Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

MSC Cruises Expands World Class Fleet with New Shipbuilding Agreement

MSC Cruises has taken a significant step forward in its ambitious expansion plans. The cruise line has confirmed a major shipbuilding agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique. This deal includes orders for two additional World Class vessels, valued at €3.5 billion (£3 billion). These ships are scheduled for delivery in 2030 and 2031, becoming the seventh and eighth in the innovative World Class series.

Strengthening the French Partnership

The announcement was made during a double ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This event also celebrated the float out of MSC World Asia and the coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic. With this new order, MSC Cruises’ investment with the French shipbuilder in 2025 alone will reach nearly €7 billion. This brings the company’s total commitment in France to approximately €10.5 billion.

Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, expressed pride in the expansion. He highlighted the World Class platform as a symbol of MSC’s vision to set new standards in cruising. These ships are among the most energy-efficient globally, continuing the company’s commitment to LNG and future renewable fuels.

Celebrating Shipbuilding Milestones

The float out of MSC World Asia marks a significant milestone. The ship touched water for the first time, entering the final outfitting phase. Scheduled for delivery in November 2026, MSC World Asia will offer seven-night itineraries in the Western Mediterranean. Destinations include Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Rome (Civitavecchia), Messina, and Valletta.

On the same day, the coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic took place. This maritime tradition involves placing commemorative coins within the ship’s hull, symbolising blessing and good fortune. Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America, served as the godmother for the occasion. Agnès Sahores, Smart Yard Improvement Manager at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, represented the shipbuilder. MSC World Atlantic is set to launch in 2027, with Port Canaveral, Florida, as her homeport for the debut Caribbean season.

Looking Ahead

Chantiers de l’Atlantique General Manager Laurent Castaing welcomed the new order. He noted that four new MSC ships have been commissioned this year alone. This achievement underscores the strong partnership between the shipyard and MSC Cruises. The World Class series, now totalling eight vessels, exemplifies a shared commitment to enhancing passenger experiences and advancing environmental performance.

Construction of the newly ordered World Class 7 and 8 will begin in 2029. These vessels will follow MSC World Europa (2022), MSC World America (2025), MSC World Asia (2026), and MSC World Atlantic (2027). The next two unnamed ships, World Class 5 and 6, are due before 2030. This expansion reflects MSC Cruises’ dedication to innovation and sustainability in the cruise industry.

A Sudden Departure: Carnival Cruise Line Crew Member’s Unexpected Exit

A recent social media post by Trevor Johnson, a former member of the Fun Squad on Carnival Valor, has caught the attention of cruise enthusiasts. Johnson shared his unexpected removal from the ship in Cozumel, Mexico, just days before his planned resignation. He had intended to leave on 20th November, having submitted his resignation earlier in the month.

An Abrupt Wake-Up Call

Johnson described the shock of being woken at 6:00 a.m. by a knock on his cabin door. He was informed he had just one hour to pack and disembark. This sudden departure left him no time to bid farewell to his colleagues, whom he considered his onboard family. He expressed his disappointment, stating that the decision came from Carnival’s shoreside management.

Online Reactions and Theories

The post quickly went viral, sparking discussions on cruise forums and Reddit. Some users speculated whether this was a termination or a procedural sign-off. One commenter noted that cruise lines sometimes align crew departures with specific ports. Others suggested it resembled a disciplinary action, often referred to as the “6 o’clock knock.”

Understanding Cruise Contracts

Cruise ship employment operates differently from land-based jobs. Crew members sign fixed-term contracts, usually lasting several months. Unlike traditional roles, there is no standard notice period for early resignation. If a crew member resigns mid-contract, they may be required to disembark at the next authorised port.

Mixed Reactions and Speculation

While some questioned the full story behind Johnson’s post, others sympathised with his situation. The suddenness of his departure, especially in a foreign country, struck a chord with many. One commenter remarked on the harshness of having to leave under such circumstances.

Conclusion

This incident highlights the unique challenges of cruise ship employment. It serves as a reminder of the differences between life at sea and on land. For those considering a career on a cruise ship, understanding the terms of employment is crucial.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd is making waves in the luxury cruise sector. They’ve just announced a new ship order with Fincantieri for their ultra-luxury brand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This new addition will be the third Prestige-Class vessel, set to join the fleet in 2033. This move underscores the company’s dedication to expanding its luxury offerings and strengthens its long-standing partnership with the renowned Italian shipbuilder.

