News

Cruise Tails has announced that ‘Tails of the Seas’ has been chosen as the official name of its inaugural dog-friendly cruise, following a public naming contest.

The winning name was submitted by Shawn Loomis, who will be awarded a human-only cruise for two, courtesy of Margaritaville at Sea, as part of his prize.

“Thank you to everyone who participated in the cruise naming competition. It was amazing to see such enthusiastic participation from our community, and we appreciate all of the creative names shared. We will be opening more contest opportunities and are excited to give our community more chances to sail!”

Steve Matzke, Cruise Tails Captain

The first-of-its-kind cruise will follow a 7-day itinerary, visiting Key West, Progreso, and Cozumel. Pre-boarding events are planned to take place in Tampa in 2025.

The first wave of cabin applications for Tails of the Seas has already been filled, with demand exceeding expectations.

The second round of applications is now open, and prospective passengers are encouraged to apply soon as spaces are expected to fill quickly.

Growing demand for pet-friendly cruising

Cruise Tails is seeing significant interest from dog owners around the world, and the company hopes the passengers aboard the maiden voyage will follow its guidelines and act as ambassadors for responsible pet cruising.

If successful, Cruise Tails may relax pet-size restrictions on future voyages scheduled for 2026.

To support interested passengers, Cruise Tails has outlined important information on pet eligibility, health and safety protocols, shore excursions, emergency procedures, and liability on its website.

Cruise Tails, founded by Steve Matzke, is the world’s first dog-friendly cruising experience, allowing pets to join passengers on luxury voyages.

The concept ensures that dogs are not just welcome but celebrated as special guests on board.

Passengers can visit cruisetails.com to learn more and apply for a spot on the Tails of the Seas.

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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

Passengers aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam have been struck by a norovirus outbreak during a 10-night Caribbean sailing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed. The outbreak…

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Guests aboard Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Treasure will have just 45 minutes to enjoy the highly-anticipated Haunted Mansion Parlor, a bar themed around the iconic Disneyland and Disney World attraction.

The limit, confirmed during early media previews of the ship, is designed to allow as many guests as possible to experience the space during each voyage.

A sign outside the venue explains the restriction:

“Attention Mortals! The Ghost Captain requests all seatings are limited to a maximum of 45 minutes. Thank you.”

Sign displayed outside the Haunted Mansion Parlor

The time limit coincides with the lounge’s looped theatrical experience, which includes haunting music, character appearances, and hidden surprises throughout the space.

It’s also quite a small space – I really enjoyed it, but 45 minutes is a reasonable length of time to enjoy it, I think.

With over 4,000 passengers per sailing and high demand anticipated for the venue, Disney Cruise Line is expected to maintain the limit as Disney Treasure begins its inaugural season on 21 December 2024.

Guests can enjoy the lounge’s signature cocktails, such as Happily Never After and Final Vow, served in collectible ceramic mugs or branded bottles, as well as its intricate décor that pays tribute to the Haunted Mansion ride.

Features include ghostly apparitions in the bar’s mirror, animated “marble” busts, and hidden details in the wallpaper.

A themed experience at sea

The Haunted Mansion Parlor is part of a wider offering of themed lounges aboard Disney Treasure, including the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea-inspired Periscope Pub and the Jungle Cruise-inspired Skipper Society.

However, it has already become a standout feature, with visitors praising its immersive atmosphere and attention to detail.

The 140,000-gross-ton ship will begin its 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises this winter, offering guests the chance to experience this and other unique venues during their voyage.

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

Passengers aboard Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam have been struck by a norovirus outbreak during a 10-night Caribbean sailing, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed. The outbreak…

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas experienced an eight-hour delay returning to her homeport in Galveston, Texas, on Sunday, 15th December 2024, due to a medical emergency requiring an unscheduled…

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has officially christened its second luxury yacht, Ilma, during a celebratory ceremony at Port Everglades, Ft. Lauderdale, on 11th December, 2024. The event followed maritime tradition…

MSC Cruises is introducing a 15-drink-per-day limit on its all-inclusive alcoholic beverage packages. The change will apply to package purchases made from 18th December 2024, and will take effect for…

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas experienced an eight-hour delay returning to her homeport in Galveston, Texas, on Sunday, 15th December 2024, due to a medical emergency requiring an unscheduled evacuation.

