Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Cruise holidays are synonymous with lavish dining experiences. Guests often indulge in endless buffets and gourmet meals. However, the question of what happens to leftover food is rarely considered. Carnival Corporation, a leading cruise operator, is not only pondering this issue but actively addressing it.

Exceeding Food Waste Reduction Goals

On 10th June 2025, Carnival announced a significant achievement. The company surpassed its target to cut food waste by 40% by 2025, achieving a 44% reduction in 2024 compared to 2019. This initiative, known as “Less Left Over,” spans across Carnival’s brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and Cunard.

Innovative Strategies for Waste Reduction

Carnival’s strategy involves a blend of real-time data tracking, AI-driven forecasting, and staff training. These tools help predict food demand and optimise portion sizes. By doing so, the company ensures the right amount of food is prepared for each cruise, reducing waste from preparation to plate. Cruise kitchens are also plating meals more efficiently and using guest preference data to adjust menus dynamically.

Creative Solutions for Leftovers

Despite best efforts, leftovers are inevitable. Carnival is finding innovative ways to repurpose them. Used cooking oil is transformed into biofuel for excursion buses in Alaska. Coffee grounds are recycled into vegan soap, either sold onboard or donated. Surplus meals and ingredients are given to local food banks in ports facing food insecurity.

Financial and Environmental Benefits

These initiatives have already saved Carnival an estimated $250 million in food-related costs. The company aims for a 50% reduction in food waste by 2030. To manage unavoidable leftovers, Carnival employs biodigesters, or “metallic stomachs,” which use bacteria to liquify food waste for easier disposal at sea. By the end of 2024, 630 biodigesters were operational across the fleet.

Setting a New Standard in the Cruise Industry

Carnival’s success story is a beacon for the cruise industry, which faces increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact. The “Less Left Over” initiative shows that large-scale operations can adopt sustainable practices without compromising quality. As public awareness of sustainability grows, Carnival is leading the way in responsible cruising.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is redefining luxury travel with the introduction of the Skyview Regent Suite. This opulent suite will make its debut on the Seven Seas Prestige, launching in December 2026. Announced on 11th June 2025, this suite is set to be the largest ever offered by the brand. With a staggering 8,794 square feet of space, it promises an unparalleled experience at sea. However, luxury comes at a price, with nightly rates starting at $25,000.

Unveiling the Seven Seas Prestige

The Seven Seas Prestige is a 77,000-gross-ton ship currently being built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy. It will accommodate 822 guests and feature 12 suite categories, including the Skyview Regent Suite. This ship is the first in the new Prestige-class and will set sail on a 14-night transatlantic voyage from Barcelona to Miami on 13th December 2026. Ports of call include Málaga, Funchal, and Tortola.

Inside the Skyview Regent Suite

The Skyview Regent Suite spans two levels and offers two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. A private elevator connects the floors, while a wraparound balcony provides 3,700 square feet of outdoor space. Guests can enjoy a glass-enclosed bar, in-suite dining, a private gym, and a massage room. The suite also features a sauna, walk-in shower, and a hand-carved soaking tub. Exclusive access to The Study, a private dining room for 12 guests, adds to the allure.

Design and Aesthetics

Designed by Miami-based Studio DADO, the suite boasts sleek architectural lines and a calming neutral colour palette. Expansive skylights flood the space with natural light, enhancing its luxurious feel. Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, describes it as the most exclusive experience at sea.

Unmatched Personalised Service

Guests of the Skyview Regent Suite will enjoy a private car and driver in every port. This level of personalised service is rarely seen in the cruise industry, making it a standout feature of the suite.

Embark on a Journey of a Lifetime

After its maiden voyage, the Seven Seas Prestige will homeport in Miami for the winter of 2026-2027. It will offer 10- to 12-night Caribbean cruises, including two Panama Canal transits. In spring 2027, the ship will head north to New York before crossing the Atlantic for its summer European season.