Continuing Regent’s Prestige-Class Expansion

The new ship will follow the launch of Seven Seas Prestige in 2026, with another ship of the same class arriving in 2030. This series marks Regent’s first new ship class in a decade. It builds on the success of their acclaimed Explorer-Class ships. Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, emphasises the strategic expansion. He notes that this order reflects confidence in the growing demand for Regent’s top-tier offerings.

Larger, More Spacious, and Ultra-Luxurious

The debut of Seven Seas Prestige in 2026 will herald a new era for Regent. This 77,000-gross-ton ship will be 40% larger than current vessels. Yet, it will carry only 10% more guests. This ensures one of the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios at sea. With room for 822 guests and 630 crew members, the ship promises exceptional personal service and exclusivity.

Innovative Suites and Refined Design

Prestige-Class ships will offer all accommodations with private balconies. There will be 12 suite categories, including four new designs. Among them is the Skyview Regent Suite, the largest all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise suite ever built. The ship will also feature 11 distinct dining experiences. These will offer a global culinary journey, reflecting Regent’s commitment to excellence. A new dining concept will be unveiled closer to the launch.

Strengthening the Luxury Market

This order highlights Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ investment in the luxury and upper-premium market segments. The company has steadily developed these areas through Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises. Their collaboration with Fincantieri spans decades, producing some of the group’s most acclaimed vessels. With all three Prestige-Class ships now on order or under construction, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is set to bolster its reputation as “The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet” well into the next decade.

The Best Way to Book a Regent Cruise

Planning a luxury cruise can be overwhelming. For expert assistance, consider consulting a travel advisor. They can help tailor your cruise experience to your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, a Regent cruise promises unparalleled luxury and service.

Cruise Catamaran Sinks in Dominican Republic: A Close Call for Passengers

A sightseeing tour in the Dominican Republic turned into a nightmare for cruise passengers on Sunday, 9th November 2025. A catamaran carrying over 50 guests sank off the coast of Samaná Bay. The incident left passengers stranded in the water, but fortunately, all were rescued.

Rescue Operation Swiftly Executed

The 40-foot catamaran, Boca de Yuma, began taking on water shortly after departing from Embat Pier. An “internal failure” was reported as the cause. Passengers and crew had to abandon the vessel as it quickly submerged. Thanks to standard safety procedures, everyone was wearing life jackets. Nearby boats responded promptly, and the Dominican Republic Navy coordinated the rescue efforts.

TUI Cruises confirmed the incident, stating, “An excursion catamaran operated by an external provider sank on 9 November 2025 during a shore excursion. All guests are safe and were returned to Mein Schiff 1 immediately after the rescue.” Social media videos captured the chaos, showing life rings scattered and passengers spread across the water.

Calm Seas, Unexpected Sinking

The weather was calm, with only minor choppy conditions reported. Initially, authorities believed the sinking was due to a collision with an unidentified object. The captain quickly called for help from nearby vessels. Thankfully, all guests and crew were rescued without major injuries, though many were understandably shaken.

Most passengers were not prepared for swimming, as the tour was meant to be a relaxed coastal sightseeing trip. The sudden turn of events caught everyone off guard.

Investigation Underway

Officials from the Port of Samaná and the Dominican Republic Navy are investigating the incident. They aim to determine the cause and assess if the tour operator met safety and maintenance standards. A spokesperson stated, “The Dominican Republic Navy collaborates with local authorities to determine responsibilities and take preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future.”

The Mein Schiff 1 was on a 14-night Caribbean cruise, having departed La Romana on 7th November. The itinerary, which included stops in Jamaica, was altered due to Hurricane Melissa. The unexpected stop in Samaná was part of the revised route.

Passengers Continue Their Journey

After the ordeal, all passengers received medical checks and counselling support onboard. TUI Cruises reported that every affected guest chose to continue their cruise. Despite the scare, the passengers were eager to enjoy the rest of their holiday.

Tragedy Strikes Tenerife Shore Excursion

A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday, 8th November 2025, during a shore excursion in Tenerife. A powerful wave hit a pier in Puerto de la Cruz, sweeping several people, including cruise passengers and locals, into the Atlantic Ocean. The event has left the cruise community in shock.

