Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Stay Alert: Cruise Travel Safety Tips for UK Holidaygoers

British cruise enthusiasts venturing to Europe’s iconic destinations should remain vigilant. Concerns about theft and pickpocketing persist in popular ports. Even in beloved regions like the Mediterranean, some bustling cities pose significant risks for tourists.

Expert Advice from Gary Bembridge

Gary Bembridge, a seasoned cruise expert from London, emphasises caution. He notes that not every port is as safe as it seems. Despite the constant arrival of cruise ships, risks remain. In his travel videos, he warns that even the Caribbean and Mediterranean have ports that rank among the world’s riskiest.

Five Ports to Watch Out For

Bembridge identifies several European cities where extra caution is necessary:

Barcelona, Spain

Despite a recent drop in crime, Barcelona’s Las Ramblas district is notorious for pickpocketing. Bembridge describes it as a “pickpocketer’s dream.”

Rome, Italy

Rome ranks second in Italy for reported crimes, with thefts making up a significant portion. Tourists near landmarks like the Colosseum are frequent targets.

Venice, Italy

St Mark’s Square and Venice’s narrow alleyways are prime spots for opportunistic thieves. The city’s crowds create ideal conditions for pickpocketing.

Athens, Greece

Public transport in Athens is a hotspot for theft, including passport thefts. In 2023, Greek police recorded over 62,000 thefts nationwide.

Livorno, Italy

Livorno serves as a gateway to Pisa and Florence, cities known for high pickpocketing rates. Florence ranks third in Italy for crime, according to the Interior Ministry.

Staying Safe Ashore

Bembridge advises checking government travel guidance before disembarking. Staying vigilant in busy tourist areas is crucial. He suggests having contact details for the port representative for emergencies.

Safety Tips for Cruise Travellers

To enhance safety, avoid wearing or carrying valuables. Stick to busy, tourist-populated areas. Keep passports and important documents secure, with copies stored separately. Be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves.

Official Warnings

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office echoes these warnings. They highlight theft risks in city centres and on public transport in Spain, Italy, and Greece. For some, staying close to the port or remaining onboard might be the safest choice.

Additional Port Warnings

In my own survey, I found ports that cruisers regret visiting, though not solely due to crime. It’s essential to stay informed and cautious, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cruise holiday.

Royal Caribbean Enhances ‘The Key’ VIP Programme for Cruise Enthusiasts

Royal Caribbean has introduced exciting updates to its exclusive VIP programme, The Key. This add-on package already offered fantastic benefits like priority boarding, carry-on luggage drop-off, and reserved seating for shows. Now, with new perks and enhanced discounts, it promises even more value for cruise holidaygoers.

Enhanced Discounts on Sports Activities

One of the most significant updates is the increased discount on sports activities. Previously, guests enjoyed a 25% saving, but now The Key members can benefit from a 50% discount on select onboard activities. Depending on the ship, this could mean reduced rates for experiences like Crown’s Edge on Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, Ripcord by iFly on Quantum-class ships, or additional FlowRider sessions.

New Spa Discount

Another enticing addition is a new spa discount. Guests can now save $60 on spa treatments priced at $250 or more. This offer is perfect for those looking to indulge in massages, detox wraps, IV therapy, or cosmetic services like teeth whitening. However, it’s important to note that this discount is a one-time use per guest.

Comprehensive Benefits of The Key

Here’s a quick rundown of what The Key offers:

– Priority access into the terminal on embarkation day
– Carry-on bag drop-off with stateroom delivery
– Exclusive welcome lunch
– Priority departure at tender ports
– VIP access to live shows
– VOOM Surf & Stream internet
– Exclusive breakfast on departure day
– $60 discount on a spa treatment priced $250+
– 50% off select sporting activities onboard

Is The Key Worth the Price?

The Key is priced between $25-40 (or more) per person, per day. All passengers over six years old in the same stateroom must purchase it. For families, this can quickly add up, often exceeding $1,000 for a weeklong cruise. However, many travellers find the convenience, discounts, and priority access make it worthwhile. If you were already considering a WiFi package, The Key might be a valuable option.

