Category: Cruise News

Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras Sets Sail Again

Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras is back on the water, refreshed and ready for her transatlantic journey to Florida. After a month-long dry dock at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard in France, the ship is now modernised and set to welcome guests. This 180,800-gross-ton vessel, Carnival’s first LNG-powered ship, embarked on her voyage from Barcelona on 16th October 2025.

Transatlantic Adventure

Mardi Gras is currently on a 15-day cruise across the Atlantic. The journey includes stops at Málaga, Cádiz, Tenerife, and Carnival’s new private island, Celebration Key. She is scheduled to arrive in Port Canaveral, Florida, on 30th October. Once there, she will resume her year-round Caribbean sailings, offering a versatile experience for families and guests.

Enhanced Comfort and Accessibility

The recent refurbishment focused on improving accessibility and comfort. Around 100 cabins were reconfigured with connecting doors, ideal for larger families and multi-generational groups. Public areas and corridors were also made more accessible. Cabins received modern updates to their fittings and furnishings, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Upgraded Entertainment and Retail

Carnival took the opportunity to enhance the ship’s entertainment and retail offerings. The casino was expanded and now features new slot machines. Several boutiques were remodelled to showcase luxury brands like Tag Heuer, Breitling, Pandora, and Swarovski. The Carnival Adventures shore excursions desk was redesigned for easier and faster booking, especially on busy embarkation days.

Subtle Yet Significant Refinements

While the dry dock didn’t drastically change Mardi Gras’ signature look, it introduced refinements to align her with Carnival’s newer vessels. These improvements build on the ship’s reputation as a modern, family-friendly flagship. They ensure she remains fresh and appealing for years to come.

Upcoming Caribbean Voyages

After her transatlantic crossing, Mardi Gras will relaunch with a 9-night Eastern Caribbean voyage on 30th October 2025. This journey will include stops at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, San Juan, Amber Cove, and Celebration Key. She will then continue with alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Highlights include Grand Turk, Roatán, Cozumel, and Nassau, depending on the route.

Mixed Reactions from Fans

Carnival fans have had mixed reactions to the upgrades. While some are pleased with the added features and improvements, others are still forming their opinions. Regardless, Mardi Gras continues to set the pace for Carnival’s fleet, offering an exciting and modern cruise experience.

Punctuality Matters in Cruise Dining

Cruise holidays are all about relaxation, but when it comes to dining, timing is key. Carnival Cruise Line has made it clear: if you’re late for your assigned dinner seating, expect to be redirected to the buffet. This policy was highlighted by Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, in a recent Facebook video. He addressed a complaint from a guest on the Carnival Pride who was turned away after arriving 35 minutes late.

Why Timeliness is Crucial

Traditional cruise dining relies on precise timing with early and late seating options. Arriving late disrupts the flow for the dining room staff, who need to serve, clear, and reset tables efficiently. Even a 15-minute delay can cause a ripple effect, impacting the experience for everyone. Heald emphasised that the policy isn’t about penalising guests but ensuring smooth operations for both diners and crew.

Support and Criticism from Passengers

Many passengers support Carnival’s approach, likening it to land-based restaurant policies where tables are released if guests are late. One cruiser shared, “A family was late every night, making it tough for our wait staff. Sending them to Lido is fair.” However, some guests pointed out that time zone changes can lead to unintentional lateness. One traveller confessed, “I missed dinner because I checked my phone instead of ship time, so I opted for pizza.”

Options for Latecomers

If you do miss your dining slot, don’t worry. Carnival’s Lido Marketplace offers a variety of dining options. You can still enjoy a delicious meal without the stress of rushing. This flexibility ensures that all guests have a pleasant dining experience, even if they miss their scheduled time.

Carnival Corporation’s Fleet Revamp: Exciting Updates for UK Cruise Enthusiasts

Carnival Corporation & plc is making waves with major refurbishments across its fleet. Three iconic ships, Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras, P&O Cruises’ Iona, and Princess Cruises’ Sapphire Princess, are undergoing significant upgrades. These enhancements are set to elevate guest experiences and improve sustainability and performance. Let’s dive into the details of these exciting developments.

Mardi Gras: A French Makeover

Carnival Cruise Line’s flagship, Mardi Gras, is currently in dry dock at Chantier Naval de Marseille, France. This marks her first major maintenance since her debut in 2021. The LNG-powered vessel, which can host around 5,200 guests, arrived in late September after a transatlantic journey from Port Canaveral.

