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A highly anticipated voyage to Antarctica aboard Swan Hellenic’s Diana has turned into a public relations crisis after a propulsion issue forced the ship to cancel all port calls, leaving passengers frustrated and demanding full refunds, with a small number staging a hunger strike in protest.

The 192-guest Diana, built in 2023 with an ice-resistant hull for polar expeditions, departed Cape Town, South Africa, on 13th November 2024, for a 21-day voyage to Ushuaia, Argentina.

However, on 28th November, passengers took to social media to reveal that an engine failure had resulted in the cancellation of all planned stops in Antarctica, including iconic destinations such as Elephant Island, Deception Island, and Yankee Harbour.

It’s since been confirmed by a journalist onboard that it’s a problem with a propellor bearing rather than the engine itself.

Swan Hellenic offered affected guests a 50% refund or a 65% Future Cruise Credit, a gesture CEO Andrea Zito stated exceeded the legally required 30%.

“The 3.5 days lost on the Antarctic Peninsula leg of the sailing, understandably, was considered by most guests to be a highlight of the 21-day cruise. In terms of compensation, the technical difficulties occurred on day 14. As a result, guests were offered a 50% cash refund on the price of the cruise,”

Andrea Zito

Despite this, some passengers criticised the compensation as inadequate. One guest described the experience as “a scam” on social media and revealed that a hunger strike involving a small group of passengers had begun onboard.

Another passenger noted that most guests appeared calm and had accepted the compensation, though disappointment over missing Antarctica was widely shared.

Swan Hellenic has called the hunger strike counterproductive but expressed its regret over the situation. The company assured passengers that their safety and comfort were priorities as the ship made its way to Ushuaia.

It remains unclear when Diana will reach Ushuaia or how long repairs will take to address the propulsion issue.

The disruption has raised concerns about upcoming voyages, including the Diana’s 10-day Antarctic Peninsula Odyssey scheduled to depart on 3rd December 2024, as well as two additional Antarctic sailings later in the month.

The Diana is the largest ship in Swan Hellenic’s fleet, featuring three restaurants and lounges, ocean-view and balcony cabins, and luxurious suites.

Delivered in March 2023, the 12,100-gross-ton vessel was designed specifically for polar expeditions but has now faced a significant setback in fulfilling its itineraries.

Swan Hellenic has acknowledged the frustration and disappointment of passengers missing the Antarctic portion of the cruise.

For many, the planned stops were the highlight of the voyage, and the unexpected change of itinerary has left a lasting impression. While the company continues to work toward a resolution, the incident underscores the challenges and risks of expedition cruising in remote regions.

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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

New research has confirmed what Cunard passengers have long believed: a journey across the Atlantic on board the Queen Mary 2 is more than a luxurious getaway – it’s a…

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New research has confirmed what Cunard passengers have long believed: a journey across the Atlantic on board the Queen Mary 2 is more than a luxurious getaway – it’s a powerful boost for mental and emotional wellbeing.

The study, commissioned by Cunard and conducted by the Human Understanding Agency, Walnut, has shown that just five days at sea can significantly improve cognitive abilities, memory, and problem-solving skills, while also reducing stress levels.

The pioneering neuroscience study explored the impact of Cunard’s iconic transatlantic crossing from Southampton to New York.

Biometric tools were used to monitor 40 guests from around the world, revealing remarkable changes in their cognitive and emotional states.

The findings highlighted notable improvements in several areas:

• Memory: A 29% increase in short-term memory performance, evidenced by improved word recall.
• Problem-solving: A staggering 125% improvement in complex logical and spatial reasoning tasks.
• Attention: Participants showed a 14% rise in focus during visual tasks.
• Relaxation: Guests reported feeling 158% more relaxed, with stress hormone levels dropping by 35%.

Dr Jack Lewis, a neuroscientist involved in the study, explained the connection between reduced stress and enhanced cognitive function.

“What stands out for me in this study is how neatly all the pieces fit together. The passengers’ time on the ship clearly reduced their stress levels, based on subjective and objective measures.

“The main stress hormone cortisol is well-known in the science research literature to interfere with various cognitive processes. So the boost in memory and logical reasoning capacity identified in this study is likely to be attributed to the stress-relieving impact of ocean travel. This, combined with the amazing array of stimulating activities onboard, allows the passengers’ brains to unlock their full potential,”

Dr Jack Lewis

Beyond the cognitive benefits, the study underscores Cunard’s thoughtful approach to passenger wellbeing.

