Category: Cruise News

Guests boarding Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas in Vancouver on 15th May 2026 encountered an unexpected change to their Alaska cruise itinerary. The cruise, originally set to conclude in Seward, would now end in Whittier. This adjustment was due to ongoing construction at the Seward passenger dock. Passengers were informed just a day before embarkation, with Royal Caribbean expressing regret for the last-minute change. The cruise line assured guests that the onboard team would provide assistance to ensure a smooth departure experience.

Why Whittier?

Whittier, located about 50 miles northeast of Seward, is a well-equipped port for large cruise ships. It is frequently used as a turnaround port for Alaska cruise itineraries. Royal Caribbean confirmed that guests with post-cruise transfers or land tours booked through the cruise line would have their arrangements automatically adjusted. However, passengers who had independently arranged transport or accommodation were advised to contact their providers to reorganise plans.

Impact on Future Sailings

The change also affected the next southbound sailing of Ovation of the Seas, departing on 22nd May 2026. Passengers on this voyage were informed in advance, allowing them more time to adjust flights, hotels, and transportation. Royal Caribbean clarified that the operational change was not due to any issues with the ship itself. The 168,666-gross-ton Quantum-class vessel continued normal operations, with no changes to ports of call or onboard programming.

Looking Ahead

At the time of the notification, no similar changes had been announced for subsequent Alaska sailings on 29th May and 5th June. This suggested that the construction in Seward might be completed in time for later voyages to resume as planned. The passenger dock replacement project in Seward is a collaborative effort involving Alaska Railroad, Royal Caribbean Group, Turnagain Marine, and the Seward Company. Officials anticipated the upgraded facility would reopen in spring 2026.

Homeport Changes: Rare but Possible

While changes to cruise homeports are rare, they do happen occasionally. Such adjustments can occur due to weather events, infrastructure projects, or emergencies. In this case, the construction work in Seward necessitated the change, highlighting the importance of flexibility in cruise travel plans.

MSC Cruises has enhanced the dining options on MSC Seashore by introducing two new complimentary grab-and-go venues. These additions aim to provide passengers with more casual meal choices during their cruise holiday. The Chicken Man and Red Cactus BBQ & Ribs are the latest offerings, both included in the cruise fare at no extra cost.

Discover The Chicken Man on Deck 18

Located on the main pool deck, The Chicken Man is perfect for those enjoying the outdoors. It offers quick-service chicken tenders, fries, and chicken sandwiches from a convenient walk-up counter. Guests can personalise their meals with a selection of sauces. Nearby shaded seating allows for a relaxed dining experience with stunning ocean views.

Explore Red Cactus BBQ & Ribs on Deck 8

Red Cactus BBQ & Ribs is situated near the aft infinity pool and serves both breakfast and lunch. Morning options include barbecue burritos and pulled pork hash, while lunch features American barbecue classics like pulled pork and beef brisket. Side dishes such as baked beans and macaroni and cheese complement the main offerings. The venue also has two service lines to minimise queues, and dessert lovers can indulge in banana pudding and cookie pecan butter pie.

Flexible Dining Options

The introduction of these venues aligns with MSC Cruises’ ongoing efforts to expand onboard dining experiences, especially for ships sailing from North America. The launch follows the “Dine on Your Time” programme, which began on 19th April 2026. This initiative offers passengers more flexibility with main restaurant dining schedules, enhancing their overall cruise experience.

Experience MSC Seashore

MSC Seashore, a 170,400-gross-ton vessel, boasts a wide array of specialty dining venues. Options include Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos and Cantina, Kaito Sushi Bar, and Ocean Cay restaurant. The ship also features 18 bars and lounges for guests to enjoy. Homeported from Port Canaveral, MSC Seashore offers 3- and 4-night Bahamas sailings and 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries. Depending on the chosen voyage, the ship visits destinations like Nassau, Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

MSC Cruises continues to innovate and enhance the dining experience for its passengers, ensuring a memorable cruise holiday.

