Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Royal Caribbean’s latest addition, Star of the Seas, has quickly risen to the top of the fleet rankings. In just one year, it has become the highest-rated ship based on customer reviews. This achievement is based on data from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, and TripAdvisor, which compare the cruise line’s 29 ships. Launching in 2025, Star’s rapid ascent to the top is remarkable.

Interestingly, Star’s sister ship, Icon of the Seas, ranks 10th despite their similar designs and features. Icon was highly anticipated and introduced the new Icon Class design in January 2024. Initially, Icon held the top spot but gradually dropped as more reviews came in and the initial excitement waned. This suggests that Star’s current position might not be permanent. As more passengers review Star, its ranking could change similarly.

Why Star May Have An Early Advantage

Although Star of the Seas and Icon of the Seas are nearly identical, Royal Caribbean made several tweaks based on feedback from Icon’s debut. Instead of a complete redesign, they refined areas needing improvement. For instance, Surfside was updated to appeal to older children, not just younger families. Guest flow around the ship was improved, and dining options were enhanced.

Star also introduced new venues and experiences. The Lincoln Park Supper Club replaced the Empire Supper Club’s New York theme with a Chicago concept. AquaDome Market’s food options were refreshed, and entertainment saw changes, including Back to the Future: The Musical as the headline show. Smaller changes included an extra hot tub and revised children’s spaces with traditional play areas. These adjustments, though minor individually, may explain why guests are responding more positively to Star.

Price could also be a factor. Icon of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s pricier ships, and reviewers often note that high prices raise expectations. Star faces similar pricing challenges, but with its refinements, it might be meeting those expectations more effectively.

Unexpected Cruise Holiday Disruption

A family eagerly anticipating their Carnival cruise found themselves in a whirlwind of confusion. Just weeks before their departure, one spouse was unexpectedly removed from the booking. This shocking development stemmed from a case of mistaken identity linked to a no-sail ban from P&O Cruises, a sister brand of Carnival.

Confusion and Stress Replace Excitement

The affected traveller, who shared their ordeal online on 19th May 2026, was baffled. They had never sailed with P&O Cruises. “I was scheduled to go on a Carnival cruise with my spouse and children. My spouse received an email stating I was removed as a guest,” they explained. This unexpected news replaced their pre-cruise excitement with stress and confusion.

Communication with Carnival Raises More Questions

Upon contacting Carnival, the family received an explanation that only deepened the mystery. Carnival security claimed the removal was due to an incident on a P&O cruise. However, the traveller insisted they had never been on such a cruise. The family did not disclose their specific sailing date, but it coincided with the busy summer season, a peak time for family cruises.

Days of Uncertainty and Frustration

Being placed on a no-sail list is a serious issue in the cruise industry. Such bans often extend across multiple brands under the same parent company. For Carnival Corporation, these restrictions are typically long-term and challenging to overturn. The initial communication from Carnival security suggested there was no room for appeal. “The email stated their decision is final,” the traveller noted.

Efforts to Resolve the Issue

Despite the initial setback, the family persisted in resolving the issue. A Carnival representative escalated the matter but advised the guest to contact P&O Cruises directly. Carnival could only view the no-sail list and not the incident records held by P&O. “I spoke with a helpful Carnival representative who escalated the issue. However, I was told to get P&O to clear my name,” the traveller shared.

This unexpected cruise holiday disruption highlights the complexities of cruise line policies and the importance of clear communication. As the family navigates this challenging situation, they hope for a resolution that allows them to enjoy their much-anticipated holiday.

A viral image has recently stirred up a lively debate among cruise enthusiasts online. The image, which has been making the rounds in various Facebook cruise groups, purports to show an official notice from Carnival Cruise. This notice allegedly informs guests that they have lost their alcohol privileges for the remainder of their voyage. The colourful flyer states, “WITH CARNIVAL CRUISE, YOU’VE BEEN CUT OFF,” and explains that the decision is based on exceeding Carnival’s guidelines for responsible alcohol consumption. It further mentions that the guest will not be sold or served alcohol for the rest of the cruise, and this decision is final and non-negotiable.

Despite the buzz, the authenticity of this notice remains uncertain. Carnival has not confirmed issuing such a card, and many online commenters have expressed doubts about its legitimacy. The discussion has shifted from questioning the card’s authenticity to exploring the reasons a passenger might lose their alcohol privileges entirely.

Not The Same As Carnival’s 15 Drink Daily Limit

A major point of confusion is the assumption that this notice is linked to Carnival’s 15-drink daily limit for guests with the CHEERS! beverage package. However, the flyer clearly states that alcohol privileges are suspended “for the duration of this cruise,” not just for a single day. Regular Carnival cruisers have noted that reaching the daily drink limit is usually handled discreetly. Bartenders typically inform guests when they have reached their daily maximum, without any formal notice or public embarrassment.

