Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Changes to Royal Caribbean’s Beverage Packages

Royal Caribbean International is set to make a significant change to its beverage packages. From 15th March 2026, the cruise line will no longer include Coca-Cola souvenir cups in selected drink packages. This adjustment will limit access to the popular Coca-Cola Freestyle machines across most of the fleet.

What This Means for Cruise Passengers

The change was first noticed by guests checking their upcoming cruise details. They found that the cups were missing from the Deluxe Beverage Package and the Refreshment Package. Without these cups, passengers won’t be able to use the self-service Freestyle machines. These machines offer over 100 drink combinations via touchscreen dispensers.

Impact on Royal Beach Club Open Bar Day Pass

The exclusion of the souvenir cup also affects those adding a Royal Beach Club Open Bar Day Pass to their package. The cup will not be included as part of this offering either. However, guests can still enjoy canned and fountain sodas as part of their drink packages. They will need to order these directly from a bar or through onboard servers.

Souvenir Cup Still Available for Purchase

While the cup is no longer complimentary, it hasn’t vanished entirely. Guests can buy the Coca-Cola Freestyle cup for a one-time fee of $4.99. This charge is a single payment, not a daily fee. The Classic Soda Package still includes one souvenir cup per package. If a cup is lost during the cruise, a replacement can be purchased for the same price.

Uncertainty for Prepaid Packages

It’s unclear how this change will affect guests who have already prepaid for beverage packages for sailings after 15th March 2026. However, it seems likely that these sailings will not include the cup as part of the standard package.

Mixed Reactions from Cruise Enthusiasts

The decision has sparked varied reactions among regular cruisers. Some believe the change is due to misuse of the cups. One guest noted that people often handed the cup to their children, which was seen as a loophole. Royal Caribbean has previously tightened its drink package policies. In mid-2025, the cruise line enforced stricter measures to prevent sharing of alcoholic beverages.

Will the Change Curb Misuse?

Some passengers doubt whether this move will effectively curb misuse. They argue that determined guests could still pay the $4.99 for the cup and continue sharing. Others suggest the change might reduce waste, as not all passengers used the cups.

In conclusion, while the removal of the Coca-Cola souvenir cup from Royal Caribbean’s drink packages may disappoint some, it also presents an opportunity to streamline beverage service and reduce waste. Whether this change will achieve its intended goals remains to be seen.

Carnival Cruise Line’s New Policy on Gift Requests

Carnival Cruise Line has recently made a significant change to its gift request policy. This decision comes after an administrative error led to a bottle of champagne being delivered to a cabin occupied by children. The incident involved John Heald, the line’s well-known brand ambassador, who often arranges special surprises for guests celebrating milestones at sea.

Why the Change?

The mix-up occurred when a frequent Carnival guest asked Heald to organise a surprise for friends retiring from the police force. The guest, not on the cruise themselves, wanted to treat their friends onboard. Unfortunately, the cabin number provided was incorrect. As a result, the champagne and medallion intended for the retirees ended up in a stateroom with two grandchildren.

Heald’s Response

Heald, who receives numerous requests weekly for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations, shared the incident on Facebook. He explained that while he enjoys helping people celebrate, mistakes can happen. Heald apologised to the intended recipient, acknowledging the seriousness of the error. He empathised, saying he would have been equally upset if it had involved his own daughter.

New Policy in Place

In light of this incident, Carnival Cruise Line has decided to halt all third-party gift requests. This change affects requests made through Heald and his colleague Jacinta. Heald stated, “We are very happy to send something to people actually cruising on the ship, but third-party requests are not something that we are permitted to do anymore.”

Looking Ahead

This policy shift aims to prevent similar errors in the future. While guests can still enjoy celebratory gestures, these must now be arranged directly by those on the cruise. This ensures that surprises reach the right recipients, maintaining the joy of celebrating special occasions at sea.

Experience the Total Solar Eclipse at Sea with Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is offering a unique opportunity for cruise enthusiasts. The Liberty of the Seas itinerary has been adjusted to provide the best possible view of the total solar eclipse on 12th August 2026. This change ensures that guests can witness this celestial event in its full glory.