Guests aboard the Queen Mary 2 enjoy a mix of enriching and rejuvenating experiences, from world-class dining and personalised wellness treatments to the Cunard Insights programme, which features expert-led lectures on diverse topics.

Combined with the ship’s serene ocean views and Cunard’s impeccable White Star Service, passengers are offered a holistic sanctuary for relaxation and renewal.

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, reflected on the significance of these findings.

“This study reinforces what we have always believed: a Cunard voyage is so much more than a holiday. Our curated enrichment programmes, world-class dining, bespoke wellness experiences, and renowned White Star Service leave our guests feeling truly refreshed, inspired and reinvigorated,” she said.

For over 180 years, Cunard has been a pioneer in ocean travel, offering guests a unique way to escape the demands of everyday life.

This new research now adds scientific credibility to the idea that a journey with Cunard isn’t just a luxury – it’s a transformative experience for the mind, body, and soul.

Whether seeking a mental refresh or simply a serene getaway, Cunard’s transatlantic crossings offer an extraordinary way to unlock your full potential while sailing the high seas.

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 woman banned from joining residential ship Villa Vie Odyssey when it set sail on an “endless cruise” from Belfast in October is elated to finally be able to board…

A medical emergency aboard Holland America Line’s Zaandam cut short a cruise vacation for one guest when the US Coast Guard evacuated him for urgent care on 26th November, 2024….

The 2024 Cruise Ship Report Card, released by Friends of the Earth, shows troubling results for the cruise industry’s environmental efforts. Five cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation received failing…

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has confirmed that upside-down pineapples are no longer permitted on Carnival ships as a door decoration, and would be removed if seen – but has…

A woman banned from joining residential ship Villa Vie Odyssey when it set sail on an “endless cruise” from Belfast in October is elated to finally be able to board next month.

Bonny Kelter, one of two would-be passengers whose contracts were terminated for making critical comments in a private WhatsApp group, has reached an agreement with Villa Vie Residences.

She will now join the ship in Panama City on December 17, just in time for the South America segment of its maiden three-and-a-half-year world cruise.

The initial sailing, originally planned for May, had been delayed by a series of repairs and inspections, leading to frustration among passengers who had already committed substantial sums for their new homes aboard the vessel.

Bonny, who paid over £75,000 for her cabin, was left stranded onshore when the ship finally departed in October, despite having already moved nine boxes and two suitcases onboard – including her medicines and jewellery.

“I am happy that Villa Vie Residences and I were able to resolve our issues,

“I am elated about joining the ship and beginning the fulfillment of my lifetime dream of traveling the world while living aboard a cruise ship.”

Bonny Kelter

The other woman banned over the WhatsApp messages, Jenny Phenix, remains in dispute with Villa Vie Residences, highlighting ongoing tensions among those affected by the delays.

The Odyssey represents a growing trend of residential cruise ships, where passengers purchase cabins to live aboard full-time as the vessel travels the globe.

For some, it offers a dream lifestyle of adventure and community, while for others, delays and disputes have cast a shadow over the experience.

Villa Vie Residences has not yet commented on the matter, but the controversy surrounding the bans raises questions about how companies handle customer dissatisfaction, particularly in the context of high-cost ventures like residential cruising.

With tickets often costing hundreds of thousands of pounds, maintaining positive relationships with residents is critical to the success of these floating communities.

The delayed start to the Odyssey’s journey was not the only issue to cause frustration.

Passengers had also voiced concerns about transparency around ship readiness and communication from the company.

For Bonny, though, her upcoming embarkation signals a fresh start after months of uncertainty.

The Odyssey is set to visit destinations across South America in its upcoming leg, including Colombia, Peru, and Chile, offering passengers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the continent while living in the comfort of their floating homes.

As for Bonny, her much-anticipated reunion with her possessions – and her dream of endless travel – is now just weeks away.

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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 medical emergency aboard Holland America Line’s Zaandam cut short a cruise vacation for one guest when the US Coast Guard evacuated him for urgent care on 26th November, 2024….

