Category: Cruise News

Amsterdam’s Bold Move: A Potential Ban on Ocean-Going Cruise Ships

Amsterdam is contemplating a groundbreaking decision. By 2035, the city might completely ban ocean-going cruise ships. This move aims to tackle pollution and overtourism in the Dutch capital. Just six months ago, Amsterdam announced plans to halve cruise ship visits by 2026. Now, the city’s coalition government is considering a more drastic approach.

Phasing Out Ocean Cruises

Instead of relocating the passenger terminal east of the city, officials propose phasing out all seagoing cruise vessels. If approved, Amsterdam would be the first major European city to ban ocean cruise ships entirely. This is a step beyond merely limiting ship size, passenger numbers, or docking locations. River cruise ships would still be welcome, but under stricter controls. The proposal limits river vessel calls to 1,150 annually, about half of recent figures.

Environmental and Overtourism Concerns

City leaders believe removing ocean cruise ships will significantly benefit Amsterdam’s environment. Alderman Hester van Buren emphasised the “clear sustainability and environmental gains” this move would bring. Political support within the coalition is strong. Party Leader Rob Hofland stated, “We are finally going to free Amsterdam from these floating apartment blocks.” These ships pollute the air, harm the climate, and bring large numbers of tourists, causing congestion.

Joining a European Trend

Amsterdam is not alone in this endeavour. Other European cities like Barcelona, Nice, and Santorini have also tightened cruise ship restrictions. However, Amsterdam’s plan is more ambitious, aiming for a complete ban on seagoing vessels. Air quality concerns have long been an issue in the port area, with debates intensifying since 2023. Cruise tourism has become a focal point in discussions about overtourism in the city centre.

Financial Considerations

Financial factors play a crucial role in this decision. Relocating the existing cruise terminal would cost over €85 million. Alderman van Buren doubts the city would recover this investment. In contrast, banning cruise ships is expected to cost Amsterdam’s economy around €46 million over 30 years. To mitigate these losses, plans are in place to redevelop areas linked to cruise operations. This includes further development of the Veemkade, known for dining and events, and repurposing parts of the Coenhaven in the western harbour.

Future Decisions

Despite the strong language, the proposal is still years away from being finalised. The decision will require careful consideration and planning. Amsterdam’s bold move could set a precedent for other cities grappling with similar issues. As the city weighs its options, the world watches closely.

Last-Minute Cruise Itinerary Change Delivers a Unique Experience

Cruise holidays are all about relaxation and adventure. However, unexpected itinerary changes can sometimes throw a spanner in the works. For passengers aboard the Norwegian Encore in January 2026, a last-minute change turned into a historic event for Norwegian Cruise Line.

A New Adventure in the Caribbean

The Norwegian Encore set sail from Miami on 17th January 2026. The original plan was a seven-night cruise through the Caribbean and the Bahamas. The itinerary included stops at Roatan in Honduras, Harvest Caye in Belize, Costa Maya in Mexico, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. However, a change in port availability led to the cancellation of the Costa Maya stop on 21st January.

The reason? Ongoing construction at Costa Maya. Royal Caribbean, which took over the port in 2025, is transforming it into the Perfect Day Mexico destination, set to open in autumn 2027. Although the port remains open to all cruise lines, construction activities temporarily limited access.

An Unprecedented Overnight at Great Stirrup Cay

Instead of simply replacing Costa Maya with another port, Norwegian Cruise Line offered something truly special. Norwegian Encore became the first ship in the fleet to offer an overnight stay at Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. This was a first-of-its-kind experience for the brand, and up to 3,958 guests were part of this historic event.

Norwegian Cruise Line informed passengers of this unique opportunity. They expressed excitement about the overnight stay, highlighting the chance to experience Great Stirrup Cay after dark. The ship docked at the island’s new pier at 4pm on 22nd January, allowing guests to enjoy the island until midnight. A Glow Party under the stars from 9pm to 11pm added to the excitement. The island reopened the next day, giving guests more time to explore before the ship departed at 5pm.

Adjustments at Harvest Caye

To accommodate the overnight stay, a slight adjustment was made to the itinerary. The visit to Harvest Caye, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private destination in Belize, was shortened. Originally scheduled from 8am to 6pm, the stop was adjusted to 7am to 3pm on 20th January. This change allowed the ship more sailing time, ensuring the overnight experience at Great Stirrup Cay was possible.

