Category: Cruise News

Royal Caribbean has introduced a new pilot programme called “Early Assign” for passengers booking guarantee staterooms. This initiative allows guests to pay $30 per stateroom to secure an earlier cabin assignment. Typically, travellers with guarantee bookings wait until just before embarkation to learn their cabin location. This programme aims to alleviate that uncertainty by providing cabin details within 24 hours of final payment.

How The Early Assign Pilot Works

The Early Assign option is available at the time of final payment and is currently being trialled on selected sailings. It is limited to US bookings and applies within specific pre-sailing windows. For cruises of five nights or less, guests can opt in between 30 and 60 days before departure. For longer voyages of six nights or more, the window extends from 50 to 80 days before sailing. Once the fee is paid and the balance settled, the stateroom assignment is confirmed within 24 business hours.

The pilot covers various guarantee categories, including interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. Guests who receive their assignment through Early Assign can request a different cabin within the same category at no extra cost, provided alternatives are available. This flexibility is not exclusive to the programme, but an earlier assignment increases the chance of finding available cabins for changes. The $30 fee is per stateroom and non-refundable, even if the cruise is later cancelled. The option is not available on casino fares and may be restricted with certain promotions.

Why Royal Caribbean Is Testing Early Assign

Royal Caribbean’s introduction of Early Assign reflects its efforts to balance value and certainty for passengers. While many travellers accept lower fares for flexibility, others find the waiting period for cabin allocation frustrating. Assignments can sometimes take weeks or months, creating uncertainty up to departure. Additionally, oversold sailings have led cruise lines to offer incentives for guests to change plans shortly before departure. By offering earlier confirmation, Royal Caribbean aims to provide peace of mind and reduce the risk of last-minute changes.

Changes to Ambassador Cruise Line’s Drinks Packages

Ambassador Cruise Line has recently updated its drinks package rules, introducing significant changes. The standard spirit measure has been reduced from 40ml to 25ml. Additionally, the previous cap of 15 alcoholic drinks per day has been removed. This shift in policy offers more flexibility for guests purchasing drinks packages, as they are no longer restricted by a daily limit.

Implications for Package Holders

For those who opt for a drinks package, the changes are likely to be seen as beneficial. The removal of the daily cap allows for greater freedom in enjoying beverages throughout the day. Moreover, the previous restriction on ordering double shots has been lifted, providing more options for guests. However, the rule of one drink per person at a time remains, with a mandatory 15-minute wait between orders.

Impact on Pay-As-You-Go Guests

Guests who prefer to pay for drinks individually may find the changes less favourable. The reduction in the standard spirit measure means they receive less alcohol per drink unless they choose to pay extra for a double. This adjustment could lead to increased costs for those not purchasing a package.

Focus on Responsible Service

Despite these changes, Ambassador Cruise Line maintains its commitment to responsible alcohol service. Bar staff retain the right to refuse service to any guest who appears heavily intoxicated. This policy ensures a safe and enjoyable environment for all passengers on board.

Pre-Booked Drinks Bundles

Ambassador continues to promote its pre-booked drinks bundles, such as the Explorer and Expedition packages. These are available on a per-cruise basis for shorter trips and on a per-night basis for longer voyages. This approach encourages guests to plan their beverage consumption in advance, potentially offering savings and convenience.

In summary, Ambassador Cruise Line’s updated drinks package rules provide more flexibility for package holders while maintaining a focus on responsible service. However, guests paying as they go may need to adjust to the smaller spirit measures.

Cunard’s Historic Maritime Gathering in Liverpool

In a landmark event set for 2028, Cunard will bring together its entire fleet of iconic ships in Liverpool. On 16th May, the Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, and Queen Anne will converge on the River Mersey. This marks the first time all four ships will assemble in one location, creating a rare spectacle for cruise enthusiasts.