The 2024 Cruise Ship Report Card, released by Friends of the Earth, shows troubling results for the cruise industry’s environmental efforts. Five cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation received failing…

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has confirmed that upside-down pineapples are no longer permitted on Carnival ships as a door decoration, and would be removed if seen – but has…

Princess Cruises has unveiled a new global advertising campaign titled “Love Boat by Hannah,” starring Emmy-winning actress and musical theatre star Hannah Waddingham, best known for her role in Ted…

A medical emergency aboard Holland America Line’s Zaandam cut short a cruise vacation for one guest when the US Coast Guard evacuated him for urgent care on 26th November, 2024.

The 32-year-old man, showing signs of a stroke, was assessed by the ship’s senior doctor, who notified the Coast Guard’s Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Honolulu at about 10 am the previous day.

The ship was approximately 330 miles northeast of Oahu when the call was made.

After consulting with a flight surgeon, Coast Guard crews initiated a medevac. An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter and an HC-130 Hercules aircraft were dispatched from Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point.

At around 3:15 am, the helicopter reached Zaandam, then sailing about 50 miles east of Kaneohe, Oahu. The guest, accompanied by a cruise ship nurse, was hoisted aboard the helicopter and transported to Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu.

The guest’s identity was not disclosed, but he was reported to be in stable condition following his hospitalisation.

The 1,432-guest Zaandam, which departed San Diego on November 19, 2024, was on a 28-day Circle Hawaii & Mexican Riviera/Sea of Cortez itinerary. The medical emergency occurred after the ship’s first port call in Honolulu.

Despite the incident, the Zaandam continued her schedule, which includes stops in Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii, and several Mexican Riviera ports such as Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán.

This was the second Coast Guard evacuation in Hawaiian waters in recent weeks.

In October 2024, a 63-year-old guest aboard Princess Cruises’ Grand Princess was airlifted near the Big Island for severe abdominal pain. Days later, a 71-year-old guest aboard Carnival’s Carnival Jubilee was evacuated near Galveston, Texas.

Holland America Line’s Zaandam, launched in 2000, is part of the Rotterdam class.

Homeported in San Diego through early 2026, the ship offers a range of itineraries, including Alaska cruises in summer 2025 and a 56-night South Pacific voyage before resuming Hawaii and Mexico sailings.

The Coast Guard’s swift response highlights the importance of emergency preparedness on cruise ships, ensuring guest safety even far from port.

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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 2024 Cruise Ship Report Card, released by Friends of the Earth, shows troubling results for the cruise industry’s environmental efforts. Five cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation received failing…

Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has confirmed that upside-down pineapples are no longer permitted on Carnival ships as a door decoration, and would be removed if seen – but has…

Princess Cruises has unveiled a new global advertising campaign titled “Love Boat by Hannah,” starring Emmy-winning actress and musical theatre star Hannah Waddingham, best known for her role in Ted…

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced that Kool & the Gang will headline the 2025 World Cruise Gala, marking the launch of the cruise line’s longest-ever voyage. The 150-night Away…

The 2024 Cruise Ship Report Card, released by Friends of the Earth, shows troubling results for the cruise industry’s environmental efforts. Five cruise lines owned by Carnival Corporation received failing grades, while eight others scored D’s.

The report, which assessed 21 major cruise lines, awarded its highest grade of B+ to Hurtigruten and Hurtigruten Expeditions, recognising their efforts toward sustainability.

The evaluation examined four environmental factors: sewage treatment, water quality and scrubber use, air pollution reduction, and transparency about environmental practices.

Transparency significantly impacted ratings, with cruise lines fully disclosing their environmental practices receiving A’s in this category.

Those that withheld information, including all Carnival Corporation brands, were given F’s for transparency.

Friends of the Earth noted that the cruise industry generates approximately 1.5 gigatons of toxic exhaust gas scrubber wastewater each year, highlighting the environmental impact of cruising.

The top-performing cruise lines included Hurtigruten, Disney Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Viking.

Hurtigruten, based in Norway, earned A’s for air pollution reduction and is designing the world’s first net-zero cruise ship, Sea Zero.

“Comprehensive evaluations like this are essential for holding our industry accountable, and we are proud to be recognized as the top-ranked operator...

“We don’t claim perfection, but progress.”

