Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Antarctica, the last untouched frontier, is facing a new challenge. The rise in cruise tourism is leaving a significant impact beneath its icy waters. Recent research highlights the damage caused by cruise ship anchors to the delicate marine life in this region.

The Impact of Cruise Anchors

A groundbreaking study has shed light on the ecological damage caused by cruise ships in Antarctica. Scientists from Memorial University of Newfoundland and New Zealand’s National Institute of Water & Atmospheric Research have documented this damage using underwater 4K footage. They observed crushed sponges and scarred sea beds at popular cruise landing sites. In contrast, nearby untouched areas showed thriving ecosystems.

Why Anchors Are a Problem

Even small, polar-class cruise ships must anchor offshore due to limited infrastructure. Although IAATO rules restrict landings to ships with fewer than 500 guests, their anchors still harm the vulnerable coastal zones. These areas are home to some of the world’s oldest and slowest-growing species, like giant volcano sponges.

Yankee Harbour: A Case Study

Yankee Harbour in the South Shetland Islands is a prime example of the damage. This site, popular with expedition cruises, saw significant seabed damage from just eight ship visits in 2023. The cold-water ecosystem here is slow to recover, with potential recovery times exceeding a century.

The Surge in Cruise Tourism

Cruise tourism to Antarctica is booming. Over 70,000 passengers visited during the 2022–2023 season. This number soared to 123,000 in 2023–2024 and is expected to rise further. While expedition vessels dominate, larger ships are planning scenic-only sailings in the coming years.

Balancing Tourism and Conservation

IAATO limits landings to 100 people at a time for ships carrying 500 or fewer passengers. This measure aims to reduce the human footprint onshore. However, all ships still rely on anchors or dynamic positioning systems to stay stationary.

Recommendations for Sustainable Tourism

The researchers do not advocate for a complete halt to Antarctic tourism. Instead, they suggest new policies and technologies to minimise harm. Key recommendations include establishing permanent mooring zones in high-traffic areas and banning anchoring in particularly sensitive regions.

The Future of Antarctic Cruises

As cruise tourism continues to grow, it’s crucial to find a balance between exploration and conservation. By adopting sustainable practices, we can protect Antarctica’s unique marine life for future generations.

Royal Caribbean is set to delight cruise lovers with exciting ship enhancements in 2026. As part of their Royal Amplified programme, three popular ships will undergo significant upgrades. This initiative, which started in 2018, aims to modernise and elevate the cruise experience. The ships in focus are Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas. Each will receive new dining options, entertainment features, and upgraded staterooms.

Ovation of the Seas: Alaska Awaits

In spring 2026, Ovation of the Seas will return to Alaska with a host of new features. Guests can enjoy a redesigned pool deck complete with whirlpools and private casitas. Dining options will expand with Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Izumi Teppanyaki. A new tiki bar, the Pesky Parrot, will also make its debut. The ship will offer larger Casino Royale and upgraded accommodation, including the Ultimate Family Suite. Notably, it will be the first Quantum-class ship to offer land-based Cruisetours in Alaska.

Harmony of the Seas: From Europe to Florida

Harmony of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, will undergo a transformation before its summer 2026 European season. The ship will feature a refreshed Caribbean-style pool deck and Solarium. New dining venues like the Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse will be introduced. Guests can look forward to expanded nightlife options and the largest Casino Royale in the fleet. The Ultimate Family Suite will also be available. Caribbean itineraries will include stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay and the new Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island.

Liberty of the Seas: UK to Texas Adventures

Liberty of the Seas will start its 2026 season with 7-night Northern Europe cruises from Southampton. The ship will visit ports in Norway, Belgium, and Denmark before heading to Texas. Upgrades include a modernised pool deck with The Lime & Coconut bar and shaded lounging areas. A new Starbucks location and a Royal Escape Room will be added. Dining enhancements will feature El Loco Fresh and Izumi Teppanyaki. Once in Texas, the ship will visit the new Royal Beach Club in Cozumel.

More Ships, More Memories

These exciting upgrades highlight Royal Caribbean’s commitment to enhancing the cruise experience. With new features and destinations, guests can look forward to unforgettable journeys. Whether exploring Alaska, Europe, or the Caribbean, these ships promise a wave of new adventures. Get ready to set sail on a revitalised cruise holiday in 2026!

