Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Virgin Voyages Introduces New Fare System for Cruise Enthusiasts

Virgin Voyages is revolutionising the cruise booking experience. Starting 7th October 2025, the cruise line will unveil VoyageFair Choices. This innovative three-tier fare system aims to offer clearer pricing, enhanced flexibility, and greater transparency for travellers.

Why the Change?

Virgin Voyages has had a remarkable year. With the launch of its fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, demand for its adults-only cruises is soaring. The new fare system aligns with the brand’s commitment to clarity and choice, similar to what travellers expect from airlines and hotels. CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu emphasises that this change is about simplifying the booking process. It ensures that once onboard, the experience remains distinctly Virgin: elevated and unforgettable.

Introducing Three New Fare Tiers

The VoyageFair Choices system applies to Sea Terrace and below cabins. It offers three booking levels:

– **Base**: This is the most affordable, non-refundable option. It includes Basic WiFi for one device, a 15-day dining reservation window, and no changes to names, cabins, or dates.

– **Essential**: Closest to Virgin’s current pricing, this tier includes Classic WiFi for one device, a 45-day dining window, and the ability to adjust dates with a Future Voyage Credit. Name changes for additional guests are also allowed.

– **Premium**: This tier offers the most flexibility and perks. It includes Premium WiFi for two devices, a 60-day dining reservation window, a daily Bar Tab drinks credit, and priority support for pre-voyage booking.

For those in RockStar and Mega RockStar suites, the primary change is earlier dining access, now available 120 days before sailing. All other luxury inclusions remain unchanged.

Gratuities: A New Approach

Virgin Voyages is also changing how gratuities are handled. Previously included in fares, service charges will now be a separate line item during booking. Guests can pre-pay at $20 per person per night or settle onboard at $22 per person per night. Once covered, no additional tipping is expected onboard. This change aims to enhance transparency, allowing guests to see exactly how service charges are applied.

What Stays the Same?

Despite the new booking model, Virgin Voyages’ hallmark “Always Included Luxury” remains. Every fare still includes over $1,000 worth of value. This encompasses specialty dining from world-class chefs, unlimited group fitness, WiFi, soft drinks, and cutting-edge entertainment. John Lovell, Virgin Voyages Board Member and Senior Advisor, describes VoyageFair Choices as a model “built for the modern traveller.”

Virgin Voyages continues to set the standard for cruise travel, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience for all its guests.

Concerns Raised by MV Gemini Crew

A crew member aboard the MV Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, has voiced serious concerns about their living and working conditions while the ship is in drydock. According to an anonymous message shared with the Facebook page Crew Center, the crew has faced significant hardships. They report that internet, electricity, and water are available for only two hours each day.

Living Conditions on Board

The crew member described the situation as “unbearable,” with extreme heat making it difficult to sleep. To cope, all doors are left open, and each room accommodates four people. The crew is uncertain about when they will be allowed to leave and have not received their salaries for three months. The plea was clear: “Please, don’t treat us like animals.”

Mixed Reactions from the Maritime Community

The post on Crew Center sparked varied reactions from other seafarers and cruise professionals. Some industry veterans suggested that challenging conditions are not uncommon during drydock periods. One commenter noted that disruptions to air conditioning, internet, and food services are expected. Another simply stated, “Dry dock is dry dock.”

Unpaid Salaries Raise Alarm

However, the issue of unpaid salaries for three months drew significant concern. Many commenters found this unacceptable and urged the crew to report the situation to maritime unions or authorities. Suggestions included contacting the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union for support.

Understanding Drydock

Drydock is a necessary phase for cruise ships, involving maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This process ensures safety and compliance with international maritime regulations. For crew members, it often means long working days and temporary changes to amenities. However, conditions can vary significantly between companies.

Miray Cruises and the MV Gemini

Miray Cruises, based in Turkey, has operated the MV Gemini for several years. The ship is used for regional sailings and charter services. While some seafarers shared positive drydock experiences with other cruise lines, the situation on the MV Gemini highlights the need for prioritising crew welfare during these periods.