Liverpool’s Deep Connection with Cunard

Liverpool holds a special place in Cunard’s history, as the company was founded there in 1840. The upcoming event is expected to draw global attention, building on past successes. In 2015, three Cunard Queens met in Liverpool for the company’s 175th anniversary, attracting over a million spectators. The 2028 gathering promises an even larger turnout.

Citywide Celebrations and Cultural Significance

The event will coincide with Liverpool’s celebrations of 20 years since being named European Capital of Culture. A year-long programme of cultural, sporting, and maritime events is planned. The arrival of Cunard’s fleet will be a highlight, drawing visitors from around the world.

Queen Mary 2’s Historic Voyage

Queen Mary 2 will make a notable transatlantic crossing from New York to Liverpool, the first such eastbound journey in over 60 years. The last crossing was in 1966 with RMS Sylvania. Passengers can join specially designed Four Queens Celebration voyages, adding to the excitement.

Fleet Itineraries and Special Voyages

Queen Mary 2 will continue her transatlantic, Canada, New England, and Caribbean itineraries after the event. Queen Anne will start her 2028 season in Scandinavia and Northern Europe, with an overnight stay in Liverpool. Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria will also join the Mersey gathering, arriving from Southampton and a British Isles voyage, respectively.

A Memorable Day for Cunard and Liverpool

Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, expressed excitement about the event. “Bringing our four Queens together on the Mersey for the first time will be a rare and incredibly special moment for Cunard. Liverpool is where our story began, and returning with the full fleet is a powerful celebration of that bond.”

Local Leaders Highlight Global Impact

Local leaders have emphasised the cultural and economic significance of the event for Liverpool and the wider region. The gathering is expected to boost tourism and showcase Liverpool’s rich maritime heritage to a global audience.

MSC Cruises has recently seen a shake-up in its ship rankings, with its newest flagship making waves among passengers. Meanwhile, one of its older favourites has experienced a significant drop. According to the latest data for 2026, MSC World America has soared to second place, despite only launching in 2025. This is an impressive debut for a ship still in its early months of service. On the other hand, MSC Divina has plummeted from fourth to 17th place, marking the steepest decline in the fleet.

New Ship Makes Immediate Impact

MSC World America’s high ranking is a standout development this year. Typically, new ships take time to climb the review tables as they iron out initial operational issues. However, feedback for MSC World America has been overwhelmingly positive. Passengers have praised its modern design, diverse entertainment options, and overall value. Built with the North American market in mind, the ship boasts large venues, water attractions, and a resort-style layout. While some guests have noted crowding and occasional food quality issues, these have not significantly impacted its high scores. This strong debut suggests MSC is improving its approach to launching new ships, especially compared to earlier vessels that initially struggled.

MSC Divina’s Sharp Decline Explained

In contrast, MSC Divina’s drop in rankings highlights changing passenger perceptions of older ships. Once considered a solid all-rounder, recent reviews reveal growing dissatisfaction. Passengers frequently mention inconsistent food quality, overcrowded buffet areas, and a sense that the ship feels dated compared to newer fleet additions. Recent sailings in late 2025 and early 2026 have reinforced this mixed picture. While some guests still appreciate the ship’s value, friendly crew, and enjoyable itineraries, others report operational issues. These include disorganised processes, long waits, and poor communication during embarkation and disembarkation. Dining remains a common concern, with reviews citing inconsistent meal temperatures, limited variety, and busy buffet layouts. Entertainment has also faced criticism for limited variety and underwhelming performances. Additionally, reports of understaffing have affected service quality.

Titanic Life Jacket Sells for Record Price

A life jacket worn by a survivor of the RMS Titanic has fetched an astounding £670,000 at auction. This sale sets a new record for Titanic memorabilia. The flotation device, once belonging to first-class passenger Laura Mabel Francatelli, was auctioned at Henry Aldridge & Son in Devizes, Wiltshire. It is believed to be the only Titanic life jacket ever auctioned since the ship’s tragic sinking in 1912.

