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Cruise guests often marvel at the never-ending buffets, sprawling dining rooms, and elaborate cuisine found onboard modern ships – but rarely consider what happens to the mountains of leftover food.

Carnival Corporation, one of the world’s largest cruise operators, is not only thinking about it – it’s acting.

In a 10th June 2025 announcement, the company revealed it has exceeded its goal to cut food waste across its brands by 40% by 2025, achieving an impressive 44% reduction in 2024 compared to 2019 levels.

The initiative, dubbed “Less Left Over,” spans Carnival’s portfolio of brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and Cunard.

The strategy combines real-time data tracking, AI-driven forecasting, and staff training to better predict food demand and optimise portion sizes.

These tools help the company prepare the right amount of food for each cruise – down to specific menu items – while reducing waste from prep to plate.

Cruise kitchens have also started plating meals more efficiently and using guest preference data to tailor menus on the fly.

“Our Less Left Over strategy is powered by dozens of large and small programs and technologies… but more than that, it’s a global rallying cry,” said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “It’s turning everyday actions into lasting impact.”

Leftovers Find New Life

When leftovers do occur – as they inevitably will – the cruise conglomerate is getting creative. A few standout examples include:

• Turning used cooking oil into biofuel for excursion buses in Alaska
• Recycling coffee grounds into vegan soap sold onboard or donated
• Donating surplus meals and ingredients to local food banks in ports experiencing food insecurity

These efforts have already saved the company an estimated $250 million in food-related costs, with expectations for more progress over the next five years. Carnival’s longer-term goal is a 50% reduction in food waste by 2030.

To deal with unavoidable leftovers, Carnival has turned to biodigesters – nicknamed “metallic stomachs” – which use bacteria to liquify food waste, making it easier and more sustainable to dispose of at sea.

As of the end of 2024, 630 biodigesters were in use across the fleet, supplied by Power Knot Ocean.

Additionally, the company uses more than 90 food dehydrators and dryers, which strip moisture from harder-to-process food items, reducing volume by up to 90%.

The dried remains can later be used as organic mulch or compost.

A Model for the Cruise Industry

This success story comes as cruise lines across the industry face mounting pressure to reduce environmental impact, especially as public awareness around sustainability continues to grow.

With “Less Left Over,” Carnival Corporation is demonstrating that large-scale operations can embrace meaningful sustainability without sacrificing quality or guest experience.

From biofuel buses to AI-assisted meal planning, the program serves as a blueprint for how cruise travel can become more planet-friendly – one meal at a time.

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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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Oceania Cruises marked the official start of a new chapter in its fleet with a steel-cutting ceremony on June 4, 2025, for Oceania Sonata – the first vessel in a brand-new class of ships.

Held at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera, Italy, the event also included the announcement of the new class name, Sonata, and confirmed that a sister ship, Oceania Arietta, will follow in 2029.

Set to debut in 2027, Oceania Sonata will be the ninth ship in the line’s fleet and its largest yet, measuring 86,000 gross tons and designed to carry 1,450 guests. This marks a significant capacity increase for the line, whose current largest ships accommodate approximately 1,200 passengers.

“Oceania Sonata heralds the dawn of a new era in luxury cruising… We are proud to continue our legacy of innovation alongside Fincantieri, our shipbuilding partner for close to 20 years.”

Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises.

Montague noted that the ships in the new class will deliver the most guest space and onboard amenities ever featured in the Oceania fleet, though specific design or experience details have not yet been released.

Part of a Larger Expansion Strategy

The Sonata class represents the latest evolution in Oceania Cruises’ commitment to small-ship luxury, coming on the heels of the Allura class, which debuted with Oceania Vista in 2023 and will soon include Oceania Allura, launching in July 2025.

