Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

P&O Cruises Unveils Record-Breaking Summer Programme for 2028

P&O Cruises has announced its most extensive summer programme yet, featuring 215 cruises available for booking in 2028. The fleet of seven ships will offer departures from Southampton and fly-cruise options from Malta. This new collection, spanning March to October 2028, highlights the line’s commitment to providing no-fly convenience from the UK and sun-soaked Mediterranean holidays.

Diverse Destinations and Itineraries

The programme covers 121 destinations across 29 countries, offering a variety of cruise experiences. Travellers can choose from short breaks, British Isles voyages, Canary Islands sailings, and Mediterranean fly-cruises. Northern Europe and Scandinavia itineraries are also available, along with extended 30-night cruises to the USA and Canada. A significant highlight is the expanded selection of Norwegian fjords cruises, a popular choice among P&O Cruises’ offerings.

Convenient Weekend Departures

To cater to UK guests, P&O Cruises has scheduled 36 weekend departures, including Friday sailings, between May and September 2028. This move aims to make booking shorter scenic breaks from Southampton more convenient. Additionally, the programme features 64 overnight calls and 69 late evening departures, allowing passengers more time to explore iconic attractions like Athens’ Acropolis and Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture.

Exciting Northern Europe Sailings

Among the new offerings is a 14-night Arvia itinerary that combines Spain and France with the Norwegian fjords. This unique blend of Western Europe and Scandinavia offers a fresh way to enjoy longer no-fly holidays from the UK. Arcadia and Aurora continue to be central to this strategy, providing traditional, adult-focused cruises, as well as selected all-ages departures.

Notable Longer Cruises

For summer 2028, Arcadia and Aurora will offer voyages to Norway, Iceland, Northern Europe, and Scandinavia. These include multi-generational sailings ranging from three to 21 nights. Aurora’s 21-night Arctic itinerary in August 2028 stands out, featuring an overnight stay in Reykjavik. While Arcadia and Aurora are known for adult-only holidays, the rest of the fleet caters primarily to families.

Enhanced Port Experiences

Azura will introduce a new overnight call in Livorno, providing more time for guests to explore Florence and Pisa. Meanwhile, selected cruises on Britannia and Ventura will continue to offer access to Rome from Civitavecchia. These enhancements ensure guests have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture and attractions.

Booking Offers for Early Birds

The summer 2028 collection is now open for bookings, with special launch offers available until 30th June 2026. Early bookers can enjoy a 10% discount and a 10% deposit on applicable Select Price and Early Saver holidays. Additionally, Peninsular Club members receive an extra 5% saving, making it an ideal time to secure a dream cruise holiday.

MSC Euribia’s Northern Europe Cruises Back on Schedule

MSC Cruises has announced that MSC Euribia will now operate its previously cancelled sailings on 16th and 17th May 2026. The ship successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and has begun its journey to northern Europe. Initially, the Meraviglia-Plus class ship was stuck in Dubai due to uncertainties about accessing this crucial waterway. This led to the cancellation of two early-season Baltic cruises. However, the situation has changed, and both voyages are back on the schedule after the ship safely left the Arabian Gulf.

Successful Transit and Repositioning

MSC Euribia has departed Dubai and safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz. The passage was completed in close coordination with relevant authorities. The ship is now en route to northern Europe, aiming to resume its season there. With the ship returning sooner than expected, MSC Cruises confirms that the cruise departing on 16th May from Kiel and 17th May from Copenhagen will proceed as planned. All subsequent sailings will also operate as scheduled.

Journey to Europe

According to tracking data, MSC Euribia cleared the northern tip of Oman on 18th April. The ship is now heading towards Europe on a repositioning voyage covering approximately 8,300 miles. Refuelling and operational stops are expected along the way before the ship arrives in Germany.

Northern Europe Season Back On Track

The reinstated 16th May sailing from Kiel features a seven-night itinerary. It includes stops in Copenhagen, Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flam. The 17th May departure offers the same itinerary but starts and ends in Copenhagen. MSC Euribia will spend the summer cruising the Baltic and North Seas before moving to the Mediterranean in mid-October. Winter itineraries will include departures from Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples, and Palermo, with a return to northern Europe planned for April 2027.