Cruising Ducks: A Fun Tradition with a Twist

Cruising ducks have become a delightful tradition for many holidaymakers at sea. Guests hide and seek small rubber ducks, adding a playful element to their cruise experience. However, a recent prank has caused a stir on Carnival Cruise Line ships.

The Prank Problem

The issue isn’t with the ducks themselves but with misleading tags attached to some of them. These fake labels feature Carnival’s whale tail logo and falsely promise a free drink at the casino bar. Carnival has confirmed that no such offer exists, leaving staff in the awkward position of denying guests who believe they’ve won a prize.

Brand ambassador John Heald has urged the pranksters to stop. He emphasised that it’s unfair to both guests and staff. If the prank continues, Carnival may have to reconsider its stance on the cruising ducks tradition.

Could Ducks Be Banned?

Carnival has always welcomed the cruising ducks trend as a fun guest-led activity. However, if the prank persists, the cruise line might need to impose restrictions. Other cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, have already banned ducks in certain areas due to past issues.

Some Carnival fans speculate that the prank is a deliberate attempt to end the duck tradition. One guest suggested it might be the work of someone who dislikes the ducks and wants them banned.

Past Prize Ducks

While Carnival has never officially offered prize ducks, there have been instances of promotional ducks on board. For example, jewellery retailer Effy once hid sparkling ducks as part of a store promotion. These ducks could be redeemed for prizes, but the event was independent of Carnival.

Some fans hope Carnival might one day introduce official prize ducks. These could offer rewards like a free drink, onboard credit, or the popular “ship-on-a-stick” trophy. For now, though, guests should remember that the ducks are purely for fun, and any claims of freebies are false.

Stay Informed

As the cruising ducks tradition continues, it’s essential for guests to stay informed. Enjoy the fun of finding and hiding ducks, but be wary of any misleading tags. For the latest Carnival cruise offers and updates, keep an eye on their official announcements.

What should have been a seamless repositioning cruise has turned into a challenging experience for some passengers aboard the Grand Princess. Technical difficulties have affected both the air conditioning and toilet facilities. The 16-night journey set sail from Los Angeles on 15th September 2025. The ship is transitioning from its Alaska season to new Caribbean routes from San Juan. Along the way, it will visit destinations like the Mexican Riviera, Costa Rica, Panama, and Aruba, before reaching Fort Lauderdale on 1st October.

Cooling Challenges and Plumbing Issues

As the ship moved from cooler northern climates to warmer regions, the air conditioning systems in some staterooms struggled. A letter to affected passengers mentioned that adjustments are needed to maintain comfortable temperatures. Simultaneously, parts of the ship’s plumbing system have faced disruptions. Princess Cruises explained that ongoing treatment is causing temporary issues, but engineers are working swiftly to restore full service. Although not all cabins are affected, the problems are significant enough for the cruise line to offer compensation.

Compensation for Affected Passengers

Guests with impacted staterooms are receiving partial refunds for the days they experienced disruptions. The refund excludes taxes, port fees, gratuities, and extras like drink packages. The amount varies based on each passenger’s cruise fare and the number of affected days. Additionally, Princess Cruises is offering a future cruise credit worth 25% of the full fare. This credit will appear in guests’ Captain’s Circle accounts after the voyage. It must be used on sailings booked by 1st April 2026, for departures no later than 1st April 2027. It remains unclear if this credit extends to all passengers or only those directly affected.

Should Every Technical Issue Lead to Refunds?

While many guests appreciate the financial relief, the situation raises questions about when cruise lines should offer compensation. Comfort levels can be subjective; one guest might find 20 degrees centigrade comfortable, while another might not. However, widespread issues like non-functioning toilets clearly need attention. Reporting problems promptly is crucial for guests to ensure they are addressed. Cruise lines can only fix issues they are aware of, and engineering teams always prioritise comfort and safety. Hopefully, the Grand Princess will resolve these issues before reaching Florida on 1st October, leaving guests with more pleasant memories of their journey.

The Latest Cruise Etiquette Debate

Cruise etiquette often sparks lively debates online. From reserving sun loungers to overloading plates at the buffet, there’s always something to discuss. The latest topic causing a stir? Where passengers are storing their SeaPass cards. And, I must confess, I might be one of those passengers being called out!

