Author: Jonathan @ Cruise Essentials

Legal Action Against Carnival Cruise Line

Two passengers have taken legal action against Carnival Cruise Line. They claim a bedbug infestation on the Carnival Horizon caused them significant distress. The lawsuit was filed on 28th October 2025 in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida. Catherine Shockley and William Maycock, the plaintiffs, were on an eight-night Southern Caribbean cruise from Miami, departing on 15th February 2025.

Allegations of Infestation and Negligence

The passengers reported severe itching and clusters of bites just two days into their journey. By the following morning, the bites had spread to various parts of their bodies. Shockley inspected their cabin and found live insects, faecal stains, and eggs on the bedding. These signs suggested an existing infestation. Despite notifying the crew, they claim they received no relocation or adequate assistance. They also observed nearby cabins being fumigated, indicating the crew might have known about a broader issue.

Impact on Passengers

The lawsuit details the passengers’ suffering. They endured painful bites, large welts, and required medical treatment. The ordeal also led to loss of sleep, mental distress, and economic loss. They are seeking compensation for medical expenses, emotional trauma, and other ongoing impacts.

Carnival’s Pest Control Measures

Carnival Cruise Line has yet to comment on the lawsuit. However, the company has a comprehensive pest-control protocol. This includes regular inspections of mattresses, bedding, and other areas. If an infestation is detected, chemical treatments and re-inspections are conducted. The Carnival Horizon last underwent maintenance in 2021 and is due for refurbishment in spring 2026, which will include extensive pest control measures.

Understanding Bedbugs at Sea

While unsettling, bedbug reports on cruise ships are rare but not impossible. These insects thrive in dark crevices and can easily hitch a ride in luggage. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bedbugs are not linked to poor hygiene and do not transmit diseases. However, reactions to their bites can vary, from mild irritation to severe allergic responses.

Conclusion

The Carnival Horizon can accommodate up to 4,000 guests and 1,400 crew members. This incident highlights the importance of effective pest control on cruise ships. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how Carnival Cruise Line will address these serious allegations. For UK cruise holidaygoers, this serves as a reminder to be vigilant and informed about potential issues while enjoying their travels.

Passengers booked on Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady recently experienced a moment of panic. An email mistakenly informed them that their departure port had changed from Miami, Florida, to San Juan, Puerto Rico. This error occurred less than a week before their scheduled embarkation on 8th November 2025. The mix-up affected up to 2,770 guests, leading to widespread confusion on social media and among customer service representatives.

False Alarm Causes Confusion

The email urged passengers to update their travel plans for a smooth embarkation. This prompted a flurry of activity on social media as cruisers sought clarification. Some reported that Virgin Voyages’ Sailor Services initially confirmed the change, only to retract it minutes later. One Reddit user shared their experience, stating, “I just got off the phone with them. It’s accurate.” Another mentioned, “The CS rep initially told me the email was valid and they were waiting on more information. But then came back and said that the email wasn’t valid and our itinerary is still set to leave from Miami.” This inconsistency led many to believe that the company’s internal teams were also caught off guard.

Virgin Voyages Responds Quickly

Within hours, Virgin Voyages issued a follow-up email to clarify the situation. They admitted the original message was sent in error, describing it as a “good ol’ fashioned human moment.” The cruise line apologised for the confusion and reassured passengers that Miami remains the departure port for Brilliant Lady. The planned itinerary, which includes stops at Aruba, Curaçao, Cartagena (Colombia), George Town (Grand Cayman), and Ocho Rios (Jamaica), remains unchanged. However, the Ocho Rios call may still be under review due to the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which hit Jamaica in late October. Jamaican officials are hopeful to welcome cruise guests back by mid-December.

When Technology Misfires

While the email error caused a brief panic, such glitches are not uncommon in the cruise industry. Virgin Voyages has encountered similar issues before. Earlier this year, guests not booked on Brilliant Lady’s New Year’s Ahoy voyage received incorrect itinerary change notices. Other cruise lines have faced similar challenges. For instance, Celebrity Cruises mistakenly sent out false itinerary updates for Celebrity Beyond earlier this year. These incidents highlight the occasional hiccups that can occur with technology, even in the well-oiled world of cruise travel.

In conclusion, while the email mishap was unsettling, Virgin Voyages acted swiftly to rectify the situation. Passengers can now look forward to their Caribbean adventure, departing as planned from Miami. As always, it’s a good reminder for cruise holidaygoers to double-check any unexpected changes with the cruise line directly.