Revised Itinerary for Optimal Eclipse Viewing

The cruise, departing from Southampton on 7th August 2026, will now follow a new route. Originally, the ship was set to visit Lisbon, Portugal. However, to maximise eclipse viewing, the ship will now sail through northern Spain and France. This adjustment places the ship directly in the path of totality.

New Ports of Call

After departing Southampton, the ship will visit Bilbao and Gijon in Spain. It will then head to Vigo, ensuring it is perfectly positioned for the eclipse. The revised schedule also includes stops in La Coruna and Le Havre, France. Le Havre will serve as a gateway to Paris, offering guests a chance to explore the city.

Itinerary Details

Here’s the updated itinerary:

– 7th August: Depart Southampton at 5 pm
– 8th August: Day at sea
– 9th August: Bilbao, Spain from 8 am to 6 pm
– 10th August: Gijon, Spain from 9 am to 6 pm
– 11th August: Vigo, Spain from 10 am to 7 pm
– 12th August: Solar eclipse day at sea
– 13th August: La Coruna, Spain from 7 am to 6 pm
– 14th August: Day at sea
– 15th August: Le Havre, France from 8 am to 9 pm
– 16th August: Arrive Southampton at 5:30 am

Guest Reactions and Excursion Adjustments

The response from guests has been overwhelmingly positive. Many booked this cruise specifically for the eclipse. Royal Caribbean has assured passengers that any excursions booked for Lisbon will be refunded. Excursions in Vigo and La Coruna will be adjusted to fit the new schedule.

Why This Eclipse is Special

Total solar eclipses are rare and location-specific events. The next one after 2026 will occur in 2027, with a path mainly over northern Africa. This makes the 2026 event a unique opportunity for cruise travellers to experience the eclipse at sea.

Book Your Spot for a Celestial Adventure

Don’t miss this chance to witness a total solar eclipse from the comfort of a cruise ship. With the Liberty of the Seas positioned perfectly, guests are in for an unforgettable experience. Book your spot now and prepare for a celestial adventure like no other.

A Former Cruise Executive Arrested in Argentina: What UK Cruise Enthusiasts Need to Know

Alleged Fraud Scheme Uncovered

A former senior executive from Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has been arrested in Argentina. Thomas “Tom” Markwell, aged 54, was detained in Buenos Aires on 23rd February 2026. The arrest is linked to an alleged fraud scheme that reportedly cost the cruise company over $2 million.

Details of the Arrest

Interpol agents apprehended Markwell in the Palermo neighbourhood of Buenos Aires. He is currently awaiting extradition to the United States. There, he will face multiple criminal charges related to the alleged scheme.

Background of the Case

The investigation began in October 2023. Prosecutors claim Markwell, along with two accomplices, orchestrated a scheme involving fake invoices. These invoices were submitted to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, totalling more than $2 million.

Role and Responsibilities

Markwell served as Senior Director of Events for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings from July 2019 to September 2023. His role likely involved organising corporate events and liaising with partners. However, prosecutors allege he misused his authority to approve payments.

The Alleged Scheme

Authorities claim Markwell collaborated with two external accomplices. These individuals were not employed by the cruise line. They allegedly issued invoices through a fraudulent business called “The Gifting Company.” The invoices were designed to avoid triggering financial scrutiny.

Financial Misconduct

Once the invoices were paid, the funds were allegedly diverted and shared among the conspirators. Court documents reveal numerous transactions, including payments totalling $165,000. An $82,000 transfer was reportedly made to Markwell’s girlfriend’s bank account.

Additional Charges

Markwell faces charges of identity fraud and theft. Prosecutors allege he used his girlfriend’s account in the scheme. There is no evidence suggesting she was aware of the activities, and she has not been charged.

Potential Consequences

Markwell is facing at least seven charges of wire fraud and identity theft. If convicted, he could face a minimum of 20 years in prison under US law. His background includes decades in the travel industry, with education from Eastern Illinois University and Robert Morris University.