A Unique Piece of History

Laura Mabel Francatelli was among the approximately 700 passengers and crew who survived the disaster. She wore the life jacket before boarding a lifeboat and later signed it along with other survivors. Auctioneer Andrew Aldridge expressed his excitement over the sale, highlighting the enduring fascination with the Titanic’s story. He described the life jacket as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity due to its unique status and direct connection to a named survivor.

Features and Auction Details

The life jacket features 12 cork-filled pockets, shoulder supports, and side straps. Initially, it was expected to sell for between £250,000 and £350,000. However, competitive bidding pushed the final price far beyond that estimate. This remarkable sale underscores the strong interest in historic artefacts.

Other Titanic Memorabilia

The life jacket wasn’t the only Titanic-related item to draw attention. A seat cushion from one of the ship’s lifeboats sold for £390,000. This cushion is linked to London tea importer Richard William Smith, who perished in the disaster. Although his body was never recovered, the cushion was preserved by a friend. It has now been acquired by the Titanic Museum Attraction, which plans to display it publicly.

The Titanic’s Enduring Legacy

The auction coincided with commemorations marking 114 years since the Titanic sank on 14th April 1912. Ceremonies took place in Southampton, a city closely tied to the ship and many of its crew. Over 1,500 lives were lost in the tragedy, making it one of the deadliest peacetime maritime disasters. More than a century later, items connected to the Titanic continue to captivate collectors and museums, reflecting the lasting global impact of the event.

Tragic Incident on Carnival Splendor

A tragic event unfolded on the Carnival Splendor during a cruise excursion in Australia. On 17th April 2026, a 67-year-old woman from Tasmania was found unresponsive while snorkelling off Moreton Island, near Brisbane. Despite the swift response from emergency services and crew, she could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene. Queensland authorities confirmed that the incident was not suspicious, and a report is being prepared for the coroner. Carnival Cruise Line is offering support to the woman’s family and is cooperating with the investigation.

Popular Cruise Destination

The incident occurred during a scheduled stop at Moreton Island, a favourite among cruise passengers departing from Sydney. The Carnival Splendor, a 113,500-gross-ton ship, was on a four-night roundtrip itinerary featuring two sea days and a 10-hour stop at the island. Moreton Island is renowned for its calm waters and vibrant marine life, attracting visitors for activities like snorkelling around the Tangalooma Wrecks, kayaking, and guided tours. While these activities are generally safe, they do pose risks, especially for older travellers or those with health issues.

Second Emergency on Board

Just hours after the snorkelling tragedy, another emergency unfolded on the Carnival Splendor. In the early hours of 18th April, a male passenger in his 70s reportedly went overboard after climbing the ship’s safety rails. This prompted a large-scale search operation by Australian maritime authorities, which continued for several hours before being suspended. The incident caused delays in the ship’s return to Sydney and affected its subsequent departure. There is no evidence linking the two incidents.

Rare Water-Related Incidents

While water-related incidents on cruises are uncommon, this is not the first for Carnival Splendor. In May 2023, a passenger died while swimming during a stop at Mystery Island in Vanuatu. Similar incidents have occurred in the cruise industry, such as in August 2025, when two American passengers in their 70s drowned in separate incidents. Despite their rarity, these events highlight the importance of safety precautions during cruise excursions.

P&O Cruises Unveils Record-Breaking Summer Programme for 2028

P&O Cruises has announced its most extensive summer programme yet, featuring 215 cruises available for booking in 2028. The fleet of seven ships will offer departures from Southampton and fly-cruise options from Malta. This new collection, spanning March to October 2028, highlights the line’s commitment to providing no-fly convenience from the UK and sun-soaked Mediterranean holidays.

