Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Antarctic Cruise Adventure: Scenic Eclipse II’s Icy Encounter

Earlier this month, the luxury expedition cruise ship Scenic Eclipse II faced a unique challenge in Antarctica. Dense pack ice in the Ross Sea slowed its progress, prompting a call for assistance. The ship was about eight nautical miles from the McMurdo area when it encountered these icy conditions.

US Coast Guard to the Rescue

To navigate through the thick ice, the ship’s captain sought help from the US Coast Guard’s heavy icebreaker, Polar Star. This powerful vessel is known for its ability to tackle tough ice conditions. Polar Star manoeuvred skillfully, breaking and loosening the ice around Scenic Eclipse II.

Breaking Free from the Ice

The operation involved Polar Star making several close approaches and tight circular movements. This gradually created enough space for Scenic Eclipse II to regain its mobility. Once freed, Polar Star escorted the cruise ship for about four nautical miles until it reached open water.

Not a Rescue, But a Coordinated Effort

Scenic Group later clarified that this was not a rescue operation. The ship was never in distress. On 17th January 2026, changing ice conditions had simply slowed its journey. The decision to request assistance was a precautionary measure to avoid prolonged navigation through heavy ice.

Professionalism and Cooperation at Sea

Captain James Griffiths, General Manager of Ocean Operations for Scenic Group, praised the professionalism of the Polar Star crew. He highlighted the operation as a testament to the importance of cooperation and shared responsibility in polar navigation. Passengers on board even enjoyed champagne on the Observation Deck, witnessing the two ships working together.

Polar Star: A Vital Asset in Antarctic Waters

Polar Star is the most powerful icebreaker in the US Coast Guard fleet. It regularly operates in Antarctic waters as part of Operation Deep Freeze, supporting scientific research and logistics. The presence of such a vessel was crucial in ensuring a safe route for Scenic Eclipse II.

The Realities of Polar Cruising

While Scenic framed the event as a precaution, the scene underscored the realities of polar cruising. Conditions in Antarctica can change rapidly, and specialised vessels like Polar Star are often essential. This incident serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of cruising in extreme environments.

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas has encountered a technical issue, causing a delay in its return to Sydney. This has led to the cancellation of its next scheduled cruise. The ship, part of the Quantum-class, set sail on 19th January 2026 for a South Pacific adventure, visiting New Caledonia and Vanuatu. Originally, the cruise was to conclude with a morning arrival in Sydney on 27th January. However, the ship is now expected to dock at around 4 pm.

Delayed Arrival and Guest Support

Anthem of the Seas is currently travelling at a reduced speed of approximately 14 knots, significantly lower than its usual 22 knots. This slowdown is due to an unspecified technical problem affecting the ship’s schedule. Passengers were informed of the delay through a letter from the captain, explaining the situation and the new expected arrival time.

The delay is likely to disrupt travel plans for many of the over 4,000 guests onboard. To assist, Royal Caribbean is offering free phone calls from Guest Services and a complimentary 120-minute internet voucher per stateroom for those without an internet package. Additionally, all drink and internet packages have been extended at no extra cost until disembarkation.

Efficient Disembarkation Process

Upon arrival and clearance, guests are advised to follow their assigned departure groups. Keeping travel documents handy will ensure a smooth disembarkation process. For those who booked flights through Royal Caribbean, air arrangements will be automatically adjusted, with confirmation emails sent once changes are finalised.

Guests who arranged flights independently are advised not to rebook flights before 8:00 pm on 27th January. The cruise line is offering reimbursement for flight change fees, up to $200 per person for domestic flights and up to $400 per person for international flights. If an overnight stay is necessary, up to $250 per stateroom is available for one hotel night. Receipts must be submitted to Royal Caribbean’s Guest Relations team for consideration.

Next Sailing Cancelled

Due to the ongoing technical issue, Royal Caribbean has cancelled Anthem of the Seas’ next cruise. This was a 10-night New Zealand itinerary scheduled to depart on 27th January. Affected guests have been notified of the cancellation. The cruise line is working to address the technical problem to ensure the ship is ready for future voyages.

In summary, while the delay is unfortunate, Royal Caribbean is taking steps to support its guests. The cruise line is committed to resolving the issue and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Exciting Developments at the Port of Los Angeles

The Port of Los Angeles is gearing up for a significant transformation. Plans are underway to construct a state-of-the-art cruise terminal. This development comes as the city anticipates increased passenger demand and prepares for the 2028 Summer Olympics.