Stay Updated on The Key Offers

Royal Caribbean frequently updates The Key’s offerings based on guest feedback. Earlier in 2025, they replaced FlowRider access with the original 25% sports activity discount, and now they’ve enhanced the package further. Keep an eye on the cruise line’s app or website, as The Key is sometimes available at up to 40% off. Remember, packages are limited for each sailing and can sell out quickly.

For those planning a cruise holiday, these updates make The Key an even more attractive option. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these enhancements could add significant value to your Royal Caribbean experience.

Unexpected Fire Incident on P&O Cruises’ Iona

On 29th August 2025, passengers aboard P&O Cruises’ flagship, Iona, faced a brief scare. A small fire in the galley disrupted dining services. The incident occurred as the ship was returning to Southampton from a 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruise.

Swift Crew Response

The fire, caused by a “fat fryer oil” on Deck 5, prompted an immediate response. An announcement called for a first aid team. Within minutes, more crew members were summoned to muster stations as a precaution. Despite the commotion, guests were not asked to leave their cabins or public areas.

Temporary Restaurant Closures

The all-clear was given after about 15 minutes. However, several restaurants, including the Pearl and Coral dining rooms on Deck 6, remained closed. Passengers near the affected area reported the smell of burning oil and saw fire crews in action. The crew’s quick and professional response was commendable, and no injuries were reported.

Fire Safety on Cruise Ships

Fire at sea is a serious concern, but cruise ships are well-prepared. Onboard fire teams are trained to respond rapidly. Temporary restaurant closures help secure and ventilate affected areas. Iona, with over 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew, is expected to arrive in Southampton on schedule.

Rarity of Cruise Ship Fires

Fires on cruise ships are rare and usually handled swiftly. Earlier in the summer, MSC Orchestra experienced a small electrical fire. The ship lost power for a few hours, but passenger safety was never at risk. Similarly, a minor fire on Island Princess in July 2025 was quickly contained.

Be Cautious with Social Media

Social media can sometimes spread misinformation about cruise emergencies. It’s essential to verify stories with reputable sources. This ensures you get accurate information and avoid unnecessary panic.

Stay Updated with P&O Cruises

Don’t miss out on the latest P&O Cruises offers. Keep an eye on new deals and enjoy your next cruise adventure with peace of mind.

For many cruise enthusiasts, one of the charming highlights of a Carnival cruise is the surprise of finding a towel animal in their stateroom. These whimsical creations add a touch of magic to the cruise experience. However, a recent discovery by a passenger might have unveiled the secret behind these delightful creatures.

The Towel Animal Mystery Unveiled

TikToker Matt Kortelainen, while cruising on the Carnival Adventure from Sydney to Moreton Island, stumbled upon a bag of pre-made towel animals under his bed. His video, now viral, humorously likens the discovery to learning that Santa isn’t real. This revelation has sparked laughter and mock disappointment among fellow cruisers online. Some even confessed to finding hidden towel animals on their own voyages.

Efficiency Behind the Magic

While this discovery might dampen the illusion for some, it’s understandable. On a fully booked cruise, Carnival’s crew must deliver thousands of towel animals daily. Preparing them in advance helps maintain efficiency, allowing the crew to focus on other essential duties. Kortelainen, rather than being upset, embraced the humour of the situation. He playfully arranged the towel animals around his cabin as a surprise for his steward.

Carnival’s Commitment to Tradition

Carnival Cruise Line has faced rumours about potentially retiring their beloved towel animals. In late 2023, speculation circulated online, suggesting that room stewards would stop creating these animals due to workload pressures. However, Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, quickly debunked this claim. He assured guests that towel animals will always be a cherished part of Carnival’s onboard tradition.

Learning the Craft

The rumour suggested that discontinuing towel animals would free up time for cabin attendants. However, as stewards are adept at crafting these animals, the time saved would be minimal. For those interested in learning the art, many cruise lines offer towel-folding workshops. Guests can take home the skills to create their own towel animals, adding a personal touch to their post-cruise memories.

