Category: Cruise News

Royal Caribbean is set to elevate your cruise experience with the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Scheduled to open in late December 2025, this exclusive beachside retreat is just a short distance from Nassau Cruise Port. It promises a luxurious island escape with two stunning beaches, three inviting pools, and ten vibrant bars. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this destination has it all.

Day Pass Options and Pricing

Royal Caribbean offers a range of all-inclusive day passes to suit different preferences and ages. For families, the non-alcoholic pass is priced at $129.99 for guests aged 13 and above, and $109.99 for children aged 4 to 12. Little ones aged 3 and under can enjoy the club for free. Adults seeking an open bar experience can opt for the $169.99 pass, available for those aged 21 and over.

Each pass includes access to loungers, umbrellas, towels, and lockers. Guests can also enjoy complimentary WiFi, dining, and roundtrip ferry transportation to the resort. However, prices may vary based on the ship and sailing dates, so consider these as a guide.

Not Just for Cruise Guests

While the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is Royal Caribbean’s first beach club, it isn’t their first private destination. The cruise line already operates Labadee in Haiti and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Uniquely, this beach club is open to local Bahamian residents as well. They can purchase their own day passes to enjoy the resort’s facilities.

Tailored Upgrades for Every Traveller

Enhance your day with exclusive rentals. Choose from private beach or poolside cabanas with dedicated attendants, or opt for day beds and reserved seating. For families, the Ultimate Family Cabana offers a multi-level oasis complete with a slide, frozen drink machine, and luxury service. Booking a private area includes up to 12 day passes, making it perfect for larger groups.

For those seeking a lively atmosphere, the Party Deck at the Floating Flamingo swim-up bar is ideal. Enjoy ocean views, DJ entertainment, and dedicated poolside service. This private space can accommodate up to 18 guests, with 12 day passes included and an option to purchase six more.

Available to All Royal Caribbean Sailings Stopping in Nassau

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is accessible to all Royal Caribbean guests whose itineraries include a stop in Nassau. This means a wide variety of ships and homeports are eligible. Whether you’re on a weekend getaway aboard Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral or a weeklong voyage on Icon of the Seas, this beach club is ready to welcome you.

In summary, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island offers an unparalleled beachside experience for cruise holidaygoers. With its luxurious amenities and diverse options, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone cruising to Nassau.

Aboard the Disney Dream, a potential disaster turned into a tale of heroism and swift action. On Sunday, 29th June 2025, a young girl fell overboard, only to be rescued by her quick-thinking father. The ship was on its final leg of a 4-night Bahamas cruise, heading back to Fort Lauderdale, when the emergency call, “Man Overboard – port side!” echoed through the ship.

Swift Response at Sea

The crew sprang into action immediately. Life preservers were tossed into the ocean, and the ship’s rescue pilot craft was deployed within minutes. Thanks to the crew’s training and the ship’s agile manoeuvring, both the father and daughter were safely back on board in under 30 minutes. A Disney Cruise Line spokesperson praised the crew’s exceptional skills and prompt actions, highlighting the effectiveness of their safety protocols.

Safe and Sound

Fortunately, neither the father nor the daughter sustained serious injuries. They were able to rejoin the ship and continue their journey. This incident underscores the importance of safety measures and the crew’s readiness to handle emergencies.

How Did It Happen?

The girl reportedly fell from Deck 4, which features a jogging track and promenade. This deck, open to the sea with high railings, does not have guest staterooms. The exact circumstances of her fall remain unclear. Investigations will likely involve reviewing surveillance footage, inspecting deck railings, interviewing witnesses, and ensuring safety standards were adhered to. Unverified social media reports suggest the father may have placed the girl on a railing for a photo, but these claims are not confirmed.

Training That Saves Lives

Disney Cruise Line, like other major cruise lines, conducts regular emergency drills. These drills ensure the crew can respond calmly and effectively in emergencies. Just two weeks ago, guests aboard Disney Magic observed such training. Earlier this year, Disney Fantasy successfully coordinated an airlift evacuation for a critically ill guest, showcasing the crew’s professionalism and preparedness.

Continuing the Journey

Despite the incident, Disney Dream arrived in Fort Lauderdale on schedule on Monday, 30th June. The next cruise, a 5-night Bahamian itinerary, departed without delay. This voyage includes stops at Nassau, Castaway Cay, and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

A Reminder for Cruise Safety

This dramatic event serves as a reminder that overboard incidents, while rare, can occur. However, training, preparedness, and calm leadership can make a life-saving difference. Most importantly, it highlights the father’s bravery and the crew’s swift response, which saved two lives in less than half an hour.