Hurtigruten CEO Hedda Felin

Carnival Corporation brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Costa Cruises, ranked poorly across all categories.

Notably, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises received F’s in three categories and D’s in the fourth, resulting in overall F ratings.

Carnival Cruise Line scored an F in water quality and transparency, a D- in sewage treatment, and a D in air pollution, contributing to its failing grade.

The highest grade among Carnival’s brands was a C- for P&O Australia.

Despite the poor grades, many cruise lines are working to address environmental concerns.

Carnival Corporation has introduced liquefied natural gas (LNG) on some ships to reduce sulphur dioxide and particulate emissions, though Friends of the Earth criticises LNG as a “greenwashing” fuel that still harms the environment.

Some companies, including Carnival and Royal Caribbean, have installed advanced air quality systems to reduce ship exhaust pollution.

Many fleets, such as Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, are also using advanced waste treatment systems, implementing recycling programmes, and adopting shore power capabilities to minimise emissions while docked.

AIDA Cruises, part of Carnival Corporation, reported a record 1,400 hours of shore power use across 45 European ports in June 2024, showcasing progress in this area.

Friends of the Earth’s annual Cruise Ship Report Card, which began in 2009, evaluates the environmental performance of the cruise industry.

This year’s report assessed 21 cruise lines and 243 ships, providing a critical look at their sustainability practices.

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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’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has confirmed that upside-down pineapples are no longer permitted on Carnival ships as a door decoration, and would be removed if seen – but has…

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced that Kool & the Gang will headline the 2025 World Cruise Gala, marking the launch of the cruise line’s longest-ever voyage. The 150-night Away…

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Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald has confirmed that upside-down pineapples are no longer permitted on Carnival ships as a door decoration, and would be removed if seen – but has then since deleted his statement.

John had shared a typical Facebook post on his popular page, which featured a question from a single cruiser who wanted help meeting other singles while they sailed.

In the comments, one person made a joke about an upside pineapple doing the trick, and John responded with confirmation that those are no longer allowed on Carnival ships:

However, just a few hours after posting this comment, John deleted it, leaving uncertainty over whether the pineapples would actually be banned.

Upside-down pineapples have long been a sign that someone is into the swinging lifestyle, and have been known to be used by swingers on cruise ships to identify each other.

The fact that Carnival still allows other door decorations, but has potentially chosen to ban upside-down pineapples specifically, shows that the cruise line is trying to discourage this behaviour on ships, or at least discourage it being advertised.

After all, the upside-down pineapple symbol is becoming more widely recognised now, and it may be that the cruise line just doesn’t want it to be really obvious that it’s happening.

No word on whether flamingoes – another symbol that is sometimes used to imply swinging – are also banned. Or not.

Of course, the pineapple is not universally known as a swinging icon either, and some people may just like to use pineapples to represent a tropical getaway.

I imagine there will be some very awkward conversations between those innocent guests and the onboard crew when the passengers go to ask why their decorations have been removed!

The decision by Carnival to ban upside-down pineapples as door decorations highlights a growing trend among cruise lines to manage the cultural signals and behaviours that can arise in the unique environment of a cruise ship.

Cruises are often viewed as spaces for relaxation, fun, and meeting new people, but they also bring together diverse groups with different social norms and expectations.

As symbols like the upside-down pineapple become more widely recognized, cruise lines are likely keen to strike a balance between maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for all passengers and managing activities that could lead to misunderstandings or complaints.

Swinging culture, while not inherently problematic, is a topic that can make some guests uncomfortable, particularly in family-friendly environments.

Cruise lines, including Carnival, have historically maintained policies to ensure their ships remain spaces where guests of all backgrounds feel at ease. This includes managing behaviours or symbols that might be misinterpreted or offensive to some passengers.

This isn’t the first time cruise lines have had to navigate the fine line between self-expression and the comfort of others. For instance, other cruise lines have occasionally updated policies on everything from guest attire to onboard conduct in response to shifting social norms.

The increased visibility of niche communities and their signals, partly driven by social media, has made these symbols more accessible to the general public, which may be prompting businesses like Carnival to take pre-emptive action.

Additionally, the removal of specific symbols like the upside-down pineapple could spark a conversation about where the line should be drawn.

Some may view this move as a necessary step to preserve the cruise experience for the majority, while others might argue that it borders on overreach, particularly if the symbol isn’t universally understood.