Booking Your Luxury Cruise

Voyages on the Seven Seas Prestige, including the chance to reserve the Skyview Regent Suite, will be available for booking from 25th June 2025. For the best service, consider booking with luxury specialists like Panache Cruises. They offer free quotes and can help you secure your dream cruise holiday.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises continues to push the boundaries of ultra-luxury cruising. Whether the Skyview Regent Suite becomes the most sought-after suite at sea remains to be seen, but it has certainly captured the spotlight.

Carnival, a leading name in the cruise industry, is taking a firm stance against passengers sneaking alcohol onto their ships. The cruise line has begun issuing lifetime bans to those caught in the act. This decision follows a statement from Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, in April 2025. Heald warned that the company monitors social media and will penalise rule-breakers.

Social Media and the Ban

Recently, letters sent to banned guests have surfaced online. These letters explain the consequences of smuggling alcohol and sharing the escapades on social media. One notable case involves TikToker Courtney Murley. In March, she posted videos claiming she had sneaked alcohol onto a Carnival cruise. However, she later shared a TikTok showing her ban letter.

The Impact of Social Media

Courtney’s original video, which she now claims was satirical, gained significant attention. She insists she never actually brought alcohol onboard. Despite her ban, she seems unfazed, even joking about the situation. In her follow-up video, she asks for legal advice, hinting at possible action against the ban.

Carnival’s Strict Policy

Carnival’s strict approach aims to deter guests from bypassing their drink packages. The cruise line is particularly concerned about social media posts that might encourage others to smuggle alcohol. Typically, if caught at embarkation, passengers might face confiscation of their alcohol and a warning. However, Carnival is clearly targeting those who boast about their exploits online.

Why the Crackdown?

The cruise line’s decision to ban guests for life is not just about enforcing rules. It’s also about preventing the spread of smuggling tactics. By taking a hard line, Carnival hopes to maintain the integrity of their onboard policies. This move might signal a broader crackdown on similar activities across the cruise industry.

In conclusion, Carnival’s actions highlight the importance of adhering to cruise policies. For UK holidaygoers, it’s a reminder to enjoy their cruise responsibly and within the rules.

A young British couple’s attempt to evade their cruise bill ended dramatically at Ibiza airport. They were arrested after allegedly leaving a ship with over €3,196 (£2,730) in unpaid charges. The pair, an 18-year-old woman and a 23-year-old man, were apprehended by the Spanish National Police on 21st May 2025. Their swift disembarkation prompted an island-wide search.

While the couple’s identities and the cruise line remain undisclosed, only MSC Grandiosa and Costa Toscana were docked in Ibiza at the time. Both ships were on week-long Western Mediterranean routes. Reports suggest the couple pushed past crew members to leave the ship without settling their bill, likely including a bar tab and other expenses.

A police spokesperson stated, “Crew members reported the offenders tried to force their way off the ship.” Although no injuries or damage occurred, the couple was quickly located and arrested at the airport. They now face charges of fraud and unauthorised departure, with prosecution in Spain likely.

Understanding Cruise Bills

On a cruise, each guest has an onboard account linked to their cabin. This account tracks all purchases made during the trip. Common expenses include alcohol, shore excursions, speciality dining, spa treatments, gratuities, shop purchases, and WiFi.

Most travellers link their accounts to a credit or debit card for automatic settlement at the cruise’s end. Some prefer using cash, requiring an upfront deposit and additional top-ups if needed. Cruise lines monitor spending closely. If a guest nears or exceeds their limit, they are usually contacted to update their payment method. Failure to do so may result in a frozen account, halting further charges.

Consequences of Unpaid Cruise Bills

In theory, guests cannot leave the ship without settling their accounts. However, in busy ports, some might slip through unnoticed. Cruise lines actively pursue those who attempt this. Unpaid bills can lead to fines, legal action, arrest, and bans from future cruises. In some cases, debt collectors or legal claims in the guest’s home country may follow.

If financial hardship or misunderstandings cause the unpaid balance, cruise lines might offer payment plans or support. However, deliberate attempts to evade payment, like this couple’s, receive little sympathy.

Tips to Avoid Bill Shock at Sea

Monitoring your onboard spending is straightforward on most cruises. Use the cruise line’s app or onboard kiosks to check your account regularly. This helps you stay within budget and avoid surprises at the end of your holiday.

