Category: Cruise News

Royal Caribbean Extends Labadee Suspension: What UK Cruise Holidaygoers Need to Know

Changes to Royal Caribbean Itineraries

Royal Caribbean has announced a significant change for its cruise itineraries. Visits to Labadee, Haiti, are suspended until at least April 2026. This affects passengers booked on eight different ships. The cruise line is informing travel agents and passengers about these changes.

Alternative Destinations for Cruise Enthusiasts

With Labadee off the list, Royal Caribbean is offering alternative ports. The Freedom of the Seas, departing on 1st November 2025, will now visit Grand Turk instead of Labadee and Nassau. The 15th November sailing will head to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, the 22nd December cruise will divert to Falmouth, Jamaica.

Other ships with updated itineraries include Adventure of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas. New destinations include Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Refunds and Excursion Adjustments

Passengers who booked Labadee shore excursions through Royal Caribbean will receive automatic refunds. The cruise line is working to offer alternative excursions where possible. If no substitute port is available, some cruises might include an extra day at sea.

Safety Concerns Prompting the Change

The decision to suspend visits to Labadee stems from safety concerns. Haiti is experiencing increased violence and instability. Although Labadee is far from the capital, Port-au-Prince, the overall situation remains volatile. The US Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Haiti.

Royal Caribbean had already cancelled Labadee visits through October 2025. This new extension is the longest yet. It reflects the need to ensure passenger safety and secure alternative ports for the busy Caribbean season.

Stay informed about the latest Royal Caribbean offers and updates. Keep an eye on new deals and alternative cruise destinations.

MV Gemini’s Unfortunate Docking Incident in Piraeus

On the morning of 5th September, the cruise ship MV Gemini, operated by Miray Cruises, encountered an unexpected mishap. While attempting to dock at the bustling port of Piraeus, Greece, the ship collided with the pier. This incident has raised concerns among cruise enthusiasts and industry experts alike.

Damage Assessment and Immediate Response

Preliminary inspections reveal that the MV Gemini sustained damage to its hull, specifically above the waterline. A crew member, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the ship’s unfortunate contact with the pier. This resulted in a significant hole in the hull’s side. “The problems seem to be mounting for this old lady,” the source remarked.

Repair and Inspection Requirements

Port authorities, alongside the ship’s technical team, are currently assessing the damage’s full extent. Before the MV Gemini can resume its voyages, necessary repairs must be completed. Both Greek port authorities and the vessel’s classification society are expected to demand a thorough inspection.

A History of Setbacks for MV Gemini

This incident adds to a series of challenges faced by the MV Gemini, a ship built in 1992. Earlier in March, the vessel experienced an engine room fire shortly after departing Piraeus. Smoke was visible on the upper decks, prompting passengers and crew to head to muster stations. Although the fire was quickly extinguished, the ship had to return to port at a reduced speed due to persistent engine issues.

Rare but Not Unheard of Incidents

While such incidents are rare, they do occur. In July 2023, Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess collided with Pier 27 in San Francisco. Both the pier and the ship suffered damage, but no injuries were reported. Passengers described feeling a heavy jolt at the moment of impact.

Other Notable Maritime Incidents

In May 2022, Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas made contact with a dock extension in Jamaica, resulting in material damage. Not all incidents involve piers, however. In December 2024, Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas was berthed in Nassau, Bahamas, when a yacht drifted into its stern. Fortunately, the cruise ship remained largely unscathed, and passengers experienced only a brief delay.

Understanding Maritime Allisions

Maritime officials classify incidents like these as allisions, where a moving vessel strikes a stationary object. This is distinct from a collision, which involves two moving ships. While rare, these events highlight the complexities and challenges of navigating large cruise ships in busy ports.

Princess Cruises Introduces New Tattoo Policy for Crew Members

Princess Cruises is set to implement a new tattoo policy for its crew members starting 10th September 2025. This change will affect around 30,000 staff across the fleet’s 17 ships. Previously, visible tattoos were allowed as long as they weren’t offensive. Now, all visible tattoos must be covered while on duty.

How Crew Members Can Comply

To adhere to the new guidelines, crew members can use neutral or skin-tone sleeves to cover tattoos on their arms and legs. For smaller tattoos, makeup or bandages are recommended. The aim is to present a more polished and consistent appearance across the fleet. This move also supports a respectful and inclusive environment for all guests.