Diverse Destinations and Itineraries

The programme covers 121 destinations across 29 countries, offering a variety of cruise experiences. Travellers can choose from short breaks, British Isles voyages, Canary Islands sailings, and Mediterranean fly-cruises. Northern Europe and Scandinavia itineraries are also available, along with extended 30-night cruises to the USA and Canada. A significant highlight is the expanded selection of Norwegian fjords cruises, a popular choice among P&O Cruises’ offerings.

Convenient Weekend Departures

To cater to UK guests, P&O Cruises has scheduled 36 weekend departures, including Friday sailings, between May and September 2028. This move aims to make booking shorter scenic breaks from Southampton more convenient. Additionally, the programme features 64 overnight calls and 69 late evening departures, allowing passengers more time to explore iconic attractions like Athens’ Acropolis and Barcelona’s Gaudí architecture.

Exciting Northern Europe Sailings

Among the new offerings is a 14-night Arvia itinerary that combines Spain and France with the Norwegian fjords. This unique blend of Western Europe and Scandinavia offers a fresh way to enjoy longer no-fly holidays from the UK. Arcadia and Aurora continue to be central to this strategy, providing traditional, adult-focused cruises, as well as selected all-ages departures.

Notable Longer Cruises

For summer 2028, Arcadia and Aurora will offer voyages to Norway, Iceland, Northern Europe, and Scandinavia. These include multi-generational sailings ranging from three to 21 nights. Aurora’s 21-night Arctic itinerary in August 2028 stands out, featuring an overnight stay in Reykjavik. While Arcadia and Aurora are known for adult-only holidays, the rest of the fleet caters primarily to families.

Enhanced Port Experiences

Azura will introduce a new overnight call in Livorno, providing more time for guests to explore Florence and Pisa. Meanwhile, selected cruises on Britannia and Ventura will continue to offer access to Rome from Civitavecchia. These enhancements ensure guests have ample opportunities to immerse themselves in local culture and attractions.

Booking Offers for Early Birds

The summer 2028 collection is now open for bookings, with special launch offers available until 30th June 2026. Early bookers can enjoy a 10% discount and a 10% deposit on applicable Select Price and Early Saver holidays. Additionally, Peninsular Club members receive an extra 5% saving, making it an ideal time to secure a dream cruise holiday.

MSC Euribia’s Northern Europe Cruises Back on Schedule

MSC Cruises has announced that MSC Euribia will now operate its previously cancelled sailings on 16th and 17th May 2026. The ship successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and has begun its journey to northern Europe. Initially, the Meraviglia-Plus class ship was stuck in Dubai due to uncertainties about accessing this crucial waterway. This led to the cancellation of two early-season Baltic cruises. However, the situation has changed, and both voyages are back on the schedule after the ship safely left the Arabian Gulf.

Successful Transit and Repositioning

MSC Euribia has departed Dubai and safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz. The passage was completed in close coordination with relevant authorities. The ship is now en route to northern Europe, aiming to resume its season there. With the ship returning sooner than expected, MSC Cruises confirms that the cruise departing on 16th May from Kiel and 17th May from Copenhagen will proceed as planned. All subsequent sailings will also operate as scheduled.

Journey to Europe

According to tracking data, MSC Euribia cleared the northern tip of Oman on 18th April. The ship is now heading towards Europe on a repositioning voyage covering approximately 8,300 miles. Refuelling and operational stops are expected along the way before the ship arrives in Germany.

Northern Europe Season Back On Track

The reinstated 16th May sailing from Kiel features a seven-night itinerary. It includes stops in Copenhagen, Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flam. The 17th May departure offers the same itinerary but starts and ends in Copenhagen. MSC Euribia will spend the summer cruising the Baltic and North Seas before moving to the Mediterranean in mid-October. Winter itineraries will include departures from Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples, and Palermo, with a return to northern Europe planned for April 2027.