Carnival’s towel animals continue to be a delightful tradition, bringing joy to countless guests. Whether pre-made or crafted on the spot, these charming creatures remain a symbol of the fun and whimsy of cruising.

Guests aboard the Disney Wish experienced a tense evening on Tuesday, 26th August 2025. The ship’s “man overboard” alarm sounded shortly after leaving Nassau. Fortunately, it was later confirmed to be a false alarm.

Alarm and Rescue Efforts

The Disney Wish had just departed Nassau at 5:30 pm. It was heading towards Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, when the alert was triggered just before 8 pm. Cruise ship tracking data showed the vessel turning back and stopping about 15 miles north of Nassau.

In line with emergency protocols, the crew sprang into action. They deployed life rings and launched rescue boats. Powerful spotlights scanned the waters, ensuring no stone was left unturned.

Onboard Observations

Guests on the ship witnessed the search efforts firsthand. At least two rescue crafts were deployed to investigate the situation. To ensure everyone’s safety, all passengers were called to their muster stations for a thorough headcount.

False Alarm Confirmed

By late evening, Disney Cruise Line confirmed the incident was a false alarm. The object initially mistaken for a person was actually a large piece of debris. After a complete headcount, all passengers and crew were accounted for. The ship then continued its journey to Castaway Cay, arriving on schedule the next morning.

Heightened Awareness After Recent Incident

This event occurred just two months after a real overboard incident on the Disney Dream. On 29th June, a child fell into the sea, and her father jumped in to save her. Both were successfully rescued by the crew.

While false alarms can be unsettling, they highlight the efficiency of cruise safety systems. Any potential overboard sighting triggers an immediate response. This includes search operations, life-saving equipment deployment, and passenger verification.

Current Itinerary

The Disney Wish is currently on a 4-night Bahamas itinerary. It departed from Port Canaveral on 25th August, with Nassau and Castaway Cay as its ports of call.

Exciting Offers

Don’t miss out on the latest Disney Cruise Line deals. Check out the newest offers and set sail on your dream cruise adventure!

Royal Caribbean’s new private destination, Perfect Day Mexico, is stirring up controversy. Residents and activists are voicing concerns about its potential impact on Costa Maya. A Change.org petition, with over 278,000 signatures, demands the project’s cancellation. The development, slated for a 2027 opening, is seen as a threat to Mahahual, a small fishing community just two miles from the cruise port.

Environmental and Cultural Concerns

Critics worry about the environmental impact of this massive complex. They fear it could restrict local beach access, damage mangroves and coral reefs, and increase pollution in an already water-stressed area. The petition highlights the potential influx of up to 20,000 tourists daily, bringing plastic waste, chemical sunscreens, and heavy freshwater usage. While organisers are not against tourism, they insist on halting the project until a comprehensive, independent environmental assessment is conducted. They also call for a broader discussion on the future of tourism in Mexico.

Royal Caribbean’s Response

Royal Caribbean has promised to carry out a full Environmental Impact Statement. They plan to hold a community meeting to address these concerns. The company asserts that Perfect Day Mexico will have a positive long-term impact on both the environment and the local economy. Their plans include conserving over 100 acres of mangroves, protecting turtle nesting areas, restoring natural waterflows, and installing a wastewater treatment facility and a reverse osmosis plant. Additionally, they aim to use 100% green energy at the site by 2040.

What’s Planned at Perfect Day Mexico

The 200-acre project promises excitement with over 30 waterslides, the world’s longest lazy river, a cliff-diving attraction, and a 100,000-square-foot pool. There will be adults-only spaces, beach clubs, bars, and two miles of pristine white-sand beaches. Announced in October 2024, this park will join Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day lineup, which includes Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Whether the protest will affect the timeline or design of the Costa Maya destination remains to be seen.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and explore the latest Royal Caribbean offers for your next cruise adventure.

A family holiday aboard the Norwegian Getaway turned tragic when a father drowned at Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay. Now, his family is suing Norwegian Cruise Line. They claim the cruise line failed to warn them about dangerous sea conditions during their March 2024 trip. Despite promoting the excursion as “easy” and suitable for all, the family alleges they were not informed of the risks.