Monitoring and Compliance

Supervisors and managers will oversee compliance with the new rules. However, Princess Cruises has not yet specified what disciplinary actions might be taken for non-compliance. Crew members with concerns are encouraged to reach out to Human Resources for guidance.

Policy Shift from Previous Guidelines

Previously, Princess Cruises allowed tattoos as a form of “reasonable self-expression.” Restrictions were mainly on neck and face tattoos or those with offensive content. The new policy aligns Princess more closely with its parent company, Carnival Corporation. Interestingly, Carnival Cruise Line still permits visible tattoos for its crew, highlighting a difference in corporate styles.

Exceptions and Dress Code

Exceptions to the new tattoo policy may be made for tattoos with religious or cultural significance. These will be reviewed individually by Princess Cruises’ Shoreside Head of Entertainment. Facial piercings remain banned, and jewellery is limited to discreet pieces. The dress code aims to ensure a polished image with clean, pressed uniforms and visible name tags.

Contrasting Moves in the Cruise Industry

This policy change contrasts with Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision in 2023 to relax its rules on tattoos, facial hair, and jewellery. NCL now allows visible tattoos, provided they aren’t on the face, head, or front of the neck. Crew members can also wear more jewellery and maintain facial hair, as long as it’s well-groomed. These changes reflect differing approaches within the cruise industry.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights into the evolving world of cruise travel.

Carnival Cruise Line Introduces New Non-Alcoholic Drinks Package

Carnival Cruise Line is making waves with its latest offering. The new CHEERS! Zero Proof package caters to guests who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. This package is a more affordable alternative to the all-inclusive alcoholic option and offers more variety than the existing soda plan.

Available from September 2025

Starting 15th September 2025, all Carnival ships will feature this new package. Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president, stated that the package was developed in response to guest demand for a more comprehensive non-alcoholic option. It’s a mid-range choice between the Bottomless Bubbles soda package and the all-inclusive alcoholic CHEERS! programme.

What’s Included?

The Zero Proof package is priced at $29.99 (USD) per person, per day if booked in advance. Onboard purchases will cost $34.99, with an 18% gratuity added. This means you’ll pay $35.39 per day if booked pre-cruise, and $41.29 if bought onboard. For Australian cruises, the prices are $39.99 (AUD) pre-cruise or $44.99 onboard.

The package includes a variety of drinks: soft drinks, juices, still and sparkling bottled water, coconut water, premium coffees and teas, mocktails, alcohol-free beer, alcohol-free sparkling wine, frozen non-alcoholic drinks, smoothies, milkshakes, bottled protein shakes, and energy drinks.

Exclusions and Restrictions

Certain items are not included, such as drinks in souvenir glasses, beverages at the gangway, room service items, mini-bars, and drinks at private events. Interestingly, guests must be 21 or older to order zero-proof cocktails, alcohol-free beer, and alcohol-free sparkling wine, despite these drinks containing no alcohol.

Flexible for Families and Groups

Unlike the full CHEERS! alcoholic package, not every guest in a stateroom needs to purchase the Zero Proof package. This flexibility is ideal for families or groups with different preferences. However, drinks cannot be shared between passengers, and the package does not cover drinks at ports of call, including private destinations like Celebration Key.

Important Considerations

If someone in your cabin opts for the full CHEERS! package, everyone must purchase the same one. You can’t mix and match with the Zero Proof package. This ensures consistency within the cabin.

A Long-Awaited Addition

Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, noted that guests frequently requested an upgraded non-alcoholic package. The Zero Proof package is unlimited, allowing guests to enjoy as many drinks as they like each day. It complements the long-standing Bottomless Bubbles package, offering more choices for non-alcoholic drinkers.

This new package is a welcome addition for those seeking a wider range of non-alcoholic options on their cruise holiday. Whether you’re a teetotaller or just looking to cut back, the CHEERS! Zero Proof package offers something for everyone.

Celebrity Cruises Ventures into River Cruising

Celebrity Cruises is making waves with its exciting foray into the river cruise market. Set to launch in 2027, Celebrity River Cruises will introduce a fleet of 10 luxurious river ships. These vessels will initially navigate Europe’s most renowned waterways, offering a fresh take on river cruising.

Redefining River Cruising

Inspired by the sleek design of Celebrity’s Edge Series ocean ships, the new river vessels promise to elevate the cruising experience. Expect top-notch hospitality, immersive itineraries, and cutting-edge ship design. The focus is on providing a premium travel experience that mirrors the luxury of Celebrity’s ocean voyages.