In total, Oceania Cruises operates ships across three distinct classes:

• Regatta Class*: Regatta, Nautica, Insignia, Sirena
• Oceania Class: Marina (2011), Riviera (2012)
• Allura Class: Vista (2023), Allura (2025)
• Sonata Class: Sonata (2027), Arietta (2029)

*The Regatta Class ships were purchased, unlike the rest of the fleet that was built for the cruise line. They were all built between 1998 and 2000, and joined Oceania between 2003 and 2016.

The order for the two Sonata-class ships was part of a broader fleet expansion announced in April 2024 by parent company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH).

In addition to the Oceania ships, the agreement with Fincantieri also includes:

• Four 200,000-gross-ton ships for Norwegian Cruise Line, each capable of hosting 5,000 passengers, with launches scheduled between 2030 and 2036.
• Two ultra-luxury ships for Regent Seven Seas Cruises under a new Prestige class, with Seven Seas Prestige arriving in 2026 and a second unnamed ship in 2029.

The Regent vessels will measure 77,000 gross tons and welcome up to 850 guests, further expanding the company’s footprint in the luxury cruise market.

As part of the multi-ship deal, NCLH has also committed to enhancements of its private island destination, Great Stirrup Cay.

With Oceania Sonata now officially under construction and Allura preparing for its maiden voyage in July 2025, Oceania Cruises is positioning itself for continued growth in the competitive luxury cruise sector – focusing on elevated onboard experiences, spacious designs, and a commitment to refined travel.

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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 is once again reshaping the future of cruise vacations with the reveal of its newest private island destination, Perfect Day Mexico, launching in autumn 2027.

Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast near Mahahual, this 200-acre tropical escape promises world-first water attractions, expansive beach zones, and immersive cultural experiences.

Described as the brand’s “boldest yet,” Perfect Day Mexico will be divided into seven unique neighbourhoods tailored to every kind of traveller – from adrenaline junkies and partygoers to families and those looking for sun-soaked relaxation.

Loco Waterpark: Record-Breaking Thrills Await

Topping the list of headline attractions is Loco Waterpark, home to more than 30 waterslides spread across five slide towers. This includes Jaguar’s Peak, the tallest waterslide tower in the Americas at more than 170 feet.

Here, guests can experience the world’s longest coaster-style waterslide and the highest family raft ride designed for up to six riders.

Another highlight is the world’s first sombrero slide, inspired by Mexico’s iconic wide-brimmed hat. Designed as a bowl slide, it offers a distinctly local flair to the waterpark experience.

Longest Lazy River on Earth and Endless Pools

In Splash Cove, cruisers of all ages can float down the longest lazy river in the world, a float lasting nearly an hour with optional “crazy” sections featuring rapids and waves.

At the centre lies a massive 100,000-square-foot pool – just one of more than 10 pools across the island, together spanning the size of four football fields.

Younger guests will enjoy the largest Splashaway Bay yet, complete with child-sized slides and interactive features. New Splashaway Cabanas nearby offer families a shaded retreat close to the action.

Adults-Only and Premium Beach Retreats

Guests aged 18 and up can head to El Hideaway, an adults-only zone with a swim-up bar, live DJs, and the all-new Ultimate Party Cabana, complete with its own pool and bartender.

For a more upscale beach day, Costa Beach Club offers infinity pools, premium dining, and luxury cabanas with dedicated attendants.

Those looking to relax in a more natural setting can unwind along Chill Beach North and South, nearly two miles of white-sand shoreline with complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels.

Food, Culture, and Celebrations at Fiesta Plaza

Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by the vibrant Fiesta Plaza, where live mariachi music and the world’s largest sombrero – topping the Tipsy Sombrero bar – set the tone.

Across the island, 12 eateries and 24 bars will serve up regional dishes and cocktails, with nearly all food options included in the cruise fare. Art installations and market-style shopping by local artisans complete the cultural immersion.

Itineraries and Expansion Plans

When it opens in autumn 2027, Perfect Day Mexico will feature on Western Caribbean cruises departing from Galveston, New Orleans, and multiple Florida ports. These new itineraries will be available to book later this year.

