Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

An unexpected emergency alert was triggered on the Carnival Radiance on 20th November 2025. Passengers reported a loud splash while the ship was near Ensenada, Mexico. This led to a swift search and rescue operation, which thankfully turned out to be a false alarm. All passengers and crew were accounted for.

Search Operation Launched at Sea

Several passengers heard a splash near the ship’s stern, sparking concerns that someone had fallen overboard. The ship promptly slowed and changed course to revisit the area. Cruise tracking data confirmed this manoeuvre. One passenger described the atmosphere as tense, noting how the ship “turned around and slowly cruised back over the area” for investigation.

Full Headcount Completed

Carnival Cruise Line followed standard emergency procedures. Guests were asked to return to their cabins for a headcount. A Carnival spokesperson stated, “The Carnival Radiance crew responded to a potential overboard alert off the coast north of Ensenada, Mexico when some guests reported hearing a splash in the water.” Fortunately, everyone was accounted for, and no one was missing.

Likely Cause: Wildlife Splash

Initial reports suggested a person might have fallen into the sea. However, it was later determined that no one had gone overboard. The splash was likely caused by marine wildlife. The waters near Ensenada are known for whale activity, especially during winter migrations. Grey and humpback whales are often spotted in this region.

No Impact to Cruise Itinerary

The situation was resolved in about 40 minutes, and the ship resumed its journey. Carnival Radiance’s itinerary remained unchanged. The 4-night Baja cruise, which set sail from Long Beach on 17th November 2025, returned as planned on 21st November 2025.

A Reminder of Onboard Safety Protocols

Although this incident was a false alarm, it highlights the importance of cruise safety protocols. All reports of potential overboard situations are taken seriously. Passengers should report anything unusual immediately. Crew members are trained to respond swiftly, ensuring safety even if the situation is harmless. This quick action ensures peace of mind for all aboard.

Royal Caribbean Enhances Waterslide Safety Across Fleet

Royal Caribbean is taking significant steps to enhance the safety of its waterslides. The cruise line is replacing acrylic panels with reinforced fibreglass sections on multiple ships. This decision follows an incident on the Icon of the Seas in August, where an acrylic panel on the Frightening Bolt waterslide shattered during use. Although no serious injuries occurred, the event prompted immediate inspections and temporary closures of similar slides across the fleet.

Navigator of the Seas: Temporary Waterslide Closures

Guests aboard the Navigator of the Seas recently found the ship’s popular waterslides, The Blaster and Riptide, temporarily closed. These closures are not due to mechanical issues but are part of Royal Caribbean’s proactive safety measures. The cruise line is replacing the acrylic panels with more robust fibreglass tubing. Captain James, speaking to passengers, explained that the decision was made after engineers recommended removing the acrylic sections from service.

Fleet-Wide Inspections and Upgrades

Royal Caribbean has been conducting thorough inspections across its fleet. Ships with waterslides featuring acrylic or clear-panel sections are being prioritised. Newer vessels, such as those in the Icon-class, were inspected first. Now, ships like the Navigator of the Seas, part of the Voyager-class, are undergoing similar upgrades. Some ships had replacement parts ready, allowing for swift repairs. However, others, including the Navigator, require custom fabrication, resulting in longer downtimes. Installation on the Navigator is set to start on 1st December 2025, with completion expected by 22nd December 2025.

Guest Reactions to Waterslide Closures

While many passengers appreciate the focus on safety, some have expressed disappointment about the unexpected closures. A few guests voiced their frustration online, noting they were unaware of the situation until boarding. One passenger commented on Reddit, “No waterslides for us, I guess. It would have been nice to know a month ago.” Despite this, Royal Caribbean maintains the right to close attractions without prior notice, especially for safety reasons. Meanwhile, guests on the Navigator can still enjoy other amenities, such as swimming pools and the FlowRider surf simulator.

Lifeboat Incident on Carnival Dream in Cozumel

A lifeboat aboard the Carnival Dream unexpectedly detached from its cables and plunged into the sea. This incident occurred while the ship was docked in Cozumel. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, although the lifeboat sustained significant damage.

Details of the Incident

The mishap took place on Wednesday, 19th November 2025. Carnival Dream was on a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise departing from Galveston. Witnesses from nearby ships first noticed the lifeboat adrift beneath the pier. It eventually came to rest partially lodged against the dock.

What Happened?

The lifeboat, identified as Lifeboat 3, was located forward on the starboard side. Luckily, the ship was moored port-side, allowing the lifeboat to fall into open water. This prevented any potential harm to the pier or guests. Part of the lifeboat’s orange canopy remained attached to the ship.

