Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Carnival Cruise Line recently made waves by slashing the rental price of pool noodles at their new Celebration Key resort. Initially priced at $19.99 (USD) per day, the cost has now been reduced to $10.99. This decision follows a public outcry over the original pricing, which many cruise enthusiasts found excessive.

Guest Reactions: Still Not Convinced

Despite the price reduction, scepticism remains. Many guests argue that the new rate is still too high. In the US, pool noodles are available at retailers like Walmart and Target for as little as $1 to $5. Discount stores such as Dollar Tree offer them for around $1.25, and Amazon sells multipacks that bring the cost down even further.

Online Reviews and Feedback

The pool noodle rental page on Carnival’s website now features a single review. User dragonflyblue gave it a one-star rating, criticising the value despite acknowledging the noodle’s “reliability” and “fun.” This sentiment echoes the broader disbelief among cruise-goers.

Bringing Your Own Noodle: A Cost-Effective Alternative

Interestingly, Carnival’s current policy does not prohibit guests from bringing their own pool noodles. While the cruise line restricts rafts and inflatable pools, noodles are still allowed for use during shore excursions. This makes bringing your own noodle a more budget-friendly option, especially for families.

Potential Policy Changes on the Horizon?

Carnival has a history of updating its prohibited items list in response to guest behaviour. Recent additions include foldable “clack” fans and Bluetooth speakers. While pool noodles are currently permitted, they could be banned if they become a safety concern. After all, a noodle can easily turn into a playful weapon during water fights.

For now, UK cruise holidaygoers can enjoy the freedom to bring their own pool noodles to Celebration Key. This option not only saves money but also ensures a more personalised cruise experience.

Authorities in Juneau, Alaska, are conducting an extensive search for a missing cruise passenger. Marites Buenafe, a 62-year-old from Kentucky, vanished after disembarking from the Norwegian Bliss on 1st July 2025. She intended to take a tram up Mount Roberts and hike further on foot. Her family reported her missing when she failed to return before the ship’s 1:30 pm departure.

Coordinated Search Efforts

The search operation is being spearheaded by Alaska State Troopers. They are receiving assistance from Juneau Mountain Rescue, Southeast Alaska Dogs for Organized Ground Search, and the Juneau Police Department. The teams are using helicopters, drones with thermal imaging, and ground crews to scour the challenging terrain. The search continues into the night, despite adverse weather conditions.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Response

Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed the ongoing search. They are cooperating with local authorities and providing support to Buenafe’s family. The cruise line’s CARE team is actively involved, offering assistance during this difficult time. The company expressed their thoughts and concerns for the missing guest and her loved ones.

Norwegian Bliss Continues Its Journey

The Norwegian Bliss, a 168,028-gross-ton vessel, is on a 7-night round-trip cruise from Seattle. The journey began on 28th June 2025, with Juneau as the second port of call after Sitka. Despite the search efforts, the cruise is proceeding as planned. The ship will visit Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Seattle on 5th July. Buenafe was only four days into her voyage when she disappeared.

Challenging Conditions on Mount Roberts

Authorities suspect Buenafe embarked on the Mount Roberts Trail, known for its steep and rugged paths. The trail’s uneven terrain, mud, and rapidly changing weather are complicating the search. With ongoing rain and limited visibility, the urgency to locate her increases by the hour.

Rare Occurrence but Not Unprecedented

Disappearances of cruise passengers are uncommon, especially while in port. Buenafe’s case is only the second such incident in 2025. Earlier this year, Tynisha Williams went missing after leaving Radiance of the Seas in Cozumel, Mexico. In 2024, several similar cases were reported, including a 66-year-old with dementia and a 14-year-old boy. Fortunately, most missing persons are found safe, and there is hope for a positive outcome in this case.

Authorities remain vigilant, closely monitoring the search area. The cruise community is hopeful for Buenafe’s safe return.

Explora Journeys has unveiled an enticing update to its loyalty programme, the Explora Club. This move could attract cruisers seeking a fresh experience. The luxury cruise line has introduced phase two of its programme, offering new perks and an enhanced online tracking system for points and tier levels. Additionally, the Status Match offer now includes Oceania Cruises, broadening its appeal.

Carnival Cruise Line’s recent changes to its Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) Club have left many loyalists disgruntled. The cruise giant announced in June 2025 that it would eliminate lifetime loyalty status from 2026. Instead, a two-year rolling window based on cruise nights and onboard spending will be implemented. This decision has frustrated many Carnival fans, prompting them to explore other options. Explora Journeys is ready to welcome these cruisers, although Carnival is not part of the Status Match programme. However, there are ways around this limitation.