Guests Offered Chance to Rejoin Cancelled Cruises

Passengers affected by the earlier cancellations can now rebook their original sailings. MSC Cruises confirmed that guests will be contacted directly with further details. At the time of cancellation, travellers were offered alternative sailings, future cruise credit, or full refunds. While the reinstatement allows guests to restore their original plans, some may face scheduling conflicts. The cruise line has not yet detailed how priority will be managed for those wishing to switch back, but there is still time to handle rebookings.

Captain Reflects on Strait Crossing

Following the successful transit, the ship’s captain shared a personal message reflecting on the experience. The safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz marks a significant milestone for MSC Euribia as it continues its journey to northern Europe.

Cruise YouTubers Banned After Negative Review

A pair of cruise YouTubers claim they’ve been banned from Margaritaville at Sea after posting a negative review. The Travel Spree channel creators discovered the ban while trying to book a cruise for 2026. They were blocked from completing the reservation after entering their details and were advised to contact customer support.

Booking Attempts Raise Suspicions

When they tried booking with different names, the system allowed it, raising suspicions their accounts were flagged. A call to customer service confirmed their fears. The representative informed them they were “guest blocked” due to “bad reviews.”

Viral Video Draws Attention

The issue began with a 2023 cruise on Margaritaville at Sea’s Paradise. Travel Spree documented their experience on YouTube and TikTok. While their long video did well, a short clip went viral, amassing around 10 million views. The video humorously highlighted disappointing aspects of the cruise, gaining significant media attention.

Details of the Viral Clip

Business Insider reported scenes from the video, including a trash can full of used toilet paper and a rusted shower drain. The clip also mentioned an unusual smell in the cabin. Travel Spree clarified they paid for the cruise and were not part of any promotional deal.

Attempt to Rebook Uncovers Ban

Recently, the creators tried to book another cruise to review newer ships like Islander. They wanted to provide an updated review for their audience. However, they were unable to book online and learned of their “guest locked” status from customer support. The representative linked the restriction to their previous feedback.

A recent legal case has put Carnival Cruise Line in the spotlight, as a US jury has ordered the company to pay $300,000 in damages. This decision came after the jury found Carnival partially responsible for overserving alcohol to a passenger, Diana Sanders, who later sustained serious injuries onboard. Sanders, a 45-year-old from California, embarked on a three-night cruise aboard the Carnival Radiance from Long Beach to Mexico on 5th January 2024. She claimed she was served at least 14 tequila shots over an eight-hour period, leading to a fall on a stairway that evening. Her lawsuit, filed in November 2024, sought damages exceeding $75,000 and requested a jury trial. After a 17-month legal battle, the jury ruled in her favour, though both parties shared liability.

Details Of The Incident And Injuries

Court documents reveal that Sanders began drinking around 3 pm and continued until shortly after 11:30 pm when the accident occurred. While navigating the ship, she fell on a stairway, suffering multiple injuries. These included a concussion, headaches, a possible traumatic brain injury, back injuries, tailbone injuries, and bruising. The jury attributed 60% of the responsibility to Carnival, while Sanders was assigned 40% of the blame, acknowledging her personal accountability for her alcohol intake. Her lawyer, Spencer Aronfeld, highlighted broader issues within the cruise industry. He pointed out that prepaid drink packages might encourage passengers to overconsume. Additionally, he noted that servers, often from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are incentivised by tips to continue serving alcohol.

Questions Over Service And Accountability

The case has sparked debate over how alcohol service is managed on large cruise ships. Carnival Radiance, a vessel weighing over 101,000 gross tonnes, boasts eight bars and lounges, allowing passengers to be served by various crew members throughout the day. During the trial, it was revealed that Sanders could not pinpoint a specific bartender or venue responsible for overserving her. Moreover, there was no evidence to suggest she appeared visibly intoxicated, which would have warranted crew intervention. Although all purchases are tracked through a guest’s Sail & Sign account, it remains uncertain if bartenders consistently check a passenger’s previous orders before serving more drinks. High demand and long queues at onboard bars may complicate this process.

