Category: Cruise News

Exciting New Beach Club in Santorini

Royal Caribbean Group is set to unveil the Royal Beach Club Santorini in the summer of 2026. This marks a significant expansion of their exclusive land-based destinations. The new beach club will welcome guests from both Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. It promises to blend Santorini’s stunning volcanic landscapes with the cruise line’s renowned hospitality.

Experience the Ultimate Santorini Day

Visitors to Santorini can look forward to what Royal Caribbean calls the “Ultimate Santorini Day.” This experience combines time at the new beach club with tours of the island’s iconic attractions. Guests can explore the charming whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches of Oia. They can also enjoy the lively cafés, boutiques, and galleries in Fira.

A Bold Expansion

The addition of Santorini to the Royal Beach Club Collection is a bold move. It aims to expand the vacation portfolio from two to eight destinations by 2028. Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, expressed excitement about connecting guests with Santorini’s treasures. The new beach club will offer a balanced and authentic island experience.

Signature Service in a Stunning Location

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, highlighted Santorini’s appeal. He noted that the new beach club will showcase the best of the island. Guests can expect the signature service that Royal Caribbean is known for, enhancing their exploration of this incredible destination.

Reducing Congestion on the Island

A key goal of the new beach club is to alleviate congestion on Santorini. This has been a long-standing concern for both locals and visitors. Royal Caribbean Group plans to introduce a system to better distribute passengers across the island. By offering three starting locations for excursions, guests can explore without contributing to overcrowding in popular areas.

Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

This initiative is part of Royal Caribbean’s broader effort to support sustainable tourism. The company aims to create “authentic, balanced island experiences” for its guests. The Royal Beach Club Santorini is a step towards achieving this goal.

Expanding the Destination Portfolio

The Santorini project follows the debut of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in The Bahamas in December 2025. It joins a growing list of Royal Caribbean’s land-based destinations. These include Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas and Labadee in Haiti. By 2028, the company plans to expand its shore-based portfolio to eight destinations worldwide.

Strengthening Presence in Greece

The opening of the Royal Beach Club Santorini will further solidify Royal Caribbean Group’s presence in Greece. This expansion reflects the company’s commitment to offering unique and memorable experiences for cruise holidaygoers. With its breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture, Santorini is set to become a highlight for UK travellers seeking an unforgettable cruise holiday.

Tragic Incident on P&O Cruises’ Arvia

A tragic event has occurred on P&O Cruises’ Arvia, resulting in the death of a crew member. The unfortunate accident took place on Sunday, 26th October 2025. The ship had just set sail from Southampton, embarking on a 14-night journey to Barbados.

Support for Those Affected

P&O Cruises has expressed deep sympathy for the crew member’s family and friends. The cruise line is offering full support to those affected by this loss. However, they have chosen not to disclose the crew member’s identity, respecting the family’s privacy.

Investigation Underway

The cause of the accident remains unknown as an investigation is currently in progress. This inquiry aims to uncover the circumstances and verify adherence to safety protocols. Despite the incident, the Arvia continues its voyage as planned.

Arvia’s Ongoing Journey

The Arvia, a 185,600-gross-ton vessel, remains fully operational. It is the newest and largest ship in the P&O Cruises fleet, accommodating up to 6,685 passengers and 1,700 crew members. The itinerary includes a stop in Tenerife on Tuesday, 28th October, followed by visits to St Maarten, St Kitts, and St Lucia, before reaching Barbados on 7th November.

Rare Tragedies at Sea

Fatal accidents involving cruise ship crew members are uncommon but not unheard of. In March 2024, a steam leak on Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam resulted in the deaths of two crew members. More recently, in May 2025, Diamond Princess captain Michele Bartolomei passed away due to a medical emergency in Taiwan. These incidents highlight the challenging environments cruise crews often face.

Ongoing Support for the Crew

P&O Cruises continues to support the Arvia’s crew during this difficult time. The team is assisting investigators and providing comfort to one another. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the demanding nature of life at sea.