Perks Without the Pressure

Unlike Carnival’s new system, Explora Club offers a more relaxed approach. Once members achieve a tier, they retain it indefinitely. This feature is likely to appeal to cruisers seeking long-term recognition. The Explora Club comprises five membership levels: Classic, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Diamond. Members earn points through cruise nights, onboard purchases, and select excursions. Importantly, these points never expire.

The updated “My Explora Account” portal allows guests to track their status in real time. This feature simplifies managing and understanding rewards at each level. At the Classic tier, travellers enjoy exclusive offers, priority booking, and a personalised dashboard. Silver members (1–5,000 points) receive birthday gifts and savings on future bookings. Gold status (5,001–20,000 points) includes turndown surprises. Platinum (20,001–50,000 points) offers bridge tours, laundry service, and Journey Experience Credits. Diamond status (50,001+ points) provides significant incentives, such as complimentary week-long sailings for two, private suite upgrades, VIP transfers, and invitations to exclusive events.

Points, Perks, and Status Matching

Explora’s loyalty programme awards 100 points per night at sea. Bonus multipliers apply based on the suite booked: Ocean Suites earn 1x, Penthouses 2x, Residences 3x, and Owner’s Residences an impressive 10x multiplier. The Status Match programme has also expanded, allowing cruisers from 11 participating cruise lines to match their status when joining Explora Club. Brands included are MSC Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Ponant, and Regent Seven Seas.

For UK cruise holidaygoers, Explora Journeys’ updated loyalty programme offers a compelling alternative. With its generous perks and flexible status retention, it stands out in the competitive cruise market. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the seas, Explora Journeys promises a rewarding experience.

Carnival Cruise Line is set to reintroduce Coca-Cola on its North American ships. This change comes after a switch to Pepsi in January 2020. By late summer, Coca-Cola will be the preferred choice for carbonated drinks, sparkling waters, and low-calorie options.

A Partnership of Iconic Brands

Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president, expressed excitement about the reunion. She highlighted how both brands celebrate fun, family, and friendship. This partnership aims to enhance the dining and bar experience on board.

Coca-Cola’s Promise to Passengers

Dagmar Boggs, from Coca-Cola North America, shared her enthusiasm. She promised the perfect drink for every moment of the cruise. Whether it’s a refreshing Coca-Cola with lunch or a Topo Chico by the pool, passengers can look forward to a delightful beverage experience.

Roll-Out Schedule

The exact start date is set for late summer. The transition will depend on existing Pepsi stock and delivery schedules. Ships in the US and Canada will be the first to switch. Meanwhile, European and Australian fleets will continue with their current sodas until they reposition.

The Carnival Coke Selection

Cruisers can expect a variety of Coca-Cola products. Classic Coke, Coke Zero, and Diet Coke will be available, along with their caffeine-free versions. Sprite, Sprite Zero, Fanta Orange, and Barq’s root beer are also making a comeback. Powerade and Topo Chico will be on offer too, alongside Fairlife Core Power for those seeking protein.

Special Treats for Texan and Louisiana Sailings

For sailings from Galveston and New Orleans, Dr Pepper will be stocked. Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, hopes to extend this to other homeports. This addition is sure to delight many passengers.

Options for Pepsi Fans

Pepsi enthusiasts need not worry. Carnival’s beverage policy allows guests to bring a 12-pack of cans on embarkation day. Alternatively, they can purchase Pepsi products ashore and bring them back on board.

Exclusive to Carnival Cruise Line

This new partnership is exclusive to Carnival Cruise Line. Other brands within Carnival Corporation, like Princess and Cunard, will maintain their current drink contracts. For now, Coca-Cola fans can rejoice as the familiar red-label fizz returns to the Fun Ships.

Just before docking in Port Canaveral, Florida, on Sunday, 29 June 2025, an unexpected incident occurred on the Symphony of the Seas. A glass panel on the roof of the Solarium shattered, startling nearby guests. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Passengers React to the Incident

The 228,081-gross-ton ship was filled with the sound of a loud “pop” as the tempered glass panel fractured. This panel was part of the crystal canopy above the adults-only Solarium. It extended over the deck 15 lounge chairs and a bathroom entrance on deck 14. Passengers quickly took to social media to share their experiences. One cruiser noted, “I was close by, it was a loud pop!” Another remarked on the recurrence, “Again!!! We were right under the last glass breakage on 6/8. Every time docking in Florida.”