Royal Caribbean says this expansion reflects its long-term ambition to reinvent cruise travel both onboard and ashore.

“Perfect Day Mexico is bigger and bolder than anything we have done to date… We can’t wait to welcome adventurers from around the world for an experience only we can offer.”

Royal Caribbean CEO Michael Bayley

More Beach Escapes on the Horizon

Perfect Day Mexico is just one piece of a growing portfolio of exclusive destinations under Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Destination banner.

The cruise line is also developing several Royal Beach Clubs and other private island getaways:

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (The Bahamas) – Opening December 2025 near Nassau, this club features three island-style restaurants, The Floating Flamingo swim-up bar, and an all-inclusive experience.
• Royal Beach Club Cozumel (Mexico) – Due to open in 2026, this club will include pools, cabanas, snorkelling, kayaking, tequila tastings, and cooking classes.
• Lelepa (Vanuatu) – Launching in early 2027, this South Pacific escape will offer a locally inspired island retreat for Australian cruisers.

By 2027, the cruise line expects 90% of its Caribbean travellers to visit either Perfect Day at CocoCay or Perfect Day Mexico, with new itineraries from Gulf ports including both Perfect Day Mexico and Royal Beach Club Cozumel.

A Sustainable Vision

Royal Caribbean is working closely with the Mexican government and Mahahual community to develop Perfect Day Mexico as a sustainable, long-term tourism destination.

The port will remain open during all construction phases, and a new welcome centre will help connect guests with local landmarks and excursions.

The initiative aligns with Royal Caribbean Group’s SEA the Future programme, focused on sustainability, community investment, and responsible tourism.

As the cruise giant continues to redefine what “the perfect day” looks like, Perfect Day Mexico stands to become one of the most anticipated and immersive private island destinations in modern cruising.

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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

Two Canadian travellers have filed lawsuits against Royal Caribbean International, claiming the cruise line failed to adequately prevent and respond to a Salmonella outbreak that impacted more than 180 guests during an Alaska sailing in September 2024.

The women, Tierny Patterson and Nicole Singh, sailed aboard Radiance of the Seas on a week-long cruise departing Vancouver on 20th September 2024.

According to legal documents filed with the British Columbia Supreme Court in March 2025, both women experienced severe gastrointestinal symptoms after consuming meals onboard and are now seeking compensation for physical suffering and financial losses.

Patterson claims she fell ill after eating multiple meals in the ship’s “dining hall,” though the specific venue – main dining room or buffet – was not clarified in the filing.

After returning to Vancouver, she was diagnosed with Salmonella by her physician on land.

Singh, who also reported diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and fever, alleges she was treated like a “biohazard” and confined to her cabin by ship medical personnel, who she says lacked proper training and equipment to provide adequate care.

She claims she wasn’t advised to seek hospital treatment ashore, which she believes further jeopardised her health.

Royal Caribbean Yet to Respond

Royal Caribbean has not issued an official statement regarding the claims. The lawsuits remain under review by the B.C. Supreme Court, and none of the allegations have been proven in court.

The cruise line, however, did follow standard procedures outlined by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) – which mandates that cruise ships report outbreaks when 3% or more of guests or crew report gastrointestinal symptoms.

On this sailing, 180 guests and three crew members were affected, representing 8.29% of those on board – well above the reporting threshold.

The outbreak was logged with the CDC, and experts monitored the ship’s sanitation response.

Cruise lines are prepared for outbreaks of illness and implement rigorous containment measures.

Onboard Radiance of the Seas, this included enhanced cleaning of high-touch areas, increased signage and announcements encouraging frequent handwashing, and collecting stool samples to identify the cause of illness.

In this case, tests confirmed Salmonella as the source.

Guests who reported symptoms were isolated in their cabins – a routine safety precaution to limit the spread of infection.

Isolated passengers typically receive room service meals, medical support, and regular monitoring.

Despite the disruption, Radiance of the Seas did not alter its itinerary or onboard entertainment schedule.

