Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a touch of home to the high seas this Christmas. For those who cherish the tradition of wearing matching pyjamas on Christmas morning, there’s good news. Carnival is relaxing its dress code for one day, allowing guests to don their festive sleepwear for brunch on 25th December. However, there’s a catch: the pyjamas must be appropriate for all ages.

Cosy Christmas Breakfast

John Heald, Carnival’s brand ambassador, has clarified this festive exception. He frequently addresses guest queries about onboard attire, and with Christmas nearing, pyjamas have become a hot topic. Heald explained, “If your family tradition includes breakfast in holiday pyjamas, our ships will make a one-time exception to the ‘no pyjamas’ rule on Christmas morning.”

While Carnival’s dress code doesn’t specifically mention pyjamas, it does prohibit sheer or suggestive clothing. Heald emphasised that this festive leniency has boundaries. “Ensure your pyjamas are family-friendly, with long pants and sleeves,” he advised. The maître d has the final say, so avoid any attire that might land you on the naughty list.

Where the Christmas Cruises Will Be

On Christmas morning, several Carnival ships will be at sea, making the Seaday Brunch the perfect setting for this relaxed dress code. Others will dock at ports like Nassau, Cozumel, and Grand Turk. While pyjamas are fun for brunch, they might not be suitable for exploring these destinations. Passengers should be prepared to change before heading ashore.

Festivities Continue Throughout the Fleet

Carnival is rolling out a festive programme across its December cruises. Expect visits from Santa and the Grinch, tree-lighting ceremonies, themed trivia, and even faux snowfalls in the atrium. Guests can also participate in ugly-jumper contests and enjoy a formal evening, likely scheduled for 25th December. Check the Hub app for specific timings on your ship.

Whether you’re celebrating at home or on a cruise, you can keep your cosy Christmas tradition alive. Just ensure your pyjamas are more nice than naughty.

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P&O Iona Returns Early to Southampton

P&O Cruises’ flagship, Iona, made an early return to Southampton. The ship cut its journey short to avoid worsening weather conditions. Originally scheduled to dock on Saturday morning, the 184,100-gross-ton vessel arrived on Friday afternoon instead. This decision ensured a smooth and safe docking process.

Weather Precautions for Safe Arrival

Captain Martin Allen informed guests about the change in plans. He explained that the forecast predicted challenging weather for Saturday. By arriving early, the ship avoided the adverse conditions. This proactive approach prioritised the safety of both guests and crew.

Challenging Coastal Conditions

Strong winds and gusty conditions were expected at the harbour entrance. These could have made manoeuvring difficult. By docking ahead of the weather system, Iona ensured a more comfortable final approach.

A Common Winter Strategy

This isn’t the first time Iona has adjusted its schedule due to weather. Last year, the ship stayed docked longer than planned because of stormy seas. Such adjustments are common for UK cruise operations during winter.

Onboard Experience Unaffected

Despite the early arrival, guests remained onboard. Border Force clearance was not scheduled until the original debarkation day. Captain Allen confirmed that disembarkation would not occur on Friday. Entertainment and dining continued as planned, allowing guests to enjoy their final night.

No Technical Issues on Iona

Earlier in the voyage, a stop in Lisbon was cancelled due to industrial action. However, the early return to Southampton was unrelated to any technical problems. Iona, P&O Cruises’ first Excel-class ship, can accommodate up to 6,685 passengers and 1,700 crew members.

Next Cruise to Proceed as Planned

Turnaround operations were set to begin once disembarkation started on schedule. The ship’s next 14-night Canary Islands itinerary was expected to proceed without any changes.

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Don’t miss out on the latest offers from P&O Cruises. Check out the new deals and plan your next adventure today!

St. Maarten Enhances Visitor Experience with New Cruise Port Regulations

St. Maarten is taking steps to improve the experience for cruise holidaygoers. The island is tightening rules on aggressive solicitation at its bustling cruise port. This move aims to protect visitors as the island enters its peak season.

Why the New Rules?

Philipsburg, the capital, sees over 1.5 million cruise passengers each year. Tourism is vital to the local economy. However, complaints about pushy vendors have increased. In response, officials are implementing stricter controls.