The delay impacted both the debarkation of the prior sailing and the embarkation of the ship’s next voyage.

The delay stemmed from a medical emergency involving an elderly passenger on Friday, 13th December, two days before the scheduled return to Galveston.

The passenger, an elderly woman on her first cruise, showed symptoms of what might have been a stroke or aneurysm, prompting the ship’s medical team to order an emergency evacuation.

At the time, Harmony of the Seas had already left Cozumel, the final port of call on its itinerary, and was sailing back to Texas. Due to high winds, a helicopter evacuation was deemed unsafe, forcing the ship to reverse course back to Cozumel.

Harmony of the Seas could not divert to Cancun, which was closer, because the massive Oasis-class ship could not be accommodated at Cancun’s facilities.

The woman was successfully evacuated in Cozumel for medical care, but the time needed to complete the process caused a significant delay in the ship’s return to Galveston.

There are no further updates on her condition as of now, though her family has set up a GoFundMe account to assist with the expected costs of stabilizing her condition and transporting her back to the U.S.

Guests scheduled to board Harmony of the Seas for her next 7-night Western Caribbean sailing were notified of the delay and updated check-in times.

Originally, embarkation was planned to begin at 11 am, but the new schedule asked guests to arrive nine hours later than their originally selected check-in time.

• Earliest check-in: Guests who originally had an 11 am check-in time were asked to arrive at 8 pm
• Latest check-in: Guests with a 2 pm check-in time were asked to arrive at 11 pm

The cruise terminal remained closed until 8 pm to allow time for debarking passengers to leave the ship and avoid congestion at the terminal and parking facilities.

Compensation for guests

Royal Caribbean is compensating passengers affected by the delay with the following:

• Onboard credits (amount varies by stateroom category)
• Prorated refunds for pre-cruise purchases of Wi-Fi packages and drink packages impacted by the late embarkation

To accommodate late arrivals, dining venues onboard Harmony of the Seas, including the main dining rooms and Windjammer buffet, remained open longer than usual to ensure all guests could enjoy a meal after boarding.

Despite the delay, no changes are being made to the ship’s itinerary, which will visit Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel as originally planned.

While shorter delays are not uncommon in cruise operations, extended delays like this are rare.

Recently, Carnival Liberty experienced a similarly long delay in New Orleans due to a combination of events, including a medical emergency, an equipment issue, and a weather delay.

The delay of Harmony of the Seas highlights the complexities of managing medical emergencies at sea, especially for large ships like those in the Oasis class.

While the inconvenience is significant for incoming passengers, Royal Caribbean’s proactive communication, onboard credits, and the decision to keep the ship’s itinerary unchanged have been well-received by most travellers.

And of course, the most important thing is the welfare of the passenger who required emergency evacuation – hopefully they are able to make a full recovery.

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 Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has officially christened its second luxury yacht, Ilma, during a celebratory ceremony at Port Everglades, Ft. Lauderdale, on 11th December, 2024. The event followed maritime tradition…

MSC Cruises is introducing a 15-drink-per-day limit on its all-inclusive alcoholic beverage packages. The change will apply to package purchases made from 18th December 2024, and will take effect for…

Royal Caribbean has announced that its highly anticipated Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will officially open in December 2025, bringing an exclusive new experience to guests cruising to Nassau, Bahamas….

Elite members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor loyalty program have expressed frustration after a new policy was introduced regarding the way free daily drinks are served on board. As…

Royal Caribbean has announced that its highly anticipated Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will officially open in December 2025, bringing an exclusive new experience to guests cruising to Nassau, Bahamas.

This first-of-its-kind beach retreat will offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly activities in a stunning 17-acre venue just 10 minutes from the Port of Nassau.