While no traveller wants to become ill on holiday, cruise ships – like any environment with thousands of people in close quarters – carry an inherent risk of spreading gastrointestinal viruses and foodborne illnesses.

Salmonella can be transmitted via undercooked or contaminated food, and even with strict food safety procedures, outbreaks can still occur.

The situation underscores the importance of travel insurance, particularly policies that cover medical care and potential trip interruptions.

Royal Caribbean, like other cruise lines, also encourages passengers to report symptoms early and follow health guidance during outbreaks.

As for Patterson and Singh, their claims will now proceed through the Canadian court system, where the cruise line’s responsibilities and outbreak protocols will likely come under closer scrutiny.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

I’m ALWAYS looking for cruise bargains! These are the best deals I found this week…

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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

While Southampton is the cruise capital of the UK, another port has now completed significant renovations that could see it host some of the biggest cruise ships in the world.

The Port of Dover has announced a landmark milestone in its cruise capabilities, confirming that some of the largest cruise ships in the world can now dock at the Kent port for the very first time.

Following a £6 million investment, significant upgrades to the port’s mooring facilities have increased the maximum cruise ship length from 320 metres to 350 metres, allowing it to accommodate the newest generation of mega-liners from major cruise lines such as Disney, MSC, Norwegian, and Princess Cruises.

This marks a new era for Dover, already the UK’s second-largest cruise port, as it continues to position itself at the forefront of cruise tourism while boosting the local economy.

Peter Wright, Head of Cruise at the Port of Dover, celebrated the milestone, stating:

“Our 2025 season is in full swing, and we already see a diverse range of cruise ships bringing in thousands of guests each week during high season. Our vision for cruise will ensure that Dover remains at the forefront of the sector, whilst delivering economic benefits across the region.”

Prior to the expansion, the port already welcomed over 200,000 cruise passengers each year, with more than 20 cruise ships regularly calling at the harbour.

On peak weekends, as many as 8,000 passengers arrive to explore the surrounding area, including iconic landmarks such as the White Cliffs of Dover.

Bigger Ships, More Visitors

With the upgraded berths now able to welcome cruise ships measuring up to 350 metres in overall length, Dover is set to benefit from a greater variety of international cruise vessels.

Lines already calling at the port include Carnival, Fred. Olsen, Holland America Line, Saga, and Windstar – and now even more major players will have the option of calling at Dover on their UK and European itineraries.

Just last month, the Viking Vela made its first UK call at Dover.

The luxury vessel is one of four Viking Ocean ships – alongside Viking Jupiter, Viking Saturn, and Viking Sky – scheduled to make a combined 19 calls to Dover in 2025 alone, as part of sailings between London and Bergen and other British Isles routes.

The port upgrade is one part of a broader “Port of Dover 2050” masterplan, which aims to transform the waterfront into a regional tourist destination through a wide-reaching regeneration programme.

Key elements of the project include:

• A revitalised promenade at Waterloo Crescent, complete with new pedestrian pathways and children’s play areas
• A new commercial quarter featuring cafés, restaurants, and retail spaces
• A long-term strategy to increase footfall and turn the port area into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike

While a total cost for the entire regeneration project has not yet been confirmed, estimates suggest it could surpass £500 million, with major investments already underway across the seafront.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

I’m ALWAYS looking for cruise bargains! These are the best deals I found this week…

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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

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has officially finalised its contract with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for the construction of four enormous cruise ships for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand.

The agreement was initially announced in April 2024 when NCLH signed a letter of intent for the construction of four ships, each with a gross tonnage of 226,000.

Although financing arrangements remain in progress, the deal is now effectively sealed and these ships will be built, the biggest that have ever sailed for the cruise line.

Fincantieri confirmed in a statement on 5th February 2025 that the order is categorised as “very important,” meaning its total value surpasses €2 billion (approximately $2.1 billion USD).

The four ships will be built at the company’s Monfalcone shipyard, located near Trieste, Italy.