The ship is receiving routine maintenance, class inspections, and a fresh coat of antifouling paint. Minor updates to public spaces are also on the agenda. Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald, has hinted at more exciting details to come. Mardi Gras will set sail again on 16th October 2025, embarking on a 14-night repositioning cruise from Barcelona to Port Canaveral. This voyage includes stops in Málaga, Cádiz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and Carnival’s new Bahamian destination, Celebration Key.

Iona: Rotterdam’s Refit

P&O Cruises’ Iona is also in dry dock for her first major refit since launching in 2021. The 183,900-ton LNG-powered ship is undergoing technical maintenance in Rotterdam. Iona is set to return to service on 23rd October 2025, just in time for a bustling winter season.

To accommodate the refit, two October 2025 cruises were cancelled. Affected passengers received full refunds and a £100 onboard credit for future bookings. Once back in action, Iona will offer a mix of short breaks and longer itineraries. Highlights include a 35-night Caribbean cruise departing from Southampton in early 2026, visiting destinations like St. Maarten, Antigua, and Barbados.

Why These Upgrades Matter

These refurbishments underscore Carnival Corporation’s commitment to enhancing its fleet. By investing in sustainability and guest experiences, the company ensures its ships remain top choices for cruise holidaygoers. For UK travellers, these updates promise more exciting itineraries and improved onboard amenities.

In conclusion, the upcoming enhancements to Mardi Gras, Iona, and Sapphire Princess are set to offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of Caribbean adventures or exploring Northern Europe, these ships will provide the perfect setting for your next cruise holiday. Keep an eye out for more updates as these ships prepare to set sail once again.

Norwegian Cruise Line Embraces Digital: A New Era for Cruise Programmes

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is making waves with a significant shift in its onboard experience. The cruise giant is phasing out printed daily programmes across its fleet. Instead, guests can now access the Freestyle Daily digitally via the NCL app or interactive stateroom TVs. This change marks a departure from a long-standing cruising tradition.

Digital Access to Freestyle Daily

The Freestyle Daily is a staple for cruise enthusiasts. It offers a schedule of the next day’s activities, from live shows to dining highlights. Previously, these were delivered nightly to cabins. Now, printed copies are available only upon request or at select pickup points onboard. This move aligns with recent policy changes, such as new dining fees and adjustments to the More at Sea drinks package.

A Shift Away From Paper

The transition to digital programmes is part of a broader industry trend. Cruise lines are reducing printed materials for environmental and operational reasons. While Norwegian hasn’t publicly commented, many believe it’s a cost-saving measure that also cuts down on paper waste. However, not all passengers are thrilled. Some prefer the ease of a printed programme over digital alternatives.

The Paper Debate: A Familiar Discussion at Sea

Norwegian isn’t alone in this shift. Carnival Cruise Line faced similar feedback when it reduced its printed newsletters. An environmentally conscious guest criticised the paper FunTimes newsletter as wasteful. Yet, when Carnival’s brand ambassador polled followers, most still favoured the printed version. Many passengers enjoy keeping the FunTimes as a souvenir or using it during their cruise.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

The debate over printed versus digital is ongoing. Some cruisers appreciate the nostalgia and convenience of paper. Others welcome the environmental benefits of going digital. A potential compromise could be allowing guests to opt out of receiving printed copies. This would cater to both traditionalists and eco-conscious travellers.

Looking Ahead

As cruise lines like Norwegian and Carnival navigate these changes, passenger feedback will be crucial. The balance between tradition and innovation is delicate. For UK cruise holidaygoers, staying informed about these shifts can enhance their travel experience. Whether you prefer paper or digital, the future of cruising promises to be exciting and ever-evolving.

A powerful storm has recently swept through the US Northeast, causing significant disruptions for cruise lines operating from New York-area ports. This unexpected weather event has left thousands of cruise passengers docked as heavy rain, rough seas, and strong winds battered the region. The severe conditions have temporarily halted pilotage services in New York Harbor, which are essential for all ship arrivals and departures, effectively grounding operations until the weather improves.