Guests Offered Chance to Rejoin Cancelled Cruises

Passengers affected by the earlier cancellations can now rebook their original sailings. MSC Cruises confirmed that guests will be contacted directly with further details. At the time of cancellation, travellers were offered alternative sailings, future cruise credit, or full refunds. While the reinstatement allows guests to restore their original plans, some may face scheduling conflicts. The cruise line has not yet detailed how priority will be managed for those wishing to switch back, but there is still time to handle rebookings.

Captain Reflects on Strait Crossing

Following the successful transit, the ship’s captain shared a personal message reflecting on the experience. The safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz marks a significant milestone for MSC Euribia as it continues its journey to northern Europe.

Cruise YouTubers Banned After Negative Review

A pair of cruise YouTubers claim they’ve been banned from Margaritaville at Sea after posting a negative review. The Travel Spree channel creators discovered the ban while trying to book a cruise for 2026. They were blocked from completing the reservation after entering their details and were advised to contact customer support.

Booking Attempts Raise Suspicions

When they tried booking with different names, the system allowed it, raising suspicions their accounts were flagged. A call to customer service confirmed their fears. The representative informed them they were “guest blocked” due to “bad reviews.”

Viral Video Draws Attention

The issue began with a 2023 cruise on Margaritaville at Sea’s Paradise. Travel Spree documented their experience on YouTube and TikTok. While their long video did well, a short clip went viral, amassing around 10 million views. The video humorously highlighted disappointing aspects of the cruise, gaining significant media attention.

Details of the Viral Clip

Business Insider reported scenes from the video, including a trash can full of used toilet paper and a rusted shower drain. The clip also mentioned an unusual smell in the cabin. Travel Spree clarified they paid for the cruise and were not part of any promotional deal.

Attempt to Rebook Uncovers Ban

Recently, the creators tried to book another cruise to review newer ships like Islander. They wanted to provide an updated review for their audience. However, they were unable to book online and learned of their “guest locked” status from customer support. The representative linked the restriction to their previous feedback.

A recent legal case has put Carnival Cruise Line in the spotlight, as a US jury has ordered the company to pay $300,000 in damages. This decision came after the jury found Carnival partially responsible for overserving alcohol to a passenger, Diana Sanders, who later sustained serious injuries onboard. Sanders, a 45-year-old from California, embarked on a three-night cruise aboard the Carnival Radiance from Long Beach to Mexico on 5th January 2024. She claimed she was served at least 14 tequila shots over an eight-hour period, leading to a fall on a stairway that evening. Her lawsuit, filed in November 2024, sought damages exceeding $75,000 and requested a jury trial. After a 17-month legal battle, the jury ruled in her favour, though both parties shared liability.

Details Of The Incident And Injuries

Court documents reveal that Sanders began drinking around 3 pm and continued until shortly after 11:30 pm when the accident occurred. While navigating the ship, she fell on a stairway, suffering multiple injuries. These included a concussion, headaches, a possible traumatic brain injury, back injuries, tailbone injuries, and bruising. The jury attributed 60% of the responsibility to Carnival, while Sanders was assigned 40% of the blame, acknowledging her personal accountability for her alcohol intake. Her lawyer, Spencer Aronfeld, highlighted broader issues within the cruise industry. He pointed out that prepaid drink packages might encourage passengers to overconsume. Additionally, he noted that servers, often from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, are incentivised by tips to continue serving alcohol.

Questions Over Service And Accountability

The case has sparked debate over how alcohol service is managed on large cruise ships. Carnival Radiance, a vessel weighing over 101,000 gross tonnes, boasts eight bars and lounges, allowing passengers to be served by various crew members throughout the day. During the trial, it was revealed that Sanders could not pinpoint a specific bartender or venue responsible for overserving her. Moreover, there was no evidence to suggest she appeared visibly intoxicated, which would have warranted crew intervention. Although all purchases are tracked through a guest’s Sail & Sign account, it remains uncertain if bartenders consistently check a passenger’s previous orders before serving more drinks. High demand and long queues at onboard bars may complicate this process.