The Reddit Post That Started It All

A post on Reddit’s r/Cruise forum ignited the conversation. A passenger on Independence of the Seas expressed frustration, saying, “I’ve seen ladies reaching into their blouses to find their SeaPass, which was tucked in their bras.” The thread, humorously titled “Ladies – Get a lanyard,” described the habit as “frankly disgusting” for crew members and others who handle drink glasses afterward. The post quickly gained attention, with many sharing their views both for and against the practice. Interestingly, it was posted on 21st September 2025. Guess who was on that cruise and might have been using their bra as a cardholder? Yes, me.

Is It Really That Unhygienic?

I’ll admit it: I tucked my cruise card into my bikini top while on Independence of the Seas. But is it really that bad? In my opinion, breasts are cleaner than hands. Consider this: how many people actually wash their hands with soap and water every time they leave the bathroom or before visiting the buffet? I do, but not everyone does! Cruise lines even have staff at restaurant entrances urging people to wash their hands. Compared to that, a card from a bra seems less concerning. As one Reddit commenter aptly put it, “Boob sweat is the least of your worries, my guy.”

The Pocket Dilemma

Not everyone is a fan of lanyards. Some passengers dislike how they bounce or sway, especially in the hot sun. Wristbands could be a viable alternative. Virgin Voyages already uses them, and Princess Cruises offers the Medallion, which can be worn on a wristband. However, a significant part of the issue is women’s clothing. Why don’t more swimsuits, shorts, or dresses have decent pockets? A bra isn’t always the best place, but sometimes it’s the only option. One Redditor bluntly stated, “Dear clothing designers, why don’t you make pockets in clothing for women so they don’t need to use their bra?” I couldn’t agree more.

A Practical Solution

I recently discovered a swimming costume with built-in pockets. This could neatly solve the problem and keep everyone happy. It’s a simple yet effective solution that addresses the lack of pockets in women’s clothing. Perhaps it’s time for more designers to consider this practical addition. Until then, I’ll continue to find creative ways to keep my SeaPass card safe and sound.

Driving to the port and parking nearby is often the most convenient choice for cruise travellers. However, some passengers returning from a Southampton cruise earlier this month faced an unpleasant surprise. Their cars had vanished.

Car Theft at Southampton Cruise Parking

According to The Daily Echo, 17 vehicles were stolen from a Southampton Cruise Parking Services facility in Millbrook between 9–10 September 2025. The company promotes its lot as “indoor and secure,” boasting locked warehouse parking and 24-hour CCTV. They even assure customers, “We guarantee that your car will not leave our premises.” Unfortunately, this promise was broken for 17 unlucky car owners.

Ongoing Investigation

The police have not disclosed the makes or models of the stolen cars. It’s also unclear if specific types of vehicles were targeted. An investigation is currently underway, and security measures are being reassessed. Southampton Cruise Parking Services has not yet issued an official statement.

Impact on Cruise Passengers

Southampton is a bustling cruise port, with ships from major lines like Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Line, and Royal Caribbean departing during the theft period. It’s uncertain which passengers or sailings were affected. The cruise lines are not responsible for the parking facility. Affected guests must seek compensation through the parking operator, their insurance, and local authorities.

Ensuring Car Safety at Cruise Ports

This incident echoes a 2022 case in Norfolk, Virginia, where parked cars were vandalised despite 24-hour security. Typically, ports and parking providers are not liable for theft or damage. Therefore, having comprehensive insurance is crucial. Travellers should remove valuables from sight, lock all doors and windows, and photograph their vehicle’s condition before leaving it in a public or third-party facility. These steps can simplify the claims process if needed.

Alternative Travel Options

While the theft of 17 cars from a Southampton parking facility is alarming, such events are rare. Cruise terminal car parks are generally secure, featuring CCTV, barriers, and locked compounds. For many, the convenience of parking close to the port remains appealing. However, for those seeking extra peace of mind, alternative options exist. Coach transfers are a popular choice for passengers living further away.