Cruise ships are once again setting sail from the Arabian Gulf after weeks of disruption. The Celestyal Discovery has led the way, marking a gradual return to normalcy through the Strait of Hormuz. This follows a prolonged closure due to regional conflict. On 17th April, the 1,360-guest vessel departed from Port Rashid in Dubai at 11:36 am local time. It became the first cruise ship to navigate out of the strait since late February. The ship is now en route to Muscat, Oman, with an expected arrival on 18th April at 4 pm.

Impact on the Cruise Industry

The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is a significant milestone for the cruise industry. The sector had been effectively shut out of this crucial shipping lane. This was after Iran issued a warning on 28th February, advising vessels against entering the waterway amid escalating tensions with the United States and Israel. The warning halted traffic through the narrow channel, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman. This left numerous cruise ships stranded in regional ports, leading to widespread cancellations and itinerary changes.

Celestyal Discovery’s Journey

At the time of the closure, Celestyal Discovery was operating its ‘Iconic Arabia’ itinerary. This included visits to ports such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Khasab. Its sister ship, Celestyal Journey, was also affected. It had been sailing similar ‘Desert Days’ cruises but was forced to remain in Doha as the situation unfolded.

More Ships on the Move

Following Celestyal Discovery’s departure, other cruise ships have begun repositioning voyages out of the region. This signals cautious optimism that transit through the strait is once again feasible. MSC Cruises’ MSC Euribia, one of the largest vessels impacted, has left Dubai. It is currently sailing towards Muscat at a reduced speed, with an expected arrival late on 18th April. The 184,000-gross-ton LNG-powered ship was due to start its European summer season in Kiel, Germany. However, multiple sailings have already been cancelled due to the delay. Whether it can meet its planned 23rd May departure from Germany depends on how quickly it can complete the journey to Europe.

Celestyal Journey and Other Ships

Celestyal Journey has also departed Doha and is heading towards Khasab, near the northern tip of Oman within the Strait of Hormuz. The ship is expected to arrive late morning on 18th April, likely for refuelling or resupply before continuing towards its Mediterranean deployment. It is scheduled to operate 7-night Greek Isles sailings from Greece through to November. TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 5 is similarly underway from Doha, also bound for Khasab, with an arrival expected early afternoon on 18th April. The ship is due to spend the summer season in the Mediterranean, sailing from Heraklion before later repositioning to the Caribbean.

Tracking the Resumption

Cruise lines have not yet issued formal statements confirming a full reopening of the strait. However, ship tracking data indicates a steady resumption of movements. For those interested in tracking cruise ships or keeping a record of past cruises, this data provides valuable insights into the current state of the industry.

Passenger Overboard on Carnival Splendor

An elderly passenger has gone overboard from the Carnival Splendor, prompting a large-scale search and rescue mission off Australia’s coast. This incident occurred during the ship’s four-night cruise departing from Sydney. The missing passenger, believed to be in his 70s, was reported missing in the early hours of 18th April 2026. At the time, the 3,012-guest vessel was nearing the end of its itinerary.

Immediate Response and Search Efforts

Passengers onboard heard a man overboard alert over the ship’s public address system, specifically mentioning the starboard side. Within an hour, the captain confirmed the situation and turned the ship around to begin search efforts. Tracking data shows the ship deviated from its planned route, conducting search patterns about 30 miles southeast of Moreton Island, near the Port of Brisbane.

Search Operation Intensifies Off Brisbane Coast

Australia’s national maritime authority has mobilised significant resources in response. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is coordinating a large-scale operation involving multiple agencies. Six vessels from Queensland Police, five rescue helicopters, and Challenger jet aircraft have been deployed to scan the area from above. The search zone lies along Australia’s east coast, where conditions and currents can complicate recovery efforts. Carnival Splendor had visited Moreton Island on 17th April and was en route back to Sydney when the incident unfolded.

Next Sailing From Sydney Delayed

The search operation has disrupted the ship’s return schedule, delaying its next cruise, which was due to depart Sydney on 19th April. Carnival Cruise Line informed embarking passengers of the delay, advising them not to travel to the terminal until updated timings are issued. “Carnival Splendor is currently involved in a search and rescue operation and will be delayed arriving in Sydney tomorrow,” the message stated. Revised embarkation details will be shared later, urging passengers to await confirmation before heading to the port. The affected sailing is a four-night itinerary mirroring the current voyage, including a call at Moreton Island, and is scheduled to return to Sydney on 23rd April.