Impact on Major Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships globally, remains docked at Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey. This massive vessel, capable of accommodating over 5,500 guests, was scheduled to embark on a 7-night Bahamas cruise on 12th October 2025. The itinerary included stops at Port Canaveral, Nassau, and the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. However, due to the storm, the ship will remain in port until conditions are safe. The revised plan now includes only a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay before returning to New York. Passengers have been offered a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for the first two nights of their cruise fare and discounted drinks on the second day. Those with a Deluxe Beverage Package received a $35 onboard credit instead.

MSC and Norwegian Cruise Lines Adjust Plans

MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia, which can carry up to 5,642 passengers, has also been affected. The ship was set to depart from Brooklyn Cruise Terminal for a Bahamas cruise, visiting Port Canaveral, Nassau, and Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island. Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway, docked at Manhattan Cruise Terminal, was scheduled for a 7-night New England and Canada cruise. The ship, hosting around 3,900 guests, will now depart on 14th October with a revised itinerary, skipping Newport and Boston and heading directly to Bar Harbor. Norwegian Cruise Line has assured guests of automatic refunds for any cancelled shore excursions.

European Cruise Lines Face Delays

Luxury German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ MS Europa, which had just completed a 21-night East Coast voyage with 400 passengers, was set to depart New York for Hamburg on 13th October. This transatlantic repositioning cruise now faces delays. Similarly, Mein Schiff 1, operated by TUI Cruises, is in port for an overnight stay with nearly 4,000 guests. The ship is scheduled to sail late on 14th October and may avoid significant disruption if the weather improves by then.

Exploring New York City

Despite the delays, several ships have opened their gangways, allowing guests to explore the vibrant city of New York. This unexpected opportunity offers passengers a chance to enjoy the city’s attractions while waiting for their cruises to resume. As the storm passes, cruise lines and passengers alike are hopeful for clearer skies and smoother sailing ahead.

A New Era for Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises is embarking on an exciting new chapter. Under the ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group (AKTG), the luxury cruise line is constructing its first new ship in 25 years. This marks a significant milestone in the brand’s storied history.

### Key Milestones in Ship Construction

The new vessel is set to be delivered in May 2028. The construction process will kick off with a steel cutting ceremony in May 2026. Following this, the keel laying is scheduled for December 2026 at Fincantieri’s shipyard. These events mark the beginning of a new era for Crystal, showcasing their commitment to luxury and innovation at sea.

### A Commitment to Excellence

Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, emphasises the dedication behind this project. The team is focused on design, craftsmanship, and technical innovation. These milestones are not just about construction; they reflect a shared commitment with Fincantieri to deliver an exceptional ship on schedule, with meticulous attention to detail.

### Exciting Details to Come

The name of the new ship will be announced soon. Additional information about inaugural voyages and new suite categories is expected by the end of the year. The inaugural 2028 season will be available for booking in spring 2026, with a waitlist opening beforehand.

### Revitalising a Legendary Brand

Since Abercrombie & Kent acquired Crystal in 2022, the brand has been revitalised. The acquisition included Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, both of which have been refurbished and relaunched under the “Exceptional at Sea” banner. Crystal has long been associated with award-winning voyages, personalised service, and elevated design.

### Modern Luxury Cruising

Crystal is building on its heritage to redefine modern luxury cruising. Current ships offer spacious suites with artisanal finishes and an almost one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio. Exclusive partnerships include the first Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea, in collaboration with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer (SBM).

### World-Class Dining and Entertainment

Dining options are world-class, featuring Umi Uma® by Michelin-starred chef Nobu Matsuhisa and the only Beefbar at sea, curated by restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi. Guests can also enjoy comprehensive wellness offerings at the Aurōra Spa, Broadway-standard entertainment, and immersive shore excursions via Abercrombie & Kent’s renowned global network.

### A Bright Future for Luxury Cruising

With the new ship project underway, Crystal is reaffirming its position among the top luxury cruise lines. The focus is on artisanal design, bespoke itineraries, and authentic travel experiences. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury cruising, Crystal is a name to watch.

Carnival Cruise Line has recently revealed exciting details about its 2027–2028 itineraries. Among the highlights are a unique solar eclipse cruise and the return of popular routes. These new offerings include extended voyages from Texas and Europe, along with reassuring news for fans of the classic Fantasy-class ships.