Ongoing Cruise Fraud Cases

This case is one of the most significant in recent years. It highlights the ongoing issue of fraud within the cruise industry. UK cruise holidaygoers should remain informed about such developments.

A Winter Storm Disrupts Cruise Travel on the US East Coast

A powerful winter storm has wreaked havoc on cruise operations along the US east coast. Several cruise lines have faced delays and itinerary changes. The National Weather Service reports blizzard conditions in New York and New Jersey. Snowfall is expected to reach up to 24 inches, with wind gusts between 40 and 70 miles per hour. This severe weather has led to power outages and coastal flooding, affecting major cruise ports in the area.

Impact on Cruise Departures from New York

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas was scheduled to depart from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, on 22nd February. However, the intensifying storm, known as a bomb cyclone, forced a delay. The ship, which accommodates up to 5,510 guests, remained docked until conditions improved. It eventually set sail the following day. Passengers made the most of the delay, sharing photos of snowmen built on their balconies.

Meanwhile, MSC Meraviglia faced similar challenges in Brooklyn. The ship was set to embark on a seven-night Bahamas cruise. Due to the storm, the itinerary was adjusted. Calls to Port Canaveral and Ocean Cay were rescheduled, and Nassau was removed from the itinerary. MSC Cruises has yet to confirm these changes officially.

Norwegian Breakaway Braves the Storm

In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway departed Manhattan Cruise Terminal as planned. The ship embarked on a 12-night Caribbean cruise despite the challenging weather. It navigated winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour on its southbound journey. While no itinerary changes have been confirmed, adjustments may occur to avoid severe weather. The cruise includes stops at Puerto Plata, San Juan, Tortola, St Kitts, St Maarten, and St Thomas, returning to New York on 6th March.

Confusion Among Cruise Passengers

The differing decisions by cruise lines have caused confusion among passengers. While two ships remained docked, one set sail. This has led to questions about safety and operational choices. Each cruise line prioritises passenger safety, but the varying responses highlight the challenges of navigating severe weather.

Weather Challenges in the Bahamas

A separate weather system in the southern Bahamas has also affected cruise operations. Rough sea conditions have impacted sailings further south. This adds another layer of complexity for cruise lines trying to maintain schedules.

In conclusion, winter storms can significantly disrupt cruise travel. Passengers should stay informed and flexible. Cruise lines are committed to ensuring safety while providing memorable experiences.

Robert Downey Jr. Named Godparent of Disney Adventure

In a thrilling announcement on 23rd February 2026, Disney Cruise Line revealed that Hollywood icon Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent of their newest and largest ship, Disney Adventure. This 208,000 gross ton vessel, designed specifically for the Asian market, is set to become the flagship of the fleet. It will embark on its inaugural journey from Singapore next month.

Strengthening Marvel Ties

Downey’s appointment as godparent enhances the ship’s connection to the Marvel universe, a key element of Disney’s entertainment empire. Josh D’Amaro, the incoming CEO of The Walt Disney Company, expressed his excitement. He stated, “Our new ship continues Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of bringing great stories to life at sea.” Downey, known for his iconic role as Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, shared his enthusiasm, calling the opportunity a “gargantuan blessing.”

Marvel-Themed Experiences Onboard

The Disney Adventure promises a unique experience for its 6,700 guests, with a strong Marvel theme. Downey’s portrayal of Iron Man for over a decade has left a lasting legacy. Onboard, passengers can explore Marvel Landing, a themed area with three major attractions. The Ironcycle Test Run, inspired by Iron Man, is the longest roller coaster at sea. Other rides include Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin, drawing inspiration from Ant-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy. Guests will also have the chance to meet Marvel characters, including Iron Man himself.

Singapore Sailings Begin in March

After some delays, Disney Adventure is ready to set sail. The ship was delivered to Disney in December 2025 and made a brief stop at Port Canaveral before heading to Asia. Currently, it is en route to Tokyo. Singapore will serve as its permanent homeport, offering three and four-night cruises to nowhere. The maiden voyage is scheduled for 10th March 2026, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Disney Cruise Line. The official christening date remains under wraps, but it is expected to occur shortly before the inaugural sailing.