One frequent cruiser shared, “If you have the drink package and exceed the 15 drinks per day, the bartender will simply tell you that you’ve reached your max and won’t serve you another drink.” This low-key approach contrasts sharply with the viral notice, leading many to speculate that such a notice, if real, would be reserved for more serious infractions. Experienced cruisers suggest that incidents involving disruptive behaviour, aggression towards crew or fellow passengers, or other serious violations of Carnival’s policies might warrant such a drastic measure.

Meet Chelsea Legend Gianfranco Zola on a Unique Cruise Experience

Football enthusiasts have an exciting opportunity to meet Chelsea icon Gianfranco Zola on a special cruise next year. MSC Cruises has announced that the former player will join a themed sailing aboard MSC Virtuosa. This five-night cruise departs from Southampton on 19th October 2026, offering a unique blend of football-focused events and experiences.

Exclusive Football Activities at Sea

Passengers on MSC Virtuosa will enjoy a range of activities hosted by Zola, all included in the cruise fare. The itinerary features stops in Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, and Cherbourg, combining a short European cruise with exclusive sporting experiences. This is part of MSC Cruises’ ongoing partnership with Chelsea FC.

Train with a Football Legend

Guests won’t just hear stories from Zola’s illustrious career. They will also participate in football training sessions led by the former Italy international. These sessions cater to both adults and children, offering a chance to learn skills and techniques from a football legend. A live theatre Q&A session will provide further insights into Zola’s experiences in football and his time at Chelsea.

Personalised Holiday Experiences

Following the Q&A, selected meet-and-greet opportunities will allow guests to interact directly with Zola. MSC Cruises aims to offer passengers personalised holiday experiences that are typically hard to access during traditional sporting events. This unique offering is part of what makes the cruise so special.

Onboard Amenities and Entertainment

Beyond the football-themed programme, MSC Virtuosa boasts a variety of onboard facilities. Guests can enjoy multiple dining venues, theatre entertainment, indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, and a fitness centre. Additional attractions include a bowling alley and a racing simulator, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

A Partnership That Delivers Unique Experiences

Antonio Paradiso, VP of International Sales, expressed pride in the partnership with Chelsea FC, which has flourished since 2019. Bringing Gianfranco Zola on board MSC Virtuosa is a fantastic way to bring this partnership to life. It offers guests a rare opportunity to connect with a football legend, blending world-class sport, entertainment, and cruising.

Gianfranco Zola’s Excitement

Gianfranco Zola shared his excitement about the upcoming cruise, stating, “This will be my first time on a cruise ship, and I am really looking forward to the experience. It’s an opportunity to meet people with a passion for travel and introduce them to my world of football and many fantastic memories from my years connected to the game and Chelsea Football Club.

Unexpected Changes Spark Passenger Protest

Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas recently found themselves in an unexpected situation. The ship’s planned visit to the Hubbard Glacier, a highlight for many on an Alaska cruise, was suddenly removed from the itinerary. This change led to a protest, with passengers chanting “We Want Hubbard” and gathering around guest services. Videos and accounts of the protest quickly spread across social media, although Royal Caribbean has yet to comment on the incident.

Itinerary Adjustments Announced

The change was communicated to guests through a letter delivered to their staterooms. The notice explained that due to scheduling adjustments, the ship would spend a full day at sea instead of visiting the glacier. This decision was made to ensure a timely arrival into Whittier. The cruise, which departed from Vancouver on 15th May, was on a seven-night journey with stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, and Skagway before reaching Whittier on 22nd May.

Homeport Change Causes Scheduling Issues

The cancellation of the glacier visit seems to have been triggered by a previous operational change. Royal Caribbean had to switch the cruise’s arrival port from Seward to Whittier due to redevelopment work at Seward’s facilities. The captain later explained that increased marine traffic and the narrow approach into Whittier created scheduling constraints. The ship needed to arrive around 1am to prepare for disembarkation, as Whittier’s geography and the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel present logistical challenges.

Logistical Challenges in Whittier

Whittier’s unique location requires careful planning for traffic entering and leaving the area. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel operates on a scheduled basis, allowing one-way traffic movements. For a ship carrying up to 4,905 passengers, an early arrival was necessary to manage luggage handling, customs, and disembarkation efficiently. Guests were expected to start leaving the ship around 6am.