Carnival Miracle’s Exciting Adventures

The Carnival Miracle is set to embark on an adventurous 2027 season from Galveston, Texas. Travellers can choose from a variety of 4- to 10-night cruises exploring the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Destinations include Cozumel, Grand Turk, Jamaica, and more. A 10-night Panama Canal cruise is also on the agenda.

After her spring season in Galveston, the Carnival Miracle will embark on a 14-night transatlantic journey. Departing on 6 May 2027, the ship will visit Bermuda, Funchal (Madeira), and Ponta Delgada (Azores). She will arrive in Portugal on 20 May 2027 to kick off her European season.

European Adventures Await

Once in Europe, the Carnival Miracle will homeport from Dover (UK) and Civitavecchia (Rome). She will offer 8- to 12-night itineraries through October 2027. These cruises will explore the British Isles, Scandinavia, Northern Europe, the Greek Isles, and the Mediterranean. It’s a perfect opportunity for cruisers to enjoy diverse summer adventures.

Witness a Solar Eclipse at Sea

Among the new itineraries, one stands out: an 11-night Carnival Journeys cruise. Departing from Dover on 29 July 2027, this voyage is perfectly timed to witness a solar eclipse at sea on 2 August 2027. The cruise will visit Guernsey, Lisbon, Leixões, La Coruña, Le Havre, and Zeebrugge. It’s a unique blend of scenic destinations and a celestial spectacle.

Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line president, expressed excitement about this special voyage. She noted that viewing the solar eclipse from the Carnival Miracle will be an unforgettable experience. Given the success of previous solar eclipse cruises, this 2027 voyage is expected to be in high demand.

Fantasy-Class Ships in Florida

While the Carnival Miracle explores new horizons, Carnival’s cherished Fantasy-class ships remain in Florida. These ships continue to offer beloved itineraries, ensuring that fans of these classic vessels have plenty of options to choose from.

Carnival Cruise Line’s 2027–2028 season promises a wealth of exciting opportunities for UK cruise holidaygoers. Whether you’re seeking a Caribbean escape, a European adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse experience, there’s something for everyone.

Introducing RU5H: A New Era in Cruise Travel

RU5H is set to revolutionise the cruise industry with its unique all-male, adult-focused voyages. This innovative travel and lifestyle brand made its debut on 28th September 2025 at San Francisco’s Folsom Street Fair. This annual festival is a major celebration of LGBTQ+ and kink communities. At the event, RU5H revealed its branding and announced plans for its first full-ship charter cruise, with more details to come in December 2025.

Luxury Meets Self-Expression

RU5H aims to blend luxury travel with a focus on “sex-positive freedom and creative self-expression.” The brand promises “unapologetically progressive experiences” through short cruises, resort takeovers, and themed events. According to its founders, RU5H is crafted for men eager to explore, connect, and celebrate themselves. The environment promises a balance of indulgence and hospitality.

The Five Themes of RU5H

The brand’s name, RU5H, cleverly incorporates five themes: sex, stimulation, submission, seduction, and satisfaction. The number five replaces the “s” in its stylised name. While marketed as an “all-gay, all-male” experience, RU5H welcomes gay, bisexual, pansexual, and male-identifying guests. The aim is to offer immersive and inclusive holidays “on their own terms.”

Upcoming Cruise Details

Details about the inaugural cruise, including dates, itinerary, and the partner cruise line, will be unveiled in December 2025. Prospective travellers can register their interest and view a teaser video at ru5h.com. There’s also a competition to win a place on one of these exciting cruises.

The Rise of Niche and Adult-Themed Cruises

RU5H is part of a growing trend in niche cruise markets catering to diverse lifestyles. Adult-only cruises have been around for decades, offering everything from sophisticated, clothing-optional sailings to LGBTQIA+ charters. These cruises focus on community, connection, and culture rather than sexual expression.

Exploring Different Cruise Experiences

Nudist or clothing-optional cruises often centre on body positivity and personal freedom. Guests enjoy a relaxed, non-judgemental atmosphere, free from social barriers. Similarly, LGBTQIA+ cruises celebrate queer identity with inclusive entertainment and themed parties. These sailings offer a sense of belonging and the chance to form new friendships.