Safety Measures in Place

Photos from passengers showed the panel shattered but mostly intact. This is thanks to the tempered safety glass, which breaks into small, blunt fragments rather than sharp pieces. This design helps prevent injuries when the glass is compromised.

Second Incident in a Month

This was the second glass-related incident on Symphony of the Seas in June. A similar event occurred on 8th June, also while docking in Port Canaveral. During that incident, a glass wall panel at the Coastal Kitchen restaurant on deck 17 shattered. Fragments fell to a lower deck, but a quick-thinking waiter, Nitin Kumar, cleared the area just in time.

Possible Causes of Glass Failures

Royal Caribbean has not yet released an official statement about these incidents. However, many speculate that ship vibrations during complex docking manoeuvres might be the cause. Both incidents occurred while the ship was navigating into Port Canaveral. These movements often involve sharp turns and engine adjustments, leading to significant vibrations.

Weather and Structural Stress

While some suggest that Florida’s hot summer weather could be a factor, experts believe temperature alone is unlikely to cause tempered glass to fail. Instead, a combination of structural stress and ship movement is a more probable explanation.

Swift Response and Continued Operations

Despite the unusual nature of these incidents, no injuries have occurred. Crew responses have been swift and efficient. Clean-up teams secured the affected areas quickly, and the ship’s schedule remained uninterrupted. Symphony of the Seas continues to homeport out of Cape Liberty in New Jersey, offering 7-night sailings to Florida and The Bahamas.

Looking Ahead

Royal Caribbean is likely to investigate the cause of these repeated breakages. Preventing future incidents is crucial, especially as the ship continues its popular cruise itineraries. Passengers can remain confident in the crew’s ability to handle unexpected situations efficiently.

Royal Caribbean is set to elevate your cruise experience with the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Scheduled to open in late December 2025, this exclusive beachside retreat is just a short distance from Nassau Cruise Port. It promises a luxurious island escape with two stunning beaches, three inviting pools, and ten vibrant bars. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this destination has it all.

Day Pass Options and Pricing

Royal Caribbean offers a range of all-inclusive day passes to suit different preferences and ages. For families, the non-alcoholic pass is priced at $129.99 for guests aged 13 and above, and $109.99 for children aged 4 to 12. Little ones aged 3 and under can enjoy the club for free. Adults seeking an open bar experience can opt for the $169.99 pass, available for those aged 21 and over.

Each pass includes access to loungers, umbrellas, towels, and lockers. Guests can also enjoy complimentary WiFi, dining, and roundtrip ferry transportation to the resort. However, prices may vary based on the ship and sailing dates, so consider these as a guide.

Not Just for Cruise Guests

While the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is Royal Caribbean’s first beach club, it isn’t their first private destination. The cruise line already operates Labadee in Haiti and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Uniquely, this beach club is open to local Bahamian residents as well. They can purchase their own day passes to enjoy the resort’s facilities.

Tailored Upgrades for Every Traveller

Enhance your day with exclusive rentals. Choose from private beach or poolside cabanas with dedicated attendants, or opt for day beds and reserved seating. For families, the Ultimate Family Cabana offers a multi-level oasis complete with a slide, frozen drink machine, and luxury service. Booking a private area includes up to 12 day passes, making it perfect for larger groups.

For those seeking a lively atmosphere, the Party Deck at the Floating Flamingo swim-up bar is ideal. Enjoy ocean views, DJ entertainment, and dedicated poolside service. This private space can accommodate up to 18 guests, with 12 day passes included and an option to purchase six more.

Available to All Royal Caribbean Sailings Stopping in Nassau

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is accessible to all Royal Caribbean guests whose itineraries include a stop in Nassau. This means a wide variety of ships and homeports are eligible. Whether you’re on a weekend getaway aboard Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral or a weeklong voyage on Icon of the Seas, this beach club is ready to welcome you.

In summary, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island offers an unparalleled beachside experience for cruise holidaygoers. With its luxurious amenities and diverse options, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone cruising to Nassau.

Aboard the Disney Dream, a potential disaster turned into a tale of heroism and swift action. On Sunday, 29th June 2025, a young girl fell overboard, only to be rescued by her quick-thinking father. The ship was on its final leg of a 4-night Bahamas cruise, heading back to Fort Lauderdale, when the emergency call, “Man Overboard – port side!” echoed through the ship.