What Happened at Horseshoe Bay

On 27th March 2024, Hyon Duk Shin, his wife Yanli Gong, their two young sons, and Shin’s mother visited the famous pink-sand beach. While snorkelling, Shin noticed a girl caught in rip currents. He managed to save her but was then overwhelmed by the strong undertow himself. With no lifeguards present, as it was outside peak tourist season, bystanders tried to help but couldn’t revive him. His family witnessed the heartbreaking event.

Allegations in the Lawsuit

The family has filed a lawsuit against Norwegian Cruise Line, citing negligence. They argue the excursion was advertised as “easy,” with no warnings about rip currents. The cruise took place when lifeguards were not stationed at the beach. The lawsuit claims NCL was aware of previous drowning incidents and government warnings but failed to disclose them. Court documents suggest that with proper information, the family would have avoided the excursion.

Excursion Still on Sale

Despite the tragedy, Norwegian Cruise Line continues to offer transfers to Horseshoe Bay on its website. The beach trip remains listed as a Level 1 “easy” tour. It is described as a chance to swim or relax on the sand, with no mention of currents or potential hazards. Shin’s death is not an isolated incident. This month, two guests drowned in separate incidents at Carnival’s new Celebration Key in the Bahamas. In August, a Vietnamese couple visiting Milos in Greece also died after being swept into the sea by strong winds. While such incidents are rare, they underscore the risks of unfamiliar environments.

This lawsuit might push cruise lines to reconsider how they label and describe their shore excursions. Providing clearer information could help guests make safer choices.

Unexpected Storm Hits Carnival Panorama

Cruise passengers aboard the Carnival Panorama experienced a dramatic moment on Wednesday evening. The ship, carrying 4,008 passengers, encountered a sudden storm in the Gulf of California. This occurred during an 8-night Mexican Riviera cruise from Long Beach, California, as the vessel sailed between Mazatlán and La Paz.

Sudden Tilt and Quick Response

At around 8:15 p.m., just as the second dinner seating began, the ship unexpectedly tilted. This tilt lasted about 30 seconds, accompanied by heavy rain and wind gusts reaching 60 mph. The captain swiftly adjusted the ship’s course to avoid the storm’s worst effects.

Minor Damage and Injuries

The sharp list caused some damage onboard. Broken glass was reported in dining areas and bars, and displays in retail shops were knocked over. Water leaks flooded parts of the lobby and some elevator banks. Several lifts were temporarily out of service but have since been repaired. Pool water also spilled out, partially draining the pools and spas. Crew members acted quickly to clear debris and ensure safety, even halting an evening show as a precaution.

Medical Attention and Stability

Carnival confirmed that nine guests visited the onboard medical centre. All are in stable condition, though two required further hospital care upon arrival in La Paz. Despite the incident, the ship remains fully operational, with only a few elevators still under repair.

Continuing the Journey

The Carnival Panorama continued its voyage without significant delay. The ship maintained its schedule, arriving in La Paz on Thursday, 21st August, and Cabo San Lucas on 22nd August. It is set to return to Long Beach on Sunday, 24th August. The 133,500-gross-ton ship is based in California year-round, offering Mexican Riviera cruises through 2027.

Understanding Sudden Storms

Some passengers wondered how such a storm could surprise the ship, especially with Hurricane Erin being closely monitored in the Atlantic. This incident highlights the unpredictable nature of localised storms in the Gulf of California. Unlike large hurricanes, these storms can develop rapidly with little warning. Factors like wind angle, the ship’s course, and storm intensity can cause brief but dramatic tilts. However, these events are usually short-lived and dissipate quickly.

Safety and Preparedness

Cruise ships are equipped with stabilisers, advanced navigation systems, and reinforced structures to handle rough conditions. Crews undergo extensive training in emergency response. Carnival vessels are designed to ensure passenger safety, even in challenging weather.

A Close Call on a Family Cruise

A family’s recent cruise holiday nearly turned tragic. A young child was photographed standing precariously on a table near the edge of their private balcony. The image has gone viral on social media. From the angle shown, many believe the child was dangerously close to falling overboard.