Man Overboard Incidents: A Rare Occurrence

Man overboard incidents are relatively rare but often require immediate and resource-intensive responses. Survival chances heavily depend on how quickly a person is located and recovered. This incident highlights the importance of swift action and coordination in such emergencies.

A remarkable rescue unfolded on 14th April 2026 when Carnival Legend came to the aid of a stranded sailor and his cat in the Gulf of Mexico. The cruise ship, weighing 85,942 gross tons, was travelling from Galveston, Texas, to Cozumel when crew members noticed a disabled sailboat sending out emergency flares. The smaller vessel was adrift, its sails down, and being tossed by the waves.

Carnival Legend quickly changed course to assist. The crew launched a tender boat and used searchlights to ensure visibility in the choppy waters. Despite the rough conditions, the cruise ship managed the rescue with ease. Onboard the sailboat, rescuers found a man and his black cat, Dahlia. They had been drifting for four days before being spotted. An inflatable raft was also seen nearby, hinting that the sailor might have been ready to abandon ship.

Both the man and his cat were safely brought aboard Carnival Legend. They received medical attention, food, and care. Cruise lines are required to help those in distress at sea, including animals. The sailboat was left afloat, following maritime protocol, with its position recorded and authorities notified.

Rescue Does Not Disrupt Voyage Plans

The rescue did not alter Carnival Legend’s schedule. The ship had left Galveston on 13th April for a 10-night Western Caribbean cruise. It was set to visit Cozumel, Belize, Roatan, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman before returning on 23rd April. The rescued pair disembarked in Cozumel during a planned stop. Passengers captured the dramatic rescue on social media, showcasing the challenging conditions and the crew’s careful approach.

Pets and Unusual Rescues at Sea

While pets are generally not allowed on cruise ships, exceptions are made in rescue situations. Carnival Cruise Line confirmed that Dahlia was cared for onboard until they reached Cozumel. Though rare, animal rescues at sea do happen. This incident highlights the commitment of cruise lines to safety and their readiness to assist in emergencies.

Princess Cruises Expands Fleet with New Voyager Class Ships

Princess Cruises has announced an exciting expansion of its fleet with the order of three new Voyager Class ships. These vessels, set to be the largest and most advanced in the Princess lineup, will be built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. Scheduled for delivery in 2035, 2038, and 2039, these ships promise to enhance the cruise experience for holidaygoers from the UK and beyond.

Innovative Design and Features

The Voyager Class ships will build upon the successful foundation of the Sphere Class, including the Sun Princess and Star Princess. However, they will introduce newly designed outer decks, staterooms, and Piazza spaces. These enhancements aim to better serve a global customer base and accommodate varied deployment plans. Each ship will weigh in at 183,000 gross tons and accommodate approximately 4,700 guests.

Commitment to Sustainability

In line with Princess Cruises’ commitment to sustainability, the Voyager Class ships will be dual-fuel vessels. They will primarily use liquefied natural gas (LNG), continuing the trend set by the Sun Princess and Star Princess. This choice underscores Princess and its parent company, Carnival Corporation’s, dedication to environmentally friendly cruising.

Customer-Centric Approach

Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises, emphasised that the new ships are designed with both current and future guests in mind. Extensive research has been conducted to understand what guests desire from the brand. The Voyager Class aims to delight loyal customers while attracting new ones. From exceptional dining to inviting pool environments and elevated entertainment, every aspect of the Princess experience is being thoughtfully evolved.

Fincantieri’s Role in the Expansion

Fincantieri, the shipbuilder responsible for constructing these new vessels, views the agreement as a significant boost to its cruise business. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, highlighted the long-term partnership with Princess Cruises. The new orders secure a robust workload for Fincantieri’s shipyards through 2039, supporting the company’s growth and reaffirming its role as a leader in sustainable shipbuilding.

