Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Guests aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Star of the Seas, experienced an unexpected thrill during their preview cruise. While docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, an emergency “Oscar, Oscar, Oscar” alert was triggered. This occurred on Thursday, 14th August, when a man accidentally fell from the pier.

The Star of the Seas, accommodating 5,610 passengers, was docked alongside the Symphony of the Seas, which holds 5,518 passengers. The incident happened just after 8 am. The guest, distracted by his phone while filming the ship, fell into the water. Crew members quickly responded, throwing a life ring and retrieving him via jet ski. Thankfully, he was unharmed.

Quick Response Averts Crisis

Royal Caribbean confirmed the guest’s fall was due to distraction. The crew’s swift action ensured his safe return to shore. The Star of the Seas was on a special preview cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. It is now heading back to Florida to prepare for its next voyage on 16th August. Meanwhile, Symphony of the Seas is wrapping up a seven-night Bahamas cruise from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, with CocoCay as the final stop.

Previous Incidents at CocoCay

This isn’t the first pier mishap at CocoCay. In April 2025, a child fell between Oasis of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. Quick action by the crew ensured the child’s safety, and the itineraries continued as planned. Other incidents have involved guests ignoring safety markings or stumbling into the water, often due to distractions or alcohol.

In February 2025, a Carnival Valor passenger jumped into the sea in Progreso, Mexico, to retrieve a sentimental item. Cruise lines consistently remind guests to stay behind safety lines and remain vigilant, especially when using devices or taking photos.

Challenges for Star of the Seas

The pier incident is one of several challenges for Star of the Seas as it begins its debut season. Initially, Royal Caribbean announced that Diana Ross would be the ship’s godmother. The legendary Motown singer was set to preside over the naming ceremony on 20th August in the AquaDome. However, the cruise line has confirmed that Ross has withdrawn from the role. No reason has been provided for her decision.

Royal Caribbean expressed disappointment over Ross’s withdrawal. Despite this setback, the cruise line remains committed to providing exceptional experiences for its guests. As Star of the Seas continues its journey, passengers can look forward to many more adventures on the high seas.

Diana Ross Steps Down as Godmother of Star of the Seas

In a surprising turn of events, Royal Caribbean has announced that Diana Ross will no longer be the godmother of their newest ship, Star of the Seas. The legendary Motown singer was set to grace the ship’s naming ceremony on 20th August in the AquaDome neighbourhood. However, the cruise line has confirmed her unexpected withdrawal from the role.

Unforeseen Circumstances

Diana Ross, aged 81, had previously expressed her excitement about the honour. She described it as a “perfect continuation” of her career, which has always been about bringing people together. Despite her enthusiasm, no reason has been provided for her cancellation.

Possible Reasons for Withdrawal

Ross recently wrapped up a UK arena tour and is gearing up for her “Beautiful Love” US tour, starting on 16th August in Saratoga, California. Although her next tour date isn’t until 28th August in St Louis, Missouri, scheduling conflicts or personal commitments might have influenced her decision. Health considerations could also be a factor.

Awaiting a New Godmother

With the christening just around the corner, Royal Caribbean has yet to announce a replacement. The role of godmother is often bestowed upon celebrities, public figures, or individuals with notable achievements. While traditionally a female role, it is not exclusively so. The sister ship, Icon of the Seas, was named by footballer Lionel Messi. A connection to animal welfare might be a fitting choice for Star of the Seas, home to Sailor, the fleet’s second Chief Dog Officer.

Challenges for Star of the Seas

The news of Ross’s withdrawal comes amid other challenges for Star of the Seas. The ship’s Frightening Bolt waterslide has been closed indefinitely. This precaution follows a serious incident on its sister ship, Icon of the Seas. On 7th August 2025, an acrylic glass panel on the slide shattered, causing injuries to a passenger. The man is now pursuing legal action against Royal Caribbean.

Safety Measures in Place

While the other slides in Icon’s Category 6 Waterpark remain operational, Royal Caribbean has shut down the identical Frightening Bolt on Star of the Seas. This closure will remain until investigations are complete and any necessary repairs are made. It’s an unfortunate setback for the ship, which is currently being previewed by media and travel professionals ahead of its christening.