Swift Response at Sea

The crew sprang into action immediately. Life preservers were tossed into the ocean, and the ship’s rescue pilot craft was deployed within minutes. Thanks to the crew’s training and the ship’s agile manoeuvring, both the father and daughter were safely back on board in under 30 minutes. A Disney Cruise Line spokesperson praised the crew’s exceptional skills and prompt actions, highlighting the effectiveness of their safety protocols.

Safe and Sound

Fortunately, neither the father nor the daughter sustained serious injuries. They were able to rejoin the ship and continue their journey. This incident underscores the importance of safety measures and the crew’s readiness to handle emergencies.

How Did It Happen?

The girl reportedly fell from Deck 4, which features a jogging track and promenade. This deck, open to the sea with high railings, does not have guest staterooms. The exact circumstances of her fall remain unclear. Investigations will likely involve reviewing surveillance footage, inspecting deck railings, interviewing witnesses, and ensuring safety standards were adhered to. Unverified social media reports suggest the father may have placed the girl on a railing for a photo, but these claims are not confirmed.

Training That Saves Lives

Disney Cruise Line, like other major cruise lines, conducts regular emergency drills. These drills ensure the crew can respond calmly and effectively in emergencies. Just two weeks ago, guests aboard Disney Magic observed such training. Earlier this year, Disney Fantasy successfully coordinated an airlift evacuation for a critically ill guest, showcasing the crew’s professionalism and preparedness.

Continuing the Journey

Despite the incident, Disney Dream arrived in Fort Lauderdale on schedule on Monday, 30th June. The next cruise, a 5-night Bahamian itinerary, departed without delay. This voyage includes stops at Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

A Reminder for Cruise Safety

This dramatic event serves as a reminder that overboard incidents, while rare, can occur. However, training, preparedness, and calm leadership can make a life-saving difference. Most importantly, it highlights the father’s bravery and the crew’s swift response, which saved two lives in less than half an hour.

For those planning a cruise holiday, this story is a testament to the importance of safety and the dedication of cruise line crews. Keep an eye out for new deals and embark on your own adventure with peace of mind.

Cruise Reviewers Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon: A Carnival Cruise Line Saga

Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon, renowned cruise reviewers, recently found themselves in a whirlwind of confusion. Initially, they believed they were banned from all Carnival Corporation brands. However, Carnival Cruise Line clarified that the restriction only applied to three UK-managed brands: Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

The Misunderstanding Unveiled

The confusion began when a team leader from P&O’s guest-relations department sent a clarification. This came nearly two weeks after Dan and Jay publicly shared their belief of a blanket ban. The letter they received only referred to Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises, not the entire Carnival group.

Impact on Travel Plans

This late clarification left the founders of Sail Away Magazine frustrated and financially impacted. They had already cancelled a September holiday on Princess Cruises. Additionally, they withdrew from a mid-June charter on Holland America Line’s Rotterdam, losing deposits and filming costs.

Seeking Answers

Dan and Jay are now demanding a public explanation from Carnival UK. They want to understand how this mix-up occurred and why the ban was imposed. They emphasised that the ban was not from Carnival Cruise Line but specifically from Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

Timeline of Events

On 9 June 2025, Carnival UK informed Wailing and Cannon that they could not travel with any Carnival group brands for five years. The letter stated that no further correspondence would be entertained. Between 10-14 June, the duo released a podcast and YouTube video discussing the ban. This story quickly spread among cruise fans and travel writers, who deemed it an extreme reaction to negative reviews.

Clarification from Holland America

Last week, Holland America’s PR team in Seattle informed the couple they were not on its no-sail list. This prompted Dan and Jay to contact other brands directly, leading to the fresh statement from P&O Cruises.

Reasons Behind the Ban

Dan and Jay are known for their candid reviews, reaching over 40,000 cruise enthusiasts through their magazine, podcast, and YouTube channel. Their recent critiques included cuts to room-service perks on Cunard ships and a last-minute cruise cancellation by P&O on Aurora. They also highlighted a reader poll suggesting declining cruise standards under Carnival UK president Paul Ludlow. After calling their first Carnival Cruise Line voyage on Carnival Miracle “the worst cruise we’ve done,” they received the June letter. They suspect P&O Cruises initiated the ban, despite not having sailed with them since November.

In conclusion, this saga highlights the importance of clear communication between cruise lines and their patrons. Dan and Jay continue to seek clarity and hope for a resolution soon.