Family Files Lawsuit After Tragic Overboard Incident

In a heartbreaking turn of events, the family of Dulcie White, a 66-year-old woman from Australia, has taken legal action against Royal Caribbean. White tragically fell overboard from the Allure of the Seas in October 2024. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, accuses the cruise line of negligence and inadequate search efforts.

Allegations of Overservice

The lawsuit claims that Royal Caribbean overserved alcohol to White, despite her visible intoxication. White had purchased an unlimited alcoholic beverage package and consumed at least seven drinks across three venues. Her daughter, Megan Klewin, reported that her mother was “completely intoxicated” and needed assistance returning to their stateroom. The last sighting of White was on the balcony railing before she fell overboard.

Dispute Over Search and Rescue Efforts

The family also alleges that the cruise line failed to conduct a proper search after White was reported missing. However, records show that the ship activated its man-overboard protocol immediately. An “Oscar, Oscar, Oscar” alert was issued, and searchlights and rescue boats were deployed. The Royal Bahamas Defence Force and the U.S. Coast Guard were also notified and joined the search. Despite these efforts, White was not found, and the search was eventually called off after 15 hours.

Lawsuit Seeks Jury Trial and Damages

The wrongful death lawsuit seeks a jury trial and financial compensation under maritime and state law. The family argues that Royal Caribbean failed in its duty of care by overserving alcohol and not ensuring a more effective recovery operation. As of now, Royal Caribbean has not made any public comments regarding the lawsuit.

Overboard Incidents Remain Rare

While this incident is tragic, it’s important to note that overboard occurrences are rare in the cruise industry. However, this case highlights the ongoing concerns about alcohol service and passenger safety on cruise ships. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for cruise lines and their policies moving forward.

Jamaica’s Ambitious Recovery Plan Post-Hurricane Melissa

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaica is determined to bounce back. The island nation, recently ravaged by the strongest hurricane in its history, is setting its sights on welcoming tourists, including cruise holidaymakers, by 15th December 2025. This ambitious target was announced by Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, as the country begins to rebuild.

The Economic Importance of Tourism

Tourism is a vital pillar of Jamaica’s economy. It generates billions annually, with the cruise sector alone contributing over $197 million. The urgency to restore this industry is immense. Minister Bartlett emphasised that recovery efforts are being meticulously planned. Marketing, infrastructure repairs, and logistics are all being aligned to ensure the tourism industry is fully operational by the set date.

Coordinated Recovery Efforts

A dedicated recovery task force has been established. This team is coordinating efforts between government bodies, private enterprises, and international allies. Restoration work is already in progress in key areas like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Falmouth. Airports, ports, and hotel corridors are the primary focus.

Challenges on the Road to Recovery

Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Hurricane Melissa, with winds reaching 185 miles per hour, left a trail of destruction. Homes were destroyed, power was cut, and tragically, at least 19 lives were lost. Over 25,000 Jamaicans are currently displaced, highlighting the scale of the recovery task ahead.

Global Cruise Industry’s Support

The global cruise industry is stepping up to aid Jamaica. Major cruise lines, including Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean Group, and Disney Cruise Line, have pledged significant financial support. Carnival and Royal Caribbean have each committed $1 million, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is contributing up to $100,000 through the American Red Cross.

Carnival’s Immediate Response

Carnival Cruise Line was quick to respond. On 4th November, the Carnival Horizon made a humanitarian stop in Ocho Rios. The ship delivered essential supplies, including bottled water. Passengers were encouraged to donate, with Carnival matching contributions through its “Groove for St. Jude” event. Although the local infrastructure isn’t ready for tourists, the ship’s visit was crucial for delivering aid.

Royal Caribbean’s Relief Efforts

Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas also diverted to Jamaica on 4th November. The ship delivered over 120 pallets of bottled water, medical supplies, and non-perishable food to Falmouth. This effort was coordinated with Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) in Kingston. The supplies are vital for supporting the local population during this challenging time.

Jamaica’s path to recovery is challenging, but with coordinated efforts and global support, the island is determined to welcome cruise holidaymakers back by December 2025.

Guests booked on the Norwegian Star’s 27th September 2026 cruise from Southampton have received exciting news. Their voyage will now last three extra days at sea, completely free of charge. This unexpected extension is due to a change in the ship’s dry-dock schedule, allowing for more time at sea before heading for planned technical upgrades.

