Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

MSC Cruises Ventures into Alaska

MSC Cruises has made a grand entrance into the Alaska cruise market. On 11th May, MSC Poesia set sail from Seattle, marking the line’s inaugural journey in this stunning region. The ship will offer weekly seven-night cruises from Seattle until September 2026. Passengers will explore Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Juneau in Alaska, as well as Victoria in Canada. Each itinerary promises breathtaking views of Dawes Glacier during scenic cruising through Endicott Arm.

Seattle: The New Summer Homeport

This launch signifies a major expansion for MSC Cruises in North America. Seattle has become the summer homeport for MSC Poesia. The ship is set to return to Alaska in April 2027, with bookings for next year’s sailings already available. This move highlights MSC’s commitment to offering diverse cruise experiences.

Revamped MSC Poesia Sets Sail

Before embarking on its Alaska programme, MSC Poesia underwent significant upgrades. The ship now features the MSC Yacht Club, a luxurious ship-within-a-ship concept. Guests can enjoy an enhanced MSC Aurea Spa, a state-of-the-art MSC Gym powered by Technogym, and new workout studios. Dining options have expanded with the addition of Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar.

Alaska-Inspired Culinary Delights

For the Alaska season, MSC has introduced a regional food and drink programme. Guests can savour expanded seafood options and warming drinks inspired by the destination. This culinary focus enhances the overall cruise experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Entertainment and Activities On Board

Entertainment on MSC Poesia is diverse and engaging. Guests can enjoy “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” live music, comedy shows, and themed parties. Family activities and expert talks offer insights into Alaska’s wildlife, geography, and culture. These activities ensure there’s something for everyone on board.

Partnership with ORCA for Marine Research

MSC Cruises has partnered with marine conservation organisation ORCA. During peak whale season, an ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will be on board. This collaboration supports research, crew training, and guest education, enhancing the cruise experience with valuable insights into marine life.

Future Sailings and Pricing

After the 2026 Alaska season, MSC Poesia will transition to Caribbean sailings for winter 2026/2027. The ship will also offer MSC Grand Voyage sailings via the Panama Canal between Miami and Seattle. Prices for a seven-night Alaska cruise on MSC Poesia, departing Seattle on 20th July 2026, start from £629 per person. Don’t miss out on the latest MSC Cruises offers for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Disney Cruise Line recently faced an unexpected challenge when it had to cancel a sailing of its newest and largest ship, Disney Adventure. Thousands of guests had already boarded and spent a night on the ship in Singapore. The 208,100-gross-ton vessel was scheduled to embark on a four-night cruise to nowhere from Marina Bay Cruise Centre on 7th May 2026. However, due to technical issues, the cruise was called off the following afternoon.

Guest Communication and Compensation

Disney Cruise Line promptly informed passengers of the cancellation through a letter delivered to their staterooms. The letter expressed regret for the disruption and instructed guests to prepare for disembarkation. Luggage tags were provided directly to cabins to facilitate the process. To compensate for the inconvenience, Disney offered a full refund for the cancelled cruise, including any unused onboard purchases like internet and beverage packages. Additionally, guests received a 50% future cruise credit for another sailing.

Additional Support for Affected Passengers

Beyond the refund and future cruise credit, Disney Cruise Line extended further support to its guests. Complimentary hotel accommodation in Singapore for one night was arranged, along with reimbursement for flight change fees. Passengers were also offered up to $500 per stateroom for incidental expenses. Free WiFi was made available onboard to help guests rearrange their travel plans. Complimentary shuttle services transported guests from the ship to various hotels across Singapore.

Technical Issues and Passenger Reactions

While Disney Cruise Line did not publicly confirm the exact technical fault, reports from passengers suggested issues with the ship’s propulsion system. One guest shared on Reddit that the captain initially informed them of technical problems, with engineers working to resolve the issue. However, by 2 pm Singapore time the next day, the captain announced the cancellation of the cruise.