Virgin Voyages: Embracing a Relaxed Dress Code

Virgin Voyages is reassuring its guests that its laid-back dress code remains unchanged. This comes in response to Norwegian Cruise Line’s recent decision to enforce stricter attire rules in certain speciality restaurants. In a playful email, Virgin Voyages highlighted its commitment to a relaxed onboard atmosphere. The cruise line humorously noted its “failure” to ban open-toed shoes, hoodies, and baseball caps, reinforcing its come-as-you-are philosophy.

Encouraging Self-Expression

Virgin Voyages has always stood out by promoting self-expression over strict dress codes. The cruise line’s official policy encourages guests to feel comfortable and express their personal style. While they suggest wearing more than just swimwear in restaurants and having footwear indoors, the emphasis is on personal choice. The company simply asks that attire is considerate of fellow passengers.

Special Events and Themed Nights

Virgin Voyages hosts themed events where guests can embrace bold fashion choices. For instance, the popular PJ Party invites daring outfits, but guests are expected to change into more conventional attire when moving around the ship. Scarlet Night is another signature event where many guests dress in red. Participation is optional, with some opting for full formalwear and others choosing subtle red accents.

Industry Contrast: Norwegian’s New Dress Code

Virgin Voyages’ reaffirmation of its relaxed dress code comes as Norwegian Cruise Line tightens its clothing rules in select dining venues. Norwegian’s new policy prohibits items like hoodies, flip-flops, and shorts, sparking mixed reactions among guests. Known for its “freestyle” branding, Norwegian’s stricter rules seem to contradict its image of flexibility and informality. This change poses practical challenges for travellers who prefer to pack light for their cruise holidays.

Virgin Voyages continues to champion a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy their cruise experience without the constraints of a formal dress code.

Disappearing Casino Offers on Carnival Cruises

Recently, many Carnival Cruise Line passengers have noticed a sudden disappearance of their casino-based offers. These offers, which often included complimentary cabins and discounted sailings, vanished without any clear explanation from the company. Frequent cruisers, including well-known influencers like Professor Melissa and Cruise With Jenn, have shared their experiences on social media.

Unexpected Changes for Loyal Cruisers

Some passengers reported a drastic change in their offers, going from numerous promotions to none overnight. One cruiser, who had previously won a significant jackpot, found their offers had disappeared earlier this year. When they contacted Carnival, they were informed that their offers were “accurate” and were advised to contact the collections department over an alleged outstanding balance, which the passenger disputes.

Understanding Casino Cruise Offers

Onboard casinos on major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC operate loyalty programmes similar to those in land-based casinos. Passengers earn points based on their wagering and playing time, whether on slot machines or table games. The focus is on metrics like “coin-in” and “theoretical loss” rather than just wins or losses. The higher a player’s theoretical value, the more generous the rewards, which can include free drinks, dining credits, and even complimentary or discounted cruises.

The Business Logic Behind Casino Offers

Cruise lines are willing to subsidise cabins for passengers likely to spend significant time and money in the ship’s casino. While these trips are often described as “free,” passengers usually pay taxes, port fees, gratuities, and extras like drinks packages or WiFi. The business model is straightforward: attract high-value players who will gamble onboard.

No Clear Reason for Offer Removal

Many affected passengers stress that their gambling activity has not decreased, nor have they cancelled cruises or broken any rules. Some still receive strong offers from rival cruise lines, sometimes through “status match” schemes. A few speculate that social media activity or brand criticism might be factors, though there’s no evidence to support this, and Carnival has not indicated this is the case.

Industry-Wide Changes in Casino Rewards

In recent years, the cruise industry has tightened casino rewards as demand for cruises has increased and ships have been sailing at full capacity. This trend might explain the sudden changes in casino offers, though Carnival has yet to provide a clear public explanation. For UK cruise holidaygoers, staying informed about these changes is crucial when planning future sailings.