Some people will go to great lengths for an Alaskan cruise. For one man, this desire allegedly led to serious legal trouble. Enrico Ronquillo, a 37-year-old from the Philippines living in the US, faces multiple federal charges. He is accused of stealing an American’s identity to board an Alaskan cruise earlier this year.

Identity Theft for a Cruise

According to a June 2025 press release from the US Attorney’s Office for Alaska, Ronquillo allegedly used fake documents. These included a California driver’s license and a birth certificate. He impersonated the victim to board a cruise ship from 11th to 14th May 2025. Additionally, he submitted a fraudulent IRS Form W-9, suggesting the impersonation went beyond just cruise access.

Serious Charges and Potential Consequences

Ronquillo faces several charges. These include false impersonation of a US citizen, making and using a false document, and two counts of aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he could face a minimum of two years in prison for each identity theft charge. He also risks up to five more years and a $250,000 fine for the other charges.

How Was the Impersonation Discovered?

Authorities have not disclosed which cruise line was involved or how the impersonation was detected. The cruise line might have noticed inconsistencies during ID checks. Alternatively, digital screening systems could have flagged the documents. While international travellers usually board Alaskan cruises with valid documents, Ronquillo’s motives and visa status remain unclear.

Alaska Cruise Arrests on the Rise

This case is part of a growing trend of cruise-related arrests in Alaska. Law enforcement collaborates with federal agencies at busy cruise ports, which are legal entry points. Just days before Ronquillo’s case, Karen Bryan was arrested in Ketchikan. She was flagged due to an outstanding warrant from Wyoming for embezzling church funds.

Security Measures at Cruise Ports

Ketchikan, with its high cruise traffic, is a hotspot for warrant checks. Security checkpoints use facial recognition and ID scanning systems regularly. These measures help identify individuals with outstanding legal issues, ensuring safety and compliance.

Global Trend of Cruise Crime

The recent identity theft and embezzlement cases are part of a larger global pattern. Cruise-related arrests are becoming more common worldwide. As cruise travel continues to grow, so does the need for stringent security measures. This ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all holidaygoers.

Alaska is a dream destination for many cruise enthusiasts. Its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and natural wonders make it a top choice. However, in 2025, travellers might encounter an unexpected twist. Mount Spurr, an active volcano located about 80 miles west of Anchorage, is showing signs of potential activity. But don’t worry just yet. Experts and cruise lines assure there’s no immediate cause for alarm.

Monitoring Mount Spurr

In March, scientists observed increased volcanic activity at Mount Spurr. This included heightened gas emissions and minor earthquakes. These indicators suggest magma might be rising beneath the surface. The last significant eruptions occurred in 1953 and 1992, spreading ash clouds over vast distances. The Alaska Volcano Observatory notes that if Mount Spurr erupts again, it will likely mirror these past events. However, a recent update from the US Geological Survey (USGS) indicates no major changes since then. Their statement from 5th May confirms that current signs don’t suggest an imminent eruption. If a major eruption were approaching, we’d see stronger earthquakes, ground movement, and more intense gas emissions, providing ample warning.

Impact on Alaska Cruises

The primary concern for travellers is volcanic ash. It can affect air quality and disrupt flights. Cruises starting or ending in Anchorage, through nearby ports like Seward or Whittier, are most at risk. These areas are approximately 125 miles from the volcano. If you’re flying into or out of Anchorage for your cruise, there’s a possibility of flight delays or cancellations if ash reaches the area. However, many Alaskan cruises depart from cities much farther away, such as Vancouver, Seattle, or ports in California. These locations are over 1,000 miles from Mount Spurr and are unlikely to be affected by an eruption. Most travellers are adopting a cautious yet calm approach.

Cruise Lines’ Preparedness

Even if your cruise begins or ends in Alaska, there’s no need to panic. Cruise lines are closely monitoring the situation and are ready to adjust their plans if necessary. In a joint statement to Cruise Critic, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line emphasised their commitment to passenger safety. They stated, “We constantly monitor the locations we visit, and the safety of our passengers and crew is always our top priority. Most of our itineraries focus on southeast Alaska, which is far from the Mount Spurr area. If any changes are needed, we’ll inform affected guests directly.”