Praise for Disney’s Handling of the Situation

Despite the disappointment, many passengers praised Disney Cruise Line for its handling of the situation. One guest described the operation as a “highly logistically organized chaotic situation” as passengers were transferred to luxury hotels like the Fairmont, JW Marriott, Swissôtel, and Shangri-La across Singapore. Another passenger noted the seamless experience at their assigned hotel, where a team was ready to assist with any questions and provide a second dinner, courtesy of Disney. The guest also mentioned receiving a $200 hotel credit in addition to the compensation package.

Disney Adventure, the newest ship in the fleet, faced an unexpected setback, but the cruise line’s response demonstrated a commitment to guest satisfaction even in challenging circumstances.

A cruise director has been awarded approximately €130,000 after a court determined that the company unlawfully kept him on temporary contracts for 18 years, despite treating him as a long-term employee. The Bari Labour Court ruled that the former Costa Cruises director, hailing from Taranto, should have been recognised as a permanent employee after working on Costa Cruises ships from 2003 to 2021. During this period, he was employed under 51 separate contracts. According to the Italian newspaper ANSA, the court found that the company had relied on his work for years while continuing to use fixed-term contracts instead of acknowledging him as a permanent staff member. Judge Agnese Angiuli partially accepted the worker’s appeal, supported by lawyers Fabrizio Del Vecchio and Antonello Schinaia. The court ordered his rehiring and awarded him around €130,000, plus interest, calculated based on his final salary and years of service.

Why The Ruling Matters To Cruise Crew

Short-term contracts are common in the cruise industry. Crew members are typically hired for a set period at sea, followed by leave, and then return under a new contract. For many hotel, catering, and housekeeping staff, contracts last between four and ten months, often followed by several weeks off before the next assignment. Senior positions like captains, hotel directors, and cruise directors usually work shorter rotations, often around three to four months. This rotating system is a standard part of cruise ship operations. Unlike land-based jobs, ships require crew to rotate regularly throughout the year, making fixed-term contracts prevalent in the industry. The issue in this case was not the use of temporary contracts per se. The court found that the cruise director’s employment had effectively become continuous after 51 contracts over 18 years. In practice, the role no longer appeared temporary, despite being structured through repeated short-term agreements.

Are Cruise Directors Usually Permanent?

Cruise directors are not typically “permanent” employees like office workers on land. Even experienced cruise directors who remain with the same company for years usually work in scheduled rotations, with each period on board covered by a separate contract or assignment. Permanent-style jobs within the cruise industry are more common ashore in areas such as management, sales, marketing, finance, and port operations. At sea, even senior officers and entertainment staff often work under rotational systems. Some may have long-term employment relationships with a cruise line but still alternate between periods on board and leave at home. This distinction is crucial because maritime employment operates differently from most land-based industries. Courts may accept that rotating contracts are necessary for ship operations, but they can also examine whether the nature of employment has effectively become permanent.

Norovirus Strikes Caribbean Princess Cruise

Norovirus has recently affected the Caribbean Princess cruise ship, with over 100 passengers and crew members falling ill. The outbreak occurred during a 13-night Caribbean voyage that began on 28 April from Fort Lauderdale. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 102 guests and 13 crew members experienced symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. This brings the total number of reported cases to 115.

CDC Confirms Outbreak

The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program officially confirmed the outbreak on 7 May. At that point, 3.3% of the ship’s 3,116 guests and 1.2% of the crew were affected. Despite the outbreak, the cruise continues its planned itinerary, visiting Amber Cove and Nassau before concluding in Port Canaveral on 11 May.

Enhanced Cleaning Measures Implemented

In response to the outbreak, the cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures. These include extra disinfection of high-touch areas and isolation procedures for those affected. Stool samples have been collected to confirm norovirus as the cause. Once the ship docks in Port Canaveral, both the vessel and cruise terminal will undergo a deep clean before the next cruise begins.

Impact on Future Sailings

Passengers booked on the subsequent sailing may need to arrive later than planned due to cleaning efforts. However, no changes to the itinerary have been announced. This incident marks the fourth gastrointestinal outbreak on cruise ships monitored by the CDC in 2026, and the second involving a Princess Cruises ship this year.