Anticipation Builds for Voyager Class

While full design specifications and onboard features have yet to be revealed, anticipation is building for the Voyager Class. Princess Cruises promises to release more details about the platform’s features and onboard offerings in the future. This order marks a significant step forward for Princess Cruises, pushing the brand beyond the Sphere Class and into a new era of cruising excellence.

Princess Cruises is about to make waves on Channel 4 with a captivating new television series. “Cruising to the Ends of the Earth” is an eight-part series produced by Crackit TV, set to premiere on Sunday, 26th April at 8pm. This series offers a unique glimpse into life at sea, taking viewers on journeys to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

Filmed aboard four of Princess Cruises’ ships—Sun Princess, Discovery Princess, Royal Princess, and Diamond Princess—the programme explores voyages across Alaska, the Mediterranean, Japan, and South Korea. It aims to provide a fresh perspective on cruising, blending destination storytelling with an in-depth look at the daily operations and experiences on board.

Life On Board And Beyond

Narrated by actor Greg Wise, known for his roles in “The Crown” and “The Buccaneers,” each episode delves into the lives of those who make cruise holidays possible. From senior officers like captains and engineers to entertainers and culinary teams, the series highlights the diverse roles involved in delivering an exceptional cruise experience. Viewers will gain insight into how crew members balance demanding responsibilities while maintaining high service standards, showcasing the complexity of running a modern cruise ship.

The series also follows guests and crew ashore, capturing excursions and cultural experiences across various regions. From the majestic glaciers of Alaska to historic Mediterranean ports and the vibrant cities of Japan and South Korea, the programme highlights the diversity of itineraries available.

Experience The Joy Of Cruising

Eithne Williamson, Vice President UK, Ireland, and EMEA at Princess Cruises, shares that the series invites viewers to experience the joy of cruising with Princess. It explores awe-inspiring destinations and introduces the incredible crew at the heart of every journey. By sharing their stories on screen, the series celebrates the passion and care that make each voyage unique. It captures the world’s beauty, the adventure at every port, and the moments that make cruising with Princess so special.

“Cruising to the Ends of the Earth” will be available to watch or stream on Channel 4 from its launch date. Don’t miss the chance to see the latest Princess Cruises offers and explore the newest ships in their fleet.

Holland America Line’s Ambitious Fleet Upgrade

Holland America Line is embarking on a significant transformation of its fleet. This ambitious project, named Holland America Evolution, involves a $500 million investment to modernise six ships. The initiative aims to enhance the cruise experience while maintaining the charm of mid-sized vessels.

Focus on Vista and Signature-Class Ships

The refurbishment will target four Vista-class ships: Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Westerdam, and Noordam. Additionally, the Signature-class vessels Nieuw Amsterdam and Eurodam will also receive upgrades. Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, responsible for the original construction of these ships, will oversee the renovations.

Enhancing Guest Experience

The upgrades will introduce new venues and accommodation options. Public spaces will also be refreshed. Holland America Line is committed to preserving the unique experience of its ships while adding modern amenities. The Grand Dutch Café, a favourite on Pinnacle-class ships, will be introduced across the fleet.

Oosterdam: The First to Transform

Oosterdam will be the first ship to undergo this extensive refurbishment. Although it received minor updates in 2025, the upcoming changes will be more comprehensive. The ship is expected to return to service in autumn 2027, with bookings available from 6th May 2026.

Exciting New Features

The Grand Dutch Café will become a central social hub on Oosterdam. It will offer speciality coffees, Dutch snacks, and a selection of Dutch and Belgian beers. Accommodation will also see significant enhancements. Thirty new Solo Verandah cabins will cater to solo travellers, each with a private balcony.

Luxurious Suite Upgrades

Two new Bridgeview Suites will offer around 900 square feet of space, featuring wraparound balconies and stunning 180-degree views. The Pinnacle Suite will be redesigned to provide over 1,500 square feet of luxury. Additionally, 24 more Vista Suites will be added to the ship.

Looking Ahead

While specific details for each ship are still under wraps, the focus remains on improving the onboard experience. Technical upgrades are also anticipated. Holland America Line is listening to its guests and evolving to meet their expectations, ensuring a memorable cruise holiday for UK travellers.