Guests sailing on Royal Caribbean itineraries that call at the island will be able to purchase day passes to access the Royal Beach Club starting in spring 2025, though the exact cost of the passes has not yet been disclosed.

The beach retreat will be divided into three distinct zones – Chill Beach, Party Cove, and Family Beach – with each area offering a unique experience to suit different types of travellers.

From laid-back beachfront lounges to family-friendly fun and high-energy parties, the Royal Beach Club promises to deliver a memorable day ashore.

Chill Beach is designed for guests seeking a more peaceful and tranquil escape.

Visitors can relax in sun loungers on the sand, cool off in The Deep End pool, or browse locally made crafts at the beach’s artisan huts. This area will also offer an array of dining options where guests can savour fresh, local cuisine.

Party Cove will bring a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere, complete with a live DJ spinning music and the main attraction -The Floating Flamingo, which Royal Caribbean says will be the world’s largest swim-up bar.

Guests can also choose to access the Party Cove VIP area, where poolside service is available.

Family Beach caters to travellers with children. Young cruisers can join in on fun games like paddle ball and tug-of-war, while parents can relax as their kids splash around in The Shallow End, a zero-entry pool designed with little ones in mind.

The area will also be home to the resort’s most exclusive offering, the Ultimate Family Cabana.

The Ultimate Family Cabana is a two-story luxury retreat available for private rental. The cabana, which accommodates up to 12 guests, comes with its own private whirlpool, water slide, bathroom, frozen drink machine, and a dedicated attendant.

Only one Ultimate Family Cabana will be available at the entire resort, making it one of the most coveted options for families seeking a private, upscale experience. Pricing for this unique cabana has yet to be revealed.

Private cabanas and amenities

In addition to the Ultimate Family Cabana, the Royal Beach Club will feature 40 other private cabanas that guests can rent for the day.

These private spaces are expected to offer elevated comfort, shade, and VIP service, making them a popular option for travellers seeking privacy and luxury.

The 17-acre site will include multiple pools, beach bars, and eateries. Day passes will cover access to all of these amenities, as well as a short water taxi ride from the cruise pier in Nassau to the Royal Beach Club.

Cabanas and day passes will be available for pre-booking starting in spring 2025, and passengers are encouraged to reserve early, especially for the one-of-a-kind Ultimate Family Cabana, which is expected to be in high demand.

A sustainable and eco-friendly destination

Royal Caribbean is placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

The development is being managed in partnership with the Bahamian government, with a commitment to preserve the island’s natural beauty and protect its marine environment.

The cruise line has partnered with SEV Consulting Group, a Bahamian environmental firm, to ensure the resort adheres to the highest environmental standards. Measures include:

• Turtle nesting protection to ensure that the local wildlife is not disturbed.
• Removal of invasive species to preserve the island’s natural biodiversity.
• Installation of an advanced wastewater treatment facility to ensure that waste is managed properly and safely.
• Implementation of a zero-waste-to-landfill policy to minimise the environmental impact of daily operations.

The initiative is part of Royal Caribbean’s broader commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly tourism. These measures are designed to ensure that guests can enjoy the natural beauty of Paradise Island while knowing their experience is eco-friendly.

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is the latest in Royal Caribbean’s lineup of private destinations, offering a new spin on the traditional private island experience.

The concept aims to cater to all types of travellers, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping activities to peaceful beach escapes.

Royal Caribbean is also offering guests a sneak peek at what’s to come with the development of two additional private destinations:

• Royal Beach Club Cozumel (opening in 2026)
• Perfect Day Mexico (opening in 2027)

These two new resorts will join Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) and Labadee (Haiti) as Royal Caribbean’s most iconic and sought-after private destinations.

Itineraries that include the Royal Beach Club

Guests on itineraries from several major homeports, including Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades, Galveston, Baltimore, and New York, will have the opportunity to visit the Royal Beach Club on their cruise.

Royal Caribbean ships sailing from these ports are expected to offer calls to the Royal Beach Club, which will become a key highlight for Bahamas-bound cruises. The location is just 10 minutes by water taxi from Nassau Cruise Port, making it an easy and convenient shore excursion for guests.