Princess and Holland America dominate the Alaskan cruise market. They also operate land tours and lodges in areas like Denali National Park. Other cruise lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Cunard, also offer Alaskan itineraries. Rest assured, all are prepared to make necessary adjustments to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for their guests.

Carnival Cruise Line is setting sail on a new course for its loyal customers. On 18th June 2025, the company announced a major overhaul of its loyalty programme. The current VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) scheme will be replaced by Carnival Rewards, launching on 1st June 2026. This innovative programme is a first in the cruise industry, offering a dual-earning model that rewards both cruising and spending.

Points and Stars: A New Way to Cruise and Earn

Carnival Rewards introduces a fresh approach to loyalty. Unlike the VIFP system, which focused solely on cruise nights, the new programme offers two ways to earn. Guests can accumulate Carnival Rewards Points, which are redeemable for a variety of perks. These include spa treatments, specialty dining, onboard experiences, and even future cruise fares.

Additionally, Status Qualifying Stars will determine your tier level, ranging from Red to Diamond. This new system considers your spending and engagement, not just the number of cruise nights. Points and stars can be earned on cruise fares, onboard purchases, and through Carnival’s co-branded Mastercard®, which will be rebranded for the launch.

Credit Card Perks & Everyday Rewards

A key feature of Carnival Rewards is its integration with the Carnival Rewards Mastercard. Cardholders can earn points even when they’re not cruising, allowing them to accumulate rewards between trips. More credit card perks will be revealed closer to the launch. However, Carnival has confirmed that existing cardholders’ Fun Points will convert to Carnival Rewards points when the new programme goes live.

Tiers, Status & Transition Plan

The programme will maintain its status tiers – Red, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. However, earning these tiers will now depend on spending over a two-year period, rather than lifetime cruise nights. Once achieved, your status will last for two years. Existing Diamond members will keep their level until 31st May 2032. Other members will retain their current tier status until 31st May 2028, providing a generous transition period. Guests can continue to earn VIFP status until the changeover in June 2026.

Backlash From Long-Time Carnival Fans

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among Carnival’s loyal cruisers. While some appreciate the new focus on spending and flexibility, others are less enthusiastic. Many long-time cruisers, who have spent years climbing the VIFP loyalty ladder, feel frustrated. They perceive the changes as a devaluation of traditional loyalty. Despite the backlash, Carnival remains committed to rewarding both frequent cruisers and high-spending guests.

For one British traveller, a dream Alaskan cruise turned into an unexpected ordeal. Karen Bryan, 64, was arrested in Ketchikan, Alaska, just as she was about to embark on her cruise adventure. On 12th June 2025, authorities detained her after discovering she was wanted for allegedly embezzling funds from a church in Laramie County, Wyoming.

Swift Action at the Cruise Terminal

Despite the vast distance between Wyoming and Alaska, law enforcement agencies in the U.S. efficiently share information. When Bryan arrived at the bustling Ketchikan cruise terminal, a routine security check flagged her as a fugitive. This alert prompted local police to act quickly, ensuring her arrest before she could board the ship.

Local Sheriff Confirms the Arrest

The arrest gained widespread attention after Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak shared the news on Facebook. He praised the seamless coordination between agencies that led to Bryan’s capture. Sheriff Kozak mentioned that extradition procedures were already in motion, adding a light-hearted note about deputies eager to travel to Alaska for the extradition.

Which Cruise Ship Was Involved?

Authorities have not disclosed which cruise line or ship Bryan intended to board. However, 12th June was a particularly busy day in Ketchikan, with five major cruise ships in port. These included the Norwegian Bliss, Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Eurodam, and Koningsdam, collectively carrying over 16,000 passengers. The exact ship Bryan planned to sail on remains unconfirmed.

Cruise Terminals: Unlikely Arrest Points

Many might be surprised to learn that U.S. cruise terminals serve as ports of entry, even for domestic voyages. This status allows authorities to check passenger IDs against active warrants. From PortMiami to Baltimore, arrests of cruise passengers with outstanding warrants are becoming more frequent. In Texas, FBI agents are specifically assigned to monitor cruise port operations, using advanced technologies like facial recognition to identify wanted individuals.