A New Era for Muslim-Friendly Cruises

A groundbreaking cruise is set to embark from Port Klang, Malaysia, on 29th November 2025. The M/V Piano Land, formerly known as Oriana under P&O Cruises, is making waves as the world’s first fully Muslim-friendly cruise. This innovative ship promises a unique experience with 100% halal-certified cuisine, alcohol-free drinks, dedicated prayer rooms, and onboard prayer time guidance. Even the traditional afternoon tea will be served halal.

A Partnership for Muslim-Friendly Tourism

This pioneering cruise is the result of a collaboration between Astro Ocean Cruise and Hwajing Travel & Tours. It aligns with Malaysia’s vision to become a leader in Muslim-friendly tourism. The 1,760-passenger ship will offer short itineraries, including a three-day, two-night journey between Penang and Port Klang, and a four-day, three-night trip covering Penang and Langkawi.

A Milestone for Muslim Travellers

Hassan Bulbul, a travel content creator from Leicester and winner of Halal Travel Influencer of the Year, expressed his excitement about this initiative. He highlighted the lack of Muslim-friendly facilities on most cruises as a significant barrier. Access to halal-certified food is a major concern for Muslim travellers, as Bulbul noted from his experiences in cities like Venice and Barcelona.

Dining and Wellness on the High Seas

Onboard the Piano Land, guests will enjoy a diverse menu of halal international dishes, such as Hong Kong-style roasted duck. The ship’s restaurants and lounges will also serve a variety of mocktails. Beyond dining, the cruise offers children’s clubs, family entertainment, spa treatments, and wellness workshops focused on mindful living.

A Step Forward for Inclusivity

Bulbul sees this launch as a significant advancement for inclusivity in travel. He believes that catering to Muslim guests does not exclude non-Muslims but rather broadens the appeal of cruising. The success of this venture could inspire other cruise lines to follow suit, opening up new opportunities for Muslim travellers worldwide.

It was a momentous occasion for Royal Caribbean Group at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The cruise giant celebrated three significant shipbuilding milestones. These included the steel cutting for Royal Caribbean’s next Oasis-class ship, the delivery of Celebrity Xcel, and the steel cutting for Celebrity Xcite. This event underscores the company’s commitment to innovative design and sustainable shipbuilding.

Construction Begins on Seventh Oasis-Class Ship

On 23rd October 2025, Royal Caribbean commenced construction on its next Oasis-class vessel. The first piece of steel was cut, marking the start of creating one of the world’s largest cruise ships. This yet-to-be-named ship is set to debut in 2028. It will continue the legacy of the Oasis class, which began with Oasis of the Seas in 2009.

The Oasis class transformed modern cruising with its unique “neighbourhood” concept. This design divides the ship into themed districts like Central Park and the Royal Promenade. Although details about the seventh ship are scarce, it promises new experiences and sustainability features. Over the next few years, the shipyard will assemble its massive hull blocks and complete sea trials before its 2028 delivery.

Celebrity Cruises Welcomes Celebrity Xcel and Begins Building Xcite

Simultaneously, Celebrity Cruises, a premium brand of Royal Caribbean Group, celebrated the delivery of Celebrity Xcel. This newest addition to the Edge-class series is the fifth ship and can accommodate up to 3,950 guests. It features Infinite Veranda staterooms and the innovative Magic Carpet, a platform that moves between decks.

Celebrity Xcel continues the brand’s commitment to cleaner energy, being methanol-capable to reduce emissions. The ship also boasts the elegant three-deck Grand Plaza. With Celebrity Xcel joining the fleet and Celebrity Xcite under construction, Celebrity Cruises is setting new standards for excellence and innovation.

Royal Caribbean Group’s achievements at the shipyard highlight their dedication to pushing boundaries in cruise travel. These milestones reflect a future of enhanced experiences and sustainable practices for UK cruise holidaygoers.

Norwegian Epic’s Heroic Rescue in the Mediterranean

On the night of 22nd October 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic became a beacon of hope in the Mediterranean Sea. The cruise ship, on its 11-night journey to the Greek Isles and Italy, encountered an overcrowded sailboat in distress. Departing from Civitavecchia (Rome) just a day earlier, the ship’s crew sprang into action.