Stay tuned for updates on the new godmother announcement and the latest Royal Caribbean offers.

Incident at Sea: A Somber Day on Norwegian Star

A recent transatlantic journey on the Norwegian Star took a tragic turn. The cruise, which set sail from New York on 7th August 2025, was headed for Reykjavik, Iceland. Along the way, it planned stops in Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. However, an unexpected event occurred in the early hours of 12th August.

Emergency at Sea

Around 5 am, while navigating the waters of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, the ship’s horn sounded repeatedly. This was followed by a “Code Oscar” announcement, indicating a person had gone overboard. Passengers reported seeing lifeboats being lowered, and some even witnessed a recovery attempt.

Challenging Conditions

The ship was on its way to Nuuk, Greenland, when the incident happened. The water temperature in the area was a chilly 13°C (55°F). Surviving in such conditions without protective gear is extremely difficult. Although there is speculation about the outcome, no official confirmation has been made regarding the individual’s fate.

Search and Rescue Efforts

Tracking data shows that the Norwegian Star slowed and briefly retraced its path. This aligns with a search-and-rescue operation. Norwegian Cruise Line later confirmed that a 79-year-old male guest was involved. They expressed their deep sadness and stated that an investigation is ongoing. Rescue boats were deployed but returned shortly, and the ship continued its journey.

Continuing the Voyage

Despite the incident, the Norwegian Star’s itinerary remains unchanged. The ship is scheduled to reach Nuuk on 14th August, followed by further stops in Greenland and Iceland. The cruise has already visited Halifax, Sydney, and Corner Brook. Notably, this was Norwegian Star’s first visit to Corner Brook in its 24-year history.

About the Norwegian Star

The Norwegian Star is a 91,740-gross-ton vessel. It can accommodate 2,348 guests and is staffed by around 1,000 crew members. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sea travel, even on well-equipped cruise ships. Our thoughts are with the guest’s family during this difficult time.

A recent incident on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has sparked legal action. A passenger was injured when the Frightening Bolt waterslide broke mid-ride. This unfortunate event occurred on 7th August 2025, leaving the guest with cuts on his legs and hands. The slide, known as “the tallest waterslide at sea,” is part of the Category 6 Waterpark. It features a thrilling 46-foot drop and a full 360-degree loop.

The accident happened when an acrylic glass section of the slide shattered. Although the rider did not fall through the hole, water gushed out, drenching sunbathers below and creating slip hazards. The ship’s medical team provided immediate care, but the full extent of the injuries remains undisclosed.

Legal Action and Investigation

Two days after disembarking in Miami, the injured passenger announced plans to seek compensation. His legal representatives, Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A., specialise in maritime and cruise injury cases. They have successfully recovered over $500 million for their clients. Maritime attorney Alex Perez stated, “Cruise ships have a responsibility to ensure that the attractions they open and encourage passengers to use are safe.”

The Frightening Bolt slide was closed for the rest of the voyage. Engineers are investigating whether the failure was due to a manufacturing defect, installation issue, or unforeseen impact. No timeline for repairs has been provided. Meanwhile, the other waterslides in the Category 6 Waterpark remain operational. However, the identical slide on Royal Caribbean’s new Star of the Seas has also been closed as a precaution.

Impact on Royal Caribbean

This incident comes at a challenging time for Royal Caribbean. The Star of the Seas is currently being previewed by travel agents and media before its official launch. The cruise line emphasises that guest safety is its top priority. They often exceed international safety requirements under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention and the US Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act.

Royal Caribbean is committed to ensuring the safety of its attractions. As the investigation continues, the cruise line aims to address any issues promptly. For those planning a cruise holiday, it’s essential to stay informed about safety measures and updates. Keep an eye out for the latest Royal Caribbean offers and enjoy a safe and memorable cruise experience.

Introducing Royal Caribbean’s “Find My Kid” Feature

Royal Caribbean has unveiled an innovative “Find My Kid” feature on its latest mega-ship, Star of the Seas. This new service allows parents to track their children’s whereabouts in real-time using the Royal Caribbean app. Designed for young cruisers aged three to twelve, it offers peace of mind for families on holiday.

