Category: Cruise News

Norovirus Outbreak on Serenade of the Seas: What UK Cruisers Need to Know

A recent Royal Caribbean cruise has seen over 70 passengers fall ill due to a gastrointestinal outbreak. The Serenade of the Seas departed from San Diego on 19th September 2025, embarking on a 13-night journey through the Panama Canal. The cruise is set to conclude in Miami on 2nd October. So far, 71 passengers and one crew member have shown symptoms associated with norovirus. With 1,874 guests on board, this represents 3.79% of the passengers.

Response and Preventative Measures

Royal Caribbean has taken swift action to manage the situation. Affected passengers and the crew member have been isolated. Enhanced cleaning protocols are in place, and stool samples are being analysed to confirm the illness. Passengers are advised to wash their hands frequently and rest adequately to avoid infection. Despite the outbreak, the cruise remains on schedule. The ship’s last port of call was Cartagena, Colombia, on 29th September, before heading to Miami.

Frequency of Outbreaks on Cruise Ships

Gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships, while newsworthy, are relatively uncommon. Cruise lines must report any outbreak affecting 3% or more of the ship’s population. In 2023, there were only 14 reported outbreaks, and 18 in 2024. With this incident on Serenade of the Seas, the total for 2025 has reached 19. Royal Caribbean has experienced similar outbreaks on two other ships this year, Radiance of the Seas in February and Navigator of the Seas in July. Its Silversea brand also reported an isolated E.coli case on Silver Ray in January, though not all required official reporting.

Implications for Cruise Holidaygoers

Norovirus is highly contagious but typically short-lived, with most people recovering without serious issues. Cruise lines are well-versed in handling such outbreaks through rigorous cleaning and health protocols. Given that millions of passengers cruise annually, the likelihood of encountering an outbreak is low. The Serenade of the Seas continues its voyage, with the majority of guests unaffected and enjoying their Panama Canal adventure.

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The post Norovirus Outbreak Hits Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas appeared first on Cruise Mummy.

Marella Cruises Faces Setback as New Ships Diverted to Mein Schiff

Marella Cruises, a favourite among UK cruise enthusiasts, has encountered a significant challenge. Parent company TUI AG has decided that two eagerly anticipated new ships will not join the Marella fleet. Instead, these vessels will bolster the Mein Schiff fleet, catering to the German-speaking market.

New Ships for Mein Schiff

On 29 September 2025, TUI and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri finalised a contract for two new InTUItion-class cruise ships. These ships are set for delivery in 2031 and 2032. Originally, they were intended for Marella Cruises, marking a shift from second-hand to brand-new builds for the line. Each ship will weigh around 160,000 gross tons, making them some of the largest in the TUI Cruises fleet. They will be sister ships to Mein Schiff Relax and Mein Schiff Flow, featuring dual-fuel LNG and marine gas oil engines, advanced energy-saving systems, and full shore-power connectivity.

Why the Shift to Mein Schiff?

TUI’s decision underscores its strategy to focus on the German-speaking market, where premium cruising demand remains robust. Mein Schiff has been expanding steadily, with two InTUItion-class ships already set to enter service before the decade’s end. This move strengthens TUI’s position in Germany, ensuring it meets the growing demand for luxury cruising experiences.

Impact on Marella Cruises

For Marella Cruises, this development is a setback. The line had plans to rejuvenate its fleet with purpose-built ships. However, with the new ships redirected, Marella lacks a clear path for fleet renewal. Its current ships, including Marella Discovery and Marella Explorer, are nearing or surpassing 30 years of service. While refurbishments can extend their life, older ships often struggle with fuel efficiency and modern amenities, making it challenging to attract younger cruisers.

Future Prospects for Marella

TUI has not dismissed the possibility of future newbuilds for Marella, but the timeline remains uncertain. In the meantime, Marella will focus on refurbishments and its reputation for friendly service and all-inclusive offerings. Despite the setback, Marella continues to offer popular itineraries across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and beyond. The key question is how Marella fits into TUI’s long-term plans as the group prioritises Mein Schiff’s growth in Germany.