These new vessels will be the largest ever built for Norwegian Cruise Line. Each will accommodate around 5,100 guests, bringing the total capacity, including crew, to approximately 8,300 passengers.

For comparison, the cruise line’s current largest ships belong to the Breakaway-Plus class, which includes Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Bliss.

These vessels have gross tonnages ranging from 164,998 to 168,028 and can carry between 4,000 and 4,300 passengers.

Fincantieri has already constructed Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima and Prima-Plus class ships, with the latest, Norwegian Aqua, scheduled to launch in April 2025.

The shipbuilder has been responsible for six ships in the Prima class to date, with three more scheduled to enter service by 2028.

The four newly commissioned ships are set for delivery in 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036.

However, Norwegian Cruise Line has not yet disclosed whether these will form a new ship class or whether they will include signature features such as go-kart tracks, high-adrenaline attractions, or multi-level theatres.

Sister brands also expanding fleets

Alongside Norwegian Cruise Line’s expansion, NCLH’s initial letter of intent also included plans for new ships for its other brands – Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

While the contract finalised in February 2025 only applies to Norwegian Cruise Line, further agreements for Oceania and Regent are expected to be confirmed soon.

Under this expansion strategy, Oceania Cruises will receive two ships, each with a gross tonnage of 86,000 and capable of carrying 1,450 passengers.

These ships are scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2029. The premium cruise line currently operates seven ships, with its newest vessel, Allura, set to enter service in July 2025.

Allura is now in the final outfitting and interior design stages.

For Regent Seven Seas Cruises, NCLH has also signed letters of intent for two additional ships, due for delivery in 2027 and 2029. Regent operates smaller luxury vessels compared to its sister brands.

The most recent addition to the Regent fleet is Seven Seas Grandeur, a 55,500-gross ton ship launched in 2023.

Another vessel, Seven Seas Prestige, is currently being built at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard and is expected to debut in 2026. Prestige will be a larger vessel, with a gross tonnage of around 77,000.

Once all these new ships are delivered across the three brands, they will add approximately 25,000 berths to NCLH’s total capacity.

Investment in private island infrastructure

Beyond fleet expansion, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is also making a significant investment in its private island, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas.

The company has begun construction on a new multi-ship pier, which will be able to accommodate two of its largest vessels simultaneously. Work commenced in January 2025, with completion expected by late 2025.

With these ambitious expansion plans, NCLH is setting the stage for a new era of cruising, bringing larger and more advanced ships to its global fleet while enhancing its private island experience for passengers.

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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

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 Lasso.

The campaign reimagines the iconic theme song from the classic TV series The Love Boat, with Waddingham adding her own modern twist.

The ads, directed by Dave Laden of Hungry Man and created in collaboration with Princess Cruises’ agency of record, Terri & Sandy, showcase Waddingham’s rendition of the theme song, recorded at the legendary Criteria Recording Studios in Miami.

“Waddingham brings something truly special to one of the most recognizable theme songs in television history and the Princess Cruises brand anthem,”

John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.

The campaign features 60-, 30-, 15-, and 6-second spots, which will air across the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia.

The flagship 60-second commercial will also play in cinemas before major blockbusters like Wicked and Gladiator 2.

Princess Cruises designed the campaign to resonate with a variety of travellers, from seasoned cruisers to first-time adventurers.

Key target audiences include digitally savvy adults, active seniors, families with teenagers, and multi-generational groups. Which, of course, seems to cover quite the range of people!

Hannah Waddingham and Princess Cruises

Earlier this year, Waddingham was named Godmother of the Sun Princess, cementing her connection to the cruise line.

Her charismatic presence and musical talents bring new life to the Love Boat theme, which continues to serve as the anthem for Princess Cruises.

This campaign not only celebrates the brand’s legacy but also showcases its commitment to innovation and reaching new audiences, blending timeless elegance with a fresh, modern voice.

It also utilises one of the world’s top TV and stage stars right now, with Waddingham’s popularity having never been higher.

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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