Glacier Visit: A Key Attraction

For many travellers, the Hubbard Glacier is a major draw of an Alaska cruise. Unlike a missed port stop, the glacier is a renowned tidewater glacier and a significant attraction. Cruise lines typically reserve the right to alter itineraries due to operational issues or unforeseen circumstances. However, this provision did little to alleviate the disappointment among some passengers. The glacier experience is often a crucial factor in booking an Alaska cruise, making its cancellation particularly frustrating for those onboard.

Changes on Queen Mary 2 Spark Passenger Concerns

Recent updates to the deck plans of Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 have stirred concern among passengers. These changes suggest that several public areas might be converted into additional cabins and suites during a future refit. Although Cunard has not officially detailed these changes, keen cruisers, including Dan & Jay from Sail Away Magazine, have noticed alterations in specific areas of the ship. This has led to speculation about how the iconic ocean liner might evolve in the coming years.

Significant Alterations on Deck 13

One of the most notable changes is on Deck 13, where large open deck spaces seem set for reconfiguration. The revised plans indicate the addition of 16 Princess Grill suites and five new Britannia inside staterooms. Changes to the sports area are also evident. These modifications suggest a shift towards increasing accommodation capacity at the expense of some public spaces.

Additional Changes Across the Ship

Elsewhere on the ship, the plans show further changes. On Deck 9, four inside staterooms are set to replace the Concierge Lounge. A new penthouse suite is planned to take over the bookshop near the library on Deck 8. Additionally, the Teen and Kids Zone on Deck 6 appears to be making way for four more inside cabins. These proposed changes could significantly alter the onboard experience by reducing public space.

Passenger Reactions and Concerns

These changes have sparked discussions on cruise forums and social media. Long-time Queen Mary 2 passengers, who see the ship as unique within the cruise industry, are particularly vocal. One passenger on Cruise Critic expressed concern, stating, “QM2 is being turned into a pile ’em high cruise ship as feared.” The Queen Mary 2, launched in 2004, was designed as a true ocean liner, prioritising open deck areas and public venues, unlike modern cruise ships.

Speculation Over Future Facilities

Beyond the confirmed deck plan revisions, there is also speculation about other facilities. A major topic among enthusiasts is the future of Illuminations, the ship’s planetarium and theatre venue. Rumours suggest it could be altered or removed in future refits, though Cunard has not confirmed any such plans. Despite these changes, Queen Mary 2 remains a standout in the cruise industry, continuing to operate Cunard’s flagship transatlantic crossings.

A new and exciting visitor attraction has launched in the Scottish Highlands, bringing a popular cruise trend ashore. Invergordon now hosts the UK’s first land-based cruise duck trail, transforming the town into an interactive experience for cruise passengers and other visitors. This initiative encourages exploration beyond the port, inviting visitors to discover local businesses, cafés, and attractions in the town centre.

Inspired by the global craze of cruise passengers hiding and swapping rubber ducks, the Invergordon Duck Trail aims to bring that sense of fun and discovery to land. The project, a collaboration between the Port of Cromarty Firth, Invergordon Off the Wall, and Invergordon Museum, seeks to boost footfall for local businesses during the busy cruise season.

Explore The Town One Duck At A Time

The trail offers a simple three-step experience for visitors arriving in port. Guests start by spotting duck decals placed throughout the High Street and town centre. Each stop features a QR code that, when scanned, provides information about the duck’s design and the associated business. This helps visitors uncover local shops, attractions, and services they might otherwise overlook. Participants are encouraged to track how many ducks they find, with 11 ducks currently forming the launch trail. These are spread across various businesses and organisations, including Invergordon Museum, McRaes of Scotland, Clootie McToot Café, Bonnie Bhaji, and Invergordon Gallery. All stops are within easy walking distance of the Port of Cromarty Firth, making the trail accessible for passengers with limited time ashore. The trail also connects with Invergordon’s established Mural Trail, allowing visitors to combine the duck hunt with a broader exploration of the town’s history, culture, and public art.

Cruise Duck Craze Continues To Grow

Cruise ducks have become a significant trend in the cruise industry, with passengers hiding small rubber ducks around ships for others to find. These ducks often carry tags identifying who hid them and where they travelled from, turning them into miniature travelling keepsakes. The Invergordon initiative extends this idea beyond the ship, creating an interactive activity tailored for port visits. Participating businesses will also sell branded souvenir ducks, offering visitors a keepsake from their visit. This collectible aspect adds another layer of engagement, ensuring the duck craze continues to thrive both on land and at sea.

Costa Cruises’ Hygiene Reminder: What You Need to Know

Costa Cruises has recently reminded passengers about its strict onboard hygiene policies. The cruise line warns that guests may incur a €60 cleaning fee if they remove food from buffet venues and restaurants to consume elsewhere on the ship. This policy aims to maintain cleanliness and reduce health risks during the voyage.

Where Can You Eat?