Norovirus and Cruise Ships

Norovirus outbreaks often make headlines because cruise ships provide ideal conditions for viruses to spread. Thousands of people share dining areas, handrails, lifts, and public spaces. However, these outbreaks are relatively uncommon compared to the millions who cruise each year. CDC data shows that gastrointestinal outbreaks are trending lower than last year. By mid-May 2025, there were 17 outbreaks reported, compared to just four in 2026.

Public Concerns and Health Advice

The latest outbreak coincides with heightened public concern about cruise ship illnesses, following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius expedition ship. Health officials reassure that the risk to the general public remains low. Most people recover from norovirus within one to three days without medical treatment.

MSC Cruises Unveils AI Concierge Across Fleet

MSC Cruises is revolutionising the cruise experience with its new AI-powered MSC Concierge. Following a successful trial, this innovative service is now being rolled out across the entire fleet. During the trial, over one million guest messages were processed, achieving an impressive 93% satisfaction rate.

Seamless Onboard Assistance

The MSC Concierge is integrated into the MSC for Me app, providing passengers with 24-hour access to onboard services and information. Guests can use their phones or tablets to chat with the virtual assistant, making it easier than ever to plan their cruise activities. The system supports over 90 languages, ensuring smooth communication for all passengers.

Personalised Cruise Experience

With the AI concierge, guests can book specialty dining, reserve spa treatments, and arrange shore excursions. They can also check onboard spending and browse entertainment schedules. This eliminates the need to visit guest services desks, offering a more personalised and convenient experience.

Technology Enhancing Hospitality

MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato emphasises that the AI concierge complements the crew’s hospitality. The goal is to enhance the holiday experience by combining cutting-edge technology with the warmth of the crew. This allows guests to tailor their journey and create a truly unique experience.

Easy Access Without Internet Packages

One major advantage is that the service operates through the ship’s internal Wi-Fi network. Guests don’t need to purchase an internet package. They can simply connect to the ship’s hotspot and use the MSC for Me app or scan QR codes to interact with the assistant.

Tailored Responses for Every Guest

The system is linked to each guest’s booking details, allowing it to provide tailored responses. Whether it’s cabin category, drinks packages, or other services, the AI concierge offers personalised assistance. This service is already available on most ships, including MSC World Europa and MSC Virtuosa, with more to follow soon.

Learning from Past Experiences

The launch of MSC Concierge invites comparisons with Zoe, MSC Cruises’ previous digital assistant. Unlike Zoe, which faced challenges with voice recognition and functionality, the new concierge is app-based and powered by advanced conversational AI. This modern approach promises a more reliable and user-friendly experience for passengers.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Adjusts 2026 Profit Forecast

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has revised its profit expectations for 2026. The company, which operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, cites rising fuel costs, reduced demand, and earlier booking challenges as key pressures. The new forecast anticipates adjusted earnings between $1.45 and $1.79 per share, a drop from the previous $2.38 per share prediction.

Strong Start, But Challenges Ahead

Despite the revised forecast, Norwegian’s first quarter showed strength. Revenue increased by 10% year-on-year, reaching $2.33 billion. GAAP net income was $104.7 million, and adjusted EBITDA rose 18% to $533 million, surpassing company guidance. However, the outlook for the remainder of 2026 is less optimistic. Disruptions in the Middle East, higher fuel prices, and weaker demand, particularly for European summer cruises, are concerns. Following the announcement, Norwegian’s shares dropped by about 7% in morning trading.

Why Norwegian Adjusted Its Forecast

Norwegian faces multiple challenges simultaneously. Fuel costs are a significant factor, as cruise ships consume large amounts of fuel. The company reported a fuel expense of $169 million in the first quarter. It now expects fuel to cost $782 per metric ton for the year, up from a previous estimate of $670. Although Norwegian has hedged around 51% of its 2026 fuel needs, a substantial portion remains exposed to market fluctuations. A 10% change in fuel prices could impact full-year adjusted earnings per share by approximately $0.08. The Middle East conflict has driven oil prices above $100 a barrel, adding to global energy supply uncertainty.