Princess Cruises has made waves by setting a new Guinness World Record. Aboard the Regal Princess, they sold an impressive 3,410 margaritas in just eight hours. This record-breaking event took place during a port call in Cozumel, Mexico, on Tuesday, 17th February 2026.

A Toast to Success

The previous record of 2,728 margaritas was shattered with the help of enthusiastic guests and crew. Princess Cruises proudly shared the news on Facebook, celebrating the achievement with the message, “Raise a glass, we did it!” The record was officially confirmed by a Guinness World Records adjudicator, who presented a certificate on board amidst a flurry of confetti and camera flashes.

Perfect Timing and Location

Cozumel, a bustling Mexican cruise port, was the ideal setting for this margarita marathon. Known for its tequila, a key margarita ingredient, the location added a touch of authenticity. Princess Cruises used Pantalones Organic Tequila for the cocktails, the same brand that christened their newest ship, Star Princess, in November 2025.

Regal Princess’s Caribbean Adventure

The Regal Princess was on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, departing from Galveston on 15th February. The itinerary included an overnight stay in Cozumel, providing ample time for the record attempt. After Cozumel, the ship was set to visit Roatan before returning to Texas on 22nd February.

Contributing to the Record

While it’s unclear if off-duty crew members could buy margaritas to boost the count, the final tally exceeded the previous record by 682 drinks. The event was a festive occasion, complete with countless salted rims and citrus garnishes. Princess Cruises confirmed, “Ritas for the record is officially in the books.”

Cruise Ships and World Records

This margarita milestone is not the first time a cruise ship has made headlines with a world record. Cruise lines often use such attempts to engage passengers and create excitement on board. MSC Cruises, for instance, has hosted several record attempts across its fleet, including a notable one in March 2025.

In conclusion, Princess Cruises’ margarita record is a testament to the fun and unique experiences cruise holidays can offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, there’s always something extraordinary waiting at sea.

Legal Action Against Carnival Cruise Line

A passenger has taken legal steps against Carnival Cruise Line following a waterslide mishap on the Carnival Sunshine. Savannah Ward, hailing from Virginia, claims she sustained severe injuries due to unsafe conditions. The lawsuit was filed on 19th February 2026 in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Incident Details

The unfortunate event occurred on 20th March 2025, during a six-night cruise to the Bahamas. The Carnival Sunshine, a 104,000 gross ton vessel, had set sail from Norfolk, Virginia, on 16th March. The incident took place on the penultimate day of the voyage. The ship continues to operate from its homeport in Norfolk.

Allegations of Negligence

Court documents reveal that Ward was injured while using a waterslide on the ship. Her feet collided with a wall at the slide’s end, causing significant harm. The lawsuit highlights that the slide’s final section, meant to slow riders, lacked adequate water levels. This section usually contains several inches of water to ensure a safe stop.

Claims of Crew Oversight

Despite the insufficient water levels, two crew members allegedly continued to send passengers down the slide. Ward’s injuries included a broken right foot and a sprained left ankle. She claims these injuries have resulted in permanent mobility issues, reduced strength, and chronic pain.

Questions Over Slide Operations

The specific slide involved in the incident remains unspecified. Carnival Sunshine boasts three slides in its WaterWorks park on Deck 10 aft. The yellow Twister slide offers a solo ride, while the green and blue Speedway Splash slides allow for side-by-side racing. Although these slides are not vertical drops, riders can still gain significant speed.

Water Management Concerns

All slides feature splashdown areas designed to manage water flow and decelerate guests safely. Water levels in these zones can vary due to several factors. These include the speed of dispatching riders, water displacement during splashdown, and the volume of water pumped through the system. As riders exit, water naturally leaves the runout area.

Safety Measures and Restrictions

Carnival Cruise Line enforces height and weight restrictions on WaterWorks attractions. These limits can differ based on the ship and slide type. Onboard signage typically provides detailed requirements. The lawsuit does not clarify whether these restrictions were a factor in the incident.