Notable Arrests at Cruise Ports

Cruise terminals have seen several high-profile arrests. In December 2024, a man from Kentucky was apprehended in PortMiami for owing over $100,000 in child support. Similar incidents have occurred in Jacksonville, Los Angeles, and New York, often just moments before passengers board their ships. Despite their leisurely appeal, cruise ships are not sanctuaries for those evading the law.

For UK holidaygoers planning a cruise, this serves as a reminder. While cruises offer relaxation and adventure, security measures are stringent. Always ensure your travel documents are in order and be aware of the legal implications when travelling abroad.

Cruise enthusiasts aboard the Regal Princess faced unexpected challenges during their visit to Invergordon, Scotland. On 10th June 2025, a 12-night British Isles cruise turned into a logistical nightmare. Passengers experienced shuttle delays of up to four hours, causing many to miss their planned tours of the Scottish Highlands.

Shuttle System Struggles

Invergordon requires cruise passengers to use shuttle buses to reach tour coaches. This system quickly became overwhelmed by the ship’s 4,000-plus passengers. Some travellers waited so long that they abandoned their plans altogether. One passenger lamented missing their Loch Ness boat cruise and castle visit due to the delays.

Tour Operators Voice Concerns

Tour operators were equally frustrated. Gordon Pearson from Wow Tours Inverness described the situation as chaotic and embarrassing. Many passengers missed their tours entirely, highlighting the strain on Invergordon’s limited infrastructure.

Port Authority’s Response

The Port of Cromarty Firth, responsible for the shuttle buses, acknowledged the issue. They cited “specific circumstances” for the breakdown and promised improvements. A meeting with the cruise line was described as positive and constructive. The port also plans to address mobility access concerns, as some guests struggled with the step-up buses.

Why Regal Princess?

Regal Princess is the largest cruise ship visiting Invergordon this month. With a capacity of 4,250 guests, it dwarfs other ships like Celebrity Eclipse and P&O Britannia. The ship is scheduled to return multiple times, increasing pressure on local authorities to improve disembarkation and tour processes.

Future Implications

Princess Cruises has yet to comment publicly on the incident. It’s unclear if affected passengers will receive compensation, especially those who missed paid excursions. Compensation often depends on whether tours were booked through the cruise line or independently. Passengers have taken to social media, urging the cruise line to reassess its shore excursion planning and port logistics for future British Isles sailings.

A routine stop in Juneau, Alaska, turned into an unexpected adventure for those aboard the Celebrity Edge. On 16th June 2025, the cruise ship broke free from its mooring lines during severe weather conditions. Heavy rain, strong winds, and even hail battered the busy Alaskan port, which was at full capacity with five ships docked.

Chaos in a Crowded Port

The Celebrity Edge, a massive vessel capable of carrying 2,908 passengers, wasn’t alone. It shared the port with Carnival Luminosa, Royal Princess, Eurodam, Koningsdam, and the smaller National Geographic Sea Lion. Eye-witness videos captured the dramatic moment as the 130,818-gross-ton ship drifted away from the pier. Some guests were left stranded ashore, and there was concern for the safety of nearby ships.

Swift Response from the Crew

Despite the chaos, the crew acted quickly. By 4:20 pm local time, announcements reassured passengers that the ship would re-dock on the port side. First, they needed to clear the broken mooring lines from the water. A guest on board confirmed, “They are going to redock on the port side. First, they need to remove the snapped ropes from the water.”

Back on Track

By evening, Celebrity Edge was securely back at the pier. Guests re-boarded with time to spare before the ship’s scheduled 10 pm departure. The cruise continued its 7-night roundtrip Alaska itinerary from Seattle, with upcoming stops in Skagway and Victoria, British Columbia.

The Impact of Extreme Weather

While exact wind speeds remain unconfirmed, witness reports and videos show the severe conditions. Similar incidents have occurred across Alaska and beyond in recent weeks. On 30th May 2025, Holland America Line’s Westerdam experienced a gangway collapse in Ketchikan due to strong gusts. MSC Seascape and Norwegian Epic also faced mooring failures elsewhere, all attributed to extreme weather.

Safety First

Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the Celebrity Edge incident. No major damage was confirmed to the ship or the pier. The cruise line has yet to release an official statement. Despite the dramatic moment in Juneau, cruise experts emphasise that mooring line failures are extremely rare. Ships undergo stringent safety checks to ensure passenger safety.