P&O Cruises has taken a proactive step to address the ongoing issue of reserving sun loungers by introducing new warning covers on some of its poolside beds. Although the cruise line hasn’t officially announced a new policy, passengers on recent warm-weather cruises have noticed these fabric covers. They serve as a reminder for guests not to leave loungers unattended for long periods.

This initiative follows a recent legal case in Germany, where a tourist successfully sued for compensation after struggling to find a sun lounger during a family holiday in Greece. According to BBC News, the traveller spent about 20 minutes each day searching for a free lounger, even waking up at 6am to secure a spot. The court ruled in his favour, awarding him a refund and additional compensation, emphasising the need for holiday companies to ensure fair access to loungers.

New Lounger Covers Spotted On P&O Ships

Passengers on P&O Cruises have shared images online of loungers with branded covers that discourage reserving. The covers display a message: “Loungers get lonely. Please don’t reserve. If left for more than 30 minutes, belongings will be moved to the lonely lounger pick up point.” This visible reminder reinforces the cruise line’s existing rules against reserving loungers for extended periods.

P&O Cruises, which primarily sails from Southampton to destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Norwegian Fjords, often faces the same pool deck challenges seen at European resorts during peak seasons. Online comments from passengers have been largely supportive of these enforcement efforts, especially on busy sea days when finding a free lounger can be challenging.

One cruiser shared a humorous experience from their first cruise in December, where a group of older women frequently reserved loungers. They were upset when their belongings were removed, much to the amusement of other guests. Another passenger expressed relief, stating that the move was long overdue, as finding a lounger to dry off after a swim was often difficult.

A guest aboard P&O Cruises’ ship Britannia earlier this year noted that crew members actively enforced these rules, ensuring fair access to loungers for all passengers.

Passenger Dies Amid Suspected Norovirus Outbreak on Cruise

A tragic incident has occurred aboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition, where a 90-year-old woman has died following a suspected norovirus outbreak. The ship, currently docked in Bordeaux, has seen dozens of passengers and crew members experiencing symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. Although the exact cause of death has not been confirmed, the symptoms align with those of norovirus.

Enhanced Health Measures Implemented

In response to the outbreak, Ambassador Cruise Line has implemented stringent cleaning and health protocols. Passengers have been asked to remain in their cabins temporarily while testing and monitoring are underway. This is a precautionary measure to prevent further spread of the virus.

Understanding Norovirus on Cruise Ships

Norovirus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly in communal environments like cruise ships, hotels, and schools. Despite rigorous sanitation procedures, the virus can still pose a challenge due to its ability to spread through minimal contact. Dr Lucy Hooper, co-founder of Coyne Medical, explains that norovirus, often referred to as stomach flu, can be transmitted through surfaces, making it easy to catch by touching common items like door handles or buffet tongs.

Current Situation in Bordeaux

The outbreak was first reported on 11th May 2026, with the ship carrying approximately 1,700 passengers, including many from the UK. French authorities are currently overseeing the situation, conducting tests and implementing precautionary measures. It remains uncertain how long the ship will stay in Bordeaux as health teams continue their monitoring efforts.

Cruise Lines’ Commitment to Safety

Cruise operators are committed to maintaining high sanitation standards across their fleets. They employ enhanced cleaning, isolation measures, and onboard medical support to swiftly address any outbreaks. While norovirus cases on cruises are relatively rare compared to the vast number of passengers cruising each year, they often attract significant attention due to the close-knit nature of cruise holidays.

The final passengers have disembarked from the MV Hondius, a cruise ship recently affected by a hantavirus outbreak. Health authorities have confirmed three additional cases linked to this deadly virus. The ship set sail from Tenerife to the Netherlands on Monday after the last six passengers, including four Australians, one Briton, and one New Zealander, left the vessel along with several crew members.

The outbreak has tragically resulted in three passenger deaths, with two confirmed as hantavirus cases. According to the World Health Organization, there are now nine confirmed cases connected to the ship, with two more suspected infections under investigation. The latest confirmed cases include an American and a French national who tested positive after returning home. Spanish authorities also reported a quarantined passenger in Madrid provisionally tested positive on Monday.