What do you think?

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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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Just days after announcing a huge number of cancellations across three ships in its fleet, Norwegian Cruise Line has followed up with news of further cancelled cruises on a fourth ship.

Norwegian Jade’s cruises from 18th October 2025 until 16th February 2026 have all been cancelled, following months of cancellations for Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Star.

Instead of calling Miami its homeport for that season, with cruises to the Caribbean between 6- and 14-nights long, the ship will now instead be based out of San Diego.

She will offer 7-day cruises to the Mexican Riviera, with the popular ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada all likely to feature.

“At Norwegian Cruise Line, we strive to create extraordinary vacation experiences that delight our guests. Occasionally, scheduled itineraries may need to be cancelled, allowing us the opportunity to introduce enhanced voyages that accommodate strong guest demand and provide a more immersive experience

“While unfortunately cancellations may arise, please rest assured that we are always working hard to provide you with world-class cruise vacations to bucket-list destinations.”

Norwegian Cruise Line’s letter to affected guests

The cruise line is offering a similar compensation package to Jade guests as it did to those impacted by the cancellations on Dawn, Jewel, and Star.

This means guest will get a full refund of their fare paid so far, and they’ll also get 10% of their cruise fare extra back as a Future Cruise Credit, to be applied to any sailings until 31st December 2026.

Guests can expect their refunds to hit their bank accounts within 30 working days, although guests who had already paid using Future Cruise Credits will have that amount reinstated within 10 days instead.

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the worst offenders when it comes to cruise lines planning a season and then changing tack, if demand is not there.

Beyond the major cancellations announced within the past couple of weeks, the cruise line has frequently made significant cancellations in the past of a similar nature.

Cancellations for redeployment, such as this, are at least announced far in advance, typically before most guests would’ve booked airfare for their cruise.

Still, it no doubt remains a disappointment for any guests who had been looking forward to their chosen itinerary, who are now forced to either choose an alternative ship with a different date, or a completely different destination.

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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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Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced that Kool & the Gang will headline the 2025 World Cruise Gala, marking the launch of the cruise line’s longest-ever voyage.

The 150-night Away in Wonder world cruise aboard Seven Seas Mariner departs from Miami, Florida, on 7th January 2025.

The gala, set to take place during the evening before the ship’s departure, promises an unforgettable night of music and dance. Guests will enjoy live performances of Kool & the Gang’s iconic hits, including “Ladies Night” and “Get Down on It.”

The event will also feature a cocktail reception and dinner, encouraging attendees to don disco-themed attire for the celebration.

“We are delighted to host such a remarkable celebration for our cherished guests ahead of this milestone voyage,

“This gala is more than just a pre-cruise event; it marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey that embodies the pinnacle of luxury travel and exploration. For many, a Regent world cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we are honoured to set the stage with unforgettable memories from the very start.”

Andrea DeMarco, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

The Away in Wonder world cruise will span three oceans and visit 97 ports across 25 countries and five continents, including South America, the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, and Alaska.

The itinerary includes highlights like Rio de Janeiro, Bora Bora, and Ho Chi Minh City, with in-port overnight stays and over 465 shore excursions.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is known for offering the ultimate in luxury travel, and the 2025 world cruise is no exception.

Guests will enjoy exclusive amenities such as door-to-door luggage service, a comprehensive visa package, unlimited valet laundry, onboard medical services, and a wealth of personalized experiences.

Onboard, travellers will indulge in gourmet dining, premium beverages, and spectacular entertainment.

The journey also includes three exclusive shoreside events in Buenos Aires, Auckland, and Bangkok, offering once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences.

For those seeking an even more tailored journey, the optional Ultimate All-Inclusive Fare adds flights, airport transfers, and private chauffeur service, ensuring seamless luxury from start to finish.

With Kool & the Gang setting the tone for this extraordinary voyage, the Away in Wonder world cruise promises to be a celebration of discovery, luxury, and unforgettable memories.

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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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Just days after announcing a huge number of cancellations across three ships in its fleet, Norwegian Cruise Line has followed up with news of further cancelled cruises on a fourth…

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Oceania Cruises is marking the 15th anniversary of its acclaimed Culinary Center with the launch of new cooking classes for 2025.