A Sudden Stop and a Swift Response

Passengers aboard the 4,070-passenger vessel were taken by surprise when the ship halted abruptly. The crew had spotted a small boat in need of help. The rescue operation, which lasted several hours, was a testament to the crew’s dedication. One passenger shared on Reddit, “We had to stop in the middle of the Med and rescue 67 migrants that were in a 30-foot sailboat.”

Adhering to Maritime Law

Under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention, ships must assist those in distress at sea. The Norwegian Epic’s crew followed this international maritime law, ensuring the safety of the 67 individuals. Once onboard, the rescued were provided with essentials like food, water, and medical checks. They were then kept in a secure area until they could be handed over to local authorities.

Change of Course

The rescue operation led to a change in the ship’s itinerary. The planned stop at Santorini on 23rd October was cancelled. Instead, the ship docked at a mainland Greek port to transfer the refugees to the Greek Coast Guard. Although some passengers were disappointed to miss Santorini, they understood the necessity of the diversion.

Continuing the Journey

After the successful handover, the Norwegian Epic continued its voyage. The ship reached Piraeus (Athens) on 24th October, with stops at Mykonos, Valletta, Syracuse, Salerno, Livorno, and Cannes before returning to Rome on 1st November 2025. The crew’s professionalism and compassion were praised by those onboard.

A Common Occurrence in the Mediterranean

This isn’t the first time a cruise ship has come to the aid of migrants in the Mediterranean. The region often sees small, overcrowded vessels in peril. Cruise lines operating between Italy, Greece, and Malta have frequently participated in such rescues, working alongside European coastguards.

Putting Lives First

While some guests were disappointed by the missed port, most agreed that the crew’s actions were commendable. The Norwegian Epic’s response highlighted the importance of prioritising human life above all else. This event serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sea travel and the responsibilities that come with it.

Explore New Deals

As you plan your next cruise adventure, don’t miss out on the latest offers from Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you’re exploring the Mediterranean or venturing elsewhere, there’s a deal waiting for you.

Unexpected Turn of Events for Cruise Passenger in Italy

A 77-year-old American cruise passenger faced an unexpected end to his holiday in Italy. Security officers at Porto Corsini Cruise Terminal in Ravenna discovered a loaded firearm in his backpack. The man, travelling from Tennessee with his son, was stopped during routine screening. The X-ray machine revealed a 6.35mm Browning semi-automatic pistol, fully loaded and ready to fire.

Strict Italian Firearm Regulations

Italy is known for its stringent gun laws, among the toughest in Europe. Tourists rarely receive firearm permits, regardless of their home country’s documentation. Bringing a weapon without prior authorisation can lead to severe consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and deportation. In this case, Italian authorities seized the weapon and deported the man for illegal firearm possession.

Consequences of Carrying Weapons on Cruises

The passenger’s deportation abruptly ended his cruise holiday, with potential long-term repercussions. Cruise lines enforce strict no-weapon policies, and violations can result in lifetime bans. Even if the passenger genuinely forgot the gun, cruise operators maintain a zero-tolerance stance on security breaches. For instance, Carnival Cruise Line banned two passengers for life in 2024 for smuggling a gun onboard and boasting about it online.

Security Measures on Cruise Ships

Security staff at ports and on ships are trained to treat any potential weapon as a real threat. Even toy weapons, like replicas or Nerf-style blasters, are prohibited to prevent confusion or alarm. Earlier this year, a cruiser was arrested in Aruba for attempting to board Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas with a firearm.

Possible Cruise Ship Identified

Authorities have not confirmed the specific cruise ship the man intended to board. However, local reports suggest it was a vessel sailing from Ravenna to Croatia and ending in Civitavecchia (Rome). This itinerary aligns with Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Constellation, which departed on 20th October 2025. The cruise is an 11-night journey through Croatia, Montenegro, and Italy, making it the most likely candidate. Other ships, like Celebrity Eclipse and Mein Schiff 6, visited Ravenna earlier in October but did not continue to Rome. The next scheduled cruise call to the port is on 5th November 2025, with Norwegian Viva’s arrival, hopefully under calmer circumstances.