Booking Challenges

Fuel isn’t the only issue. Norwegian began 2026 behind its booking targets, meaning fewer future bookings than desired. The company also mentioned “execution missteps” and remains below its “optimal booking range.” Geopolitical uncertainty has further complicated closing this gap. Advance bookings are crucial for cruise lines, providing pricing control. Weak bookings can lead to difficulties in maintaining fares, especially if demand becomes uncertain later. Recent events related to the Middle East conflict have impacted bookings across the board.

A US travel blogger has shared an emotional video plea from aboard the MV Hondius, where passengers are confined due to a suspected hantavirus outbreak. This outbreak has already claimed three lives, making it one of the most serious health incidents on a cruise ship in recent years. The Dutch-operated vessel is currently off the coast of Cape Verde, awaiting permission to proceed to the Canary Islands. The World Health Organization has confirmed seven cases linked to the voyage, including three deaths and one critically ill passenger.

Jake Rosmarin, a travel influencer with over 50,000 Instagram followers, posted the video to express the distress felt by those on board. He emphasised that the situation is very real for everyone involved. “We’re not just a story or headlines,” he said. “We’re people with families and lives, waiting to return home.” Rosmarin highlighted the uncertainty as one of the hardest aspects of the ordeal. He urged viewers to remember the real people affected by this crisis.

The MV Hondius set sail from Ushuaia, Argentina, on 20th March 2026, for a lengthy voyage that included stops in Antarctica, South Georgia, and remote South Atlantic islands before heading to Europe. The ship carried around 149 passengers from 23 countries, including British, American, and Spanish nationals. Serious illnesses were first reported during the journey, prompting authorities to ask passengers to remain in their cabins while investigations continue. Medical teams are closely monitoring anyone showing symptoms.

So far, three passengers have died. Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed the deaths of a Dutch couple and a German passenger. A British passenger was evacuated and is in intensive care in Johannesburg after testing positive for hantavirus. The Dutch man reportedly experienced fever, headaches, stomach pain, and diarrhoea before dying after reaching Saint Helena. His wife was later evacuated to South Africa, where she also passed away. Two crew members, including a British national, have shown acute respiratory symptoms and are expected to be medically evacuated.

Carnival Cruise Line is urging its loyal passengers to take action. With the upcoming launch of the Carnival Rewards programme, existing VIFP Club members must enrol to retain their status. The cruise line has announced that all current members will receive a personalised email with instructions on transferring their loyalty information. This process must be completed before the new programme begins on 1st September 2026. Failing to enrol by 31st August 2026 could result in losing current status levels, past sailing history, and associated benefits.

Carnival has linked this requirement to privacy regulations. Guests must personally complete the enrolment process, as privacy laws prevent others from doing it on their behalf. This includes travel advisors, who cannot accept terms or enrol clients. Each enrolment email is tied to an individual guest account and is non-transferable. Some Carnival guests have already taken to social media to warn others not to ignore the email notifications. One passenger confirmed the email’s authenticity and advised others to log into their Carnival account directly to complete the process.

New Loyalty Programme Continues To Divide Opinion

The enrolment requirement is just one of the challenges facing the new Carnival Rewards programme. Since its announcement in 2025, the programme has faced criticism and delays. Many long-time Carnival cruisers are questioning the shift from the current cruise day-based loyalty structure. Under the existing VIFP Club programme, passengers earn status based on the total number of cruise days sailed, with status levels lasting for life. The new system, however, will focus on passenger spending.

How Carnival Rewards Will Work

Carnival Rewards will introduce two separate systems: points and status stars. Points will serve as a redeemable currency for future cruises, onboard spending, and other travel-related purchases. These points will have a fixed redemption value. Status stars, on the other hand, will determine a passenger’s loyalty tier. Unlike the current VIFP structure, stars will be based on spending levels. The programme will also be linked to a co-branded credit card, allowing members to earn rewards through everyday spending, even when not on a cruise.

As the launch date approaches, Carnival Cruise Line is keen to ensure a smooth transition for its loyal passengers. By actively enrolling in the new programme, guests can continue to enjoy the benefits they have come to expect.