In a surprising legal development, a cruise passenger has been awarded €9,000 after being removed from a ship due to an incident involving a glass of urine. This case has ignited discussions about cruise ship behaviour, crew responsibilities, and contract law.

According to court records in Düsseldorf, Germany, the unnamed passenger was enjoying drinks with two companions at an onboard bar when the alleged incident occurred. Witnesses claimed he urinated into a glass and left it on the table. A crew member later discovered the glass, noting a strong smell of urine. However, the ship did not take immediate action.

### Guests Removed Without Warning

Three days later, at a port of call, the man and his two companions were barred from reboarding the ship. The cruise line instructed them to arrange their own transport home. Notably, only one person was accused of misbehaviour, yet all three were expelled. They received no formal notice or chance to respond before their removal.

The man denied the allegations and took legal action, arguing that his rights as a paying guest were violated. The Düsseldorf court ruled in his favour, stating that the cruise line’s policy allowed removal only for violent, abusive, or discriminatory actions. The urination incident, while unpleasant, did not meet this threshold. Furthermore, no official warning or due process was provided before their removal.

### Court’s Decision and Compensation

The court ordered the cruise line to refund the cost of the cruise for the missed days, reimburse travel expenses for flights and taxis, and compensate the man’s companions, as he had booked on their behalf. In total, the court awarded €9,000 (approximately £7,500/$10,000).

### Was the Cruise Line Wrong? Public Opinion Is Divided

Despite the legal victory, the decision has sparked mixed reactions among cruise enthusiasts and hospitality workers. Many argue that expecting crew members to handle bodily fluids is abusive, even if it doesn’t involve physical violence. Some believe this behaviour warrants a lifetime ban from the cruise line.

### Lessons for Cruise Travellers and Cruise Lines

This case underscores the importance of precise wording in guest contracts and highlights how procedural delays can lead to unexpected legal outcomes. For cruise lines, clear and consistent protocols are crucial when addressing guest misconduct. Immediate action and thorough documentation can help prevent future disputes.

For guests, understanding the terms and conditions of their cruise contract is essential. Being aware of the rules and potential consequences can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth sailing experience.

If you’re planning a cruise holiday from Sydney aboard the Carnival Adventure in mid-2027, you might need to rethink your plans. Carnival Cruise Line has announced the cancellation of six sailings between 17th May and 14th June 2027. These voyages, ranging from 3 to 9 nights, included popular destinations like Moreton Island, Vanuatu, and the Great Barrier Reef.

Why the Change?

Carnival has cited a “short-term change in itinerary plans” for the 108,865-gross-ton ship. However, they haven’t provided specific reasons for this disruption. Speculation among guests suggests the ship might be heading to Singapore for maintenance or upgrades, a common practice for fleet upkeep. This aligns with the upcoming dry dock for its sister ship, Carnival Encounter, in 2026.

Compensation for Affected Passengers

For those impacted by the cancellations, Carnival is offering full refunds. Additionally, guests have the option to rebook on alternative sailings. As a gesture of goodwill, rebooked passengers will receive onboard credit. For shorter voyages on 3rd and 11th June, the credit is AU$25.00 per person, capped at AU$50.00 per stateroom. Longer cruises offer AU$50.00 per person, with a maximum of AU$100.00 per stateroom.

Last Confirmed Sailing

The final confirmed voyage before this pause is a 3-night roundtrip cruise to nowhere, departing on 14th May 2027. After this, the ship is expected to return to service later in June, though new itineraries have yet to be announced.

Carnival’s Commitment to Australia

Despite these changes, Carnival remains committed to the Australian cruise market. The Carnival Adventure joined the Australian fleet in March 2025, transitioning from P&O Australia as part of a broader consolidation strategy. Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy reaffirmed this commitment in March 2025, highlighting the company’s dedication to Australian cruise enthusiasts.