Updated Ten-Day Itinerary

Originally, the cruise was set for a week-long journey visiting Amsterdam, Zeebrugge, Le Havre, La Coruña, and Oporto, concluding in Lisbon on 4th October. Now, the itinerary has been extended to ten days, adding more French and Spanish ports, and will end on 7th October 2026. Here’s the revised schedule:

– 27 Sep (Sun): Depart Southampton
– 28 Sep (Mon): Amsterdam (1 pm–9 pm)
– 29 Sep (Tue): Zeebrugge (8 am–6 pm)
– 30 Sep (Wed): Le Havre (8 am–9 pm)
– 1 Oct (Thu): Day at sea
– 2 Oct (Fri): La Rochelle (8 am–5 pm)
– 3 Oct (Sat): Le Verdon (7 am–6 pm)
– 4 Oct (Sun): Bilbao (8 am–5 pm)
– 5 Oct (Mon): La Coruña (9 am–6 pm)
– 6 Oct (Tue): Vigo (7 am–3 pm)
– 7 Oct (Wed): Arrive Lisbon

No Extra Cost for Passengers

Norwegian Cruise Line has assured passengers that the extended holiday comes at no additional cost. All existing fares, promotions, and packages remain unchanged. Pre-paid service charges, beverage, and dining packages will also stay at their original prices. Plus, the number of specialty-dining meals and WiFi minutes will increase to match the extra days at sea.

Adjusting Travel Plans

Travellers who have already arranged return flights or onward plans for the original 4th October arrival will need to make adjustments. Fortunately, with nearly a year’s notice, there is plenty of time to rearrange travel plans if necessary.

Why the Schedule Changed

Norwegian Cruise Line has not specified the exact reason for the shipyard schedule change. However, such adjustments are not uncommon. Yard timetables can shift due to other vessels’ refits, labour or supply-chain issues, or changes in dry-dock capacity. After this voyage, the Norwegian Star will enter dry dock before resuming service with a 14-night transatlantic crossing from Southampton to Miami on 20th November 2026. Passengers on that subsequent sailing should stay informed about any further schedule changes.

Stay tuned for the latest NCL offers and cruise deals. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore new destinations with Norwegian Cruise Line!

Exciting European Adventures with Royal Caribbean in Summer 2027

Royal Caribbean International is set to make waves in summer 2027 with its European cruise season. Six magnificent ships will sail from various ports across the continent. Among them is an Icon-class vessel, promising new itineraries and unforgettable experiences.

Mariner of the Seas: Southampton Debut

For the first time, Mariner of the Seas will embark from Southampton. This Voyager-class ship, accommodating 4,000 guests, offers diverse cruises. Choose from short two-night escapes to nine-night adventures. Destinations include Porto, Seville, the Norwegian fjords, and Denmark.

Introducing the Royal Beach Club Santorini

A highlight of the season is the debut of the Royal Beach Club Santorini. This exclusive shoreside experience is part of select Mediterranean itineraries. Guests can now combine sightseeing in Santorini’s iconic whitewashed villages with a luxurious beach retreat.

New Shoreside Experiences and Ports

The Santorini beach club is part of the “Ultimate Santorini Day.” It blends guided tours of the island’s landmarks with a luxury beach retreat. While details like location and entry costs remain under wraps, the concept mirrors the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in The Bahamas. Three ships, Rhapsody of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Odyssey of the Seas, will visit this new club.

Legend of the Seas: Icon Class Adventures

Legend of the Seas, an Icon-class ship, will sail the Western Mediterranean. With a capacity of 5,610 guests, it will operate from Barcelona and Rome. This marks its second summer in the Mediterranean, offering a blend of culture and relaxation.

Rhapsody of the Seas: Eastern Mediterranean Journeys

Rhapsody of the Seas will embark from Athens, carrying 2,040 passengers. It will offer 7-night cruises to Greece, Turkey, and Egypt. Guests will also enjoy a visit to the Royal Beach Club Santorini.

Explorer of the Seas: Mediterranean Marvels

Explorer of the Seas will be based in Barcelona, Rome, Ravenna, and Athens. It will offer both Eastern and Western Mediterranean itineraries. Discover Italy, France, Spain, and the Adriatic ports of Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece.