In Conclusion

While itinerary changes can be unsettling, they can also lead to unexpected adventures. The Norwegian Encore’s overnight stay at Great Stirrup Cay offered passengers a unique experience, making cruise history. For UK cruise holidaygoers, this serves as a reminder that sometimes, the best memories come from the unexpected.

Severe weather conditions caused by Cyclone Harry have significantly impacted cruise operations in the Mediterranean. This has led to itinerary changes, port cancellations, and extended port stays for ships from MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises. The storm, which intensified in the Central Mediterranean from 19th January 2026, brought extreme winds and high swells. Consequently, authorities in Italy and Malta issued their highest weather warnings, leaving cruise lines with no option but to prioritise passenger safety.

MSC World Europa Adjusts Its Itinerary

The MSC World Europa, a 215,863-gross-ton vessel, had to cancel its scheduled stops in Messina, Sicily, and Valletta, Malta. These changes were made after forecasts predicted worsening weather conditions. The ship, carrying up to 6,762 guests, informed passengers on 16th January about the potential changes. The revised itinerary was confirmed the next day.

Instead of Messina, the ship docked in Naples on 20th January, which is about 305 miles away from the original destination. On 21st January, it proceeded to Palermo as an alternative entry point to Sicily. The cancellations also affected embarkation and debarkation plans, as Messina is a regular turnaround port for the ship.

Guests scheduled to board in Messina were offered free shuttle transfers to Naples and a €25 onboard credit for lunch ashore. Alternatively, passengers could embark in Palermo and receive a pro-rated refund for the missed night. MSC Cruises assured guests of ongoing support and updates as the situation evolved.

Silver Muse Takes Shelter in Malta

Silversea Cruises also had to make significant adjustments due to Cyclone Harry. The Silver Muse, a 40,791-gross-ton luxury ship, decided to stay in Valletta, Malta, to avoid the storm’s peak. Originally, the ship was to overnight in Valletta from 18th to 19th January. However, the stay was extended until the morning of 20th January and prolonged further as conditions remained unfavourable.

The cruise line’s chief meteorologist, Craig Setzer, closely monitored the situation. This proactive approach ensured the safety and comfort of the 632 guests onboard. The decision to remain in port was made to avoid the severe weather conditions at sea.

In conclusion, Cyclone Harry has caused significant disruptions for cruise lines operating in the Mediterranean. Both MSC Cruises and Silversea Cruises have prioritised passenger safety by adjusting itineraries and providing support to affected guests. As always, the safety and well-being of passengers remain the top priority for cruise operators.

New Cruise Port Proposal: A Game Changer for Florida’s Gulf Coast?

A new cruise port on Florida’s Gulf Coast is stirring both excitement and concern. Supporters see it as a chance for economic growth and better cruise access. However, critics worry about environmental harm and pressure on local infrastructure. This privately funded project is still in its early stages. It aims to develop a cruise terminal south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This could allow the largest modern cruise ships to set sail from Florida’s west coast for the first time. Yet, a growing online petition shows not everyone is convinced the benefits outweigh the risks.

Unlocking Tampa Bay’s Cruise Potential

The proposed cruise port would be situated on 328 acres of land in Manatee County, just south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Global marine terminal operator SSA Marine is exploring the project in partnership with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC. Currently, cruise ships from Port Tampa Bay must pass under the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. This bridge has a vertical clearance of about 180 feet at zero tide. This restriction prevents many of today’s largest cruise ships from accessing the port. For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class vessels, which stand close to 250 feet tall, cannot pass. Even Oasis-class ships, over 200 feet tall, are unable to sail from Tampa.

Competing with Major Cruise Hubs

Developers argue that a new port south of the bridge would eliminate this limitation. This would allow Florida’s west coast to compete more directly with major cruise hubs like PortMiami and Port Canaveral. In 2025, these ports each handled over 8.5 million cruise passengers. In contrast, Port Tampa Bay recorded a then-record 1.6 million guests across 368 sailings. The Knott-Cowen Cruise Port would feature a multi-berth terminal with supporting infrastructure. If approved, construction is expected to take three to five years. This follows zoning, planning commission reviews, and approvals from Manatee County officials. No formal timeline has been set yet.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Economic projections from the developers estimate over 31,000 jobs linked to construction and related activities. Once operational, the port could create more than 13,000 permanent jobs. Annual tax revenue is projected at around $40 million. However, these figures have yet to be independently reviewed as part of the public approval process. The proposal also includes the purchase of Rattlesnake Key, a 710-acre island adjacent to the site. Developers say the island would remain in conservation and not be commercially developed.