Fatal Incident at Puerto de la Cruz

Among those affected was a Dutch tourist who tragically lost her life. She suffered a cardiac arrest after being rescued from the sea and was pronounced dead before reaching the hospital. At least ten tourists, mostly cruise passengers who had arrived that morning, were involved in the incident. The specific cruise ship remains unconfirmed, though Silversea’s Silver Dawn and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 3 were both docked nearby.

Weather Warnings Ignored

Sebastián Quintana, from the coastal safety platform Canarias, 1,500 km de Costa, stated that none of the victims had entered the water voluntarily. They were merely observing the sea. The Canary Islands were under a red weather alert, with waves reaching up to 15 feet (4.5 metres). Despite these warnings, the tragedy occurred.

Second Incident on the Same Day

Later that afternoon, another wave swept six French tourists away at Playa del Roque de las Bodegas. Emergency teams, including a rescue helicopter, managed to save all six. One woman was airlifted to hospital with moderate injuries, while others were taken by ambulance. Reports suggest the group ignored a warning beacon indicating hazardous conditions.

Multiple Fatalities and Injuries

In total, three people lost their lives, and 15 were injured within five hours due to the unusually strong waves. Quintana described it as “the most tragic day” for Tenerife’s coastline in recent years. Images from the scene showed emergency personnel and bystanders assisting drenched victims as waves continued to crash ashore.

Cruise Lines Respond

Cruise lines in the region, including Silversea, TUI Cruises, and P&O Cruises, are closely monitoring the situation. They are collaborating with tour operators to reassess safety procedures for excursions. Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine if safety measures were adequate at the time. Initial reports indicate that while red alerts were active, no visible barriers or warnings were present at the pier.

Calls for Enhanced Coastal Safety

This disaster has sparked renewed calls for stricter coastal safety measures in the Canary Islands. The region is prone to sudden “mar de fondo” swells, long-period waves generated far offshore, which can strike without warning. As Tenerife and its neighbouring islands remain popular winter cruise destinations, ensuring visitor safety is paramount.

Investigation Launched After Passenger Death on Carnival Horizon

Authorities in the United States are investigating the death of a passenger aboard the Carnival Horizon. The incident occurred during the ship’s recent Caribbean cruise. Upon the ship’s return to PortMiami on Saturday, 8th November 2025, FBI agents boarded to begin their enquiries.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Response

Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed its full cooperation with the investigation. In a statement to US media, the cruise line emphasised its commitment to supporting the passenger’s family. However, details about the passenger’s identity, age, or cause of death remain undisclosed. Investigators have not yet determined if the death is suspicious.

Rumours and Speculation

Onboard the ship, guests have reported conflicting rumours. Some speculate it might be a murder or an overdose. However, these remain unconfirmed and should not be considered factual until further information is released.

FBI and Cruise Line Investigating

The FBI’s Miami office issued a brief statement. Agents “responded to the scene” when the ship docked. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no additional details are available at this time.

Medical Emergency Announcement

Passengers on the 6-night cruise, which departed Miami on 2nd November, reported a medical emergency announcement on the final day. The cruise visited Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel. It is unclear if the announcement was related to the death.

Disruption for Deck 8 Guests

Guests on Deck 8 received letters advising them to vacate their cabins early on disembarkation day. This was to allow investigators access to the area. The notice mentioned potential noise and disruption, requesting guests to leave their staterooms by 7:00 a.m. Affected guests were offered breakfast and escorted off the ship first.

Local Authorities Involved

A Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s van was seen at the port, indicating local officials have taken possession of the body. This suggests a thorough investigation is underway.

Cruise Schedule Unaffected

Despite the investigation, Carnival Horizon’s schedule remained largely unaffected. The ship departed slightly later than planned, with the FBI onboard until 5 pm. It has since embarked on its next voyage, an 8-night Southern Caribbean itinerary to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.

About Carnival Horizon

Carnival Horizon, a Vista-class ship launched in 2018, can accommodate up to 3,960 guests at double occupancy. At full capacity, it carries nearly 5,000 passengers, supported by a crew of about 1,400.

Standard Protocol for Deaths at Sea

While deaths at sea are rare, they are not unheard of. Cruise ships must adhere to maritime law, which requires them to have medical facilities onboard. This ensures they are prepared for emergencies, maintaining safety and care for all passengers.