How the Adventure Ocean WOW Band Works

The Adventure Ocean WOW Band is a colourful, waterproof wristband that acts as a tracker. Parents can monitor their child’s location directly from their smartphones. To get started, families can enrol their children in the system at the Adventure Ocean Kid’s Club on Deck 6. The WOW Bands are priced at $14.99 on the ship but can be reused on future cruises at no extra cost.

Additional Features of the WOW Band

Beyond location tracking, the WOW Band offers several other functionalities. It can unlock stateroom doors, make pre-approved purchases, and display the child’s muster station in emergencies. To use the tracker, parents simply connect to the ship’s WiFi, open the Royal Caribbean app, and select the “Find My Kid” option to view their child’s live location on the ship’s deck maps.

Exclusive to Star of the Seas

Currently, the live-tracking feature is exclusive to Star of the Seas. However, a similar system, “Kidfinder,” was tested on Icon of the Seas in summer 2024. This suggests that a broader rollout across the fleet could be on the horizon.

When Should Children Explore Cruise Ships Alone?

The introduction of live location tracking has sparked discussions about the appropriate age for children to explore cruise ships unsupervised. Opinions vary widely among parents. Some are comfortable granting freedom to children as young as eight or ten, while others prefer to wait until late teens or adulthood.

Cruise Line Policies and Parental Attitudes

Cruise lines do not enforce a specific minimum age for solo roaming. However, their kids’ club policies can serve as a guide. On most family-friendly lines, children can sign themselves out from around age 12 or 13. Some lines allow it as early as seven with parental consent. These age thresholds often reflect the transition from supervised activities to more independent teen lounges.

Parental Concerns and Confidence

Parental attitudes towards children roaming freely on cruise ships vary. Some parents are hesitant to allow even 17-year-olds to explore alone, citing safety concerns. Others feel more comfortable granting independence earlier, especially if their child is mature and familiar with the ship’s layout. Built-in tracking systems, like Royal Caribbean’s WOW Bands, can boost parental confidence in giving children more freedom.

Starting Small with Independence

Many parents prefer to start small, allowing limited solo trips to fetch food or attend short activities. This gradual approach helps build trust and confidence before permitting full freedom. With the new “Find My Kid” feature, Royal Caribbean is making it easier for families to enjoy their cruise holidays with peace of mind.

Tragic Incident at Sarakiniko Beach

A tragic event unfolded on 8th August 2025 at Sarakiniko Beach, Milos. Two Vietnamese cruise passengers lost their lives after being swept into the sea by fierce winds. The couple, both in their 50s, were part of a cruise group that had docked at Adamas earlier that day.

Unfortunate Circumstances

The 64-year-old woman was taking a photo on the island’s northern shore. A sudden gust knocked her off balance, causing her to fall into the water. Her 65-year-old husband bravely jumped in to rescue her. Unfortunately, the turbulent sea conditions quickly overwhelmed them both.

Challenging Weather Conditions

Winds reached up to 50 miles per hour (80 km/h), creating dangerous conditions. Sarakiniko Beach, known for its smooth white cliffs, is highly exposed to the elements. Its beauty can be deceptive, especially when weather changes suddenly.

Recovery and Response

The Greek coastguard, with help from private boats and divers, recovered the couple’s bodies. They were taken to a local health centre and pronounced dead. The Vietnamese embassy in Greece confirmed the fatalities and is assisting the families. They also advised Vietnamese visitors to avoid cliff edges and the sea during high winds.

Celestyal Cruises Implicated

While not officially named, Celestyal Cruises’ Celestyal Journey was the only ship in port at Milos that day. The ship, homeported in Piraeus, was on a seven-night Greek Isles itinerary. Milos was its final stop before returning to Athens.

Severe Weather Across Greece

Southern Greece faced severe weather, with wind speeds reaching up to 88 km/h. The civil protection ministry issued alerts for the Aegean and Crete. Ferry services between Athens and the Cyclades were disrupted, leaving many travellers stranded.

Calls for Safety Measures

Giorgos Vallis, president of the Panhellenic Association of Yacht Crews, suggested restricting beach access during extreme weather. He believes port authorities should close off areas to prevent accidents. Despite cruise lines’ safety measures, accidents can still happen, especially in scenic but exposed locations.