For many travellers, the opportunity to visit two private destinations in a single cruise will be a major draw.

For instance, itineraries could potentially include stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, offering guests two completely different private island experiences on the same trip.

While Perfect Day at CocoCay is known for its thrill-packed water park and record-setting water slides, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is being positioned as a more serene, upscale beach escape with opportunities for family fun, laid-back relaxation, and high-energy parties.

Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is set to become one of the most exciting new additions to the cruise line’s growing portfolio of private destinations.

With the ability to cater to different types of holidaymakers – from party-seekers to families and relaxation enthusiasts – the club offers a tailored experience that goes beyond the traditional beach day.

With the opening date set for December 2025, guests will have to wait just a little longer to enjoy the serene shores, bustling party zones, and family-friendly activities of this 17-acre retreat.

Passengers sailing from Miami, Port Canaveral, and Galveston can look forward to including this unique experience as part of their Bahamas itinerary.

As pre-booking for day passes and cabana rentals opens in spring 2025, it’s expected that high-demand options like the Ultimate Family Cabana will be reserved quickly.

If you’re planning to cruise with Royal Caribbean in late 2025 or beyond, this new addition might be one of the most exciting parts of your itinerary.

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

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MSC Cruises is introducing a 15-drink-per-day limit on its all-inclusive alcoholic beverage packages.

The change will apply to package purchases made from 18th December 2024, and will take effect for cruises departing on or after 1st April, 2025.

The policy aligns MSC Cruises with industry standards, as other major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, already have similar daily limits for alcoholic drinks.

Despite the new restriction, there are some guests who have reacted positively to the change, noting that 15 alcoholic drinks per day is still a generous allowance.

The drink limit resets at 6 am each day, meaning passengers have a fresh allowance of 15 alcoholic drinks to enjoy on each day of their cruise.

MSC Cruises explained the change as part of its efforts to encourage a “healthy and balanced approach to indulgence”.

A statement shared by passengers on social media noted, “There’ll be plenty of time to savour all our delicious cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits, while also promoting a healthy and balanced approach to indulgence, allowing us to maintain high-quality service whilst creating an enjoyable and responsible atmosphere for all our guests.”

Key details of the new drink limit

While the change introduces a cap on alcoholic beverages, passengers still have options if they wish to exceed the 15-drink limit.

Unlike some cruise lines, MSC Cruises will allow passengers to purchase additional drinks at full price after reaching the daily limit. This offers greater flexibility for those wanting to continue their onboard celebrations.

Of course, it also means that there are some who will view the change just as a way of making more money – since guests are still allowed to drink more than 15 drinks per day, as long as they pay extra.

Importantly, the change only affects alcoholic beverages. All other drinks included in MSC’s drink packages – such as soft drinks, juices, bottled water, coffee, and tea – will remain unlimited.

This applies to packages like the Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra, Non-Alcoholic, and Minors Drink packages.

Guests sailing on MSC Yacht Club, the cruise line’s exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” luxury offering, will continue to have unlimited access to alcoholic drinks as part of their upgraded, all-inclusive experience.

Passengers booked on Grand Voyages or World Cruises will be offered different drink package options. These itineraries typically include a Dine & Drink Package, with the option to upgrade to more extensive packages, such as Easy Plus or Premium Extra.

The new drink package limits also apply to MSC’s private island destinations, including the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas and Sir Bani Yas Island in the UAE.

The change affects MSC Cruises’ three main drink packages that include alcoholic beverages:

1. Easy Package
   • Selected cocktails, spirits, house wines, Heineken (bottled or draft), soft drinks, and hot beverages (like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate) are included.
2. Easy Plus Package
   • Includes frozen and fruit cocktails, a wider variety of spirits, a broader beer selection, and a greater selection of wines by the glass. Guests also receive a 10% discount on bottled wine.
3. Premium Extra Package
   • Offers access to premium cocktails, premium spirits, champagne by the glass, and a broader selection of wines and beers. It also includes a 25% discount on bottled wine and champagne purchased on board.