Despite concerns, health officials maintain that the risk of a widespread outbreak remains low. The rare Andes strain of hantavirus, believed to have been contracted during the cruise’s South American itinerary, is typically spread by rodents. However, it is one of the few strains capable of limited human-to-human transmission. Symptoms can include fever, severe fatigue, muscle pain, stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhoea, and breathing difficulties.

International Repatriation Effort Continues

Repatriation efforts are ongoing for passengers and crew from over 20 countries. US health officials confirmed that a second American passenger repatriated from Tenerife developed mild symptoms. Both infected passengers travelled in specialised biocontainment units as a precaution. In France, Health Minister Stéphanie Rist reported that a French passenger isolating in Paris had seen her condition worsen, with 22 close contacts already traced.

Two British nationals with confirmed hantavirus infections are receiving treatment in the Netherlands and South Africa. Meanwhile, 20 Filipino crew members have arrived in the Netherlands, where they will undergo testing and quarantine. A total of 38 Filipino crew members will eventually need repatriation to the Philippines.

As of Monday evening, Oceanwide Expeditions reported that 27 people remained aboard the vessel, including 25 crew members and two medical staff. The crew includes members from the Philippines, Ukraine, Russia, Poland, and the Netherlands. Ukrainian officials stated their nationals would help sail the ship back to the Netherlands before entering quarantine upon arrival. Over 90 passengers have already been repatriated from the ship.

Tragic Incident at Celebration Key

An unfortunate accident occurred at Celebration Key in The Bahamas, resulting in the death of an elderly passenger aboard the Carnival Celebration. The incident took place around midday on Saturday, 9th May 2026, during the final day of the ship’s 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. The cruise had set sail from PortMiami on 3rd May.

Details of the Accident

The victim, an 88-year-old American woman, was travelling on a mobility scooter when she reportedly lost control near the pier’s edge. Both she and the scooter fell into the water. It is unclear whether she was returning to the ship or heading ashore at the time. Investigators suspect she may have hit her head during the fall.

Emergency Response

Rescue teams quickly retrieved the woman from the water and brought her aboard the ship, which served as the nearest medical facility. Despite extensive resuscitation efforts, she was pronounced dead. Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the incident, expressing condolences to her family. The Royal Bahamian Police Department and the coroner’s office took custody of the deceased.

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities in The Bahamas are investigating the accident’s circumstances. An autopsy will determine the official cause of death. It remains uncertain whether a medical episode, a mechanical issue with the scooter, or another factor led to the loss of control.

Witness Accounts

The incident was witnessed by many passengers from both Carnival Celebration and Carnival Glory, which was also docked at Celebration Key. With the ship accommodating over 5,300 guests, hundreds were present during the emergency. Passengers described a chaotic scene, with announcements made over the ship’s public address system. Some reported seeing CPR performed after the woman was brought back onboard.

Efforts to Assist

Eyewitnesses suggested that another individual, possibly the woman’s husband, entered the water to assist her before rescue teams arrived. Local police and crime scene investigators later secured the area, and divers recovered the mobility scooter from the seabed. The investigation continues as authorities seek to understand the tragic event.

Two passengers on the Carnival Spirit cruise ship are facing federal assault charges following a heated dispute over a priority Guest Services queue. The incident occurred in March 2026 during a Bahamas cruise, as the ship sailed from Mobile, Alabama. Reports from Fox 10 News indicate that the altercation took place near the end of the voyage on Deck 2, where guests were queuing at the Guest Services desk.