A Magical Day for Disney Cruise Line

On 9th August 2025, a magical moment unfolded at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Disney Cruise Line’s newest vessel, Disney Destiny, made her grand debut. This Wish-class ship floated out of Hall 6, marking a significant milestone. The transition from dry dock to wet dock signifies the completion of her exterior construction. Although the LNG-powered ship was “floated up” in March for early testing, this was her first time in open water.

A Celebration Fit for Disney

Disney Cruise Line ensured the event was unforgettable. As the 144,000-gross ton ship emerged, the sky lit up with vibrant fireworks. Disney remains the only cruise line to offer fireworks at sea. Guests and shipyard workers, including myself, enjoyed the debut of the ship’s theme song. The upbeat anthem, “This is your Destiny! Seize the moment, it’s your time,” resonated with the crowd. The song aligns perfectly with the ship’s “Heroes and Villains” theme. To conclude the ceremony, Disney Destiny’s horn played “When You Wish Upon a Star,” evoking nostalgia among attendees.

First Look at the Finished Exterior

The float out offered a first glimpse of the ship’s completed exterior. The stern artwork features Spider-Man, accompanied by his Spider-Bots. This makes Disney Destiny the first cruise ship to showcase a Marvel character in its hull art. At the bow, Minnie Mouse stands proudly in a superhero outfit, matching the ship’s theme. Minnie was also present to welcome the newest fleet member.

What Happens Next?

After her float out, Disney Destiny docked at the shipyard’s equipment pier. Meyer Werft commended the “precise and dedicated work” of its team. The focus now shifts to completing the ship’s interior. Sea trials are scheduled in the coming months. The ship will then head to Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades) for her maiden voyage on 20th November 2025. The inaugural sailing will visit Disney’s private islands in the Bahamas.

A Busy Year for Disney Cruise Line

Disney Destiny’s float out follows the recent debut of Disney Adventure. This ship, the largest ever built for the line, emerged from the same shipyard on 19th April 2025. It is set to debut in Asia this December. Just a day before Destiny’s float out, Meyer Werft hosted the steel-cutting ceremony for Disney Cruise Line’s fourth Wish-class ship. This ship is due to launch in 2027. Captain Mickey himself attended, pressing the ceremonial red button to begin the first cut of steel. This act symbolised the start of a new chapter for Disney Cruise Line.

Cruise Holiday Disruption: Bomb Threat on P&O Cruises’ Ventura

Thousands of holidaymakers experienced an unexpected start to their cruise on 9th August 2025. A bomb threat led to the evacuation of P&O Cruises’ Ventura and its terminal in Southampton. The incident occurred just as passengers were boarding for a 14-night journey to Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands.

Swift Police Response

The alarm was raised at the Mayflower Cruise Ferry Terminal around 11:46 am. An unidentified man claimed to have an explosive device. With heightened summer security, police quickly secured the area. A 200-metre cordon was set up while bomb disposal experts examined a suspect’s motor truck and the surrounding area.

Evacuation for Safety

Both Ventura and the terminal were evacuated as a precaution. “The captain announced we were in the bomb zone and had to leave,” a passenger shared. By early afternoon, police confirmed there was no credible threat. The cordon was lifted, and normal operations resumed.

P&O Cruises’ Official Statement

P&O Cruises issued a statement thanking guests for their cooperation. They emphasised that safety is their top priority. “Due to an earlier police incident, we evacuated Ventura and the terminal. The situation is resolved, and embarkation has resumed,” the statement read.

Impact on Other Ships

Southampton was bustling with cruise ships that day. Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess, P&O Cruises’ Iona, and MSC Cruises’ MSC Virtuosa were also docked. However, they were far enough from the Mayflower terminal to avoid disruption. Only Ventura was directly affected.

Departure Delay

The evacuation caused a delay in Ventura’s departure. Guests expected to set sail by 6:15 pm. By 6:30 pm, cruise tracking data showed the ship leaving the harbour. The delay did not affect the itinerary. Ventura was still on schedule to reach Funchal, Madeira, on 13th August.

Temporary Road Closure

A related road closure at Dock 10 caused some congestion. However, it has since reopened, easing traffic flow within the port.