MSC Cruises isn’t the first cruise line to introduce a cap on alcoholic drinks.

Carnival Cruise Line was one of the first to implement a 15-drink-per-day limit on its popular Cheers! package. Carnival does not allow passengers to purchase additional alcoholic drinks once the limit has been reached, whereas MSC Cruises will.

Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard, and P&O Cruises – all brands under the Carnival Corporation umbrella – have similar daily limits on their drink packages.

Notably, P&O Cruises allows guests to purchase drinks after reaching the 15-drink limit, similar to MSC’s policy. P&O guests get a 20% discounts on those extra drinks.

Other cruise lines take a different approach.

For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line do not have a specific drink cap but maintain control by only allowing one or two drinks per order and monitoring for visible signs of intoxication.

Many ultra-luxury cruise lines offer complimentary premium spirits and fine wines with no limits as part of their standard offering.

Why the change?

While MSC Cruises has not provided a detailed reason for the change, it is believed that the decision is in line with industry best practices.

By capping daily alcohol consumption, cruise lines can ensure that passengers remain safe, and the cruise line can better manage alcohol-related incidents.

This policy also helps protect the company from liability issues that can arise when guests become excessively intoxicated. It allows crew members to better monitor alcohol consumption, encourage moderation, and ensure that guests have a safer, more enjoyable cruise experience.

However, it could be a way for the cruise line to generate extra revenue from those guests who do drink more than 15 alcoholic beverages per day.

The introduction of a 15-drink-per-day limit for alcoholic beverages on MSC Cruises is part of a larger industry-wide trend aimed at promoting responsible drinking while still offering guests a comprehensive selection of drink packages.

Guests will still be able to purchase drinks beyond the daily limit at full price, and non-alcoholic drinks remain unlimited.

This policy brings MSC Cruises in line with other major cruise brands, including Carnival, Holland America, and P&O Cruises, while still offering passengers the opportunity to purchase additional drinks after reaching the cap – an option not available on all cruise lines.

Guests planning to sail with MSC Cruises from April 2025 onward will need to be aware of these changes, especially if they plan to purchase an all-inclusive drink package.

While the daily limit may feel restrictive to some, it’s unlikely to affect the vast majority of passengers who do not consume more than 15 alcoholic beverages per day.

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 Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has officially christened its second luxury yacht, Ilma, during a celebratory ceremony at Port Everglades, Ft. Lauderdale, on 11th December, 2024. The event followed maritime tradition…

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The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has officially christened its second luxury yacht, Ilma, during a celebratory ceremony at Port Everglades, Ft. Lauderdale, on 11th December, 2024.

The event followed maritime tradition with a ceremonial blessing and the symbolic breaking of a Champagne bottle on the ship’s hull, marking the start of Ilma’s service under good fortune and safe travels for all on board.

The event was attended by prominent figures from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, including Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO, and Ernesto Fara, president and CFO, alongside Captain Magnus Bengtsson and General Manager Sasha Tyas.

Also present was Father Sandford Sears, affectionately known as “Father Sandy,” who led the official blessing.

A unique aspect of Ilma’s christening was its group of godmothers, a collective of female leaders from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s shipboard and shoreside teams.

This gesture reflects the company’s commitment to recognising the contributions of women across all levels of the organisation.

“The christening of the Ilma marks a significant moment in our journey as we officially welcome this extraordinary yacht into our fleet. The Ilma represents growth and the exciting future of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection,”

“We are incredibly grateful to all those who have worked tirelessly to bring this beautiful yacht to life, from our dedicated team members to our global partners.”

Jim Murren, executive chairman and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.

The event was attended by local officials, employees from the company’s Ft. Lauderdale office, and invited guests, all of whom gathered on board Ilma to mark the occasion.

The Ilma joins Evrima in the Caribbean

The Ilma is The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s second vessel, following the launch of its sister ship, Evrima, which debuted in 2022.

After its official christening, Ilma will join Evrima in sailing the Caribbean for the 2024-25 winter season, offering exclusive voyages to the region’s most sought-after islands.