Conclusion

While the news may disappoint loyal Marella passengers, the brand remains committed to delivering exceptional cruise experiences. As TUI doubles down on Mein Schiff’s expansion, Marella’s future will depend on its ability to adapt and innovate in a competitive market. For UK cruise holidaygoers, Marella still offers a range of exciting destinations and experiences, ensuring it remains a popular choice for many.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s New Dining Policy

Norwegian Cruise Line is shaking up its dining experience. Starting 26 September 2025, guests will face a new charge for dining on board. If you order more than one main course in the complimentary dining rooms, expect to pay an extra five dollars per additional entrée. Previously, passengers could indulge in multiple mains without any extra cost. This change marks a shift from the traditional cruise dining experience, where variety was a key attraction.

Understanding the New Charges

The first main course remains included in your fare. However, any additional mains will incur a small fee. This update hasn’t been widely publicised. Instead, it appears discreetly at the bottom of dining room menus. It’s a subtle change, but one that has sparked plenty of debate among cruise enthusiasts.

New Specialty Dining Policy

Norwegian has also revised its specialty restaurant booking rules. Guests aged 13 and over must cancel or adjust reservations at least two hours before the scheduled time. Failing to do so will result in a ten-dollar penalty. The same fee applies if you arrive more than 15 minutes late. Previously, passengers had a 24-hour window to cancel without a charge.

Why the New Fees?

Norwegian hasn’t officially explained the new charges. However, industry experts suggest the five-dollar fee aims to reduce food waste and improve dining efficiency. Some believe it’s a move to discourage ordering multiple meals just for sampling. While some guests see this as a reasonable change, others view it as a way for cruise lines to increase revenue. Currently, Norwegian is the only major cruise line with such a fee. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and MSC still allow guests to order multiple mains without extra charges. Whether these competitors will adopt similar policies remains uncertain.

What It Means for Cruisers

For most passengers, sticking to one main dish means the change will have little impact. However, those who enjoy sampling multiple dishes will need to consider the additional cost. The updated specialty dining policy also requires passengers to manage reservations more carefully to avoid unexpected fees. Cruise dining has always been synonymous with abundance and freedom. This new policy represents a significant shift from that tradition. Whether the five-dollar charge is seen as a fair move to cut waste or a disappointing cutback, it’s already generating buzz in the cruise community.

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Another Glass Incident on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas

Glass has shattered once more on a Royal Caribbean vessel, this time on the Utopia of the Seas. This marks the sixth occurrence in just four months across the cruise line’s fleet. The latest incident happened in the Windjammer Marketplace on Deck 15.

Photos shared online reveal a panel above the Boardwalk neighbourhood balconies completely fractured. Fortunately, it remained in its frame and did not fall. Crew members swiftly cordoned off the area, and the panel is set to be covered and replaced.

Impact on Passengers and Itinerary

No injuries have been reported, and the ship’s schedule remains unchanged. The exact sailing when the panel broke is unconfirmed. However, images surfaced on Friday, 26th September, suggesting it occurred during the three-night “World’s Biggest Weekend” cruise from Port Canaveral.

These short getaways often include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Some longer four-night versions also include Nassau alongside CocoCay.

Recurring Incidents Across the Fleet

While broken glass on ships isn’t unheard of, the recent frequency is raising eyebrows. Symphony of the Seas alone has experienced three separate incidents since early June. On June 8, a panel in the Coastal Kitchen restaurant shattered, sending shards onto the pool deck below.

Later, on June 29, a canopy in the adults-only Solarium fractured while docking in Port Canaveral. In early August, a panel near the miniature golf course on Deck 16 shattered, possibly due to a stray golf ball.

Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas Incidents

On August 7, Icon of the Seas made headlines when part of its Frightening Bolt waterslide fractured mid-ride. This sent water cascading down, injuring one guest. The slide has since been repaired with a solid section of material.

Even the brand-new Star of the Seas faced issues. Just before its maiden voyage, a panel on Deck 15 shattered on August 26. Nearby guests reported hearing a loud pop as the glass broke without any apparent cause.

Possible Causes and Quick Responses

Royal Caribbean has not connected these incidents, and various factors could be at play. Glass can break due to impacts, manufacturing flaws, or weather stress. Each case might have a different root cause.

What remains consistent is the crew’s rapid response to secure areas and make repairs. This ensures minimal disruption to sailings. Passengers can be reassured that these breaks are rare events on ships carrying thousands of guests weekly.