Details of the New Regulations

The Minister of Justice has issued a decree to enforce public-order controls. These apply around the waterfront entry points. Anyone approaching cruise passengers without permission or selling unlicensed services will face a $190 fine. Activities like touting unlicensed excursions, rentals, or services are prohibited.

Focus on Unregulated Operators

The new measures target unregulated operators, not legitimate businesses. Authorities stress that businesses with permits can continue to operate. The goal is to ensure a pleasant experience for visitors.

Timing of the Restrictions

The Caribbean’s peak cruise season follows the end of hurricane season. The new order is effective from 1st December 2025 to 30th April 2026. During this time, major cruise lines frequently visit the island.

Designated Restricted Zones

Restricted zones include key entry points. These are the Dr A.C. Wathey Cruise & Cargo Facilities and access points to Captain Hodge Wharf and Walter Plantz Wharf. These areas are crucial for managing visitor interactions.

Positive Feedback from Travellers

The announcement was shared on the Government of Sint Maarten’s Facebook page. Travellers have largely supported the move. One commenter noted they avoided cruises due to aggressive vendors. Another praised the decision, saying it would improve the tourist experience.

St. Maarten Joins Regional Efforts

St. Maarten is not alone in these efforts. Nassau in The Bahamas has also introduced similar measures. Controlled access points and approved vendors help reduce unwanted interactions.

A More Welcoming Arrival

With these new rules, St. Maarten aims to offer a more welcoming arrival. The island hopes guests will remember its beaches and hospitality, not tense encounters. This initiative is a step towards enhancing the overall cruise holiday experience.

Introducing MSC World Asia: A New Era in Cruise Travel

MSC Cruises is gearing up for an exciting launch. The MSC World Asia is set to make its debut in December 2026. This world-class ship will offer week-long Mediterranean cruises, blending Asian cultural influences with modern luxury.

Asia-Inspired Design and Features

The ship’s design will captivate guests with its Asian-inspired elements. A stunning stainless-steel dragon sculpture will hang 10 metres above the World Promenade. Illuminated by thousands of LED lights, this 12-metre-long dragon will be a visual masterpiece.

MSC World Asia will also feature a revamped dry slide attraction. The Spiral @ Tree of Life, inspired by Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, will span 12 decks. It promises an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.

Exciting Dining and Family Attractions

Food lovers will delight in the new pan-Asian street food venue. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it will offer flavours from across Asia, including Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Families will enjoy the reimagined top-deck attractions. The Harbour will transform into an Asian-inspired outdoor family park. It will feature rides and a high ropes course for endless fun.

Entertainment and Leisure Options

MSC World Asia will introduce The Clubhouse, a versatile venue for all ages. It will offer bumper cars, table games, and even a LEGO zone. The programming will change throughout the day to keep everyone entertained.

For sports enthusiasts, the ship will house MSC’s first all-American sports bar in Europe. In total, there will be over 40 bars, lounges, and restaurants, including favourites like Butcher’s Cut and Hola! Tacos & Cantina.

Luxurious Accommodations and Relaxation

MSC World Asia will offer the most extensive selection of MSC Yacht Club accommodations yet. New Royal Duplex Suites will accommodate up to six guests. With over 20 cabin types, there’s something for everyone.

The ship will be divided into seven distinct districts. Each will offer a unique atmosphere, from family-friendly areas to adults-only relaxation zones. Wellbeing facilities will include the Aurea Spa, Zen pools, and a gym with sea views.

Exciting Mediterranean Itineraries

Starting 4th December 2026, MSC World Asia will embark on seven-night Mediterranean cruises. Ports of call will include Barcelona, Marseille, and Genoa. In summer 2027, Naples will replace Rome on the itinerary.

Prices for selected January 2027 departures start at £693 per person. Don’t miss out on the latest MSC Cruises offers for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Carnival Cruise Line has recently implemented a price increase that will impact most passengers. The automatic service charge on many onboard purchases has risen from 18% to 20%. This change, not widely announced, is now reflected in Carnival’s booking system and the fine print for onboard spending. As a result, many holidaymakers will find themselves paying a bit more for popular extras.