Authorities report that Tonya Nelson confronted Lisa Horace, who was allegedly standing in a line reserved for Diamond and Platinum members of Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP loyalty programme. Nelson attempted to alert Horace to the dedicated queue by tapping her husband on the shoulder. The situation escalated when Horace allegedly threatened to slap Nelson. Although it’s unclear who initiated the physical confrontation, both women reportedly exchanged slaps, which then led to kicking and other aggressive behaviour. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

Since the incident occurred in international waters, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has jurisdiction over the case. Both women have been charged with simple assault and are required to appear in federal court in Mobile on 13th May 2026. Carnival Cruise Line has not commented publicly, but investigators have reviewed surveillance footage from the ship as part of their investigation.

Priority Guest Services Lines Can Cause Frustration

This incident underscores the importance some cruise passengers place on loyalty programme perks, especially when ships become crowded towards the end of a voyage. Dedicated Guest Services queues for Diamond and Platinum VIFP members are among Carnival’s most valued benefits, allowing frequent cruisers to bypass long waits. However, it remains uncertain whether Horace was in the wrong queue. Passengers who purchase Carnival’s Faster to the Fun package can also use the priority line, regardless of their loyalty status. If Horace had this package, she would have been entitled to access the queue.

Long lines at Guest Services are common during the final days of a cruise. Passengers often need to review onboard spending, resolve billing issues, ask questions about disembarkation, or address concerns related to their Sail & Sign accounts. With Carnival Spirit accommodating up to 2,124 guests at double occupancy, even a small number of passengers seeking assistance can lead to lengthy queues. In recent years, Carnival has occasionally reduced or removed dedicated priority lines on some sailings when there are unusually high numbers of passengers.

Carnival Cruise Line Faces Booking Controversy

Carnival Cruise Line recently faced a wave of cancellations for its upcoming ship, Carnival Festivale. An IT glitch over the weekend led to cruises being sold at significantly reduced prices. During planned IT maintenance, some sailings on the eagerly awaited Excel-class ship were mistakenly listed at prices as low as $375 per person for balcony cabins.

Immediate Response to the Error

Guests quickly took advantage of these deals before the cruise line removed the fares. Carnival then began contacting affected passengers. In emails to these guests, Carnival confirmed that the bookings would not be honoured, citing a technical issue. The cruise line assured that reservations were cancelled and any payments made would be fully refunded.

Compensation and Reactions

As a gesture of goodwill, Carnival offered affected guests $100 onboard credit for a future booking made before 31st August. This decision sparked mixed reactions on social media. Many guests expressed frustration over the cancellations and the level of compensation. One guest was particularly upset, questioning the limited credit offer and expressing doubt about booking with Carnival again.

Mixed Opinions on Social Media

While some guests were angry, others defended Carnival’s decision. They argued that the prices were clearly too low for a brand-new ship entering service in 2027. One user noted that when something seems too good to be true, it usually is. They appreciated the onboard credit as a goodwill gesture, acknowledging that Carnival could have simply cancelled without compensation.

Industry-Wide Challenges

This incident is not unique to Carnival. Cruise lines, airlines, and hotels have all faced similar situations when technical faults or human errors release “mistake fares” online. While some companies honour these bookings for goodwill, many rely on terms and conditions that allow cancellations when pricing errors occur.

Anticipation for Carnival Festivale

Despite the controversy, excitement continues to build around Carnival Festivale. Scheduled to enter service in spring 2027, it will be the fourth ship in Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel class. As anticipation grows, the cruise line aims to resolve the current issues and focus on delivering an exceptional experience for future passengers.

MSC Cruises Ventures into Alaska

MSC Cruises has made a grand entrance into the Alaska cruise market. On 11th May, MSC Poesia set sail from Seattle, marking the line’s inaugural journey in this stunning region. The ship will offer weekly seven-night cruises from Seattle until September 2026. Passengers will explore Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Juneau in Alaska, as well as Victoria in Canada. Each itinerary promises breathtaking views of Dawes Glacier during scenic cruising through Endicott Arm.

Seattle: The New Summer Homeport

This launch signifies a major expansion for MSC Cruises in North America. Seattle has become the summer homeport for MSC Poesia. The ship is set to return to Alaska in April 2027, with bookings for next year’s sailings already available. This move highlights MSC’s commitment to offering diverse cruise experiences.