The Future of Carnival Adventure

Currently, Carnival Adventure, along with Carnival Encounter and Carnival Splendor, operates from Australia, offering a mix of short and longer cruises. Seasonal deployments are supported by Carnival Luminosa during the summer months. While the exact future itineraries for Carnival Adventure remain unconfirmed, the ship is anticipated to resume service later in June 2027.

Stay tuned for updates on new deals and itineraries as they become available. Your dream cruise might just be around the corner!

A dramatic rescue unfolded on 3rd June 2025, when a crew member from Costa Cruises’ Costa Deliziosa fell overboard in Souda-Chania, Crete. The incident took place in the afternoon while the ship was docked, and passengers were exploring the beautiful Mediterranean port. The circumstances surrounding the fall remain unclear, but the quick response from the crew ensured a successful rescue.

Swift Rescue Efforts

The crew of Costa Deliziosa acted immediately. They threw a life jacket to the 30-year-old Tunisian crew member and alerted local authorities. The Greek Coast Guard responded rapidly, deploying several patrol units and a rescue boat. Thanks to the combined efforts of the ship’s crew and local rescue teams, the woman was retrieved from the water, conscious and safe.

Health Assessment and Safety

Once back on board, medical personnel assessed the crew member’s condition. She was found to be in good health and required no further medical attention. The Chania Port Authority confirmed the successful rescue and the crew member’s well-being. This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness on cruise ships.

About Costa Deliziosa

At the time of the incident, Costa Deliziosa was the only cruise ship docked in Souda-Chania. The vessel can accommodate 2,826 passengers and 934 crew members. It currently operates Mediterranean cruises, visiting ports in Greece, Italy, and Croatia on itineraries of 7 and 14 nights. An investigation is underway to determine how the crew member fell overboard.

Understanding Overboard Incidents

While falling overboard is a serious concern, such incidents are rare. Data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) shows that between 2009 and 2019, only 212 people fell overboard. This is a small number compared to the millions who cruise each year. However, successful rescues are challenging, with only about 28% of overboard cases resulting in a rescue during that period.

Recent Overboard Cases

The most recent similar incident occurred in August 2024, when a crew member from Carnival Dream went overboard off the coast of Mexico and was not found. In October 2023, a crew member from AIDAperla fell overboard in the English Channel and was presumed lost. These incidents underscore the challenges of overboard rescues and the importance of safety measures on cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean has announced that global music legend Diana Ross will be the godmother of their latest ship, Star of the Seas. This vessel is the second in the innovative Icon class. The announcement came on 5th June 2025, just before the ship’s grand debut from Port Canaveral later this summer.

Naming Ceremony in August 2025

While the exact date remains under wraps, the naming ceremony is set for August 2025. It will take place at the ship’s homeport. Diana Ross will lead the traditional christening event in the AquaTheater. This venue is the heart of the ship’s AquaDome neighbourhood.

A Perfect Partnership

Diana Ross expressed her excitement about this new role. She sees it as a continuation of her journey of bringing people together through music. Royal Caribbean’s President and CEO, Michael Bayley, echoed this sentiment. He described the partnership as a natural fit, highlighting the ship’s promise of an unparalleled holiday experience.

Preview Sailings and Inaugural Voyage

Star of the Seas will start her journey from Port Canaveral in August 2025. Before her official launch, she will offer four preview cruises. These include one 3-night and three 4-night sailings, beginning on 16th August. Her first 7-night cruise will set sail on 31st August, visiting destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay, Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Roatan.

Innovative Features and Neighbourhoods

The Star of the Seas is a marvel of modern cruise design. With a capacity of 5,600 guests, or 7,600 at maximum, she promises a unique experience. The ship boasts eight distinct “Neighbourhoods”, each offering something special.

The Royal Promenade is a lively indoor boulevard with numerous bars and restaurants. Central Park offers a serene open-air space with over 33,000 real plants. The Category 6 Waterpark is the largest at sea, featuring six slides and family raft rides. Chill Island provides a relaxing escape with multiple pools and an adults-only area.