Star Princess Arrives in Seattle for Inaugural Alaska Season

The Star Princess has made its grand entrance in Seattle, marking the beginning of its first Alaska season with Princess Cruises. This new Sphere Class ship will embark on weekly roundtrip cruises from Seattle’s Pier 91. The voyages will run from 3rd May to 13th September 2026, offering 20 exciting journeys through Alaska’s Inside Passage.

Traditional Welcome Ceremony

To celebrate the ship’s arrival, a traditional plaque exchange took place between the Port of Seattle and senior officers from Star Princess. Captain Gennaro Arma and Princess Cruises President Gus Antorcha were present, alongside local maritime, port, labour, and public safety partners. This ceremony highlighted the strong ties between Seattle and the cruise line.

Seattle Celebrates with a Drone Show

Before the ship’s maiden voyage, Seattle hosted an Alaska-themed drone show at Seattle Centre on 1st May. This spectacular display welcomed the Star Princess and celebrated Alaska against the stunning Seattle skyline. Captain Gennaro Arma expressed the significance of this event, noting Seattle’s proud maritime heritage and its connection to Alaska.

Exciting Alaska Itinerary

The Star Princess will visit popular Alaskan ports such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Sitka. Passengers will also enjoy scenic glacier viewing at Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. Additionally, the Royal Princess will sail weekly from Seattle’s Pier 91 during the 2026 and 2027 Alaska seasons, offering more opportunities for exploration.

Princess Cruises Supports Alaska Communities

In honour of the launch, Princess Cruises has pledged donations to several Alaskan community organisations. In Ketchikan, the cruise line, along with Holland America Line, is donating $100,000 to the Joseph T. Craig American Legion Post 3 to aid in rebuilding efforts after a devastating fire. Other donations include $25,000 to Juneau Flukes for whale research, $25,000 to Skagway Childcare Council, and $10,000 to Sitka Trail Works.

Record-Breaking Alaska Season for Princess Cruises

The Star Princess is one of the largest ships ever deployed by Princess Cruises in Alaska, boasting a gross tonnage of 177,800 and accommodating 4,300 guests. Onboard, passengers can enjoy a variety of dining venues, bars, entertainment spaces, and modern accommodations designed for comfort on longer scenic sailings. This debut is part of a significant expansion for Princess Cruises in the region. The 2026 season will be the cruise line’s largest in Alaska, with eight ships offering 180 departures and visiting 19 destinations.

Three passengers have tragically died, and several others have fallen seriously ill following a suspected hantavirus outbreak on the expedition cruise ship MV Hondius. This rare incident occurred while the vessel, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was sailing from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Cape Verde. The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that one passenger tested positive for hantavirus, with five additional cases under investigation. Among the six affected individuals, three have died, including a Dutch couple aged 70 and 69. A third passenger’s body remains onboard the ship.

A 69-year-old British passenger is currently in intensive care in Johannesburg, South Africa, marking the only confirmed case so far. Additionally, two crew members are unwell. The WHO is actively supporting the response to this “public health event” involving a cruise vessel in the Atlantic Ocean. They have confirmed one laboratory-confirmed hantavirus infection and five suspected cases. Further laboratory work, including genetic sequencing, is underway to determine the virus strain and whether all cases are linked to the same source.

At the time of the outbreak, MV Hondius was carrying up to 170 guests, 57 crew members, and 13 expedition guides. With six known or suspected cases, this represents about 3.5% of passengers onboard, a significant proportion for such a serious illness. The ship is currently off Cape Verde and has been stationary for at least 24 hours. Local authorities have not yet granted permission for ill passengers or crew to disembark for treatment, complicating the medical response.

What Is Hantavirus and How Serious Is It?

Hantavirus is a rare but potentially fatal disease, typically contracted through exposure to infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. It is highly unusual for cases to be associated with cruise ships. There are several types of hantavirus, and severity can vary depending on the strain and a person’s overall health. One form, hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, can take between one and eight weeks to show symptoms. Early signs include fatigue, fever, and muscle aches, followed by coughing and shortness of breath as the illness progresses. Another form, haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, develops more quickly, often within one to two weeks, causing severe headaches, blurred vision, internal bleeding, and, in the most serious cases, kidney failure.