Looking Ahead

With six incidents in such a short span, many cruisers are keenly observing if Royal Caribbean will provide further explanations. For now, the cruise line continues to prioritise passenger safety and seamless travel experiences.

Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas recently experienced a dramatic encounter with a rogue wave. The incident occurred as the ship was returning from a five-night cruise to Bermuda. Although the dining rooms were left in disarray, thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Unexpected Encounter with a Rogue Wave

The Vision of the Seas, a 78,340-gross-ton vessel, set sail from Baltimore on 20th September. As it made its way back to Maryland, a powerful wave struck, causing the ship to list heavily for several minutes. This unexpected event left passengers and crew in a state of shock.

Viral Video Captures the Chaos

A TikTok video capturing the incident quickly went viral. It shows plates and glassware sliding across the floor, with crew members trying to stabilise the situation. Diners clung to tables and chairs to avoid slipping. Liquor bottles smashed in the bar area, leaving glass scattered on the floor.

Despite the chaos, no one was injured. Some passengers lost their balance, and children were understandably frightened. However, the crew acted swiftly, cordoning off slippery areas and reassuring everyone. Their training and experience shone through, prioritising safety over the mess.

Crew Response Earns Praise

Vision of the Seas, built in 1998, is one of the older ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. It can carry over 2,000 passengers and is equipped with stabilisers to reduce movement. However, even modern technology can’t fully counteract the force of a rogue wave. These waves are rare and often twice the height of surrounding seas, making them hard to predict.

Passengers praised the crew for their calm response. One social media user highlighted a staff member’s “impressive catch” of a sliding cart. Another noted that while the clean-up was overwhelming, “safety clearly came first.” For some, the ship’s motion added to the experience, with one frequent cruiser likening it to being rocked to sleep.

What Exactly Is a Rogue Wave?

A rogue wave is a massive, unpredictable wall of water that appears suddenly. It is much larger than the surrounding waves. Scientists define them as waves at least twice the height of the significant wave height, which is the average of the largest waves in that area. These waves are rare but can be incredibly powerful.

In conclusion, while the encounter with the rogue wave was unexpected, the crew’s quick response ensured passenger safety. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea, even on a modern cruise ship.

Virgin Voyages Introduces New Fare System for Cruise Enthusiasts

Virgin Voyages is revolutionising the cruise booking experience. Starting 7th October 2025, the cruise line will unveil VoyageFair Choices. This innovative three-tier fare system aims to offer clearer pricing, enhanced flexibility, and greater transparency for travellers.

Why the Change?

Virgin Voyages has had a remarkable year. With the launch of its fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, demand for its adults-only cruises is soaring. The new fare system aligns with the brand’s commitment to clarity and choice, similar to what travellers expect from airlines and hotels. CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu emphasises that this change is about simplifying the booking process. It ensures that once onboard, the experience remains distinctly Virgin: elevated and unforgettable.

Introducing Three New Fare Tiers

The VoyageFair Choices system applies to Sea Terrace and below cabins. It offers three booking levels:

– **Base**: This is the most affordable, non-refundable option. It includes Basic WiFi for one device, a 15-day dining reservation window, and no changes to names, cabins, or dates.

– **Essential**: Closest to Virgin’s current pricing, this tier includes Classic WiFi for one device, a 45-day dining window, and the ability to adjust dates with a Future Voyage Credit. Name changes for additional guests are also allowed.

– **Premium**: This tier offers the most flexibility and perks. It includes Premium WiFi for two devices, a 60-day dining reservation window, a daily Bar Tab drinks credit, and priority support for pre-voyage booking.

For those in RockStar and Mega RockStar suites, the primary change is earlier dining access, now available 120 days before sailing. All other luxury inclusions remain unchanged.

Gratuities: A New Approach

Virgin Voyages is also changing how gratuities are handled. Previously included in fares, service charges will now be a separate line item during booking. Guests can pre-pay at $20 per person per night or settle onboard at $22 per person per night. Once covered, no additional tipping is expected onboard. This change aims to enhance transparency, allowing guests to see exactly how service charges are applied.

What Stays the Same?