What the Increase Applies To

The 20% service charge now applies to a variety of purchases. This includes all drink packages like Cheers!, Bottomless Bubbles, and Cheers! Zero Proof. Individual bar drinks and speciality dining venues, such as the steakhouse, are also affected. Additionally, in-cabin party decorations and gifts delivered to staterooms will incur the new fee. While the increase is only two percentage points, it can quickly add up for families enjoying premium dining and refreshments.

How Quickly the Increase Adds Up

Though the gratuity increase isn’t massive, it will be noticeable for families. For instance, a typical family of four, with adults on a Cheers! package and children enjoying Bottomless Bubbles, will now pay about $240 in gratuity fees over a week. This is an increase of around $20. When you factor in other onboard expenses, such as speciality dining or stateroom treats, a family might face an extra $30 in charges. It’s not a game-changer, but it’s something cruisers need to budget for carefully.

Why Now?

Carnival has not publicly commented on the change. However, rising operating costs have led to higher prices for drinks and dining across the cruise industry. It’s been over a year since Carnival last increased its automatic gratuity rate, which typically rises every few years. Other areas, such as speciality dining, bottled water, WiFi, and Fast to the Fun priority access, might also see price hikes in the future. The timing is significant as Carnival plans to replace its loyalty scheme with the new Carnival Rewards programme in 2026. Many regular guests have criticised this change, arguing it favours onboard spending over loyalty earned through sailing history.

Service charge increases at sea are not uncommon, and Carnival is not alone in raising prices. The key question is whether guests will reduce bar spending or speciality dining as costs continue to rise.

Unexpected Incident at Martinique Port

In a surprising turn of events, the Enchanted Princess cruise ship was involved in a brief rescue operation in Martinique. On 29th November 2025, a man unexpectedly jumped into the water beside the docked vessel. This individual was neither a passenger nor a crew member of the ship.

Quick Response by Enchanted Princess Crew

The Royal-class ship was securely docked when the man bypassed security and entered a restricted area. He then leapt into the harbour right next to the 3,660-passenger ship. The crew acted swiftly, deploying a life ring and launching a rescue boat. The man was safely retrieved and handed over to local authorities.

Details of the Incident

Princess Cruises confirmed that no one went overboard from the ship itself. Witnesses noted that the man was in police custody by around 10 am. It appears he was a local resident attempting to evade authorities. The motive behind his actions remains unclear.

Impact on Cruise Schedule

Despite the unexpected event, the Enchanted Princess continued its journey without delay. The ship is on a 12-night Southern Caribbean itinerary, having departed from Fort Lauderdale on 23rd November. It is scheduled to return to Florida on 3rd December.

Similar Incidents in Recent Times

This incident is not isolated. There have been other cases where individuals have entered the water from piers or ports. In June 2025, a person jumped off a pier in Juneau, Alaska, seemingly for a social media stunt. Similarly, in the Canary Islands, a man attempted to swim to a docked ship last December.

Warnings from Authorities

Authorities consistently warn against such risky behaviour. Entering secure zones without permission is illegal and dangerous. It can lead to injury, arrest, and even future bans from cruising. Cruise lines and port authorities urge everyone to adhere to safety protocols.

Stay Updated with Princess Cruises

For those interested in cruising, Princess Cruises offers exciting deals and itineraries. Stay informed about the latest offers and enjoy a safe and memorable cruise experience.

The spirit of Meat Loaf is set to rock the seas once more in 2026. Following a sold-out success, Steve Steinman’s rock extravaganza is returning for another thrilling cruise. The 2024 voyage, centred around the hit show “Anything for Love – the Meat Loaf Story,” became MSC Cruises’ fastest-selling independent booking ever. With over 1,700 cabins quickly reserved, the demand for a repeat was undeniable. Now, an extended itinerary is on the horizon.

Set Sail from Southampton

The “Anything For Love Cruise 2026” will embark from Southampton on 5th September 2026. This seven-night journey aboard the MSC Virtuosa will visit La Rochelle, Bilbao, La Coruña, and Cherbourg. It’s a perfect blend of rock music and scenic destinations.

Exclusive Performances at Sea

Steve Steinman has dedicated over 30 years to honouring Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman. His performances have captivated audiences in theatres and arenas worldwide. On this cruise, fans will enjoy exclusive shows unavailable on land. The ten-piece band will return, featuring hits like “Everything They Said Was True.” This song, a gift from John Parr and Meat Loaf, became a number one rock hit.