RU5H: A Unique Travel Experience

RU5H’s upcoming launch targets those who embrace sexual freedom as part of their travel experience. For these men, RU5H could be the perfect short break cruise. For those seeking something more relaxed or community-focused, other options are available. The cruise industry continues to evolve, offering something for every traveller.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Recent Changes Stir Controversy

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has recently introduced changes that have left many loyal cruisers feeling frustrated. These changes include new restrictions on room service and alterations to the “More at Sea” beverage package. Many passengers view these updates as another instance of the cruise line “nickel-and-diming” its guests.

Room Service Restrictions Cause Confusion

Guests aboard the Norwegian Sun were the first to experience the new room service limitations. Each stateroom occupant is now restricted to ordering one hot item and one cold item per delivery. This change was quietly implemented between September and October sailings. It currently applies to the Norwegian Sun’s 16-night Hawaii to Vancouver voyage. However, it’s unclear if or when this policy will be extended to other ships.

The new rule has left many passengers puzzled. The policy does not clearly define what constitutes a “hot” or “cold” item. For example, it’s uncertain whether a pot of coffee, which serves multiple people, counts as a single item or one per guest. This ambiguity has led to confusion among cruisers.

Impact on Dining Experience

NCL’s room service already includes delivery fees. Breakfast incurs a $4.95 charge, while the all-day menu costs $9.95, plus a 20% gratuity on all paid orders. These fees remain unchanged, meaning guests are now paying the same rate for fewer options. This effectively prevents guests from enjoying a traditional three-course meal in their cabins without incurring additional delivery fees for multiple orders.

The recent introduction of a $5 fee for a second entrée in the main dining rooms has also sparked criticism. Many guests see this as an unnecessary cost-cutting measure disguised as a food waste reduction effort. While these updates might help NCL manage inventory and reduce waste, loyal guests argue that they detract from the all-inclusive appeal of cruising.

“More at Sea” Beverage Package Changes

Adding to the controversy, NCL has confirmed that, starting 1st March 2026, the “More at Sea” unlimited drink package will no longer be valid at Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line’s private island. This change has further frustrated guests who feel that the all-inclusive nature of their cruise experience is being eroded.

In conclusion, these recent changes by Norwegian Cruise Line have left many passengers feeling disillusioned. The new room service restrictions and beverage package alterations are seen as steps away from the all-inclusive experience that many cruisers cherish. As NCL continues to implement these changes, it remains to be seen how they will impact the overall cruise experience for their loyal guests.

Cruise Passengers Get Creative with Cabin Personalisation

Cruise enthusiasts are known for their creativity in customising their cabins. Sometimes, this creativity goes a bit too far. Recently, a Royal Caribbean passenger took this to a new level by moving a rollaway bed onto her private balcony for a nap.

A Viral Moment at Sea

This unusual scene was captured in a short TikTok video. Filmed from a nearby ship at Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, it shows the guest comfortably snoozing under a white comforter. A book rests on her lap, and a makeshift nightstand is beside her. The video quickly went viral, sparking a mix of amusement and concern.

Cruise Lines Warn: Balcony Beds Are a Safety Hazard

While some viewers found the stunt entertaining, others highlighted the safety risks. Most cruise lines have strict rules against moving furniture, especially beds, onto balconies. The primary concern is safety. Sleeping outside can increase the risk of falls or slips, especially if the ship encounters rough seas or sudden weather changes.

Keeping Exits Clear is Crucial

Another important reason for these rules is to ensure exits remain clear. A bed blocking the balcony door could become a dangerous obstacle during an emergency evacuation. Additionally, exposure to salty ocean air and moisture can damage mattresses and bedding, leading to mould or corrosion. So, while the idea of sleeping to the sound of waves is appealing, cruise lines advise against it.

Privacy Concerns: The Real Debate

Interestingly, the online debate focused more on privacy than safety. Many TikTok users criticised the person who filmed and shared the video, accusing them of invading the woman’s privacy. Comments poured in, defending the sleeper and questioning the ethics of filming someone minding their own business.

Do Cruise Passengers Have Privacy on Their Balconies?

The issue of privacy on cruise ship balconies is complex. While filming strangers is generally discouraged, balconies are a grey area. Passengers should be aware that their actions might be visible to others. However, respecting each other’s privacy remains a key aspect of cruise etiquette.

In conclusion, while personalising your cruise experience is part of the fun, it’s essential to consider safety and privacy. Enjoy your cruise, but always keep these factors in mind.