Despite the new booking model, Virgin Voyages’ hallmark “Always Included Luxury” remains. Every fare still includes over $1,000 worth of value. This encompasses specialty dining from world-class chefs, unlimited group fitness, WiFi, soft drinks, and cutting-edge entertainment. John Lovell, Virgin Voyages Board Member and Senior Advisor, describes VoyageFair Choices as a model “built for the modern traveller.”

Virgin Voyages continues to set the standard for cruise travel, ensuring a seamless and luxurious experience for all its guests.

Concerns Raised by MV Gemini Crew

A crew member aboard the MV Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, has voiced serious concerns about their living and working conditions while the ship is in drydock. According to an anonymous message shared with the Facebook page Crew Center, the crew has faced significant hardships. They report that internet, electricity, and water are available for only two hours each day.

Living Conditions on Board

The crew member described the situation as “unbearable,” with extreme heat making it difficult to sleep. To cope, all doors are left open, and each room accommodates four people. The crew is uncertain about when they will be allowed to leave and have not received their salaries for three months. The plea was clear: “Please, don’t treat us like animals.”

Mixed Reactions from the Maritime Community

The post on Crew Center sparked varied reactions from other seafarers and cruise professionals. Some industry veterans suggested that challenging conditions are not uncommon during drydock periods. One commenter noted that disruptions to air conditioning, internet, and food services are expected. Another simply stated, “Dry dock is dry dock.”

Unpaid Salaries Raise Alarm

However, the issue of unpaid salaries for three months drew significant concern. Many commenters found this unacceptable and urged the crew to report the situation to maritime unions or authorities. Suggestions included contacting the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and the Norwegian Seafarers’ Union for support.

Understanding Drydock

Drydock is a necessary phase for cruise ships, involving maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This process ensures safety and compliance with international maritime regulations. For crew members, it often means long working days and temporary changes to amenities. However, conditions can vary significantly between companies.

Miray Cruises and the MV Gemini

Miray Cruises, based in Turkey, has operated the MV Gemini for several years. The ship is used for regional sailings and charter services. While some seafarers shared positive drydock experiences with other cruise lines, the situation on the MV Gemini highlights the need for prioritising crew welfare during these periods.

Cruising Ducks: A Fun Tradition with a Twist

Cruising ducks have become a delightful tradition for many holidaymakers at sea. Guests hide and seek small rubber ducks, adding a playful element to their cruise experience. However, a recent prank has caused a stir on Carnival Cruise Line ships.

The Prank Problem

The issue isn’t with the ducks themselves but with misleading tags attached to some of them. These fake labels feature Carnival’s whale tail logo and falsely promise a free drink at the casino bar. Carnival has confirmed that no such offer exists, leaving staff in the awkward position of denying guests who believe they’ve won a prize.

Brand ambassador John Heald has urged the pranksters to stop. He emphasised that it’s unfair to both guests and staff. If the prank continues, Carnival may have to reconsider its stance on the cruising ducks tradition.

Could Ducks Be Banned?

Carnival has always welcomed the cruising ducks trend as a fun guest-led activity. However, if the prank persists, the cruise line might need to impose restrictions. Other cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, have already banned ducks in certain areas due to past issues.

Some Carnival fans speculate that the prank is a deliberate attempt to end the duck tradition. One guest suggested it might be the work of someone who dislikes the ducks and wants them banned.

Past Prize Ducks

While Carnival has never officially offered prize ducks, there have been instances of promotional ducks on board. For example, jewellery retailer Effy once hid sparkling ducks as part of a store promotion. These ducks could be redeemed for prizes, but the event was independent of Carnival.

Some fans hope Carnival might one day introduce official prize ducks. These could offer rewards like a free drink, onboard credit, or the popular “ship-on-a-stick” trophy. For now, though, guests should remember that the ducks are purely for fun, and any claims of freebies are false.

Stay Informed

As the cruising ducks tradition continues, it’s essential for guests to stay informed. Enjoy the fun of finding and hiding ducks, but be wary of any misleading tags. For the latest Carnival cruise offers and updates, keep an eye on their official announcements.