Available aboard Marina, Riviera, Vista, and the soon-to-debut Allura, the Culinary Center blends food, culture, and skill-building for an immersive learning experience.

The new classes spotlight diverse cuisines from regions such as the Pacific Northwest of the U.S., Polynesia, and Australia.

Guests will explore the cultural and historical connections behind these dishes while sharpening their kitchen techniques.

Each class is held in a state-of-the-art teaching kitchen with individual workstations and professional-grade equipment.

The Culinary Center, founded by Chef Kathryn Kelly, Oceania’s director of culinary enrichment, has become a hallmark of the cruise line’s focus on food.

With over 60 classes on offer and a team of 11 chef instructors, it is a hub for culinary creativity.

Chef Kelly also leads Oceania’s signature Culinary Discovery Tours, available in more than 40 destinations worldwide.

These chef-led excursions allow guests to explore local food scenes and create destination-inspired dishes.

For 2025, Chef Kelly is planning additional tours to further expand the programme.

“It’s been an amazing evolution over the past 15 years. I am thrilled to work with such a creative and collaborative team as we constantly look for new dishes and class themes to introduce to our curious guests,”

Chef Kathryn Kelly, Director of Culinary Enrichment for Oceania Cruises

Frank A. Del Rio, president of Oceania Cruises, emphasised the central role of food for the brand.

“We are the only cruise built by foodies, for foodies. Food is at the heart of everything we do at Oceania Cruises. We have literally built our ships around the culinary experience, from vast galley spaces to an unparalleled range of restaurants,”

Frank A. Del Rio, president of Oceania Cruises

New classes for 2025

The Culinary Center’s 2025 offerings include a mix of destination-inspired and thematic classes designed to delight food enthusiasts:

• Culinary Northwest Passage: A celebration of the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant food scene.
• Down Under Abundance: Showcasing the flavours of New Zealand and Australia, from the sea to the mountains and vineyards.
• It’s a Dessert Party: A unique evening class featuring desserts and paired beverages before the nightly entertainment.
• South Seas Salt Life: Highlighting Polynesian cuisine with influences from France and China.
• Snow Days Brunch: Sharing popular recipes from the mixology team for a cosy, indulgent brunch experience.

Oceania Cruises’ Culinary Center continues to set the standard for food-focused travel, offering guests a chance to expand their culinary knowledge while exploring the world.

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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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Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has revealed a light-hearted prank that he fell victim to on a recent cruise.

A guest named ‘Trent’ apparently wrote to John to tell him that he’d found an injured bird in his cabin and didn’t know what to do about it.

John reported that the message seemed to be written in a bit of distress as the guest wasn’t able to get help. So, he wrote to senior crew members on the ship including the Housekeeping Manager, the Hotel Director and the Guest Services Manager.

They sent a team to the cabin to investigate and help the guest in question, upon which they did find an ‘injured bird’ – only it was a towel animal.

On his Facebook page, John called Trent a “cheeky sod” and seemed to revel in the bit of fun.

Many guests shared the sentiment, saying that the post had brought a smile to their day.

Some suggested feeding the towel animal some water, since it would “soak it up” and could help with the dehydration.

Not all bird incidents are pranks!

Despite this being a bit of fun, sometimes birds can get into cruise cabins and cause havoc.

Indeed there was a recent incident on a Carnival ship where a whole flock of birds got into a cabin through an open balcony door!

Towel animals

Towel animals have been a beloved tradition on many cruise lines, including Carnival, for decades.

These whimsical creations, made by folding towels into the shapes of various animals, are often left in guests’ cabins by housekeeping staff as a fun surprise.

From elephants to monkeys to swans, towel animals have become an iconic part of the cruise experience, delighting passengers young and old.

While typically a source of smiles and Instagram-worthy moments, it seems this particular towel creation got a bit of extra time in the spotlight – thanks to Trent’s clever prank. Whether perched on a bed or peeking out of a porthole, these towel animals are a small but memorable touch that embodies the playful spirit of cruising.

For guests who want to get in on the fun themselves, some cruise lines may even offer towel-folding workshops, where you can learn the art of crafting these quirky creations to bring a bit of cruise magic home.

Just remember – if your towel bird looks a little under the weather, it might be best to skip the emergency call!

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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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