A Modern Cruise Complex in the Outer Harbor

The Outer Harbor will soon be home to a modern cruise complex. This facility is designed to accommodate the world’s largest cruise ships. It aims to boost sustainability and economic growth in the region.

Partnerships and Operations

Pacific Cruise Terminals, a collaboration between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, will spearhead this project. They will also manage the facility once it opens. Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, praised Carrix’s expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Harbor Cruise Terminal and Park

The new facility will be named the Harbor Cruise Terminal and Park. Although the completion date remains unconfirmed, the port’s commitment to modernising its cruise infrastructure is clear. The initiative began in 2024 with a formal request for proposals.

Surge in Cruise Activity

Cruise activity at the Los Angeles waterfront has seen a remarkable increase. In 2024, the port experienced its busiest year, with 1.6 million passengers and 241 ship calls. This surge brought an estimated $1.3 million in economic benefits to the local area.

Major Cruise Lines and Future Growth

Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line have maintained a strong presence at the port. As newer, larger vessels enter service, further growth is anticipated. The expanded infrastructure will enhance the waterfront experience for both residents and visitors.

Features of the New Terminal

The Harbor Cruise Terminal and Park will feature a unique circular terminal building. Cruise berths on either side will accommodate the largest ships in service. At its core, an open-air green space will serve as a public park with stepped seating overlooking the harbour.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability is a key focus of the new terminal’s design. Shore power capabilities will allow ships to connect to the local electricity grid, reducing emissions. This environmental initiative builds on the port’s recent progress in lowering emissions.

Looking Ahead

The Port of Los Angeles is investing in its workforce, sustainability, and innovation. These efforts ensure readiness for future opportunities. The new cruise terminal promises to be a landmark development, enhancing the region’s appeal to cruise holidaygoers.

Cruise holidays are a fantastic way to unwind, but they can also lead to misplaced belongings. Surprisingly, over 20% of cruise passengers admit to losing items during their voyage. It’s not the high-value items that go missing most often, but rather everyday essentials. According to research by Confused.com, sunglasses, prescription glasses, and phone chargers top the list of commonly lost items.

Even seasoned cruisers, who consider themselves organised, can fall victim to this. With the hustle and bustle of unpacking, cabin changes, and port stops, it’s easy to lose track of your belongings. Many don’t realise how predictable these losses are or how easily they can be prevented. One item, in particular, seems to catch everyone off guard.

Top 10 Most Commonly Lost Items on Cruise Ships

Cruise travellers frequently report losing the following items:

1. Sunglasses or prescription glasses – 30%
2. Chargers or power banks – 30%
3. Clothing – 28%
4. Jewellery, including watches – 27%
5. Headphones or earbuds – 25%
6. Toiletries or cosmetics – 23%
7. Toys or stuffed animals – 17%
8. Wallet or purse – 17%
9. Camera – 15%
10. Books or e-readers – 14%

Expert Tips: How to Keep Track of Your Belongings on a Cruise

To help you avoid the stress of losing items, travel insurance expert Alvaro Iturmendi from Confused.com offers these practical tips:

Snap an “Arrival Photo”

Once you’ve unpacked, take a photo of your belongings. Include items like sunglasses, chargers, and jewellery. Use this photo as a checklist when packing up again.

Use the ‘Last Place You Look’ Rule

Designate a specific spot, such as inside your shoes or the room safe, for small essentials. This habit helps prevent scattering items around the cabin.

Attach Bluetooth Trackers to Valuables

Consider attaching Bluetooth trackers to items like sunglasses cases or wallets. You can track their last known location via your phone, even if left behind.

Stick a Note on Your Door

Place a sticky note on your cabin door the night before departure. A simple reminder like “CHECK EVERYTHING!” can be surprisingly effective.

Use Invisible Ink to Mark Your Stuff

Discreetly mark your valuables with your contact details using a UV marker. This makes it easier for crew members to return lost items to you.

If you do misplace something, report it immediately to the ship’s Guest Services desk. They often have a Lost & Found department to assist you. By following these tips, you can enjoy your cruise without the worry of losing your essentials.