Adding to the rock credentials is Kasim Sulton. A renowned bassist, singer, and producer, Sulton has worked with Meat Loaf and Todd Rundgren. He played bass on the original “Bat Out of Hell” album and toured globally with The Neverland Express. His presence adds a unique touch to the cruise experience.

The Birth of the Rock Cruise Concept

The idea for this rock cruise was born when Vikki Coffey, a Not Just Travel consultant, attended Vampires Rock. She sat next to a superfan who had seen the show five times in eight weeks. With her cruise ship experience, Coffey saw the potential for a sea-bound adventure for Steinman’s fans.

“It was clear that Steve’s audience would travel anywhere to see him perform,” Coffey noted. “Creating a unique cruise experience for this devoted community was the logical next step.” A single message to Steinman set the plans in motion. The first cruise sold out quickly, and fans eagerly booked again. The 2026 cruise is already two-thirds full.

A Unique Community Experience

Steve Steinman reflects on the journey: “When you’ve spent three decades building relationships with audiences, you understand the power of creating exclusive experiences for them. What Vikki and I have built with these cruises is something truly special. It’s not just about the performances; it’s about bringing our community together for an unforgettable week of rock music magic on the high seas.”

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary event. Book your place on the “Anything For Love 2026” cruise today.

Explore Alaska with Virgin Voyages’ Exclusive Season Pass

Virgin Voyages is set to revolutionise cruise holidays with its new month-long season pass for Alaska in summer 2026. This unique offering allows guests to spend 30 days aboard the Brilliant Lady, exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Last Frontier. Designed for adults only, this cruise promises a serene and child-free experience.

A Residency at Sea

The Alaska Summer Season Pass is more than just a holiday; it’s a residency at sea. It caters to those who crave a slower pace, surrounded by stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Prices start at $26,000 for two guests sharing a Central Sea Terrace cabin. According to Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu, Alaska is one of the most awe-inspiring places on Earth, and experiencing it aboard the Brilliant Lady combines adventure with comfort and style.

What’s Included in the Pass?

The package is packed with perks. Guests enjoy daily drink credits, complimentary laundry for the entire month, and an upgraded Work From Sea WiFi package. This ensures you stay connected while enjoying the tranquillity of the sea. The pass also includes entry to the thermal spa, priority boarding, and exclusive welcome events. Additionally, guests receive up to $250 per person for shore excursions, with a dedicated glacier excursion included. An Alaska gear bundle, featuring binoculars, a jacket, a backpack, a reusable water bottle, and a Canon G7X camera, is also provided.

Itineraries and Travel Periods

Brilliant Lady will primarily operate 7-night itineraries from Seattle, visiting ports like Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka. Season pass holders will remain onboard between sailings, while other travellers disembark and embark each week. There are four 30-day options available, with prices varying by date. The voyages run round-trip from Seattle, offering flexibility and convenience.

Pricing Details

– 28th May to 23rd June: from $26,000 for two
– 23rd June to 23rd July: from $38,000 for two
– 30th July to 27th August: from $35,000 for two
– 27th August to 26th September: from $36,000 for two

Virgin Voyages’ Commitment to Long-Stay Offers

Virgin Voyages is no stranger to extended stays. They have previously introduced a European month-long season pass and an annual pass with unlimited sailings. The 2026 annual pass, which includes a stay on Richard Branson’s Necker Island, is priced at $199,000 per person. As more travellers seek immersive, adults-only holidays with remote-working flexibility, Virgin Voyages is keen to make long cruising stays a signature offering. Alaska now joins this exciting programme, perfect for those seeking a child-free summer adventure.

Stay Updated with New Deals

Don’t miss out on the latest offers from Virgin Voyages. Keep an eye out for new deals and embark on your next adventure. Whether it’s the luxurious annual pass or the innovative “Mystery Voyage” on Brilliant Lady in 2025, there’s always something exciting on the horizon.

A wave of mechanical issues has recently impacted several major cruise lines, including Cunard, Carnival Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. These disruptions have led to delayed arrivals, altered itineraries, and even cancelled sailings in late November 2025. The primary culprit? Propulsion system problems that have slowed down ships, affecting thousands of passengers across the Atlantic.