Speculation About the Cruise Line

The ship involved remains unidentified. However, some suggest the balcony’s design resembles those on Norwegian Cruise Line ships, possibly from the Breakaway or Breakaway Plus classes. The most alarming aspect is the lack of supervision. An adult is visible in the photo, seemingly taking a picture instead of intervening.

Shock and Disbelief from the Cruise Community

The online cruise community reacted swiftly. Parents and experienced cruisers expressed disbelief and concern. Many stated they would never allow their child near a balcony without close supervision. Others emphasised that sensible behaviour can prevent such incidents. They suggested safer alternatives for children, like kids’ clubs and supervised play areas.

The Serious Risk of Falling Overboard

Although the photo appears to have been taken while the ship was docked, the danger was real. Balcony falls can have dire consequences, with survival rates at sea estimated at only 17-25%. If the ship’s security team had witnessed the incident, the family might have faced disciplinary actions. These could range from warnings to loss of balcony privileges. Cruise lines can even remove balcony door handles to prevent repeat incidents.

Recent Balcony Tragedy Avoided

This controversy follows a near-tragedy on the Disney Dream on 29th June 2025. A young girl fell overboard after climbing a railing on Deck 4 while her parents played shuffleboard. Her father jumped in after her, and both were rescued by the ship’s emergency craft about 20 minutes later.

Adults Also at Risk on Cruise Ship Balconies

While much focus is on children’s safety near railings, adults can be equally careless. A viral video from Icon of the Seas showed a passenger falling from the edge of the ship’s Hideaway Pool. The clip captured the guest balancing on the pool’s railing before tumbling over.

A Fortunate Outcome

Initially, it seemed like a catastrophic fall. However, the individual landed on a restricted maintenance walkway, protected by a secondary glass barrier, not in the ocean. Crew members quickly assisted the guest, and fortunately, no injuries were reported. Eyewitnesses suggested the person may have been attempting a stunt.

A tragic event unfolded on the Sun Princess, Princess Cruises’ newest and largest ship, when a crew member went overboard. This incident occurred on Wednesday night, 20th August 2025, as the ship navigated the Dardanelles Strait. The Sun Princess was on a 14-night journey from Barcelona to Athens, heading towards Istanbul.

The man overboard alert was triggered around 11 pm local time. The ship promptly turned back to the suspected location and deployed rescue boats. The Turkish Coast Guard also joined the search with at least five vessels, continuing their efforts into the early hours of Thursday, 21st August.

Crew Member Confirmed

Princess Cruises later confirmed that the individual was a crew member. However, the cruise line has not disclosed their name or role to respect the family’s privacy. Despite extensive search efforts, the crew member remains missing. Princess Cruises expressed their condolences, stating, “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of our team member during this difficult time.”

Specially trained counsellors are on board to support both crew and guests. Additionally, Princess’ Family Assistance programme is in direct contact with the crew member’s family.

Impact on Itinerary

Following the incident, the Sun Princess was directed to anchor near Tekirdag, Turkey, to continue working with local authorities. The ship eventually reached Istanbul at 2 pm on Thursday, later than the planned 7 am arrival. Guests have been given until 11:30 pm to return to the ship, with some shortened half-day tours still available.

The scheduled stop at Mykonos on Friday, 22nd August, has been cancelled. Passengers will receive automatic refunds for any tours booked for the Greek island. Despite these changes, the cruise is expected to conclude in Athens on Saturday, 23rd August, as initially planned.

About Sun Princess

The Sun Princess, weighing 177,000 gross tons, is the first of the Sphere-class ships and the largest in the Princess Cruises fleet. It can accommodate 4,300 guests and 1,600 crew members. The ship began service in early 2024, offering a variety of Mediterranean itineraries. After the summer season in Europe, it will move to Fort Lauderdale in November for Caribbean voyages, returning to the Mediterranean in spring 2026.

This is the first reported overboard incident involving the Sun Princess, and investigations are ongoing.