Carnival’s Statement

Carnival Cruise Line released a statement explaining the cause. During an unmanned test, a latch caught on a cable, causing the lifeboat to hang from one end before falling. Thankfully, no one was injured during this test.

Extent of the Damage

Images reveal severe damage to the lifeboat’s hull, including a large vertical crack along the stern. Nearby lifeboats, Numbers 1 and 5, appear undamaged. Carnival Dream’s hull also shows no visible impact. Routine lifeboat tests are standard when a ship is docked, ensuring safety procedures are practised without passengers.

Can Carnival Dream Continue Its Voyage?

A crucial question arises: can Carnival Dream sail with one lifeboat out of service? Cruise ships must have enough lifeboats and life rafts for everyone on board. While ships often carry extra capacity, they must adhere to strict international safety standards. It’s unclear if Carnival Dream’s remaining lifeboat capacity meets these requirements. Additional inspections may be necessary before departure.

Current Status in Cozumel

Carnival Dream remains docked in Cozumel, alongside other vessels like Regal Princess and MSC Seashore. The damaged lifeboat is unusable for rescues, prompting further checks on neighbouring lifeboats.

Previous Lifeboat Incidents

While rare, lifeboat accidents do occur. In December 2022, a lifeboat fell from Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas during operations in the South Pacific. No injuries were reported, and the ship continued its itinerary, albeit with slower operations for the day. Lifeboats play a vital role beyond emergencies, including tendering guests ashore.

Exciting Entertainment Awaits on Norwegian Luna

Norwegian Cruise Line is set to dazzle cruise enthusiasts with the entertainment line-up on its upcoming ship, Norwegian Luna. Launching in March 2026, this Prima Plus-class vessel promises a spectacular array of shows. From a grand Elton John tribute to futuristic acrobatics, there’s something for everyone.

Elton John Tribute Takes Centre Stage

Leading the entertainment roster is “Rocket Man: A Celebration of Elton John”. This high-energy tribute will feature some of Elton John’s most beloved hits, such as “Rocket Man” and “Tiny Dancer”. The show will also include archival footage, offering a nostalgic journey through the music icon’s career. Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, expressed his excitement about celebrating Elton John’s timeless influence.

Futuristic Acrobatics in “HIKO”

Another highlight is “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder”. This production combines science-fiction themes with original music and dramatic acrobatics. The visual design, crafted by Guy Brassard of Cirque du Soleil fame, ensures a captivating and theatrical experience. It’s a show that promises to mesmerise audiences with its creativity and flair.

Entertainment for All Ages

Norwegian Luna will cater to both families and adults with a diverse entertainment programme. For younger guests, “Sea of Discovery: An Under-the-Sea Festival” offers an interactive experience inspired by marine life. It features costumes, games, and imaginative storytelling.

Adults can enjoy “Syd Norman’s Presents: A Tribute to Eagles”, celebrating the classic rock sound of the 1970s. There’s also “LunaTique”, an adults-only comedy show, and the Luna Theater & Club, a multi-level nightclub with a Las Vegas vibe.

Deck Parties and More

The fun doesn’t stop there. Norwegian Luna will host vibrant deck parties for all ages. “Island Nights” offers a tropical-themed celebration under the stars, while “Latin LIVE!” brings a high-energy Latin music party to the top deck. These events promise unforgettable nights filled with music and dance.

Norwegian Luna’s Journey

Currently in its final outfitting phase at Fincantieri’s Marghera shipyard in Italy, Norwegian Luna is nearing completion. This 3,550-guest ship follows Norwegian Aqua, which launched in 2025. After its debut in Rome on 10th March 2026, Norwegian Luna will reposition to Miami on 23rd March. From there, it will offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including a stop at the transformed Great Stirrup Cay.

Great Stirrup Cay’s New Attractions

Great Stirrup Cay is undergoing a major transformation, set to be completed by summer 2026. The island will feature The Great Tides Waterpark with 19 slides, a heated pool, new cabanas, and expanded beach areas. These enhancements will provide guests with even more ways to relax and enjoy their cruise holiday.

Norwegian Luna promises an unforgettable cruise experience with its innovative entertainment and exciting itineraries. Whether you’re a music lover, thrill-seeker, or simply looking to unwind, this ship has something special in store for you.

Carnival Corporation is currently facing propulsion challenges with two of its prominent ships, Carnival Horizon and Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. These mechanical issues have led to itinerary changes, operational delays, and guest compensation. Let’s delve into the details of these disruptions and how they affect UK cruise holidaygoers.