Health Alert on Norwegian Epic: What You Need to Know

Passengers aboard the Norwegian Epic received an unexpected health alert during their Mediterranean cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) informed guests of potential exposure to Legionnaires’ disease. This alert was issued to those currently on the 12-night voyage from Rome to Lisbon and to recent disembarkees.

Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. It spreads through inhaling contaminated water droplets. Common sources include hot tubs, showers, and air-conditioning systems. Symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after exposure. They include fever, cough, muscle aches, headache, and shortness of breath.

Immediate Actions for Passengers

NCL advised the 4,100 passengers to watch for symptoms. Those onboard were urged to contact the ship’s medical team if symptoms developed. Passengers who had already left the ship were told to seek medical help if symptoms appeared within 14 days. Showing the alert letter to a doctor is crucial for proper testing and treatment.

Cooperation with Health Authorities

The cruise line is working with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). An investigation is underway to determine the source of the infections. It remains unclear if the bacteria originated on the ship or elsewhere.

Previous Incidents in the Cruise Industry

This is not an isolated incident for Norwegian Cruise Line. Earlier in 2023, a similar alert was issued to Norwegian Prima passengers. Other cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, have faced similar situations. Despite investigations, no definitive links to ship water systems have been confirmed.

Industry Standards and Safety Measures

Cruise lines follow strict sanitation and water-quality protocols. Regular testing and treatment of spas, pools, and water systems are mandatory. These measures aim to reduce the risk of Legionnaires’ disease and ensure passenger safety.

Conclusion

While the situation is concerning, NCL is taking necessary steps to address it. Passengers should remain vigilant and seek medical advice if needed. The cruise industry continues to prioritise health and safety, ensuring enjoyable and secure voyages for all.

As the days grow shorter and the skies turn grey, many Britons are dreaming of sunnier shores. Recent data from UK travel agency Cruise118.com reveals a significant 195% increase in searches for “winter sun holiday.” This surge highlights a growing desire for sunshine getaways as winter looms. Coinciding with International Stress Awareness Week, this trend underscores the rising interest in travel focused on wellbeing.

Why Cruises Are the Ideal Stress-Free Getaway

Cruises are becoming the go-to choice for those seeking a hassle-free holiday. Lindsay Haslehurst, Head of Product & Commercial at Cruise118, explains that cruising combines sunshine, simplicity, and self-care. “Cruise holidays offer a seamless experience,” she notes. “With accommodation and dining sorted, guests can relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and let the ocean work its magic.”

This shift towards stress-free travel is timely. Recent YouGov statistics reveal that 34% of UK adults experienced high stress last year. A staggering 91% felt stressed at least once. Younger adults, in particular, feel the pressure to succeed, while older generations face financial and health-related stresses.

The Perfect Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

Cruises offer a unique blend of exploration and peace. Travellers can visit multiple destinations without the hassle of constant packing. Many cruise lines now offer wellness-at-sea programmes. These include spa treatments, yoga classes, and mindfulness workshops, catering to both physical and mental wellbeing.

Haslehurst adds, “A cruise strikes the perfect balance between adventure and tranquillity. It’s an ideal way to explore new places while maintaining a sense of calm.”

Cruise118’s Top Tips for a Stress-Free Cruise

To ensure a smooth sailing experience, Cruise118 shares some valuable tips:

1. **Seek Last-Minute Deals**
Last-minute cruises can be a cost-effective option. Cruise lines often reduce prices to fill remaining cabins. If you’re flexible with dates, you could save a significant amount and enjoy a spontaneous winter escape.

2. **Pack Smartly**
Efficient packing is crucial for a stress-free holiday. Check cruise line restrictions on what you can bring onboard. Essentials like swimwear, evening wear, and comfortable shoes are necessary. Avoid overpacking to ensure easy cabin storage.

3. **Plan Your Shore Excursions**
Whether booking through the cruise line or exploring on your own, plan your port days in advance. This ensures you make the most of your time ashore. Always double-check the details to avoid any last-minute surprises.

In conclusion, as stress levels rise, more Britons are turning to cruises for a relaxing escape. With the promise of sun, sea, and serenity, a cruise holiday might just be the perfect antidote to winter blues.