Innovative and Immersive Experiences

Celebrity River Cruises aims to offer more than just a journey. Guests can look forward to intimate and cultural itineraries, sailing through historic cities and stunning landscapes. The dining experience will be world-class, featuring locally-inspired cuisine that reflects the regions visited. Innovative ship designs will ensure panoramic views, allowing guests to fully appreciate the beauty of each destination.

Meeting Market Demand

The decision to enter the river cruise market is driven by growing demand. Jason Liberty, President and CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group, notes that many Celebrity guests have either experienced or plan to take a river cruise. By leveraging loyalty programs across the Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity aims to enhance customer engagement and offer seamless holiday options.

Exciting Itineraries Await

The new river cruise line will offer a range of exciting itineraries. Guests can explore the Danube, with routes from Vienna to Budapest and Vilshofen to Budapest, including festive Christmas market tours. The Rhine itineraries include journeys from Nuremberg to Amsterdam, Nuremberg to Basel, and Basel to Amsterdam.

Luxury and Culture Combined

Each ship is designed for luxury travellers seeking intimate yet enriching cultural experiences. With a focus on authentic local experiences and culturally immersive excursions, Celebrity River Cruises is set to captivate both seasoned cruisers and newcomers. The blend of luxury and culture promises an unparalleled river cruising experience.

Discover More

For those eager to learn more, an e-brochure is available detailing the itinerary options. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to river travel, Celebrity River Cruises offers a unique opportunity to explore Europe’s iconic rivers in style.

Based on the following article, write a blog post focusing on SEO and clarity. Be creative, change the wording, sentence structure, vocabulary and paragraph ordering as much as possible. This should not look plagiarised. Make it sound natural. Use short sentences and paragraphs for readability, aiming for a high flesch score – every paragraph should be maximum 2 to 3 sentences. Most sentences should have less than 20 words. Also use transition words and an active tone of voice. Ensure it’s optimised for British English and cruise travel keywords. This is for a blog post for my blog tailored to UK cruise holidaygoers. Use clear subheadings with html. tags (no asterisks, hashes or any other signs before subtitles – just use h2 tags). Do not include any title tags or h1 tags. You must only respond with the modified content: Carnival Cruise Line, traditionally one of the most family-friendly cruise lines in the world, is offering a series of adults-only cruises on a handful of its ships. The sailings are called SEA sailings, which stands for Sailings Exclusively for Adults, and there are a limited number of itineraries available for guests aged 21 and over. Making the Most of Unexpected Availability The SEA sailings were announced as a result of two ships in the fleet needing to reschedule their planned dry dock renovations, after schedule clashes. With both Carnival Magic and Carnival Conquest now having unexpected downtime, the cruise line announced that it intended to use those windows to try out something different – with itineraries also announced for a couple of other ships. “The adults-only cruises are a result of scheduling conflicts with planned dry docks for some ships, and Carnival decided to fill those slots with casino-themed events,” Carnival statement Rather than offer them as regular cruises, they have instead been marketed more to members of the Carnival Players Club, the cruise line’s casino loyalty programme. This makes sense, since the cruise line can hope to bring as many of these guests onto the cruise, who have a habit of being some of the highest-spending Carnival guests, maximising the revenue for these unusual sailings. To support this, the cruise line has made some changes to the casino rules onboard for these sailings, extending the hours of opening, increasing the number of tournaments, and hosting themed casino parties. More crew will be employed on the bars as well, so that guests can be served drinks faster, and wait staff will be able to deliver drinks to casino players to ensure they make the most of their time at the machines or tables. The cruise line has confirmed that they will not be transitioning to an adults-only cruise line in the future, something which brand ambassador John Heald has reiterated. There will also be some additional perks offered to guests during these cruises, depending on their VIFP loyalty status, which may include up to $150 in onboard credit, free WiFi packages, or gifts in their stateroom. Itinerary Options Explored There are only a limited number of SEA cruises available with Carnival, since they are replacing the previously-scheduled dry dock windows. Carnival Conquest is offering the following SEA cruises, all from Miami: 22nd August 2025 – 9-night Southern Caribbean cruise 31st August 2025 – 12-night Southern Caribbean cruise 12th September 2025 – 9-night Eastern Caribbean cruise 21st September 2025 – 10-night Southern Caribbean cruise 5th January 2026 – 12-night Southern Caribbean cruise 17th January 2026 – 13-night Southern Caribbean cruise Carnival Magic’s SEA cruises from Miami are: 18th October 2025 – 7-night Bahamas cruise including Celebration Key and Half Moon Cay 25th October 2025 ?