Queen Mary 2’s Propulsion Problems Cause Delays

Cunard Line’s flagship, the Queen Mary 2, first encountered issues during a Northern Lights cruise. A technical defect in a propulsion pod forced the ship to divert to Bremerhaven for repairs instead of Hamburg. This unexpected detour also led to the cancellation of a short Southampton mini-cruise. Despite these setbacks, the Queen Mary 2 departed Southampton on 19th November for its scheduled transatlantic journey to New York.

However, the earlier problems had a ripple effect on subsequent voyages. Upon arriving in Brooklyn on 26th November, the ship was an hour behind schedule. To manage congestion, Cunard advised embarking guests to arrive two hours later than planned. The Caribbean cruise that followed also saw changes. The stop in St Kitts on 4th December was cancelled, with an extended overnight stay in Barbados from 2nd–3rd December. The visit to St Lucia was rescheduled for 4th December. While Cunard hasn’t confirmed that propulsion issues caused these changes, the timing suggests a connection.

Carnival Conquest Faces Mechanical Setbacks

Carnival Cruise Line has also been hit by propulsion troubles. After Carnival Horizon experienced speed limitations in mid-November, Carnival Conquest faced similar issues. On 20th November, guests were informed of a mechanical problem that restricted the ship’s speed overnight. This resulted in a delayed arrival at Celebration Key during a 4-night Bahamas cruise from Miami. To compensate, Carnival shortened the port stay and offered a $50 onboard credit per stateroom.

Although the Conquest seems to have returned to normal operations, Carnival has not disclosed the cause of the incident. This isn’t the first time the vessel has faced such issues; earlier in January, engine difficulties delayed its return to port.

MSC Meraviglia Alters Bahamas Itinerary

MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia has also been affected by speed restrictions due to planned maintenance. Ahead of its 30th November Bahamas cruise from New York, guests were notified on 24th November about changes to key port arrivals. The ship’s arrival at Port Canaveral on 2nd December was moved from 1 pm to 5:30 pm, resulting in the cancellation of all excursions.

These mechanical issues have certainly caused a stir among cruise holidaygoers. As cruise lines work to resolve these problems, passengers are advised to stay informed about potential itinerary changes. For those planning a cruise holiday, it’s crucial to remain flexible and prepared for unexpected adjustments.

Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club Delays: What UK Cruise Enthusiasts Need to Know

Royal Caribbean has hit a snag with its much-anticipated Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau. The private resort, set in the stunning Bahamas, was not ready for its early preview experiences. This has led to the cancellation of some exclusive sneak peeks. Despite this hiccup, the official opening remains scheduled for 23rd December 2025.

Cancelled Previews for Symphony of the Seas Guests

A select group of guests aboard Symphony of the Seas was invited to preview the new beach club. The ship was set to dock in Nassau on 15th December 2025, just days before the grand opening. However, Royal Caribbean has now cancelled at least one of these preview events. In a message to affected guests, the cruise line explained that construction is still ongoing. They emphasised the need to meet their high standards before welcoming visitors.

Compensation for Affected Guests

Although the preview was complimentary, Royal Caribbean is offering a gesture of goodwill. Guests who missed out will receive exclusive Paradise Island-themed gifts in their cabins. This aims to soften the disappointment and maintain customer satisfaction.

Official Opening Date Remains Unchanged

Despite the preview cancellations, the official opening date is still set for 23rd December 2025. This date was previously moved forward from 27th December. Recent site images show progress, with pools filled and vibrant ferry boats ready. However, construction continues in some areas of the complex.

Potential Impact on Other Sailings

Other preview visits planned before the official launch may also face changes or cancellations. Ships scheduled to visit Nassau in the lead-up to the opening include Wonder of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Freedom of the Seas, among others. Radiance of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are expected to be among the first to visit once the club is fully operational.

Royal Caribbean’s First Dedicated Beach Club

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is Royal Caribbean’s inaugural fully developed beach club, distinct from its private islands. Once open, day passes will be available. Prices are expected to start at $109.99 for children aged 4–12 and $129.99 for adults. Visitors will enjoy access to pools, beaches, and more.

For UK cruise holidaygoers, this development is one to watch. The Royal Beach Club promises a unique experience, despite the initial setbacks. Keep an eye on updates as the opening date approaches.