Ilma made its official debut earlier in the year, sailing from Monte Carlo to Rome in September 2024 as part of a series of inaugural voyages in the Mediterranean.

After its Caribbean season, the yacht will head north for summer 2025, exploring the picturesque waters of Northern Europe.

The 2025 itineraries will mark The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s first-ever sailings in the North and Baltic Seas, where guests can visit iconic destinations such as Copenhagen, Reykjavík, and Bordeaux.

These new voyages are designed to offer a blend of cultural discovery, stunning natural beauty, and the company’s hallmark ultra-luxury experience.

Expanding the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection aims to redefine the concept of luxury cruising, offering a more intimate and exclusive experience compared to larger, traditional cruise ships.

The Ilma will continue this trend, following the path set by the Evrima. The brand positions itself as a bridge between the worlds of private yacht charters and small-ship luxury cruises.

The name “Ilma,” which means “water” in Maltese, reflects the ship’s emphasis on elegant design, refined service, and deep respect for the maritime tradition.

With itineraries spanning the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe, Ilma aims to offer passengers a new level of exclusivity and refinement at sea.

As The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection expands its fleet and enters new regions, the company is poised to attract travellers seeking ultra-luxury cruises with a focus on immersive destination experiences, world-class dining, and personalised service.

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

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Carnival Cruise Line is considering adding confetti cannons to its list of prohibited items after a recent guest complaint highlighted the potential environmental impact of the popular party accessory.

The issue came to light when a passenger on Carnival Breeze shared their experience on social media, claiming that their family’s gender reveal party was “ruined” after the ship’s security confiscated their confetti cannons.

The guest, who had brought the party-popper-style cannons to announce the gender of a baby, said they were not aware of any rule against the item.

The incident occurred during one of Carnival Breeze’s 4- or 5-night Western Caribbean itineraries from its homeport in Galveston, Texas, though the exact date of the cruise is unknown.

The issue was addressed by John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, who responded to the guest on his popular Facebook page.

While acknowledging the family’s disappointment, Heald provided a clear explanation of why confetti cannons were confiscated, even though they are not explicitly listed as prohibited items.

“The biggest reason is that had you done this outdoors and some of the confetti had gone overboard we would be in breach of environmental rules and regulations,”

John Heald

Many types of confetti contain microplastics, metallic elements, or non-biodegradable materials, all of which can harm marine life.

Cruise lines must adhere to strict international laws regarding the discharge of waste into the ocean, and any object – no matter how small – can pose a risk to marine ecosystems.

Heald also noted that Carnival does allow confetti to be used indoors in certain controlled settings, such as in show finales in the theatre or at organised wedding events.

In these cases, housekeeping teams can safely collect the confetti without it posing a risk to the marine environment. However, personal use of confetti cannons, especially outdoors, is more difficult to control.

Heald confirmed that he would reach out to Carnival’s executives to discuss adding confetti cannons to the line’s official prohibited items list.

While the current list does not specifically name confetti cannons, it does state that “Carnival conducts security scanning of all luggage and reserves the right to confiscate any item, which in Carnival’s sole discretion, is deemed dangerous or can pose a risk to the vessel or its guests.”

Although confetti cannons may not seem dangerous, they can pose environmental hazards and could potentially cause minor injuries if fired incorrectly. As a result, their inclusion on the prohibited items list seems increasingly likely.

Carnival, like most cruise lines, frequently updates its list of prohibited items as new safety and environmental concerns arise. The list aims to protect passengers, crew, and the marine environment.

Sometimes, the banned items may seem unexpected or unnecessary to guests, but Carnival maintains that every rule has a reason.

A recent example of this was Carnival’s ban on Bluetooth speakers, which drew criticism from some passengers. The cruise line explained that loudspeakers could interfere with emergency announcements and disrupt the onboard experience for other passengers.

Other prohibited items include any devices with heating elements, such as clothes irons, steamers, immersion heaters, and heated blankets, due to their potential fire risk.