Netflix is set to delve into the mysterious world of cruise ship controversies with its upcoming true crime series, “Amy Bradley Is Missing.” This gripping docuseries, premiering on 16th July 2025, revisits the baffling disappearance of 23-year-old Amy Lynn Bradley. She vanished from Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas in March 1998, leaving behind a mystery that has puzzled investigators for decades.

A Mysterious Disappearance at Sea

Amy Bradley was on a celebratory 7-night Caribbean cruise with her family, marking her college graduation. On the night of 23rd March, she and her brother Brad enjoyed the ship’s nightclub. By 3:30 am, they returned to their stateroom. However, by 6 am, Amy had disappeared without a trace. Despite extensive searches, no sign of Amy was found on the ship or in the surrounding waters. Only her polo shirt and sandals remained.

Unsolved for Nearly 30 Years

Over the years, several unconfirmed sightings of Amy have emerged. Reports range from a woman resembling Amy seen in a Barbados restroom to a sighting in a brothel. An eerie image was even emailed to her family years later. Unfortunately, none of these leads have provided conclusive answers. The FBI still considers the case open, offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to her discovery.

Renewed Interest and Hope

Amy’s case has captured public attention over the decades. In 2024, online communities reignited interest around what would have been her 50th birthday, attempting to crowdsource answers. Despite being declared legally deceased in 2010, Amy’s family continues to hope for her return.

Cruise Disasters in the Spotlight

The Netflix series follows the success of another cruise-themed documentary, “Trainwreck: The Poop Cruise,” which explored the 2013 Carnival Triumph breakdown. This episode has renewed public interest in cruise ship incidents. From missing persons to mechanical failures, the cruise industry remains a captivating subject for television and film.

A Chilling Reminder

Amy’s story taps into the deepest fears of isolation and vulnerability at sea. It highlights the gaps that once existed in cruise security, investigations, and international cooperation. This compelling investigation into one of the most enduring mysteries at sea could finally bring the resolution Amy’s story deserves.

Explore New Cruise Deals

While the mysteries of the sea continue to intrigue, new adventures await. Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers for your next cruise holiday. Discover the wonders of the sea with peace of mind and exciting new deals.

Cruise enthusiasts aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas faced an unexpected delay during their Northern Europe voyage. The ship arrived late in the Netherlands, impacting the planned itinerary. On 25th June 2025, the vessel docked in Rotterdam nearly three hours behind schedule. This delay shortened what was supposed to be a highlight port day for the 3,634 passengers.

Impact on Shore Excursions

The late arrival in Rotterdam significantly affected shore excursions to Amsterdam, which is an hour away by bus. The ship had previously enjoyed smooth visits to Oslo, Copenhagen, and Hamburg. However, maintenance issues led to speed restrictions, delaying the ship’s arrival from the scheduled 11 am to nearly 2 pm. Aurora Yera-Rodriquez, assistant vice president of guest experience at Royal Caribbean, informed guests about the necessary adjustments.

Shortened Time in Port

Despite the delay, the ship departed on time at 7 pm. This left passengers with less than five hours in port. Many spent this time on buses or adjusting their tour plans. Royal Caribbean assured guests of their safety and downplayed the maintenance concerns. However, the reduced time ashore was disappointing for many.

Changes to the Next Voyage

The maintenance delays are not isolated to this trip. Passengers booked on the next sailing, a 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruise departing Southampton on 29th June 2025, have also been informed of changes. Due to the same speed restrictions, the ship will skip its planned stop in Ålesund on 1st July. Instead, it will spend two full days at sea.

New Itinerary and Compensation

A replacement stop in Molde, Norway, is now scheduled for 2nd July, with an earlier arrival time. As compensation, Royal Caribbean is offering onboard credit. Interior and Oceanview staterooms receive $150, Balcony staterooms $200, and Suites $400. An additional $25 is provided for the third and fourth guests in a stateroom. All Royal Caribbean excursions for Ålesund have been cancelled and refunded automatically.

Understanding the Delays

Royal Caribbean has not confirmed the exact nature of the mechanical issue. However, the speed restrictions and itinerary changes suggest propulsion or engine-related maintenance. The ship is operating safely, but not at full cruising speed. This marks the second consecutive cruise affected by the issue. The cruise line is managing the situation to minimise further disruption.

Rotterdam as an Alternative Port

It’s important to note that Independence of the Seas calls on Rotterdam instead of Amsterdam. This is due to Amsterdam’s restrictions on cruise tourism, including a tourist tax hike and environmental regulations. Rotterdam has become the default alternative port for these reasons.