the US State Department and international travel authorities.

While Royal Caribbean has stepped back from offering itineraries to Manzanillo, its website still highlights the city’s appeal, with mentions of golden beaches, emerald rainforests, and a lively fishing harbour.

However, the company’s shift away from this Pacific Coast port suggests a recalibration of strategy in light of safety concerns.

Other destinations in Mexico remain part of Royal Caribbean’s offerings, such as Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Cozumel, which are considered safer for travellers.

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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

Carnival Cruise Line has made adjustments to its Premier Cruise program, sparking discussions among frequent cruisers who enjoy the perks tied to their casino activity. Traditionally, the Premier program offered…

An 82-year-old cruise passenger tragically lost her life in a heart-breaking accident in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on 26th December, 2024. According to the Police Force of Sint Maarten, the incident…

A cruise passenger, Dominic Weaver, was arrested in Miami, Florida, after disembarking a cruise ship just before Christmas, ending more than a decade of evading authorities for unpaid child support….

A potentially alarming situation on Carnival Celebration was resolved after a 17-year-old passenger who went missing on the first night of the cruise was found safe. The teen had reportedly…

Carnival Cruise Line has made adjustments to its Premier Cruise program, sparking discussions among frequent cruisers who enjoy the perks tied to their casino activity.

Traditionally, the Premier program offered exclusive sailings with benefits like welcome and goodbye gifts, premier boarding, free drinks while gaming, and access to private prize drawings.

Recent changes mean Premier benefits can now be enjoyed on any sailing, rather than solely on dedicated group sailings.

However, this adjustment also results in some perks being restructured or eliminated, such as exclusive drawings for Premier guests.

Changes explained and passenger reactions

Guests raised concerns about the changes after noticing fewer perks and lack of communication.

One cruiser took to Facebook to inquire about the shift, prompting Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald to explain the update.

“We adjusted the way Premier works earlier this year, with guests being able to now book a Premier experience on any sailing, not just as part of a group,”

John Heald, Brand Ambassador, Carnival Cruise Line

Heald clarified that while traditional Premier group sailings with all perks will still be available into 2025, Premier guests on standard sailings will experience some differences.

These include the removal of exclusive drawings, though Heat Wave and Fireball Raffle promotions now offer Premier guests double prize money if selected.

The program remains popular among Carnival’s casino enthusiasts, who earn points by using their Sail & Sign card at slot machines or table games.

However, other changes, such as the removal of a $25 FunPlay credit for Diamond and Platinum guests earlier this year, have raised questions about the future of Carnival’s casino benefits.

Despite passenger frustrations over changes made without notice, such as the recent increases in pricing for drinks packages and WiFi, Carnival continues to refine its offerings in an effort to balance benefits and experiences across its fleet.

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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

An 82-year-old cruise passenger tragically lost her life in a heart-breaking accident in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, on 26th December, 2024. According to the Police Force of Sint Maarten, the incident…

A cruise passenger, Dominic Weaver, was arrested in Miami, Florida, after disembarking a cruise ship just before Christmas, ending more than a decade of evading authorities for unpaid child support….

A potentially alarming situation on Carnival Celebration was resolved after a 17-year-old passenger who went missing on the first night of the cruise was found safe. The teen had reportedly…

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral has welcomed her first guests aboard after completing a comprehensive multi-million-pound dry dock refurbishment at A&P Falmouth. The ship underwent a two-week maintenance programme beginning…

A cruise passenger, Dominic Weaver, was arrested in Miami, Florida, after disembarking a cruise ship just before Christmas, ending more than a decade of evading authorities for unpaid child support.

The 47-year-old Kentucky man reportedly owes over $100,000 in back payments and had multiple child support cases pending in Jefferson County.

He’s been on the run for around 10 years due to the money he owed. Authorities took Weaver into custody without incident.

The cruise line and specific ship he sailed on have not been disclosed, though it’s noted the cruise line was not involved in the arrest.

A news report shows a Carnival ship but it’s not been confirmed whether that was the cruise line he sailed with.

Investigations into passenger identification likely facilitated his capture, as the child support agents flew out from Louisville to Miami in order to apprehend Weaver.

Weaver has since been flown back to Louisville, where he awaits arraignment on January 6, 2025.

Cruise ship arrests highlight broader legal risks

Weaver’s arrest is one of several recent incidents involving cruise passengers being detained for legal issues.

In other cases, travellers have faced charges for crimes committed onboard or unrelated warrants discovered during disembarkation.

On MSC Magnifica in August 2024, four passengers were arrested for using fraudulent credit cards in the ship’s casino during a four-day Bahamas cruise.

Security quickly detected the scam, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection took the individuals into custody upon the ship’s return to Miami.

In a separate incident on MSC Seascape in October 2024, a mother and son were arrested following a heated altercation with an elderly passenger in the ship’s theatre shortly after departing PortMiami.

Similarly, in September 2024, a passenger aboard Freedom of the Seas was arrested after docking in Florida, accused of assaulting another guest during the voyage – though this one was apparently a case of mistaken identity.

Authorities are pushing for Weaver’s previous probation to be revoked, with potential prison time replacing it.

Meanwhile, guests embarking on cruises are reminded to adhere to legal and local regulations, as they may face consequences both domestically and abroad.

And if you owe huge sums of money, maybe taking a cruise (and getting your named flagged on authority IT systems) is a bad idea…

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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

A potentially alarming situation on Carnival Celebration was resolved after a 17-year-old passenger who went missing on the first night of the cruise was found safe. The teen had reportedly…

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