Environmental and Community Concerns

While cruise lines and travellers may welcome the prospect of larger ships sailing from the Tampa Bay region, opposition has formed quickly. Within days of the proposal becoming public, a Change.org petition opposing the development gained traction. Critics are concerned about the environmental impact and the strain on local infrastructure. The debate continues as the community weighs the potential benefits against the risks.

Unexpected Winds Challenge Norwegian Prima’s Departure

Norwegian Prima’s journey from Port Canaveral on 18th January 2026 began with an unexpected twist. As guests were boarding, sudden gusts of wind caused the ship’s mooring lines to snap. This incident occurred around 2 pm, hours before the planned 6 pm departure.

Weather Conditions Take a Turn

Initially, the morning weather was calm, with winds at a gentle 5 to 7 miles per hour. However, as a cold front swept through central Florida, conditions worsened. By 9 am, winds had increased to 15 to 20 miles per hour. Just before 2 pm, gusts reached up to 48 miles per hour, with steady winds at 30 to 35 miles per hour.

Swift Response Ensures Safety

The intensifying winds put a strain on the mooring lines, causing them to snap. This allowed the 143,535-gross-ton ship to drift slightly from the pier. Quick action was taken as tugboats moved in to stabilise the vessel. They guided Norwegian Prima back to the dock, where new lines were attached.

Onboard Announcements and Passenger Reactions

Passengers heard “Code Echo” over the public address system. This alert informed the crew of high winds affecting operations. Despite the disruption, the ship was never fully adrift or in danger. No injuries or damage occurred. One passenger shared on social media, “Things seem to be good now, but that was a fun start before we actually get started!”

Embarkation Resumes Smoothly

Embarkation and luggage delivery were briefly paused during the incident. Once the ship was securely re-moored, operations resumed. The ship departed on schedule later that evening.

Itinerary Stays on Course

Norwegian Prima was docked at Cruise Terminal 5 when the incident happened. Despite the brief interruption, the seven-night Caribbean cruise itinerary remained unchanged. The ship is set to visit Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, Montego Bay in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel in Mexico. It will return to central Florida on 25th January.

Future Plans for Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima will continue to be homeported at Port Canaveral until mid-November. It offers a variety of Caribbean itineraries. Later in the year, the ship will reposition to San Juan for Eastern Caribbean sailings, including stops in Barbados. In April 2027, Norwegian Prima will head to Europe for the summer season before returning.

Mexico’s New Vaping Ban: What UK Cruise Holidaygoers Need to Know

Cruise enthusiasts planning to visit Mexico should be aware of a significant legal change. As of 17th January 2026, Mexico has implemented a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, and distribution of vapes and e-cigarettes. This new legislation follows constitutional reforms approved by Mexico’s Senate in December 2025.

Understanding the New Law

The law, enacted by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, criminalises all activities related to electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. This includes bringing these products into the country through customs. The legislation also targets the production and sale of toxic substances and unauthorised synthetic drugs.

Implications for Cruise Passengers

For cruise passengers, the most significant risk occurs during customs checks at Mexican ports. Even if a vaping device is for personal use, bringing it ashore is now considered illegal importation. This rule applies to all types of vaping devices, including disposable vapes and non-nicotine products. Air travellers face the same restrictions.

Warnings from Cruise Lines

Cruise lines like Margaritaville at Sea have already alerted guests about the new regulations. They emphasise that while private possession might still be legal within Mexico, entering the country with these devices is not. Violators risk having their devices confiscated, facing hefty fines, and even imprisonment.

Experiences of Cruise Passengers

Some travellers have already encountered enforcement at entry points. Reports have surfaced online of vapes being seized upon arrival in Mexico. Despite the risks, some passengers have attempted to conceal their devices.

Vaping Onboard Cruise Ships

While Mexico enforces strict regulations ashore, most cruise lines still permit vaping onboard. However, devices must remain on the ship. Policies differ by operator, but vaping is generally restricted to designated smoking areas and usually limited to standard tobacco-based products.