Odyssey of the Seas: Greek Island Escapes

Operating from Rome, Odyssey of the Seas will sail 7-night Greek Island cruises. With a capacity of 4,284 guests, it will visit Mykonos and Santorini. Guests can experience the new Royal Beach Club during their journey.

Brilliance of the Seas: Radiance Class Elegance

Brilliance of the Seas, accommodating 2,145 guests, will also be part of this exciting season. Details of its itineraries promise a blend of elegance and adventure.

Book Your 2027 Cruise Adventure

Sales for these incredible journeys opened early for Crown & Anchor Society members on 29th October. The general public can book from 30th October 2025. Don’t miss the chance to explore Europe with Royal Caribbean in 2027. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these itineraries promise unforgettable memories.

P&O Cruises’ Drinks Package Price Hike: What UK Cruise Holidaygoers Need to Know

P&O Cruises, a member of the Carnival Corporation & plc family, has recently adjusted the prices of its onboard drinks packages. This change, which took effect in late October 2025, sees some packages increase by up to 12%. Interestingly, the cruise line has not formally informed booked passengers about this update. Instead, guests discovered the new prices while browsing the P&O Cruises website.

New Prices and Package Options

P&O Cruises offers four distinct drinks packages, catering to a range of preferences from soft drinks to premium spirits. The updated daily rates per person are as follows:

– Refresh: £16 (previously £14.45) for on-tap fountain soft drinks and juice.
– Alcohol-Free: £29 (previously £26.95) for soft drinks, coffees, teas, bottled juices, water, and mocktails.
– Classic: £50 or £55 (previously £48.85) for most alcoholic and soft drinks, excluding premium brands.
– Deluxe: £60 or £65 (previously £60.50) for an all-inclusive selection covering the full range of beverages.

Notably, the Classic and Deluxe packages now have two price points. The cost varies based on the length of your cruise. For sailings of 15 nights or more, the lower prices apply (£50 per night for Classic, £60 per night for Deluxe). However, for cruises of 14 nights or fewer, the higher prices are in effect.

Understanding the Price Changes

The Refresh package has increased by 10%, while the Alcohol-Free option has risen by nearly 8%. The Classic package sees a price hike of either 2% or 12%, depending on the cruise duration. Meanwhile, the Deluxe package has slightly decreased by less than 1% for longer cruises, but increased by around 7% for shorter ones.

This small reduction in the Deluxe package price for longer itineraries suggests P&O Cruises may be encouraging more passengers to choose the all-inclusive option. This package remains the best value for those who frequently enjoy premium drinks. However, most guests will be on cruises of 14 nights or fewer, meaning they will face the higher price.

Factors Behind the Increase

Drinks package pricing can vary based on the ship, sailing length, and itinerary demand. Typically, shorter or high-season sailings come with higher daily rates. Guests who pre-book drinks packages before their cruise can save up to 20% compared to onboard pricing. Importantly, those who have already purchased packages for upcoming cruises will not face additional charges, as pre-paid rates are locked in.

If you’re booked on a longer cruise and have the Deluxe package, consider cancelling and rebooking at the new lower rate. This could lead to significant savings.

A Wider Trend Across Carnival Brands

This quiet price adjustment is part of a broader trend within the Carnival family. Recently, Carnival Cruise Line increased the cost of its internet plans. This has led to speculation that more price updates could be forthcoming across the group’s brands, including Princess Cruises, AIDA Cruises, and Holland America.

For UK cruise holidaygoers, staying informed about these changes is crucial. By understanding the new pricing structure, you can make the most of your cruise experience and ensure you get the best value for your money.

underway, our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time,” a spokesperson said.

Tragic Incident on Lizard Island

An Australian family is seeking answers after the tragic death of 80-year-old Suzanne Rees. She was found dead on Lizard Island, part of the Great Barrier Reef, after being left behind by her cruise ship. The incident occurred on Saturday, 25th October, during a guided hike to Cook’s Look, the island’s highest point.

Cruise Ship Departure Without Passenger

The Coral Adventurer, on a 60-day circumnavigation of Australia, departed the island at sunset. It was only hours later that the crew realised a passenger was missing. A large-scale search was launched, involving the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), local police, and helicopters. Sadly, Ms Rees’s body was discovered the following morning.

Family’s Call for Answers

Katherine Rees, Suzanne’s daughter, expressed her shock and sadness. She criticised the cruise operator for leaving without her mother, who was active and healthy. Katherine hopes a coronial inquiry will reveal what could have been done to prevent this tragedy.