Items like helium balloons are also banned to prevent accidental littering of the ocean, and Carnival has long stopped offering single-use plastic straws and stirrers on its ships.

If confetti cannons are officially added to the prohibited items list, guests will be notified via Carnival’s website, email communications, and the pre-cruise “What to Pack” information.

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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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Guests aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas had an unexpected encounter on Wednesday, 11th December 2024, when a yacht collided with the massive cruise ship while it was docked at Nassau Cruise Port in the Bahamas.

According to witnesses, the smaller vessel lost power and drifted into the ship’s port side (left side) stern at a slow speed.

Passengers on board the 6,780-guest Allure of the Seas reported hearing and seeing the incident, though many said they didn’t feel a thing due to the ship’s immense size.

“This boat apparently lost power, or something, and drifted into the back of our ship,” one passenger shared online. Others echoed this sentiment, noting that the impact was so minor that many guests on board didn’t even notice it had happened.

One passenger posted on Facebook, “Didn’t feel a thing,” while another added, “We didn’t either and my son was standing up surfing,” referencing the ship’s surf simulator attraction.

While the Allure of the Seas appears to have escaped the incident unscathed, the same cannot be said for the yacht. Passengers shared videos of the allision online, showing that the yacht’s mast was broken and the top portion of the vessel had visible damage.

“A yacht just slammed into the Allure of the Seas while in port at Nassau. Don’t know if the Allure was damaged. The yacht’s mast was broken,” a current passenger shared on social media.

As of now, Royal Caribbean has not released an official statement regarding the incident, nor have they commented on any potential damage to the Oasis-class ship.

It is also unclear who was on board the yacht or whether any injuries were sustained. The identities of those on the yacht have not been disclosed.

Given the sheer size of the Allure of the Seas – 225,282 gross tons and 1,180 feet long – any damage to the cruise ship would be minimal compared to the much smaller yacht, which would likely have measured between 20 to 45 feet.

In maritime terms, this type of incident is classified as an allision rather than a collision. A collision occurs when two moving vessels strike each other, while an allision is when a moving vessel strikes a stationary one.

Fortunately, the incident has had minimal impact on the cruise schedule. Guests reported a short delay in the ship’s departure from Nassau, which was originally scheduled for 5 p.m. but was delayed by less than an hour.

“Our departure was delayed almost an hour due to this incident,” one passenger noted on Reddit.

The short delay was likely caused by the need to assess any possible damage to the ship, document the incident, and communicate with the owners of the yacht. Cruise ships are required to conduct safety and operational checks before departure if an incident occurs while docked.

Despite the delay, the ship is now back at sea, sailing at a speed of 16 knots per hour, and is on track to complete its 4-night Caribbean sailing as scheduled.

The ship departed from PortMiami on December 9, 2024, and has already made a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination. Nassau was the second and final port of call for the voyage, which is set to end in Miami on December 13, 2024.

Given the short delay and lack of significant damage, the cruise line is unlikely to offer any compensation to guests, as such minor delays are considered standard in the cruise industry.

While allisions are rare, they do happen from time to time, especially in busy port areas like Nassau and Cozumel. The size and manoeuvrability of smaller vessels, as well as the limited space in crowded harbours, increase the chances of such events.

In 2022, Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas experienced a similar incident when it was struck by a cargo ship while docked in Freeport, Bahamas. The impact lodged the smaller ship into the side of the Voyager-class vessel, but fortunately, the Mariner sustained only minimal damage, and there were no injuries reported.

Another well-known allision occurred on December 20, 2019, when two Carnival cruise ships — Carnival Glory and Carnival Legend — collided while both were docked in Cozumel, Mexico.

During this incident, Carnival Glory struck Carnival Legend and narrowly missed Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, another Oasis-class ship similar to Allure of the Seas. The collision caused extensive damage to Carnival Glory’s stern and some damage to Carnival Legend’s bow.

These incidents highlight the risks that come with operating in busy cruise ports where multiple vessels are moving in and out of berths.