In conclusion, while the recent thefts are concerning, they are not common. By taking precautions and considering alternative travel options, cruise passengers can enjoy their holidays with greater peace of mind.

Royal Caribbean’s Exciting Shipbuilding Expansion

Royal Caribbean has taken a significant leap forward in its shipbuilding plans. The cruise line has placed a new order for its Icon Class series, strengthening its partnership with Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard. On 23rd September 2026, Royal Caribbean announced that Icon 5 will set sail in 2028. The collaboration with Meyer Turku is now extended until 2036. This agreement not only ensures the construction of future Icon vessels but also hints at the possibility of a new ship class in the future.

Icon Class: A Growing Fleet

The Icon Class represents the pinnacle of Royal Caribbean’s ship design. Each ship can host over 5,600 guests at double capacity. These vessels boast themed neighbourhoods, cutting-edge technology, and top-tier entertainment. Icon of the Seas launched in January 2024 as the world’s largest cruise ship, weighing in at 248,663 gross tons. Star of the Seas followed in August 2025, with Legend of the Seas expected in summer 2026. Icon 4 is on track for 2027, and Icon 5 is now confirmed for 2028. Royal Caribbean also has conditional plans for Icon 6 and Icon 7, which could further expand the class if financing is secured. Meyer Turku has been a trusted partner, having built 25 ships for Royal Caribbean since the mid-1990s.

New Destinations on the Horizon

Royal Caribbean’s expansion isn’t just about ships. The company is investing heavily in private destinations and beach clubs. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau is set to open in December 2025. A Cozumel Beach Club is planned for 2026. Perfect Day Mexico, featuring the world’s longest lazy river, will debut in 2027. Additionally, a new destination on Lelepa, Vanuatu, is scheduled for 2027. These projects aim to enhance the Icon Class experience and broaden Royal Caribbean’s presence in the Caribbean and the South Pacific.

Discovery Class Ships in the Works

In addition to the Icon Class, Royal Caribbean is designing a new Discovery Class of smaller ships. These vessels will access more intimate ports and are expected to eventually replace the Vision and Radiance Class ships. While details are still limited, an official announcement about the first ship in this class is anticipated soon.

Looking Ahead

With Icon 5 confirmed and Icon 6 and 7 under consideration, Royal Caribbean’s future includes at least nine new ships and seven new destinations by 2028. This announcement underscores the brand’s confidence in the Icon Class and its broader strategy to lead both at sea and on land. There are whispers that Royal Caribbean might face competition for the title of the largest cruise ship, with speculation that MSC Cruises could launch a bigger class. However, for now, the Icon Class remains a dominant force, and mega ships are here to stay.

Carnival Cruise Line Passenger Chooses to Stay in Bonaire

Carnival Cruise Line recently confirmed that a passenger from the Carnival Horizon chose not to return to the ship in Bonaire. This decision was not due to distress but a deliberate choice. Jessica Collins, a 47-year-old passenger, left the ship on 17th September 2025 during a stop in Kralendijk, Bonaire.

Passenger’s Intentions

Collins left the ship with all her belongings packed in a backpack. She even left a gratuity and thank-you note for her stateroom attendant. Later, she texted Carnival’s Care Team to confirm her safety and requested no further contact. Despite local authorities treating it as a missing person case, evidence suggests Collins intended to stay in Bonaire.

Cruise Continues as Planned

The Carnival Horizon continued its scheduled itinerary to Aruba and Curaçao. The ship returned to Miami on time, ready for its next voyage. Standard procedures were followed when Collins did not return by the all-aboard time. Announcements were made, and security photos showed her leaving with a packed bag. Initially, this did not raise alarms as many guests carry bags for excursions.

Online Concerns

Photos of Collins circulated online, sparking concern among guests and cruise enthusiasts. Recent incidents on other cruises, where guests went missing and faced medical distress, heightened these worries. However, Carnival’s confirmation reassures that Collins is safe and her actions were intentional.