Suspect in Custody

From Ventura’s decks, guests witnessed the suspect’s arrest. The swift police action ensured the safety of all passengers and crew. The incident, though alarming, was handled efficiently, allowing holidaymakers to continue their journey with peace of mind.

Carnival UK Lifts Ban on Sail Away Magazine Editors

Carnival UK has lifted the travel ban on Sail Away Magazine’s editors, Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon. This decision comes after weeks of controversy and backlash from cruise enthusiasts and media professionals. The ban, which affected P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Princess Cruises, has been revoked immediately.

A Positive Step Forward

Sail Away Magazine expressed their satisfaction with the decision. They see it as a positive move for the cruise industry. The magazine’s editors have always been strong supporters of cruising as a top travel choice. They look forward to a more constructive relationship with Carnival UK.

The Ban’s Timeline

The issue began in early June 2025. Dan and Jay received a letter from Carnival UK banning them from all Carnival Group brands for five years. The reason cited was a pattern of complaints and reviews suggesting the cruise lines couldn’t meet their holiday expectations. Initially, it seemed like a blanket ban across all Carnival Corporation brands. However, by late June, it was clarified that the ban only applied to Carnival UK-managed brands.

Why Were They Banned?

Dan and Jay are known for their candid reviews in Sail Away Magazine. Their publication includes a print magazine, podcast, and YouTube channel with over 40,000 followers. While they support cruising, they don’t shy away from critiquing service cuts and industry transparency. Some of their recent critical stories included a negative review of Carnival Miracle and a reader poll showing 72% of cruisers believe standards have fallen under Carnival UK leadership.

Freedom of Speech in the Cruise Industry

The reversal of the ban is seen as a significant step for freedom of speech within the cruise sector. It highlights the importance of open dialogue and constructive criticism. This decision may set a precedent for how cruise lines handle media relations in the future.

In conclusion, the lifting of the ban is a win for both Sail Away Magazine and the cruise community. It underscores the value of honest reviews and the role they play in shaping the industry. Cruise holidaygoers in the UK can look forward to more insightful content from Dan and Jay as they continue to explore the world of cruising.

A Thrilling Ride Turns Alarming on Icon of the Seas

On the evening of 7th August 2025, a thrilling adventure aboard the Icon of the Seas took an unexpected turn. A clear panel on the Frightening Bolt waterslide shattered mid-ride, injuring a passenger and causing a cascade of water onto the deck below. This incident occurred in Thrill Island’s Category 6 Waterpark, the largest waterpark at sea, known for its record-breaking slides.

Unexpected Mid-Ride Malfunction

The Frightening Bolt is famous for its 46-foot drop, dramatic trapdoor launch, and full 360° loop. However, during this ride, an unidentified male passenger suffered injuries when the acrylic section of the slide broke. Water gushed through the opening, soaking guests on the deck and creating slippery conditions. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported.

Royal Caribbean’s Response

Royal Caribbean quickly responded to the incident. They provided medical care to the injured guest and closed the waterslide for the remainder of the cruise. The surrounding area on Deck 15 was also temporarily closed as a safety measure. The cruise line is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure the slide’s safety before reopening.

Icon’s Itinerary Continues

Despite the incident, the Icon of the Seas continued its 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary. The cruise, which departed from PortMiami on 2nd August, included stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. It remains uncertain if the slide will be operational for the next cruise departing on 9th August.

Slide Incidents: Rare but Not Unheard Of

While this malfunction was alarming, such incidents on cruise ships are rare. Cruise lines adhere to strict safety regulations, and onboard attractions undergo regular inspections. The Icon of the Seas, launched in early 2024, is one of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships, boasting high-tech amenities. This incident, however, has raised concerns about potential manufacturing or installation issues.

Future Precautions

Royal Caribbean has assured guests that the Frightening Bolt will remain closed until experts confirm its safety. Meanwhile, the sister ship, Star of the Seas, is set to launch next week, featuring the same slide. There is no word yet on whether this incident will affect the slide on the new ship.

Recent Similar Incidents

This is not the first structural issue involving glass on a Royal Caribbean ship this summer. On 8th June 2025, a glass panel at Symphony of the Seas’ Coastal Kitchen shattered. These incidents highlight the importance of ongoing safety checks and maintenance to ensure passenger safety on cruise holidays.