Carnival Horizon: Delays and Speed Restrictions

Carnival Horizon encountered propulsion issues during an 8-night Southern Caribbean cruise. The ship was scheduled to return to PortMiami on 16th November but was delayed by over eight hours. This unexpected delay caused significant inconvenience for passengers, many of whom missed flights and pre-booked transfers. Some guests had to arrange last-minute hotel stays or pay rebooking fees.

In response, Carnival Cruise Line’s president, Christine Duffy, issued an apology, acknowledging the disruption. The company is offering up to US$200 per person to cover non-refundable air costs or change fees, provided guests submit receipts. However, the compensation offer came later than many passengers anticipated, adding to their frustration.

Ongoing Itinerary Adjustments

Despite the propulsion issues, Carnival Horizon set sail again the same evening. However, the ship remains under speed restrictions, leading to further itinerary changes. The ship has already cancelled its visit to Grand Cayman and experienced a delayed arrival in Cozumel on 18th November. It maintained its call to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, on 20th November.

Guests were informed of these changes shortly after boarding and received US$100 per stateroom in onboard credit. The ship is currently cruising at 16–17 knots, which is below its normal speed. Engineers and technicians boarded in Miami, but full repairs may require dockside work. There is no confirmation yet on whether the next 8-night Southern Caribbean sailing, departing on 22nd November, will be affected. Given the distances to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, further delays or itinerary changes are possible.

Queen Mary 2: Propulsion Pod Issues

While Carnival Horizon deals with reduced speed in the Caribbean, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is facing its own propulsion challenges in Europe. During a Northern Lights cruise, the ship experienced a technical defect in a propulsion pod. This issue forced an unplanned diversion to Bremerhaven, Germany, instead of continuing to Hamburg as scheduled.

Impact on UK Cruise Holidaygoers

These propulsion issues highlight the importance of flexibility when planning cruise holidays. UK travellers should be prepared for potential itinerary changes and delays. It’s advisable to have contingency plans for post-cruise travel arrangements. Additionally, staying informed about the latest updates from cruise lines can help manage expectations and reduce stress.

For those considering a cruise, it’s worth exploring the latest Carnival cruise offers. Despite the current challenges, cruising remains a popular and enjoyable holiday option for many UK travellers.

A New Floating Food Experience in the Caribbean

One of the Caribbean’s most iconic floating eateries is making waves in a fresh location, just in time for the bustling cruise season. Lime Out, the renowned floating taco bar that put St John on the culinary map, is expanding to Lindbergh Bay, St Thomas. This move is set to thrill both locals and the numerous cruise visitors who frequent the island annually.

Bigger, Greener, and Perfectly Positioned for Cruise Visitors

The new Lime Out location is 850 square feet, over a quarter larger than its St John counterpart, and it operates entirely on solar power. For cruise passengers, it’s conveniently located just a short ride from Havensight and Crown Bay, the island’s main cruise piers. On busy port days, travellers can easily hop on a water shuttle like Taco Taxi to enjoy lunch, cocktails, and a swim before returning to their ship.

Tacos, Cocktails, and a Unique St Thomas Twist

Under the guidance of acclaimed Puerto Rican chef Amaro Rivera, the menu features Lime Out classics such as Surf & Turf and Rum-Rib Pulled Pork tacos. New St Thomas exclusives include the Bless Up taco, with jerk-spiced grilled chicken, pickled cabbage, and a pineapple and mango-lime relish. Signature cocktails like The Danger and Nene’s Margarita are served in reusable cups, supporting the brand’s commitment to sustainability.

Sustainable Tourism at Its Best

All food preparation is done on land to protect the surrounding waters, and biodegradable materials are used throughout. Lime Out St Thomas plans to collaborate with local non-profits, organise coastal clean-ups, and work with island farmers and fishers. For cruise visitors, this means enjoying a delightful outing without harming the environment, aligning with the growing trend of sustainable tourism.

A New Reason to Explore St Thomas

Lime Out opens to the public on 23rd November 2025, initially operating from Sunday to Friday, 10:30 am to 4:30 pm, with plans to expand to daily service in January. With St Thomas already a bustling cruise port, this new location is set to become a must-visit day-trip destination. Guests can enjoy sipping, swimming, and snacking in true Virgin Islands style before heading back to their cruise ship.