Continuing the Adventure

Celebrity Edge continues its journey, offering passengers a memorable Alaskan adventure. The incident in Juneau serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of cruising. Yet, it also highlights the resilience and quick response of the crew, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all aboard.

Carnival’s latest additions, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, have not been making waves in the best way. These ships, once part of the P&O Australia brand, joined the Carnival fleet after P&O Australia was dissolved in early 2025. Despite the excitement surrounding their rebranding, the ships have not impressed UK cruise holidaygoers, as reflected in their low customer review scores.

Underwhelming Reviews

The reviews for these ships are less than stellar. In my comprehensive guide to Carnival ship reviews, I ranked each ship based on average scores from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, and TripAdvisor. These platforms provide a balanced view, being some of the largest in the industry. Previously, Carnival Luminosa held the lowest average score at 3.2 out of 5. However, Carnival Encounter now averages 2.9, and Carnival Adventure fares worse at 2.16.

Limited Feedback, Clear Trends

It’s important to note that the number of reviews for these ships is still growing. Yet, there are enough to form a clear opinion. On Cruise Critic alone, Carnival Adventure has 10 reviews with an average score of just 1.5 out of 5. It relies on slightly better scores from Cruiseline.com and TripAdvisor to improve its overall rating.

Common Complaints

So, what are the main issues? A recurring theme in passenger feedback is the condition of the ships. Despite some updates, these vessels are over 20 years old, and it shows. Guests frequently mention maintenance problems like broken doors, faulty air conditioning, power outages, and non-functional elevators.

Food and Dining Woes

Dining experiences have also been a letdown. Many passengers describe the food as “average at best,” with some calling it “shocking” and “full of MSG.” The limited variety and long queues at the buffet add to the frustration. Booking a table at the restaurants during normal dinner times is reportedly challenging.

Staffing Struggles

Service levels have not escaped criticism either. Several reviewers noted painfully slow service, attributing it to understaffing. This has left many guests feeling that the ships are not adequately prepared to handle the number of passengers.

In conclusion, while Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter have potential, they currently fall short of expectations. As more reviews come in, it will be interesting to see if these ships can turn the tide and improve their standing among UK cruise enthusiasts.

Cruise Experts Banned from Carnival Group: What Happened?

Two well-known cruise experts, Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon, have been banned from all Carnival Group cruise lines. This decision came after the couple highlighted that Carnival could not meet their holiday expectations. Dan and Jay are the minds behind Sail Away Magazine, a popular cruise publication. They also host a podcast and run a YouTube channel with over 40,000 subscribers.

The Carnival Group’s Decision

Carnival UK sent a letter to Dan and Jay, informing them of the ban. The letter stated that their recent interactions showed Carnival couldn’t provide the holiday they desired. As a result, they are prohibited from travelling with any Carnival Group brands for at least five years. This includes well-known lines like Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

Why Were They Banned?

In a podcast episode, Dan and Jay speculated on which of their reviews might have led to the ban. They recently described their first Carnival cruise as the “worst cruise” they had ever experienced. Sail Away Magazine has also criticised P&O Cruises for cancelling a cruise on Aurora with less than 24 hours’ notice. Additionally, they ran a poll showing that 72% of cruisers feel cruising has declined under Carnival UK President Paul Ludlow’s leadership.

Challenging the Status Quo

Sail Away Magazine aims to provide honest and unbiased cruise reviews. Dan and Jay have spent the year asking tough questions, challenging cruise lines on service cuts, poor communication, and guest complaints. They even called Carnival UK’s PR and marketing team ‘delusional’ during a recent phone call.

Positive Experiences with Other Cruise Lines

Not all of Sail Away’s content is negative. Dan and Jay had a positive experience with Holland America Line, another Carnival Group brand. They sailed with them for their wedding, a trip generously paid for by the cruise line. This shows that their reviews are balanced, highlighting both positive and negative experiences.

Conclusion

The ban on Dan and Jay from Carnival Group cruise lines raises questions about the impact of honest reviews. While their critiques may have been harsh, they also provide valuable insights for cruise holidaygoers. As they continue to share their experiences, their followers can expect more candid and informative content.