Legal and Emigration Considerations

Abandoning a cruise ship is not a legal method to emigrate. Collins’ motivations remain unclear, but her decision raises questions about long-term stays on Caribbean islands. In Bonaire, US citizens can enter without a visa but need a residence permit for extended stays. These permits are valid for one year and can be renewed for up to five years. Achieving longer-term residency or Dutch citizenship involves meeting strict criteria.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the importance of following official procedures for relocation. While cruise holidays can inspire dreams of living abroad, legal pathways must be pursued. Carnival continues to cooperate with Bonaire authorities, reiterating that this was a deliberate choice by Collins.

What started as a seemingly fun moment on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship quickly turned into an unexpected spectacle. A short video clip shared on social media captured a female guest stuck at the lowest point of the Ocean Loops waterslide. This clear section of the slide extends dramatically over the ship’s side, offering a dizzying view of the ocean below. For some viewers, it was a nightmare; for others, a comedy moment.

Ocean Loops on Norwegian Ships

The Ocean Loops slide is a standout feature on three Breakaway-plus class ships: Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Encore. To ride, guests must weigh between 120 and 300 pounds and be at least 48 inches tall. Although the specific ship in the video wasn’t identified, all three were cruising in Alaska when the footage surfaced.

The slide’s design can cause riders to get stuck at a particular upturn, often sliding back into the clear section over the water. Fortunately, a safety hatch is nearby, and crew members are always ready to assist. For some thrill-seekers, getting stuck is just part of the fun. Emma Cruises even shared her own experience of getting stuck twice in a row on the same slide!

Viral Reactions

The 13-second video, uploaded to TikTok on 19th September 2025, has amassed over seven million views. Reactions range from light-hearted jokes to genuine panic. Many viewers expressed that they would have a panic attack in such a situation, with comments like “new fear unlocked” receiving thousands of likes. The idea of being trapped over open water struck a chord with many.

The viral response may have been influenced by recent waterslide incidents elsewhere. In August, a section of the Icon of the Seas “Frightening Bolt” slide cracked during use, prompting repairs and redesigns. However, the Ocean Loops video shows no malfunction or injury. Crew members are quick to help anyone stuck, turning it into a quirky memory rather than an accident.

Explore New Deals

Don’t miss out on the latest Norwegian Cruise Line offers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone. Check out the newest deals and set sail on your next adventure!

Carnival’s Loyalty Program Changes: A Stormy Sea for UK Cruisers

Carnival’s recent changes to its upcoming Carnival Rewards program have stirred up quite a storm among loyal passengers. Despite efforts to address concerns, many cruisers remain frustrated. Social media and travel forums are buzzing with disappointment. The new program, set to replace the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club in June 2026, has been a hot topic since its announcement.

Diamond Safe, Platinum Left Behind

Carnival’s decision to permanently secure Diamond status for those who achieve it by 31st May 2026 was a relief for some. However, Platinum members feel left out. They receive a 10,000 “star” bonus every two years, which only grants automatic Gold status and a slight advantage towards requalifying. For many, this concession falls short. One long-time cruiser expressed their disappointment, urging Carnival to grandfather in both Diamond and Platinum statuses.

Frustration Over Deadlines and Access

The timing of the transition has also upset many guests. Some have milestone sailings just days after the May 2026 cut-off. One traveller shared their frustration, noting that their husband would have reached Platinum status on a June 2026 cruise, just seven days after the deadline. An extension, they argue, would be beneficial. Canadian and Australian guests feel particularly excluded, as the program remains limited to U.S. residents. A Canadian Platinum member highlighted their inability to collect points due to the unavailability of the Mastercard.

Value of Loyalty in Question

Beyond the technicalities, many guests feel the new structure undermines the essence of Carnival’s loyalty program. The shift towards a money-spent model has left some feeling that days at sea are undervalued. One cruiser lamented the loss of working towards different colours, stating that the focus now seems to be on spending rather than time spent cruising. This change, they argue, diminishes their loyalty to Carnival.

In conclusion, Carnival’s new loyalty program has left many UK cruise holidaygoers feeling adrift. The changes have sparked a wave of dissatisfaction, with many questioning the value of their loyalty. As the transition approaches, it remains to be seen how Carnival will address these concerns and whether they can calm the turbulent waters.