For now, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas has resumed its voyage with no significant disruption, and the passengers on board will likely enjoy the rest of their Caribbean adventure as planned.

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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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Elite members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor loyalty program have expressed frustration after a new policy was introduced regarding the way free daily drinks are served on board.

As of 6th December 2024, guests on Freedom of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas found that crew members were required to open alcoholic beverages — including beer and wine — before they could be taken from the bar.

This change applies to free drinks given to members of the Crown & Anchor program’s top tiers: Pinnacle members, who receive six daily drink vouchers, Diamond Plus members, who receive five, and Diamond members, who receive four.

Previously, loyalty members were able to request unopened cans or bottles to be taken to their cabins for later consumption, a perk that many valued for its flexibility.

The new rule was met with strong criticism from long-time Royal Caribbean cruisers, with many calling it a “money grab” and accusing the cruise line of undermining the benefits they had earned through years of loyalty.

Loyalty members were quick to voice their dissatisfaction on social media, arguing that the new policy unfairly targets those who are using their complimentary drink vouchers.

Some believe it’s an attempt to push passengers into purchasing Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package, which offers unlimited drinks for a daily fee.

One of the most frustrating aspects for guests was that the rule didn’t apply to purchases made using cash or charged to the guest’s on-board account.

In these instances, alcoholic drinks could still be taken away unopened. This distinction led to confusion and accusations of unfair treatment.

Clarification of the new drink policy

Initially, crew members appeared to be confused about the policy change, with some guests being denied unopened bottles of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda and water.

However, after complaints were raised, this part of the policy was rolled back. As of 8th December 2024, only alcoholic beverages are required to be opened before being handed to guests.

One guest contacted Royal Caribbean CEO Michael Bayley’s office and later shared the response they received from the cruise line’s Executive Office Escalations team. The email clarified the details of the new policy:

“Please know that our beverage policies are in place to ensure that all guests are able to enjoy their drinks safely and responsibly. Recently, we have updated this policy to include the following: Any canned or bottled alcoholic beverages ordered at our bars must be opened before leaving the venue,” the statement read.

The clarification went on to note that the policy does not apply to non-alcoholic drinks, like canned soda or bottled water, unless those drinks are ordered through the Deluxe Beverage Package.

This statement was meant to ease the concerns of guests who had previously been told that even soft drinks would have to be opened before leaving the bar.

Royal Caribbean has not provided an official, detailed explanation for the change, but the response from the Executive Office points to “safety and responsibility” as the primary reason.

The cruise line said the updated policy is designed to ensure that crew members can better monitor the consumption of alcohol on board.

By requiring that alcoholic drinks be opened at the point of service, crew members can more effectively track how much alcohol each passenger has consumed.

This is important in identifying guests who may be at risk of overconsumption, as crew members can see how many drinks have been served and consumed in real-time.

Cruise lines face increased pressure to manage alcohol consumption among passengers. Royal Caribbean’s updated drink policy may be a similar measure to ensure the well-being of its passengers.

Another possible reason is that unopened alcoholic drinks could be taken to cabins and shared with other passengers, essentially allowing guests to bypass drink limits.

Under the new rule, if guests want to take a drink back to their room, they can still do so, but only if it is open, making it less practical to share later.

This approach also reduces the chances of guests stockpiling drinks in their staterooms, which would make it difficult for crew members to monitor total alcohol consumption.

It also aligns with cruise industry standards that limit how much alcohol guests can bring on board at embarkation.

Passengers on other ships have not yet reported the same restrictions, though some suspect it’s only a matter of time before the policy is enforced on other ships, especially if it aligns with the cruise line’s larger safety and responsibility objectives.

For now, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members sailing on these two ships should be prepared for their free alcoholic drinks to be opened at the bar before they can take them away. Guests can still receive unopened sodas and water to bring back to their staterooms, provided they are not part of the Deluxe Beverage Package.

The new drink policy has left many loyal Royal Caribbean cruisers feeling disappointed. While some understand the safety rationale, others see it as another way for the cruise line to increase profits by pushing guests toward purchasing the Deluxe Beverage Package.

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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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