Unexpected Swim for Cruise Passenger in Nassau

On Sunday, 16th November 2025, a cruise passenger experienced an unexpected dip in the waters of Nassau. The incident occurred when the Norwegian Encore made an unplanned stop in the Bahamian capital. Originally, the ship was scheduled to visit Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island. However, rough seas made tendering unsafe, prompting a diversion to Nassau.

How the Incident Unfolded

As passengers returned to the ship, a man slipped and fell into the water. He landed in the narrow gap between the pier and the ship, a space filled with floating rubber fenders. Social media videos captured the man clinging to a life ring while onlookers called for help. Crew members quickly arrived with a ladder and rescued him. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. It’s still unclear whether the man was a passenger, crew member, or port worker.

Why Falls from Piers Are More Common Than You Think

Piers may seem safe, but the gap between a dock and a cruise ship can be perilous. Cruise ships never sit directly against the pier to avoid damage. Instead, large rubber bumpers float between them. These gaps can be several feet wide, enough for an adult to slip through. Although gangways have railings, the start or end of the ramp often hovers above these gaps. A momentary lapse in attention, like checking a phone, can lead to a fall.

The Role of Rubber Bumpers

The rubber bumpers serve a dual purpose. They protect the ship and dock from damage and create a buffer for anyone who falls. This reduces the risk of being crushed, as long as the person remains calm and afloat. However, the real danger lies in panicking or being unable to swim, which could lead to drifting under the pier or hull.

Other Recent Pier Incidents

Falls from cruise docks are rare but do happen. In August 2025, a guest on the Star of the Seas preview sailing walked backwards while filming and fell off the pier. In June 2025, someone in Juneau, Alaska, jumped from the dock, seemingly attempting a viral stunt. Slippery surfaces, uneven planks, high winds, and distractions are common causes of such mishaps.

A Safety Reminder for Cruise Travellers

This recent incident, though injury-free, serves as a crucial reminder. Cruise passengers should exercise caution when walking along piers. Avoid distractions near the water’s edge and use gangways carefully. Safety should always be a priority during your cruise holiday.

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Two young cruise YouTubers recently faced a filming dilemma on P&O Cruises’ Ventura. Josh and Alfie, the creators of the Young at Sea YouTube channel, were midway through a four-night cruise from Southampton to Rotterdam. They were suddenly told to halt their ship-tour filming after a fellow passenger complained to reception. The warning suggested that continued filming might lead to “further action,” which the duo feared could mean a ban from Carnival UK.

The pair usually film during the early hours to avoid capturing other guests. This complaint left them anxious about recording anything at all. However, after a follow-up conversation with customer services, they were reassured. They could continue filming as long as they avoided zooming in on passengers, a guideline they already adhered to.

Passenger Reaction: Support, Suspicion, and Privacy Concerns

The duo shared their experience on Facebook, receiving a wave of support. Many commenters speculated that the complaint might have come from someone who didn’t want to be recognised. Some even joked that the person might have been “on the ship with someone they shouldn’t be.” Others questioned why P&O Cruises would limit filming when they usually encourage social media coverage.

Several people advised Josh and Alfie to speak directly with senior management or guest services. They argued that a single complaint shouldn’t dictate policy. Some noted that other vloggers had faced similar issues on different cruise lines, with companies often apologising once misunderstandings were resolved.

Not all feedback was positive. Some passengers felt that being filmed on holiday was intrusive. One person commented, “Accept that not everyone wants to be filmed by complete strangers and show a bit of respect to your fellow passengers.” Another suggested the duo should “forget the filming and enjoy the cruise.”

Privacy was a recurring theme. One commenter advised, “Film, but don’t show other passengers. I wouldn’t want you filming me… it’s an invasion of my privacy.” Others questioned the feasibility of enforcing a filming ban, noting that almost everyone takes photos and videos on board.

My Take

As a cruise YouTuber myself, I’ve never been asked to stop filming on a ship. However, I know of a few creators who have faced similar challenges. For me, the balance between privacy and content creation is straightforward. People’s right not to be filmed should come first. This is why responsible vloggers film at dawn when the decks and venues are empty.

By avoiding filming anyone or editing them out if they appear briefly, it’s possible to create respectful and useful content. Cruise holidays are about enjoyment and relaxation, and respecting fellow passengers’ privacy is key to a harmonious experience.

A Cruise Holiday Disrupted: Passenger Removed from Ship in New Zealand

A cruise holiday took an unexpected turn for one Australian traveller. He was asked to leave a cruise ship in New Zealand after an onboard incident. His family continued their journey while he had to find his own way back home.