Final Thoughts

UK cruise holidaygoers should be cautious when travelling to Mexico. Understanding and adhering to these new regulations is crucial to avoid potential legal issues. Always check with your cruise line for the latest updates and guidelines.

Disney Cruise Line’s Internet Price Hike for 2026

In 2026, Disney Cruise Line passengers will encounter increased costs for staying connected at sea. Without prior notice, the cruise line has raised prices for its onboard internet packages. Guests with existing bookings discovered these changes when reviewing their options.

New Pricing Structure

Starting January 2026, the Standard Internet 24-Hour Access plan will cost $30 per day, up from $26. The Premium Surfing and Streaming package will rise to $49 per day, previously priced at $42. These changes represent increases of approximately 15% and 17%, respectively.

Single Device Limitation

Both internet packages apply to a single device only. Disney Cruise Line does not offer discounts for multiple devices linked to the same guest or stateroom. While you can log in and out on different devices, only one can connect at a time. This setup is less convenient for families or groups traveling together.

Impact on Overall Costs

Though the daily increase is just a few dollars, costs can add up over a cruise. This is especially true if several guests in a party wish to connect their phones, tablets, or laptops. Whether for social media, work, or streaming, the expenses can quickly escalate.

Comparing Disney’s Prices to Competitors

Disney Cruise Line’s new internet prices are higher than many competitors. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, charges between $20 and $35 per device, per day. Across the cruise industry, daily internet prices generally range from $19 to $40. Disney’s premium plan now exceeds this range.

Industry Trends and Future Implications

As cruise lines invest in faster satellite technology, it’s uncertain if Disney’s price increase will influence others. Competitors might continue offering lower-cost connectivity at sea. The future of onboard internet pricing remains to be seen.

Is Internet Access Necessary on a Disney Cruise?

Despite higher prices, internet access isn’t essential for most onboard activities. The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app functions without a WiFi package. It allows guests to view schedules, browse menus, and communicate onboard. Many passengers enjoy disconnecting during their cruise, seeing it as part of the holiday experience.

Limited Access for Essential Needs

For some, limited internet access is still important. Checking emails or staying in touch with family and friends at home can be crucial. Disney’s basic plan supports popular social media platforms, offering a balance for those who need occasional connectivity.

Ibiza Comes Aboard Arvia

Legendary DJ Pete Tong is set to bring the vibrant Ibiza sound to the high seas. This September, he will host a live DJ set on P&O Cruises’ newest ship, Arvia. The event will take place while the ship is docked at Botafoc Pier in Ibiza.

A Unique Musical Experience

The 90-minute set is scheduled for Saturday, 19th September 2026, in Arvia’s SkyDome. This performance is part of a 14-night Western Mediterranean cruise. Guests will enjoy a late-night departure from Ibiza, allowing them to soak up the island’s famous nightlife before returning to the ship.

Celebrating Dance Music

Pete Tong plans to blend classic house tracks with his signature sound. This event is a celebration of dance music’s past and present. It’s a unique opportunity to experience his music in an extraordinary setting.

Pete Tong’s Connection to Ibiza

For over three decades, Pete Tong has been a pivotal figure in electronic music. As a DJ, producer, and broadcaster, he has shaped global club culture. He describes Ibiza as his “spiritual home,” where dance music truly came alive.

A Special Night at Sea

Tong is excited to bring Ibiza’s energy aboard Arvia. He believes this event will be one of those magical nights where everything aligns perfectly. The place, the people, and the music will create an unforgettable experience.

Continuing the Party Onboard

After a day exploring Ibiza’s beaches and boutiques, guests can continue the party onboard. The SkyDome will transform into a late-night music venue, keeping the energy alive long after sailaway.

World-Class Entertainment

Paul Ludlow, president of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises, highlights the significance of this collaboration. He describes Pete Tong as a trailblazer in dance music. This event reflects P&O Cruises’ commitment to offering innovative and high-quality entertainment.

A Major Sailing for P&O Cruises

Arvia’s SkyDome is a standout venue on the ship. It offers a glass-enclosed poolside space that transitions from daytime relaxation to evening entertainment. The venue has previously hosted performances by Nicole Scherzinger and Gary Barlow.