According to a notice sent to guests, food must be consumed only in designated dining areas. Passengers are not allowed to take food into cabins, pool decks, lounges, or other public indoor spaces. This rule is in place to prevent contamination and minimise the risk of parasites and other hygiene-related issues.

Room Service Exceptions

Costa Cruises has clarified that only Room Service personnel, trained in hygiene and sanitation, are authorised to deliver food to guest cabins. This ensures that all food handling meets the cruise line’s strict standards. Guests who do not comply with these rules could face a €60 cleaning charge.

Unique to Costa Cruises?

Costa Cruises appears to be unique in enforcing such stringent measures. During a recent cruise, staff were stationed at buffet exits to prevent guests from taking plates outside. Even outdoor seating adjacent to the buffet was off-limits for food consumption if indoor seating was full.

Industry-Wide Trends

This reminder comes as cruise lines across the industry are tightening health policies. Buffet areas are among the busiest spots on a ship, prompting many lines to introduce stricter hygiene practices and enhanced cleaning procedures. While most cruise lines allow you to take a plate from the buffet, they expect you to be sensible about where you leave it.

Guest Cooperation Appreciated

Costa Cruises has expressed gratitude to guests for their understanding and cooperation. The measures are designed to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for everyone on board. As cruise lines continue to prioritise health and safety, these policies are becoming more common.

For those planning a cruise, understanding these rules can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Keep these guidelines in mind to avoid any unexpected charges and contribute to a cleaner, safer cruise experience.

Viral Moment Aboard Virgin Voyages

A heartwarming moment aboard a Virgin Voyages ship has captured the internet’s attention. A guest surprised a housekeeping crew member with a $5,000 cash tip, sparking an emotional reaction. The encounter was shared widely on social media, showcasing the guest’s generosity and the crew member’s shock and gratitude.

Unexpected Generosity

In the viral video, the guest asked the crew member about the largest tip she had received during her contract. She mentioned $300 as her previous highest gratuity. Moments later, the guest handed her a bundle of cash worth $5,000. Overwhelmed, the crew member began to cry, repeatedly asking “Why?” The guest explained that he had won the money in the ship’s casino and wanted to reward her hard work.

Social Media Reactions

The video quickly spread across social media platforms, generating thousands of reactions. Viewers praised the guest’s generosity and acknowledged the hard work of cruise ship crew members. Many described the moment as emotional, with some admitting it brought them to tears. Comments highlighted the demanding nature of housekeeping roles on cruise ships, noting the long hours and dedication required.

Support for Filipino Crew Members

The viral clip also sparked support for Filipino crew members, as viewers suggested the housekeeper was from the Philippines. Commenters noted how significant a $5,000 tip could be for someone supporting family back home. Some pointed out that this amount could be nearly half of an average yearly salary in the Philippines.

Recognition for Cruise Ship Crew

This story has renewed discussions about the realities of cruise ship employment. Many crew members spend months away from home, working intensive schedules at sea. Despite Virgin Voyages including gratuities in the fare, this act of kindness highlights the appreciation guests have for the crew’s hard work. The video serves as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices made by those who ensure a memorable cruise experience.

Mexico Halts Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Project

In a surprising turn of events, Mexico has officially halted Royal Caribbean’s ambitious Perfect Day Mexico project. This decision, announced on 19th May 2026 in Mexico City, marks the end of plans for a major cruise destination near Costa Maya. The project was set to transform Mahahual into a 230-acre attraction, complete with a waterpark and other features inspired by Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day portfolio.

Significant Investment Comes to a Halt

Royal Caribbean had already invested heavily in the project, with $292 million spent on acquiring the cruise port and surrounding land. An additional $529 million was earmarked for construction and development. Despite this substantial financial commitment, environmental concerns ultimately led to the project’s cancellation. Alicia Bárcena, head of Mexico’s Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), confirmed that the project would not receive approval.

Environmental Concerns Take Centre Stage

The decision to halt the project follows growing environmental opposition. Mahahual and its surrounding areas are ecologically sensitive, with critics highlighting the potential threat to mangrove ecosystems and marine life. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed concerns about the project’s impact on the region’s ecological balance, particularly its reefs. Earlier this year, a district court in Quintana Roo had already ordered a halt to the project following an injunction request by environmental group Right to a Healthy Environment (DMAS).

Royal Caribbean’s Response

Royal Caribbean has expressed disappointment but confirmed it will respect the decision. The company had already begun distancing itself from the project before the official announcement. Perfect Day Mexico was expected to be a key attraction for Royal Caribbean’s western Caribbean itineraries, representing one of the largest destination investments by a cruise line. However, the environmental challenges proved insurmountable, leading to the project’s cancellation.