What should have been a seamless repositioning cruise has turned into a challenging experience for some passengers aboard the Grand Princess. Technical difficulties have affected both the air conditioning and toilet facilities. The 16-night journey set sail from Los Angeles on 15th September 2025. The ship is transitioning from its Alaska season to new Caribbean routes from San Juan. Along the way, it will visit destinations like the Mexican Riviera, Costa Rica, Panama, and Aruba, before reaching Fort Lauderdale on 1st October.

Cooling Challenges and Plumbing Issues

As the ship moved from cooler northern climates to warmer regions, the air conditioning systems in some staterooms struggled. A letter to affected passengers mentioned that adjustments are needed to maintain comfortable temperatures. Simultaneously, parts of the ship’s plumbing system have faced disruptions. Princess Cruises explained that ongoing treatment is causing temporary issues, but engineers are working swiftly to restore full service. Although not all cabins are affected, the problems are significant enough for the cruise line to offer compensation.

Compensation for Affected Passengers

Guests with impacted staterooms are receiving partial refunds for the days they experienced disruptions. The refund excludes taxes, port fees, gratuities, and extras like drink packages. The amount varies based on each passenger’s cruise fare and the number of affected days. Additionally, Princess Cruises is offering a future cruise credit worth 25% of the full fare. This credit will appear in guests’ Captain’s Circle accounts after the voyage. It must be used on sailings booked by 1st April 2026, for departures no later than 1st April 2027. It remains unclear if this credit extends to all passengers or only those directly affected.

Should Every Technical Issue Lead to Refunds?

While many guests appreciate the financial relief, the situation raises questions about when cruise lines should offer compensation. Comfort levels can be subjective; one guest might find 20 degrees centigrade comfortable, while another might not. However, widespread issues like non-functioning toilets clearly need attention. Reporting problems promptly is crucial for guests to ensure they are addressed. Cruise lines can only fix issues they are aware of, and engineering teams always prioritise comfort and safety. Hopefully, the Grand Princess will resolve these issues before reaching Florida on 1st October, leaving guests with more pleasant memories of their journey.

The Latest Cruise Etiquette Debate

Cruise etiquette often sparks lively debates online. From reserving sun loungers to overloading plates at the buffet, there’s always something to discuss. The latest topic causing a stir? Where passengers are storing their SeaPass cards. And, I must confess, I might be one of those passengers being called out!

The Reddit Post That Started It All

A post on Reddit’s r/Cruise forum ignited the conversation. A passenger on Independence of the Seas expressed frustration, saying, “I’ve seen ladies reaching into their blouses to find their SeaPass, which was tucked in their bras.” The thread, humorously titled “Ladies – Get a lanyard,” described the habit as “frankly disgusting” for crew members and others who handle drink glasses afterward. The post quickly gained attention, with many sharing their views both for and against the practice. Interestingly, it was posted on 21st September 2025. Guess who was on that cruise and might have been using their bra as a cardholder? Yes, me.

Is It Really That Unhygienic?

I’ll admit it: I tucked my cruise card into my bikini top while on Independence of the Seas. But is it really that bad? In my opinion, breasts are cleaner than hands. Consider this: how many people actually wash their hands with soap and water every time they leave the bathroom or before visiting the buffet? I do, but not everyone does! Cruise lines even have staff at restaurant entrances urging people to wash their hands. Compared to that, a card from a bra seems less concerning. As one Reddit commenter aptly put it, “Boob sweat is the least of your worries, my guy.”

The Pocket Dilemma

Not everyone is a fan of lanyards. Some passengers dislike how they bounce or sway, especially in the hot sun. Wristbands could be a viable alternative. Virgin Voyages already uses them, and Princess Cruises offers the Medallion, which can be worn on a wristband. However, a significant part of the issue is women’s clothing. Why don’t more swimsuits, shorts, or dresses have decent pockets? A bra isn’t always the best place, but sometimes it’s the only option. One Redditor bluntly stated, “Dear clothing designers, why don’t you make pockets in clothing for women so they don’t need to use their bra?” I couldn’t agree more.

A Practical Solution

I recently discovered a swimming costume with built-in pockets. This could neatly solve the problem and keep everyone happy. It’s a simple yet effective solution that addresses the lack of pockets in women’s clothing. Perhaps it’s time for more designers to consider this practical addition. Until then, I’ll continue to find creative ways to keep my SeaPass card safe and sound.