Surfside caters to young families with splash zones and playful spaces. The Hideaway is a beach club-style venue with an infinity pool. Thrill Island offers adrenaline-pumping attractions in a shipwreck-themed zone. Finally, the AquaDome houses the AquaTheater, where high-diving performances and the ship’s naming ceremony will occur.

Year-Round Caribbean Adventures

Star of the Seas will offer year-round itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Every voyage will include a stop at Royal Caribbean’s exclusive destinations. This ensures a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for all cruise holidaygoers.

Royal Caribbean is once again grappling with an overbooking issue. This time, it involves a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise on Adventure of the Seas. The cruise is set to depart from Port Canaveral on 7th June 2025. The itinerary includes stops in Labadee, Falmouth, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compensation Options for Affected Guests

Guests have been informed about the overbooking situation. To address this, Royal Caribbean is offering compensation packages. Travellers can choose to either rebook or cancel their cruise.

Rebook and Enjoy Added Benefits

The first option allows guests to transfer their booking to one of four alternative sailings. These are scheduled for later in June or July 2025. In return, guests receive a 50% refund of their original fare and a $300 non-refundable onboard credit. Three of these alternatives are longer than the original cruise, providing extra value. Options include:

– Two 8-night Western Caribbean cruises on Adventure of the Seas
– A 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Wonder of the Seas
– An identical 6-night Western Caribbean cruise departing 19th July 2025

Cancel for a Full Refund and Future Credit

For those unable or unwilling to reschedule, there’s another option. Guests can cancel their cruise entirely. This includes a full refund and a 100% Future Cruise Credit. The new sailing must be booked for a departure on or before 7th June 2026.

No Action Required for Current Bookings

Guests who wish to keep their current booking need not take any action. Royal Caribbean anticipates that enough passengers will opt for the compensation packages. This should resolve the overbooking without affecting those who choose to sail. If not, the cruise line may need to enhance its compensation offers. Otherwise, it risks cancelling some guests with ‘Guarantee’ cabins.

Ongoing Overbooking Issues

This incident is part of a series of overbookings by Royal Caribbean. Recently, Allure of the Seas had two oversold sailings between April and May. Navigator of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas faced similar issues in May and early June. While many guests accept the compensation, the pattern raises questions. Why do these overbookings keep happening? Should this practice be allowed?

Understanding Overbooking in the Cruise Industry

Overbooking is common in the travel industry, including cruises. It helps operators offset expected cancellations and no-shows. This maximises revenue and occupancy. Much of this is driven by “guaranteed cabin” bookings. Passengers reserve a category without choosing a specific stateroom. These fares are usually offered at a lower rate for flexibility. However, they also contribute to overbooking issues.

A perfect day at Royal Caribbean’s Coco Cay took a dramatic turn when a fight broke out among cruise guests. The incident, captured on video and shared on Reddit, disrupted the tranquillity of the island. It all started when a group in the over-the-water cabanas became vocal about others drifting too close to their area.

Confrontation in the Water

Witnesses reported that lifeguards advised guests to avoid the cabana zone, as the tide was pushing them into restricted waters. Most complied, but tensions rose when a man accidentally floated into the area. A heated exchange followed, with one cabana guest shouting for him to leave.

Escalation and Intervention

The situation escalated when a woman in the cabana demanded the lifeguard “do his job” after the man wasn’t immediately removed. Two men from the cabana zone then entered the water, allegedly trying to drag the man under. In self-defence, the man began throwing punches.

Support from Onlookers

As the altercation intensified, one cabana member threw the man’s hat back at him, leading to more insults. The group in the cabanas continued to taunt, further fuelling the conflict. Island security and jet-ski lifeguards quickly intervened, questioning those involved.

Aftermath and Reactions

Despite the chaos, many witnesses supported the man who defended himself. Onlookers spoke to security, criticising the cabana group’s behaviour. Although the fight ended, reports suggest the involved parties were allowed to stay on the island, sparking further outrage.

Online Discussions and Concerns

The incident has ignited online discussions about the entitlement of some cruise passengers. Many are questioning the safety measures in place and the behaviour of those who pay for premium experiences like cabanas. The situation remains a hot topic among cruise holidaygoers.