A Scenic Cruise Turns Sour: Norovirus Outbreak on Oceania Cruises’ Insignia

A dream cruise through the stunning autumn landscapes of Canada and New England took an unexpected turn. Passengers aboard Oceania Cruises’ Insignia experienced a norovirus outbreak, leading to gastrointestinal distress for many. The ship set sail from Montreal on 16th October 2025, bound for Boston over 11 nights. By 20th October, 74 out of 637 passengers and one crew member had fallen ill, as confirmed by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Cruise Itinerary and Response

The Insignia, a 30,277-gross-ton vessel, was on a picturesque autumn foliage itinerary. It included stops at Quebec City, Saguenay, Sept-Îles, Corner Brook, Sydney, Halifax, and Saint John, before heading to Portland, Maine, and concluding in Boston on 27th October. The outbreak was identified while the ship was in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Upon detection, the crew swiftly implemented outbreak prevention measures. Affected passengers were isolated in their cabins. Public areas underwent increased sanitation, and dining services switched to crew-assisted stations to minimise contact. High-touch surfaces like railings and lift buttons received extra cleaning. The crew adhered to strict hygiene protocols.

As the number of cases exceeded the reporting threshold of 11.6% of passengers, Oceania Cruises notified US health authorities. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program is monitoring the situation remotely, reviewing the ship’s response and sanitation efforts. Illness counts are cumulative and may change if new cases arise before the journey ends.

Understanding Norovirus

Norovirus is a leading cause of acute gastroenteritis, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps. It spreads quickly in close-contact environments such as cruise ships, schools, and care facilities. Even minimal contamination can lead to infection. Symptoms usually last one to three days, but the virus can persist on surfaces, remaining infectious even after recovery.

Passengers are advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before meals and after using the toilet. The CDC warns that alcohol-based sanitisers are less effective against norovirus.

A Challenging Year for Cruise Health

The Insignia incident is the first norovirus outbreak of 2025 for Oceania Cruises. However, it adds to a growing list of cases in the cruise industry this year. The CDC has recorded 15 confirmed norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships in 2025, along with other gastrointestinal illnesses. Earlier in the year, Holland America Line’s Volendam reported cases in January, with further incidents occurring monthly through May. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also faced similar challenges.

Cruise lines continue to face health challenges, but they remain committed to ensuring passenger safety. Enhanced sanitation measures and vigilant monitoring are crucial in managing such outbreaks. As always, passengers are encouraged to maintain good hygiene practices to help prevent the spread of illness.

Luxury cruise line Seabourn is embracing the allure of the night with its innovative approach to noctourism. This emerging travel trend focuses on exploring destinations after sunset. Seabourn’s new and returning After-Dark Experiences for the 2026 season promise unforgettable adventures under the stars.

After-Dark Highlights

Seabourn’s nocturnal offerings are truly unique. One standout event is An Evening at Ephesus. Guests enjoy a private classical concert under the stars in the ancient Odeon theatre. Another rare experience is the Baining Fire Dance in Papua New Guinea. This sacred tribal ceremony is traditionally reserved for significant life events.

Stargazing at Sea is another highlight. Led by expedition experts, guests can marvel at the night sky in remote regions like the Kimberley in Australia and the South Pacific. For those seeking the Northern Lights, guided evenings in Alaska, Greenland, and the Arctic offer breathtaking views of the aurora borealis.

Nighttime Shore Excursions

Seabourn’s evening excursions reveal destinations in a new light. In Hobart, Tasmania, guests can explore Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary by torchlight, meeting nocturnal creatures. Night snorkelling in Kona, Hawaii, offers a glimpse of marine life that emerges after dusk. Meanwhile, a Night Tram Tour in Hong Kong provides a sparkling view of the city’s iconic skyline.

Dining Beneath the Stars

Culinary experiences on Seabourn’s ships also embrace the night. Earth & Ocean transforms into an elegant al fresco dining venue, allowing guests to dine under the open sky. The Colonnade Terrace offers nightly bistro-style dinners inspired by regional flavours.

Select itineraries on Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation feature “Dinner Under the Stars” at The Retreat. This offers a romantic and exclusive dining experience. Solis, Seabourn’s new fine dining concept, impresses with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and ocean-view terrace seating. For those who prefer privacy, in-suite dining is available 24/7, with full multi-course meals served on private verandas.

Seabourn is redefining luxury cruising with its latest collection of experiences. By embracing the magic of the night, it proves that some of the most memorable travel moments happen after dark.

Teenagers’ Balcony Stunt Sparks Cruise Safety Debate

A recent video showing two teenagers dangerously climbing between balconies on a cruise ship has ignited a heated discussion about passenger safety. The footage, shared on TikTok by user @dvandzzedsw, captures the teens balancing precariously on the narrow railings of their cabin balcony. At one point, one of them dangles over the open sea, holding onto the balcony above for support, all while wearing flimsy sandals.

Identifying the Cruise Ship

Although the ship in the video hasn’t been officially identified, many believe it to be Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. This assumption is based on the balcony design, which matches that of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels. The video has since gone viral, raising questions about the safety of private balconies on cruise ships.

Parental Supervision in Question

The incident raises concerns about parental supervision. It’s unclear if the teenagers’ parents or guardians were aware of their risky behaviour. Royal Caribbean, like most major cruise lines, mandates that minors share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. Alternatively, they must be booked into a connecting cabin for proper oversight. Other cruise lines, such as Carnival, have similar policies in place.

Balcony Ban Debate

As the video circulates, some have suggested banning balcony cabins to prevent such dangerous stunts. However, most cruise enthusiasts disagree, arguing that the issue lies with irresponsible passengers, not the balconies themselves. One cruiser commented, “Balcony cabins should always be an option. No need to ban them because of a few teenage idiots – their parents should be responsible.”

Serious Safety Violations

Climbing or sitting on balcony railings is a serious safety breach on all major cruise lines. Such actions can lead to immediate disembarkation and even a lifetime ban from the cruise brand. In less severe cases, guests may lose access to their balcony, with crew locking the door for the rest of the trip. Security teams can also relocate guests to an interior cabin or confine them to their stateroom until the next port.

Consequences and Lessons

It’s unclear what consequences, if any, the teenagers faced for their actions. However, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations on cruise ships. The debate continues, but one thing is clear: safety should always be a top priority for cruise holidaygoers.

Incident at Sea: Norwegian Jewel’s Overboard Emergency

A dramatic search unfolded on the Norwegian Jewel after a person went overboard during its transatlantic journey to Miami. The incident occurred in the early hours of 21st October 2025, waking passengers with a “Code Oscar” alert. This maritime emergency call signalled that someone had fallen into the sea.

Search Efforts at Sea

The Norwegian Jewel, carrying over 2,300 guests and 1,000 crew, had just left Ponta Delgada in the Azores. The ship circled off the coast of Portugal for hours, coordinating with the Portuguese National Maritime Authority. Despite the efforts, the darkness and distance from land made the rescue operation challenging.

As daylight emerged, cargo ships and aircraft joined the search. However, by mid-afternoon, the ship resumed its course to Miami. Passengers described the atmosphere on board as sombre and respectful, with a palpable sense of sadness.

Uncertainty and Response

Authorities have not confirmed whether the individual was a passenger or crew member. Norwegian Cruise Line has yet to release an official statement. This incident marks the second overboard case for the cruise line in 2025, following a similar event in August.

Second Incident for Norwegian Cruise Line in 2025

Earlier this year, a 79-year-old guest went overboard from the Norwegian Star near Newfoundland and Labrador. Despite immediate rescue efforts, the individual was not found. In June, another passenger fell from the Norwegian Epic but survived with minor injuries.

Safety at Sea

Modern cruise ships are equipped with advanced safety technology, including overboard detection systems and emergency response drills. However, accidents can happen in seconds. Industry data from 2009 to 2019 shows that only about one in five overboard incidents result in rescue.

This tragedy highlights the unpredictable nature of cruise holidays, even with stringent safety measures in place. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparedness at sea.