Winter Storm Fern Disrupts US Cruise Itineraries

Winter Storm Fern is wreaking havoc on cruise schedules across the United States. Cruise lines are scrambling to adjust itineraries, arrival times, and embarkation schedules. The storm is sweeping through the central, midwestern, and eastern US, bringing snow, ice, and freezing rain. Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line have announced changes affecting several ships and homeports.

Harmony of the Seas Returns Early to Galveston

Royal Caribbean has made a swift decision regarding Harmony of the Seas. The ship is returning to Galveston a day earlier than planned. Originally set for a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, the ship departed on 18th January. It will now dock in Galveston at 11 am on Saturday, 24th January, instead of Sunday, 25th January. This change aims to minimise disruption to guests’ onward travel plans due to the severe weather.

Weather Concerns in Galveston

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for the Galveston area. Rain, thunderstorms, and potential freezing rain are expected. Texas faces mixed precipitation, extreme cold, and wind chills below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Ice on bridges connecting Port of Galveston to the mainland is a major concern. This could leave travellers stranded if conditions worsen.

Impact on Cruise Itinerary

Due to the early return, Harmony of the Seas has cancelled its final port call to Cozumel, Mexico. This was originally scheduled for Friday, 23rd January. The ship is sailing back to Texas at full speed to stay ahead of the storm. Guests can disembark on Saturday once the ship is cleared. Those who prefer to stay onboard until Sunday can do so, but must inform their stateroom attendant or Guest Services by noon on Friday.

Onboard Arrangements and Compensation

Guests choosing to remain onboard must briefly disembark with their travel documents on Saturday before reboarding. This process is similar to a back-to-back sailing. While docked, retail shops and the casino will remain closed. Royal Caribbean is offering compensation in the form of a one-day pro-rated refund of the cruise fare. This will be issued as onboard credit and refunded to the card on file if unused. All shore excursions booked for Cozumel are being automatically refunded. Importantly, guests will still earn full loyalty points for the original 7-night cruise, regardless of their disembarkation day.

Winter Storm Fern continues to challenge cruise operations, but proactive measures are in place to ensure guest safety and satisfaction. Stay informed and plan accordingly if you’re cruising during this period.

Exciting Year-Round Cruises from La Romana

MSC Cruises is set to launch an exciting new year-round cruise programme from La Romana, Dominican Republic. Starting in November 2026, this marks the first time MSC Cruises will offer continuous sailings in the Southern Caribbean. The new homeport in La Romana, located on the southern coast, is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region.

Weekly Sailings on MSC Opera

The MSC Opera will be the star of this new programme, offering weekly departures throughout the year. Travellers can choose between a seven-night cruise or a 14-night back-to-back ‘butterfly’ itinerary. Bookings are already open, with the first voyage set for 16th November 2026. A highlight of the itinerary is a visit to Catalina Island, a protected nature reserve known for its stunning beaches and vibrant coral reefs.

Boosting Tourism and Economy

The Dominican Republic’s excellent air connectivity will support this new venture. Multiple international airports provide easy access from key markets. MSC Cruises anticipates that the new homeport will attract around 120,000 international visitors to La Romana annually. This influx is expected to bring a significant economic boost to local hotels, restaurants, and businesses.

Commitment to the Dominican Republic

Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, expressed pride in the new homeporting offering. He highlighted the positive economic impact and the commitment to the Dominican Republic. The year-round operations will extend the traditional cruise season, benefiting the local community and economy.

Caribbean Ports and Fly and Cruise Packages

The itinerary features a mix of popular Caribbean islands and hidden gems. Ports of call include La Romana, Catalina Island, Fort-de-France in Martinique, and Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands. Other stops include St. John’s in Antigua and Barbuda, Philipsburg, Basseterre, and Road Town on select sailings.

MSC Cruises will also offer Fly and Cruise packages, combining flights, transfers, and the cruise into one convenient booking. This approach aims to provide greater convenience and peace of mind for guests, with all travel arrangements managed by MSC Cruises. Pricing for selected sailings is already available, including a 14-night Fly and Cruise itinerary from London.

Amsterdam’s Bold Move: A Potential Ban on Ocean-Going Cruise Ships

Amsterdam is contemplating a groundbreaking decision. By 2035, the city might completely ban ocean-going cruise ships. This move aims to tackle pollution and overtourism in the Dutch capital. Just six months ago, Amsterdam announced plans to halve cruise ship visits by 2026. Now, the city’s coalition government is considering a more drastic approach.

