2025 was a whirlwind year for the cruise industry. It was filled with exciting new ships and announcements about future destinations. However, not all news was positive. There were tragedies, scandals, and controversies that kept the industry in the headlines. Let’s revisit the most significant cruise news stories of 2025. Which ones do you recall, which are new to you, and which would you prefer to forget?
January: A Year of Surprises for Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas marked its first anniversary in January 2025. Surprisingly, guest reviews revealed a decline in popularity. Initially expected to be a fleet favourite, its ranking among cruise ships dropped significantly. This unexpected shift left many wondering about the reasons behind the change in sentiment.
Carnival’s New Policies Stir Debate
Carnival Cruise Line made headlines with two major policy changes. First, they introduced stricter rules for under-21s, reshaping family cabin bookings. This move sparked debates among passengers about the true motives and enforcement of these rules. Additionally, Carnival reinforced its ban on cash games outside the casino. This decision surprised many cruisers, highlighting the strictness of onboard gambling regulations.
February: Controversies and Cancellations
A balcony fire on Carnival Glory turned a weekend cruise into a tense situation. Although the fire was controlled, passengers claimed mistreatment during the investigation. Their allegations raised further questions about the incident. In another twist, a couple’s cruise booking mysteriously vanished, only to be followed by an unexpected refund. The story took a bizarre turn when the identity of the person who cancelled the trip was revealed.
Sky Princess Itinerary Changes Cause Disappointment
Princess Cruises made drastic changes to Sky Princess itineraries, leaving many guests disappointed. Sun-soaked routes were swapped for entirely different destinations. This sudden change forced passengers to rethink their holiday plans and question the reasons behind such a significant shift.
2025 was indeed a year of ups and downs for cruise enthusiasts. While some stories brought excitement, others left passengers and industry insiders puzzled. As we look back, these events remind us of the ever-evolving nature of the cruise world.
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