Revamped MSC Poesia Sets Sail

Before embarking on its Alaska programme, MSC Poesia underwent significant upgrades. The ship now features the MSC Yacht Club, a luxurious ship-within-a-ship concept. Guests can enjoy an enhanced MSC Aurea Spa, a state-of-the-art MSC Gym powered by Technogym, and new workout studios. Dining options have expanded with the addition of Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar.

Alaska-Inspired Culinary Delights

For the Alaska season, MSC has introduced a regional food and drink programme. Guests can savour expanded seafood options and warming drinks inspired by the destination. This culinary focus enhances the overall cruise experience, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Entertainment and Activities On Board

Entertainment on MSC Poesia is diverse and engaging. Guests can enjoy “Dirty Dancing: In Concert,” live music, comedy shows, and themed parties. Family activities and expert talks offer insights into Alaska’s wildlife, geography, and culture. These activities ensure there’s something for everyone on board.

Partnership with ORCA for Marine Research

MSC Cruises has partnered with marine conservation organisation ORCA. During peak whale season, an ORCA-trained Marine Mammal Observer will be on board. This collaboration supports research, crew training, and guest education, enhancing the cruise experience with valuable insights into marine life.

Future Sailings and Pricing

After the 2026 Alaska season, MSC Poesia will transition to Caribbean sailings for winter 2026/2027. The ship will also offer MSC Grand Voyage sailings via the Panama Canal between Miami and Seattle. Prices for a seven-night Alaska cruise on MSC Poesia, departing Seattle on 20th July 2026, start from £629 per person. Don’t miss out on the latest MSC Cruises offers for an unforgettable holiday experience.

Disney Cruise Line recently faced an unexpected challenge when it had to cancel a sailing of its newest and largest ship, Disney Adventure. Thousands of guests had already boarded and spent a night on the ship in Singapore. The 208,100-gross-ton vessel was scheduled to embark on a four-night cruise to nowhere from Marina Bay Cruise Centre on 7th May 2026. However, due to technical issues, the cruise was called off the following afternoon.

Guest Communication and Compensation

Disney Cruise Line promptly informed passengers of the cancellation through a letter delivered to their staterooms. The letter expressed regret for the disruption and instructed guests to prepare for disembarkation. Luggage tags were provided directly to cabins to facilitate the process. To compensate for the inconvenience, Disney offered a full refund for the cancelled cruise, including any unused onboard purchases like internet and beverage packages. Additionally, guests received a 50% future cruise credit for another sailing.

Additional Support for Affected Passengers

Beyond the refund and future cruise credit, Disney Cruise Line extended further support to its guests. Complimentary hotel accommodation in Singapore for one night was arranged, along with reimbursement for flight change fees. Passengers were also offered up to $500 per stateroom for incidental expenses. Free WiFi was made available onboard to help guests rearrange their travel plans. Complimentary shuttle services transported guests from the ship to various hotels across Singapore.

Technical Issues and Passenger Reactions

While Disney Cruise Line did not publicly confirm the exact technical fault, reports from passengers suggested issues with the ship’s propulsion system. One guest shared on Reddit that the captain initially informed them of technical problems, with engineers working to resolve the issue. However, by 2 pm Singapore time the next day, the captain announced the cancellation of the cruise.

Praise for Disney’s Handling of the Situation

Despite the disappointment, many passengers praised Disney Cruise Line for its handling of the situation. One guest described the operation as a “highly logistically organized chaotic situation” as passengers were transferred to luxury hotels like the Fairmont, JW Marriott, Swissôtel, and Shangri-La across Singapore. Another passenger noted the seamless experience at their assigned hotel, where a team was ready to assist with any questions and provide a second dinner, courtesy of Disney. The guest also mentioned receiving a $200 hotel credit in addition to the compensation package.

Disney Adventure, the newest ship in the fleet, faced an unexpected setback, but the cruise line’s response demonstrated a commitment to guest satisfaction even in challenging circumstances.