Don’t Miss This Unforgettable Experience

This collaboration with Pete Tong captures the essence of what P&O Cruises stands for today. It’s an opportunity to enjoy world-class talent and unforgettable experiences at sea. Don’t miss this chance to be part of a unique musical journey.

Royal Caribbean Group Unveils New Loyalty Programme for Cruise Enthusiasts

Royal Caribbean Group is set to revolutionise its loyalty programme. A new points-based system, Points Choice, will be introduced across its three cruise brands. This exciting change is scheduled to launch in early 2026.

What is Points Choice?

Points Choice will be available for sailings from 30th January 2026. It allows guests to earn and allocate loyalty points across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. This flexibility means you can choose where to apply your points for maximum benefit.

How Does Points Choice Work?

Members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club, and Silversea’s Venetian Society will continue to earn points based on nights sailed. The cabin category will determine the points earned per night. After each cruise, guests have 14 days to allocate their points via a Points Choice Request form. This form is accessible through the Royal Caribbean app or website. If no action is taken, points will automatically go to the guest’s existing loyalty programme.

Maximising Your Loyalty Benefits

Points Choice builds on the Status Match initiative from 2024. It allows guests to carry their loyalty tier across brands. Now, you can strategically direct your points to maximise benefits with your preferred brand. This flexibility is designed to enhance your cruising experience.

Insights from Royal Caribbean Group

Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO, emphasised the guest-centric design of Points Choice. He stated, “Our guests are exploring more of our brands than ever before, and we believe our loyalty experience should grow with them.” This new system empowers guests to direct their loyalty points where they will have the most impact.

Points Earning Rates and Cabin Categories

Each cruise line has its own chart showing points earning rates based on stateroom or suite category. For instance, suite categories like Sunset, Owner, Aqua-Theater, or Oceanview Panoramic suites earn different points per night. Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society offers two points per night, Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club offers eight, and Silversea’s Venetian Society offers one. These charts help you plan and maximise your loyalty benefits.

Conclusion

The introduction of Points Choice marks a significant shift in cruise loyalty programmes. It offers flexibility and control to guests, enhancing their cruising experience. Whether you’re a frequent cruiser or planning your first voyage, this new system is designed to make your loyalty points work harder for you. Keep an eye out for more updates as the launch date approaches!

Introducing Norwegian Aura: The Newest Addition to the Fleet

Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled the name of its latest ship, Norwegian Aura. This vessel is set to be the largest in the fleet, marking a significant expansion. The announcement comes just before the launch of Norwegian Luna, highlighting the cruise line’s rapid growth.

Exciting Itineraries Await

Norwegian Aura will embark on her maiden voyage in May 2027. The journey begins with a seven-night Mediterranean cruise from Trieste to Barcelona. Guests will explore historic cities like Malta, Salerno, and Rome. After this, the ship will set sail on a 14-night transatlantic crossing to North America. Stops include Motril, Cadiz, and Gibraltar before reaching Florida.

Once in Miami, Norwegian Aura will offer a variety of Caribbean cruises. These seven-night itineraries will alternate between Eastern and Western Caribbean routes. Destinations include Puerto Plata, St Thomas, and Tortola. Guests can also visit Norwegian Cruise Line’s private islands, Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye.

A New Standard in Size and Luxury

Currently being built by Fincantieri in Italy, Norwegian Aura will be a giant. At nearly 1,130 feet long and weighing 169,000 gross tons, she surpasses her predecessors. This makes her about 10% larger than Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna. She will also be slightly bigger than the Breakaway Plus class ships.

Norwegian Aura will feature 1,976 staterooms, including 159 in The Haven. This exclusive area offers a ship-within-a-ship experience. The vessel will have 30% more suites than previous Prima class ships, setting a new record for the company.

Stunning Design and Artistry

Norwegian Aura will showcase a unique hull design by artist Rosie Woods. The artwork features a vibrant mix of purple, pink, blue, and teal. It draws inspiration from aurora lights and ocean bioluminescence. This collaboration continues Norwegian Cruise Line’s tradition of stunning hull art.

Book Your Adventure Today

Bookings for Norwegian Aura’s debut seasons are now open. Whether you’re dreaming of the Mediterranean, a transatlantic journey, or a Caribbean escape, this ship promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this exciting new chapter in cruise travel.