Phasing Out Ocean Cruises

Instead of relocating the passenger terminal east of the city, officials propose phasing out all seagoing cruise vessels. If approved, Amsterdam would be the first major European city to ban ocean cruise ships entirely. This is a step beyond merely limiting ship size, passenger numbers, or docking locations. River cruise ships would still be welcome, but under stricter controls. The proposal limits river vessel calls to 1,150 annually, about half of recent figures.

Environmental and Overtourism Concerns

City leaders believe removing ocean cruise ships will significantly benefit Amsterdam’s environment. Alderman Hester van Buren emphasised the “clear sustainability and environmental gains” this move would bring. Political support within the coalition is strong. Party Leader Rob Hofland stated, “We are finally going to free Amsterdam from these floating apartment blocks.” These ships pollute the air, harm the climate, and bring large numbers of tourists, causing congestion.

Joining a European Trend

Amsterdam is not alone in this endeavour. Other European cities like Barcelona, Nice, and Santorini have also tightened cruise ship restrictions. However, Amsterdam’s plan is more ambitious, aiming for a complete ban on seagoing vessels. Air quality concerns have long been an issue in the port area, with debates intensifying since 2023. Cruise tourism has become a focal point in discussions about overtourism in the city centre.

Financial Considerations

Financial factors play a crucial role in this decision. Relocating the existing cruise terminal would cost over €85 million. Alderman van Buren doubts the city would recover this investment. In contrast, banning cruise ships is expected to cost Amsterdam’s economy around €46 million over 30 years. To mitigate these losses, plans are in place to redevelop areas linked to cruise operations. This includes further development of the Veemkade, known for dining and events, and repurposing parts of the Coenhaven in the western harbour.

Future Decisions

Despite the strong language, the proposal is still years away from being finalised. The decision will require careful consideration and planning. Amsterdam’s bold move could set a precedent for other cities grappling with similar issues. As the city weighs its options, the world watches closely.

Last-Minute Cruise Itinerary Change Delivers a Unique Experience

Cruise holidays are all about relaxation and adventure. However, unexpected itinerary changes can sometimes throw a spanner in the works. For passengers aboard the Norwegian Encore in January 2026, a last-minute change turned into a historic event for Norwegian Cruise Line.

A New Adventure in the Caribbean

The Norwegian Encore set sail from Miami on 17th January 2026. The original plan was a seven-night cruise through the Caribbean and the Bahamas. The itinerary included stops at Roatan in Honduras, Harvest Caye in Belize, Costa Maya in Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. However, a change in port availability led to the cancellation of the Costa Maya stop on 21st January.

The reason? Ongoing construction at Costa Maya. Royal Caribbean, which took over the port in 2025, is transforming it into the Perfect Day Mexico destination, set to open in autumn 2027. Although the port remains open to all cruise lines, construction activities temporarily limited access.

An Unprecedented Overnight at Great Stirrup Cay

Instead of simply replacing Costa Maya with another port, Norwegian Cruise Line offered something truly special. Norwegian Encore became the first ship in the fleet to offer an overnight stay at Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. This was a first-of-its-kind experience for the brand, and up to 3,958 guests were part of this historic event.

Norwegian Cruise Line informed passengers of this unique opportunity. They expressed excitement about the overnight stay, highlighting the chance to experience Great Stirrup Cay after dark. The ship docked at the island’s new pier at 4pm on 22nd January, allowing guests to enjoy the island until midnight. A Glow Party under the stars from 9pm to 11pm added to the excitement. The island reopened the next day, giving guests more time to explore before the ship departed at 5pm.

Adjustments at Harvest Caye

To accommodate the overnight stay, a slight adjustment was made to the itinerary. The visit to Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private destination in Belize, was shortened. Originally scheduled from 8am to 6pm, the stop was adjusted to 7am to 3pm on 20th January. This change allowed the ship more sailing time, ensuring the overnight experience at Great Stirrup Cay was possible.

In Conclusion

While itinerary changes can be unsettling, they can also lead to unexpected adventures. The Norwegian Encore’s overnight stay at Great Stirrup Cay offered passengers a unique experience, making cruise history. For UK cruise holidaygoers, this serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best memories come from the unexpected.

Severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Harry have significantly impacted cruise operations in the Mediterranean. This has led to itinerary changes, port cancellations, and extended port stays for ships from MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises. The storm, which intensified in the Central Mediterranean from 19th January 2026, brought extreme winds and high swells. Consequently, authorities in Italy and Malta issued their highest weather warnings, leaving cruise lines with no option but to prioritise passenger safety.