Royal Caribbean’s New Dining Policy: What UK Cruise Holidaygoers Need to Know

Royal Caribbean is set to implement a new policy aimed at enhancing the dining experience on its ships. Soon, guests who reserve a table at speciality restaurants but fail to show up will incur a no-show fee. This change is designed to maximise dining opportunities for all passengers.

Why the New Policy?

Speciality dining venues like Izumi and the Lincoln Park Supper Club on Star of the Seas are incredibly popular. These restaurants often reach full capacity well before the cruise begins, especially during formal nights and holiday sailings. The no-show fee aims to discourage guests from making reservations they don’t intend to keep, ensuring more diners can enjoy these exclusive experiences.

How the Fee Will Work

While the exact fee details are still under wraps, it could be a fixed penalty or a percentage of the restaurant’s cover charge. A 50% fee is a likely option. Currently, Royal Caribbean allows free cancellations up to four days before embarkation or anytime onboard if cancelled more than 24 hours in advance. Within 24 hours, a minimum $10 charge applies. The new policy will tighten these rules further.

Exemptions to the Rule

There are two notable exemptions to this new policy. Guests who have already purchased a Dining Package and those booked in Star Class suites will not face the no-show fee. However, it’s still unclear if newly purchased dining packages will also be exempt.

The Impact of No-Shows

While it might seem trivial for a few tables to remain empty, speciality restaurants operate with limited seating and precise timings. Venues offering entertainment, such as live music or theatrical hibachi cooking, can’t easily accommodate last-minute changes. Unclaimed reservations disrupt staff preparation and prevent other guests from enjoying the experience. With thousands of passengers onboard, even a few no-shows can lead to many disappointed diners.

Encouraging Fairness and Accessibility

The new policy is not intended as a punishment. Instead, it serves as an incentive for guests to cancel in advance if their plans change. This approach keeps the system fairer for everyone and ensures Royal Caribbean’s most sought-after dining options remain accessible.

Royal Caribbean’s new no-show fee policy is a step towards improving the dining experience for all guests. By encouraging passengers to honour their reservations, the cruise line aims to make its speciality dining venues more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

h2>Royal Caribbean’s New Milestone: Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has reached a significant milestone with its latest Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas. The ship recently floated out at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. This event, held on 29th August 2025, marked the first time the 248,000-tonne vessel touched water.

h2>Construction Progress

The float-out indicates that the ship’s exterior is nearly complete. Now, the focus shifts to the interiors, technical systems, and final outfitting. The ship will soon see work on its 2,805 staterooms, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues. Once the fitting-out process concludes, sea trials will commence. The ship is set to be handed over to Royal Caribbean in 2026.

h2>Future Plans

As Legend of the Seas enters its outfitting phase, Meyer Turku is also laying the keel for the fourth Icon Class ship. This new vessel is expected to set sail in 2027. Legend of the Seas is the third ship in the Icon Class, following the record-breaking Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas.

h2>Iconic Features

The float-out of Legend of the Seas follows the installation of the AquaDome in July. This glass-topped structure is a signature feature of the Icon Class. It adds a unique touch to the ship’s design and promises to be a highlight for guests.

h2>Inaugural Voyages

Legend of the Seas is set to debut on 2nd August 2026. The inaugural voyage is a 7-night Western Mediterranean cruise departing from Barcelona. The itinerary includes stops in Palma de Mallorca, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, and Naples. This offers a fantastic opportunity for UK and European cruise enthusiasts to experience the Icon Class without travelling to the US.

h2>Winter Adventures

After its European season, Legend of the Seas will head to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The ship’s winter itineraries will feature Caribbean and Bahamas sailings. Highlights include a short preview cruise to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

h2>Learning from the Past

Royal Caribbean hopes for a smooth debut for Legend of the Seas, unlike the launch of Star of the Seas. The latter faced challenges, including a last-minute godmother cancellation and a man overboard alert. Fortunately, the incident ended safely, and the ship continued its journey. Royal Caribbean aims to ensure a seamless experience for Legend of the Seas’ inaugural season.

Stay Alert: Cruise Travel Safety Tips for UK Holidaygoers

British cruise enthusiasts venturing to Europe’s iconic destinations should remain vigilant. Concerns about theft and pickpocketing persist in popular ports. Even in beloved regions like the Mediterranean, some bustling cities pose significant risks for tourists.