Unexpected Drama on the High Seas

A Caribbean cruise aboard the Harmony of the Seas turned dramatic this week. Two internet personalities were removed from the Royal Caribbean ship after a deckside altercation. The incident, captured on video, occurred on 4th November as the ship sailed from Galveston, Texas, to Roatán, Honduras.

Multiple Onboard Incidents

The confrontation involved livestreamers Chicken Andy (David Ryan) and BlackAssDave (Dave Willis). They were part of a themed “streamer cruise” organised by content creator Ice Poseidon. Video footage shows the pair arguing in the ship’s smoking area before a brief scuffle ensued. Other passengers can be heard urging them to stop. One Reddit user noted, “they picked the wrong cruise for that – Royal Caribbean is a family line.”

Previous Warnings

Passengers reported that the two men had already been warned by ship security for earlier disturbances. One commenter mentioned, “two strikes in two days,” and noted that some had their alcohol privileges revoked, only to regain them later. The fight reportedly started over a disagreement about another streamer, JJ, and who deserved credit for his online popularity.

Swift Consequences

After the altercation, security detained both men. Ryan reportedly spent time in the ship’s holding area, known as the “brig,” before both were disembarked in Roatán. They were left to arrange their own travel home. A separate video from earlier in the voyage shows Willis arguing with guests in the ship’s Studio B venue, foreshadowing later tensions.

Reconciliation in Roatán?

A video shared by Ice Poseidon shows Ryan and Willis ashore in Honduras as the ship prepared to depart. The video, available on Kick (18+ language warning), suggests the two had reconciled. They commented on how one of their girlfriends remained onboard, hinting at a possible resolution. Royal Caribbean has not publicly addressed the incident.

Harmony of the Seas: A Floating City

The Harmony of the Seas is one of the world’s largest cruise ships, accommodating over 6,000 guests. It boasts amenities like water slides, a zip line, and a full theatre. Despite the recent drama, it remains a popular choice for UK holidaygoers seeking a Caribbean adventure.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is bringing back its popular “Free at Sea” programme, replacing the brief “More at Sea” offer from 2024. This change signals a return to a familiar system for cruise enthusiasts, though with some notable differences based on your booking location. While the core benefits remain consistent globally, the way guests pay for and receive these perks varies significantly between the US and UK markets.

What Free at Sea Offers

The reintroduced Free at Sea package includes the perks NCL guests love. Enjoy an Unlimited Open Bar with premium spirits and over 100 cocktails. Savour meals with the Specialty Dining Package, which varies by cruise length. Stay connected with 150 minutes of Starlink WiFi per guest. Plus, receive a $50 shore excursion credit per port for the first guest in each stateroom. On select sailings, the third and fourth guests can cruise for free. This package is available on a wide range of voyages, from short Caribbean getaways to extended European and transatlantic journeys.

US Guests: “Free” with Daily Gratuities

For those booking through NCL in the US, Free at Sea is included at no upfront cost. However, daily gratuities apply for certain perks. Expect to pay $28.50 per person, per day for the drinks package and $20 per person, per meal for specialty dining. Guests can opt out of the drink and dining perks if they prefer not to pay these gratuities, while still enjoying the Wi-Fi and shore excursion credit at no extra cost. For those who plan to indulge in cocktails and specialty dining, the gratuities can still offer excellent value compared to purchasing these packages separately.

UK Guests: Upfront Upgrade, No Daily Gratuities

In the UK, Free at Sea operates differently. Instead of daily service charges, guests pay a one-time upgrade fee, which varies by the length of the cruise. Prices start at £99 per person for 2-day cruises and go up to £619 for voyages lasting 21 days or more. Discounted rates apply for the third and fourth guests sharing a stateroom. Once the upgrade is added, guests receive all Free at Sea perks, including drinks and dining, with no additional gratuities for these perks onboard. However, regular daily gratuities still apply. Unlike the US model, UK guests who do not purchase Free at Sea will not receive the included Wi-Fi or shore excursion credit. While you can buy WiFi separately, many find it more cost-effective to pay a little extra for the full package.

Key Differences from “More at Sea”

The return to Free at Sea marks a shift from the “More at Sea” programme. While the core benefits remain, the payment structure and availability have changed. This reintroduction offers a more streamlined and familiar experience for NCL cruisers, with clear distinctions between the US and UK markets. Whether you’re setting sail from Southampton or Miami, understanding these differences can help you make the most of your cruise holiday.