Passenger Removed After Mid-Voyage Incident

The incident unfolded on a Wednesday night. A 44-year-old Australian passenger got into a confrontation with another man on the ship. The situation escalated, and the Australian allegedly struck the other passenger around 9.30pm.

Local authorities were informed. Police awaited the ship’s arrival at Port Chalmers, near Dunedin, the next morning. Officers boarded the vessel, spoke to those involved, and issued a formal warning for assault. The cruise line then decided to remove the passenger from the rest of the voyage. His companions continued their holiday, while he had to disembark and arrange his return to Australia.

The other man involved received treatment onboard for a minor nose injury. The incident reportedly took place on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas.

Recent Trends in Cruise Ship Removals

This incident is not isolated. Recently, several cruise ship removals have made headlines. Earlier this month, two guests were removed from Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas. A late-night brawl erupted in the ship’s smoking area.

Footage shared on social media showed passengers, part of a group cruise for streamers, fighting after a heated argument. The dispute reportedly began over a mutual friend and quickly escalated. Royal Caribbean security detained those involved until the ship reached its next port. The guests were then removed, although later footage showed them in good spirits, waving the ship off.

Carnival Crew Member’s Abrupt Departure

In another incident, a Carnival Cruise Line crew member was unexpectedly removed from Carnival Valor in Cozumel, Mexico. This occurred after he submitted his resignation before his contract ended. Trevor Johnson, part of the Fun Squad, shared his experience in a viral social media post.

He intended to finish work on 20th November for a smooth handover. Instead, he was woken at 6:00 a.m. and given one hour to pack before being escorted off the ship. Johnson described the experience as “embarrassing and devastating”. He had no chance to say goodbye to colleagues and had to navigate onward travel alone in a foreign port.

These incidents highlight the importance of understanding cruise line policies. They also underscore the need for passengers and crew to be aware of the potential consequences of onboard actions.

Princess Cruises is gearing up for an unprecedented Caribbean season in winter 2027–28. This exciting programme, now open for bookings, promises a diverse array of sailings, new destinations, and enhanced Panama Canal options. Running from October 2027 to April 2028, it’s set to be a remarkable experience for cruise enthusiasts.

An Expanded Caribbean Programme Across Five Homeports

The upcoming season is Princess Cruises’ most ambitious Caribbean schedule to date. With 187 departures over seven months, the variety is unmatched. Travellers can embark from five US homeports: Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, New York, and San Juan. Nine ships, including the new Sphere-class vessels Star Princess and Sun Princess, will navigate the region. The programme features 43 unique itineraries, ranging from quick four-night getaways to extensive 15-night journeys. Guests will explore 31 ports across 22 Caribbean islands.

Jim Berra, Chief Commercial Officer of Princess Cruises, expressed his enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to offer our guests an expanded Caribbean season filled with sun-soaked destinations, immersive experiences, and the elegance of our newest Sphere-class ships.”

Princess Strengthens Its Panama Canal Leadership

Princess Cruises is enhancing its leadership in Panama Canal transits with an expanded schedule from 2026 to 2028. Five ships will offer a mix of partial and full-transit itineraries. These include the Star Princess, Caribbean Princess, Island Princess, Coral Princess, and Emerald Princess. A standout voyage is the Star Princess’ inaugural Panama Canal transit on 13th April 2026. This 20-night repositioning cruise from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle includes a full canal passage and stops in Aruba, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, and Los Angeles. It leads directly into the ship’s first Alaska season. Other canal cruises will depart from Port Canaveral, Los Angeles, and Vancouver, providing a wide range of departure points and voyage lengths.

Princess Ships to Call at Celebration Key

A significant addition to the 2026–27 and 2027–28 programmes is Princess Cruises’ debut at Celebration Key. This is Carnival Corporation’s new private destination in the Bahamas. Initially designed for Carnival Cruise Line, its popularity has prompted a broader rollout across the corporation’s brands. Berra noted, “Celebration Key is an extraordinary destination oasis, and adding it to our itineraries gives guests even more ways to savour the Caribbean.”

Attractions at Celebration Key include Paradise Plaza, the island’s vibrant welcome hub, and Starfish Lagoon, perfect for families. Pearl Cove Beach Club offers an adults-only retreat. With over 30 dining and bar venues, live music, beach lounges, Bahamian art, and a variety of activities, there’s something for everyone. Princess ships scheduled to visit Celebration Key include Sky Princess, Sun Princess, Regal Princess, and Caribbean Princess.

This extensive programme promises an unforgettable experience for UK cruise holidaygoers. Whether you’re seeking a short escape or a longer adventure, Princess Cruises offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration.