Category: Cruise News

A cruise excursion in Greece faced an unexpected disruption this week. A tourist bus carrying cruise passengers was involved in a road traffic accident on the island of Corfu. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, 26th May, in the Nissaki area of Corfu. Reports indicate that the bus, transporting passengers from a visiting cruise ship, collided with a concrete mixer truck. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among passengers or drivers.

Despite the lack of medical issues, the collision caused concern among those on the excursion. Passengers remained at the scene while officials managed the situation and conducted necessary procedures. Authorities are now focused on determining the cause of the collision.

Authorities Investigating Cause Of Collision

Local media images showed significant damage to the left side of the tourist bus, illustrating the impact’s force. Emergency crews temporarily halted traffic to safely remove the vehicles and restore normal conditions. Traffic resumed without further disruption.

Investigators are working to identify factors that led to the crash. Although the cruise ship involved hasn’t been publicly named, tracking data suggests Viking Star was the only vessel scheduled to dock in Corfu that day.

Summer Tourism Brings Increased Pressure To Island Roads

This incident highlights road safety challenges in popular Mediterranean cruise destinations, especially during the busy summer season. Corfu, a favourite among cruise travellers, sees a surge in vehicle activity during peak months. Excursion coaches, rental cars, and local traffic navigate roads that are often narrower and more congested than those in larger cities.

As one of Greece’s top cruise destinations, Corfu welcomes numerous visitors throughout the summer. The local transport network faces added pressure as thousands of tourists travel between ports, beaches, and excursion sites. While no injuries occurred in this incident, it underscores the complexities of safely moving large numbers of visitors through Europe’s bustling tourist hotspots.

Carnival Cruise Line is making waves with its revamped Main Dining Room menus, now available on nearly half of its 29 ships. This exciting update blends beloved classics with fresh new dishes, enhancing the dining experience for cruise holidaygoers. The rollout began earlier this year, and the changes are gradually being introduced across the fleet.

Main Dining Room on Carnival Dream

The updated menus have been a hit since their initial testing phase. Brand ambassador John Heald recently shared insights from his cruise aboard Carnival Spirit in Alaska, showcasing the new dining options. This initiative is part of Carnival’s effort to modernise its culinary offerings while keeping fan-favourite dishes on the menu.

New Menus Continue To Spread Across The Fleet

Carnival started testing the refreshed menus on Carnival Magic in January, followed by Mardi Gras in February. March saw the addition of Carnival Panorama, Carnival Sunshine, and Carnival Liberty. By April, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Pride, Carnival Spirit, and Carnival Conquest had joined the list. In May, Carnival Vista and Carnival Miracle also introduced the new menus. Carnival Miracle’s recent Alaskan voyage marked its first cruise with the updated dining experience, delighting over 2,000 guests.

Carnival Celebration

The rollout continues with Carnival Celebration set to debut the new menu on 7th June during a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. Carnival Venezia will follow on 18th June with a five-night Canada itinerary. In July, Carnival Dream will introduce the updated menus on a six-night Western Caribbean cruise. The remaining ships will receive the changes in due course, with timing dependent on factors like ingredient availability and crew training.

Passengers on Carnival Legend have already noticed elements of the new menu during its transatlantic voyage from Miami to Dover. As the fleet-wide transition progresses, Carnival is committed to delivering an exceptional dining experience for all its guests.

Carnival Cruise Line is currently embroiled in a legal battle following a personal injury claim from a former passenger. The lawsuit, filed by Jorge Luis Alverio Nunez, alleges that he sustained severe burns while walking barefoot on the Lido Deck of the Carnival Magic during a cruise in May 2025. Nunez, a resident of Florida, initiated the legal proceedings in the Southern District of Florida on 11th May 2026, almost a year after the incident. He is seeking damages exceeding $5 million.

Incident Details

The incident reportedly occurred on 21st May 2025. Nunez claims he was walking from the pool area to a nearby lounge chair where he had left his shoes. This short walk, approximately twenty steps, allegedly resulted in second-degree burns to his feet due to the deck’s dangerously high temperature. Nunez asserts that these injuries led to severe pain, hospitalisation, physical disfigurement, and ongoing mobility issues.

Allegations of Negligence

The lawsuit accuses Carnival of negligence, arguing that the cruise line failed to maintain safe conditions and did not adequately warn passengers of potential risks. It remains unclear whether the incident was reported during the cruise or if medical treatment was sought onboard. Cruise ships typically have medical facilities to handle such emergencies. The filing also suggests that crew members did not take necessary actions to prevent the deck from becoming dangerously hot.

Deck Surface Temperature

A key issue in the case is whether the Lido Deck’s surface reached temperatures capable of causing significant burns. At the time, Carnival Magic was cruising to the Bahamas and Caribbean, where May temperatures typically range from 29–32°C (mid to upper 80s°F). Surfaces exposed to direct sunlight can become much hotter than the air temperature, sometimes exceeding 40°C (105°F). However, cruise ship decks are subject to sea breezes and damp conditions from pool activities, which can help lower surface temperatures. Carnival uses marine-grade materials and non-slip coatings designed to withstand harsh conditions, though they can still become uncomfortable under intense sunlight.

Lack of Warnings

The lawsuit also claims that passengers were not adequately warned about the risks of hot deck surfaces. According to the filing, there were no warning signs or verbal announcements advising guests of the potential hazard of walking barefoot. Carnival has periodic safety briefings, but it appears this specific risk was not addressed.

Carnival Cruise Line has unveiled exciting new attractions at its rebranded Isla Tropicale in Roatan, Honduras. This marks a significant transformation of the destination, previously known as Mahogany Bay. The highlight is a sprawling new pool complex, designed to enhance the private port experience for cruise holidaygoers.

New Features Aim To Expand Guest Experience

The Mangrove Bay pool area, which spans 48,000 square feet, is the first of its kind at Isla Tropicale. It opened its doors to visitors on 20th May 2026, coinciding with a visit from Carnival Jubilee. This ship brought thousands of guests eager to explore the new facilities. The area includes family-friendly attractions, premium relaxation zones, and expanded food and beverage options, catering to a diverse range of travellers.

Families with children will appreciate the dedicated splash pad next to the main pool. This allows younger guests to enjoy water play while staying close to their parents. For adults seeking relaxation, a swim-up bar offers drinks directly in the water. Additional beverage services nearby help reduce waiting times.

Exclusive Amenities for a Luxurious Experience

A standout feature is the premium peninsula located in the centre of the pool. This exclusive section offers private cabanas and daybeds for hire. Designed with accessibility in mind, the shaded cabanas include ceiling fans, water loungers, and four chairlift passes. Daybeds also provide shaded seating and come with four chairlift passes. Pricing varies based on the specific sailing.

Beyond the pool, Isla Tropicale boasts 52 retail outlets, local artisan kiosks, three restaurants, and four bars. Guests can book oceanview cabanas and enjoy the scenic chairlift attraction. The port, situated on an island off the coast of Honduras, is a popular stop on Carnival’s Western Caribbean itineraries. It can accommodate two cruise ships simultaneously, including the largest Excel-class ships.

A Memorable Launch

Carnival Jubilee was the first ship to bring guests to the new area, carrying up to 6,631 passengers for the opening celebrations. Guests received commemorative pins in their staterooms to mark the occasion. A new destination sign and logo were also unveiled, featuring a hummingbird and flower design. The flowing typography reflects ocean waves and a relaxed tropical vibe.

Carnival Cruise Line continues to invest in long-term enhancements, ensuring Isla Tropicale remains a top choice for UK cruise holidaygoers seeking a memorable Caribbean experience.

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.