Search and Investigation Efforts

AMSA was alerted to the missing passenger around 9 pm on Saturday. Search operations resumed at first light on Sunday, leading to the discovery of Ms Rees’s body. Witness Traci Ayris, sailing nearby, observed search helicopters circling the island. The mood among those nearby was sombre, as what should have been a joyful time turned tragic.

Ongoing Investigation

AMSA emphasised its commitment to passenger and crew safety. They are collaborating with Queensland Police and other agencies to investigate the incident. Coral Expeditions, the operator of the Coral Adventurer, has reached out to the family, offering support during this challenging time.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance on cruise holidays. As investigations continue, the hope is that lessons will be learned to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Hurricane Melissa Forces Cruise Lines to Reroute in the Caribbean

As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica with unprecedented force, cruise lines are taking swift action. The Category 5 storm, with winds exceeding 175 mph, poses a significant threat. Jamaica has declared a national state of emergency, preparing for what could be the island’s most powerful storm ever.

Cruise Lines Prioritise Safety

Cruise companies are altering their routes to ensure passenger and crew safety. Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line have all made changes. Carnival has rerouted five ships, including Liberty and Celebration, away from Jamaica and the Eastern Caribbean. Montego Bay, a popular port, has been removed from several itineraries.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and Celebrity Beyond have shifted to Western Caribbean routes. They now visit Cozumel, Roatán, and Belize instead of St. Thomas and St. Maarten. This decision is a precautionary measure, with safety as the top priority.

Disney Cruise Line Adjustments

Disney Cruise Line has also made significant itinerary changes. Disney Treasure will now head to Cozumel and spend two days at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. Meanwhile, Disney Wish has rearranged its Bahamian visits to avoid worsening weather conditions.

Jamaica and Neighbouring Islands on High Alert

Forecasters predict up to 40 inches of rain in parts of Jamaica, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides. The Turks and Caicos, eastern Cuba, and the Bahamas are also under hurricane warnings. Airports in Jamaica have suspended operations, and ships are steering clear of the island.

Humanitarian Efforts and Cruise Line Support

While cruise lines focus on safety, they acknowledge the potential devastation ashore. Many have participated in relief efforts after past storms and are expected to assist again. The adjustments to cruise itineraries are minor compared to the challenges faced by those on land.

Tragedy Strikes Aboard Viking Star in the Aegean Sea

A crew member from the Viking Star went overboard in the southern Aegean Sea on Monday, 27th October 2025. The incident happened at 11:31 am local time. The ship was on a seven-night Mediterranean cruise, travelling between Crete and Sicily.

Immediate Response and Search Efforts

Viking Cruises quickly activated their emergency response. They coordinated with the Italian Coast Guard to launch a comprehensive search operation. Photos from the scene show a smoke flare marking the location, with life rings thrown into the sea to assist.

Viking Star Released from Search

Marine tracking data shows Viking Star circled the area for hours. By 6:00 pm local time, the Italian Coast Guard released the ship from the search. The ship then continued its journey, as confirmed by the cruise line.

Standard Protocols in Action

Cruise ships typically assist in initial searches until local authorities take over. Specially equipped vessels and aircraft are often better suited for extended operations. Viking Star’s next stop was Messina, Sicily, arriving on Tuesday, 28th October.

Continuing the Itinerary

After Messina, the ship will head to Naples on 29th October. The final stop is Civitavecchia (Rome) on 30th October for disembarkation. Viking Star is carrying 925 guests and 471 crew members on this voyage.

Support for the Crew Member’s Family

Viking Cruises expressed their deep sadness over the incident. They are providing support to the crew member’s family during this difficult time. The ship can accommodate up to 930 passengers, depending on occupancy.

A Challenging Week for the Cruise Industry

This incident is part of a series of unfortunate events for the cruise industry. On 26th October, a crew member on P&O Cruises’ Arvia died in an onboard accident. The ship was travelling from Southampton to Tenerife.

Recent Overboard Incidents

Earlier, on 21st October, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jewel conducted a 10-hour search near the Azores. A person went overboard during a repositioning voyage from Barcelona to Miami. Unfortunately, the search was unsuccessful.

Ensuring Safety at Sea

Overboard and onboard fatalities are rare but serious. Each incident leads to thorough investigations to ensure safety procedures are followed. Viking Star continues to operate in the Mediterranean, visiting ports in Greece, Italy, Spain, and Croatia.