MSC World Europa Adjusts Its Itinerary

The MSC World Europa, a 215,863-gross-ton vessel, had to cancel its scheduled stops in Messina, Sicily, and Valletta, Malta. These changes were made after forecasts predicted worsening weather conditions. The ship, carrying up to 6,762 guests, informed passengers on 16th January about the potential changes. The revised itinerary was confirmed the next day.

Instead of Messina, the ship docked in Naples on 20th January, which is about 305 miles away from the original destination. On 21st January, it proceeded to Palermo as an alternative entry point to Sicily. The cancellations also affected embarkation and debarkation plans, as Messina is a regular turnaround port for the ship.

Guests scheduled to board in Messina were offered free shuttle transfers to Naples and a €25 onboard credit for lunch ashore. Alternatively, passengers could embark in Palermo and receive a pro-rated refund for the missed night. MSC Cruises assured guests of ongoing support and updates as the situation evolved.

Silver Muse Takes Shelter in Malta

Silversea Cruises also had to make significant adjustments due to Cyclone Harry. The Silver Muse, a 40,791-gross-ton luxury ship, decided to stay in Valletta, Malta, to avoid the storm’s peak. Originally, the ship was to overnight in Valletta from 18th to 19th January. However, the stay was extended until the morning of 20th January and prolonged further as conditions remained unfavourable.

The cruise line’s chief meteorologist, Craig Setzer, closely monitored the situation. This proactive approach ensured the safety and comfort of the 632 guests onboard. The decision to remain in port was made to avoid the severe weather conditions at sea.

In conclusion, Cyclone Harry has caused significant disruptions for cruise lines operating in the Mediterranean. Both MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises have prioritised passenger safety by adjusting itineraries and providing support to affected guests. As always, the safety and well-being of passengers remain the top priority for cruise operators.

New Cruise Port Proposal: A Game Changer for Florida’s Gulf Coast?

A new cruise port on Florida’s Gulf Coast is stirring both excitement and concern. Supporters see it as a chance for economic growth and better cruise access. However, critics worry about environmental harm and pressure on local infrastructure. This privately funded project is still in its early stages. It aims to develop a cruise terminal south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This could allow the largest modern cruise ships to set sail from Florida’s west coast for the first time. Yet, a growing online petition shows not everyone is convinced the benefits outweigh the risks.

Unlocking Tampa Bay’s Cruise Potential

The proposed cruise port would be situated on 328 acres of land in Manatee County, just south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Global marine terminal operator SSA Marine is exploring the project in partnership with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC. Currently, cruise ships from Port Tampa Bay must pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This bridge has a vertical clearance of about 180 feet at zero tide. This restriction prevents many of today’s largest cruise ships from accessing the port. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class vessels, which stand close to 250 feet tall, cannot pass. Even Oasis-class ships, over 200 feet tall, are unable to sail from Tampa.

Competing with Major Cruise Hubs

Developers argue that a new port south of the bridge would eliminate this limitation. This would allow Florida’s west coast to compete more directly with major cruise hubs like PortMiami and Port Canaveral. In 2025, these ports each handled over 8.5 million cruise passengers. In contrast, Port Tampa Bay recorded a then-record 1.6 million guests across 368 sailings. The Knott-Cowen Cruise Port would feature a multi-berth terminal with supporting infrastructure. If approved, construction is expected to take three to five years. This follows zoning, planning commission reviews, and approvals from Manatee County officials. No formal timeline has been set yet.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Economic projections from the developers estimate over 31,000 jobs linked to construction and related activities. Once operational, the port could create more than 13,000 permanent jobs. Annual tax revenue is projected at around $40 million. However, these figures have yet to be independently reviewed as part of the public approval process. The proposal also includes the purchase of Rattlesnake Key, a 710-acre island adjacent to the site. Developers say the island would remain in conservation and not be commercially developed.

Environmental and Community Concerns

While cruise lines and travellers may welcome the prospect of larger ships sailing from the Tampa Bay region, opposition has formed quickly. Within days of the proposal becoming public, a Change.org petition opposing the development gained traction. Critics are concerned about the environmental impact and the strain on local infrastructure. The debate continues as the community weighs the potential benefits against the risks.