Expert Advice from Gary Bembridge

Gary Bembridge, a seasoned cruise expert from London, emphasises caution. He notes that not every port is as safe as it seems. Despite the constant arrival of cruise ships, risks remain. In his travel videos, he warns that even the Caribbean and Mediterranean have ports that rank among the world’s riskiest.

Five Ports to Watch Out For

Bembridge identifies several European cities where extra caution is necessary:

Barcelona, Spain

Despite a recent drop in crime, Barcelona’s Las Ramblas district is notorious for pickpocketing. Bembridge describes it as a “pickpocketer’s dream.”

Rome, Italy

Rome ranks second in Italy for reported crimes, with thefts making up a significant portion. Tourists near landmarks like the Colosseum are frequent targets.

Venice, Italy

St Mark’s Square and Venice’s narrow alleyways are prime spots for opportunistic thieves. The city’s crowds create ideal conditions for pickpocketing.

Athens, Greece

Public transport in Athens is a hotspot for theft, including passport thefts. In 2023, Greek police recorded over 62,000 thefts nationwide.

Livorno, Italy

Livorno serves as a gateway to Pisa and Florence, cities known for high pickpocketing rates. Florence ranks third in Italy for crime, according to the Interior Ministry.

Staying Safe Ashore

Bembridge advises checking government travel guidance before disembarking. Staying vigilant in busy tourist areas is crucial. He suggests having contact details for the port representative for emergencies.

Safety Tips for Cruise Travellers

To enhance safety, avoid wearing or carrying valuables. Stick to busy, tourist-populated areas. Keep passports and important documents secure, with copies stored separately. Be wary of distraction techniques used by thieves.

Official Warnings

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office echoes these warnings. They highlight theft risks in city centres and on public transport in Spain, Italy, and Greece. For some, staying close to the port or remaining onboard might be the safest choice.

Additional Port Warnings

In my own survey, I found ports that cruisers regret visiting, though not solely due to crime. It’s essential to stay informed and cautious, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cruise holiday.

Royal Caribbean Enhances ‘The Key’ VIP Programme for Cruise Enthusiasts

Royal Caribbean has introduced exciting updates to its exclusive VIP programme, The Key. This add-on package already offered fantastic benefits like priority boarding, carry-on luggage drop-off, and reserved seating for shows. Now, with new perks and enhanced discounts, it promises even more value for cruise holidaygoers.

Enhanced Discounts on Sports Activities

One of the most significant updates is the increased discount on sports activities. Previously, guests enjoyed a 25% saving, but now The Key members can benefit from a 50% discount on select onboard activities. Depending on the ship, this could mean reduced rates for experiences like Crown’s Edge on Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, Ripcord by iFly on Quantum-class ships, or additional FlowRider sessions.

New Spa Discount

Another enticing addition is a new spa discount. Guests can now save $60 on spa treatments priced at $250 or more. This offer is perfect for those looking to indulge in massages, detox wraps, IV therapy, or cosmetic services like teeth whitening. However, it’s important to note that this discount is a one-time use per guest.

Comprehensive Benefits of The Key

Here’s a quick rundown of what The Key offers:

– Priority access into the terminal on embarkation day
– Carry-on bag drop-off with stateroom delivery
– Exclusive welcome lunch
– Priority departure at tender ports
– VIP access to live shows
– VOOM Surf & Stream internet
– Exclusive breakfast on departure day
– $60 discount on a spa treatment priced $250+
– 50% off select sporting activities onboard

Is The Key Worth the Price?

The Key is priced between $25-40 (or more) per person, per day. All passengers over six years old in the same stateroom must purchase it. For families, this can quickly add up, often exceeding $1,000 for a weeklong cruise. However, many travellers find the convenience, discounts, and priority access make it worthwhile. If you were already considering a WiFi package, The Key might be a valuable option.

Stay Updated on The Key Offers

Royal Caribbean frequently updates The Key’s offerings based on guest feedback. Earlier in 2025, they replaced FlowRider access with the original 25% sports activity discount, and now they’ve enhanced the package further. Keep an eye on the cruise line’s app or website, as The Key is sometimes available at up to 40% off. Remember, packages are limited for each sailing and can sell out quickly.

For those planning a cruise holiday, these updates make The Key an even more attractive option. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these enhancements could add significant value to your Royal Caribbean experience.