For those planning a cruise holiday, this story is a testament to the importance of safety and the dedication of cruise line crews. Keep an eye out for new deals and embark on your own adventure with peace of mind.

Cruise Reviewers Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon: A Carnival Cruise Line Saga

Dan Wailing and Jay Cannon, renowned cruise reviewers, recently found themselves in a whirlwind of confusion. Initially, they believed they were banned from all Carnival Corporation brands. However, Carnival Cruise Line clarified that the restriction only applied to three UK-managed brands: Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

The Misunderstanding Unveiled

The confusion began when a team leader from P&O’s guest-relations department sent a clarification. This came nearly two weeks after Dan and Jay publicly shared their belief of a blanket ban. The letter they received only referred to Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises, not the entire Carnival group.

Impact on Travel Plans

This late clarification left the founders of Sail Away Magazine frustrated and financially impacted. They had already cancelled a September holiday on Princess Cruises. Additionally, they withdrew from a mid-June charter on Holland America Line’s Rotterdam, losing deposits and filming costs.

Seeking Answers

Dan and Jay are now demanding a public explanation from Carnival UK. They want to understand how this mix-up occurred and why the ban was imposed. They emphasised that the ban was not from Carnival Cruise Line but specifically from Cunard, P&O Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

Timeline of Events

On 9 June 2025, Carnival UK informed Wailing and Cannon that they could not travel with any Carnival group brands for five years. The letter stated that no further correspondence would be entertained. Between 10-14 June, the duo released a podcast and YouTube video discussing the ban. This story quickly spread among cruise fans and travel writers, who deemed it an extreme reaction to negative reviews.

Clarification from Holland America

Last week, Holland America’s PR team in Seattle informed the couple they were not on its no-sail list. This prompted Dan and Jay to contact other brands directly, leading to the fresh statement from P&O Cruises.

Reasons Behind the Ban

Dan and Jay are known for their candid reviews, reaching over 40,000 cruise enthusiasts through their magazine, podcast, and YouTube channel. Their recent critiques included cuts to room-service perks on Cunard ships and a last-minute cruise cancellation by P&O on Aurora. They also highlighted a reader poll suggesting declining cruise standards under Carnival UK president Paul Ludlow. After calling their first Carnival Cruise Line voyage on Carnival Miracle “the worst cruise we’ve done,” they received the June letter. They suspect P&O Cruises initiated the ban, despite not having sailed with them since November.

In conclusion, this saga highlights the importance of clear communication between cruise lines and their patrons. Dan and Jay continue to seek clarity and hope for a resolution soon.

Netflix is set to delve into the mysterious world of cruise ship controversies with its upcoming true crime series, “Amy Bradley Is Missing.” This gripping docuseries, premiering on 16th July 2025, revisits the baffling disappearance of 23-year-old Amy Lynn Bradley. She vanished from Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas in March 1998, leaving behind a mystery that has puzzled investigators for decades.

A Mysterious Disappearance at Sea

Amy Bradley was on a celebratory 7-night Caribbean cruise with her family, marking her college graduation. On the night of 23rd March, she and her brother Brad enjoyed the ship’s nightclub. By 3:30 am, they returned to their stateroom. However, by 6 am, Amy had disappeared without a trace. Despite extensive searches, no sign of Amy was found on the ship or in the surrounding waters. Only her polo shirt and sandals remained.

Unsolved for Nearly 30 Years

Over the years, several unconfirmed sightings of Amy have emerged. Reports range from a woman resembling Amy seen in a Barbados restroom to a sighting in a brothel. An eerie image was even emailed to her family years later. Unfortunately, none of these leads have provided conclusive answers. The FBI still considers the case open, offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to her discovery.

Renewed Interest and Hope

Amy’s case has captured public attention over the decades. In 2024, online communities reignited interest around what would have been her 50th birthday, attempting to crowdsource answers. Despite being declared legally deceased in 2010, Amy’s family continues to hope for her return.

Cruise Disasters in the Spotlight

The Netflix series follows the success of another cruise-themed documentary, “Trainwreck: The Poop Cruise,” which explored the 2013 Carnival Triumph breakdown. This episode has renewed public interest in cruise ship incidents. From missing persons to mechanical failures, the cruise industry remains a captivating subject for television and film.

A Chilling Reminder

Amy’s story taps into the deepest fears of isolation and vulnerability at sea. It highlights the gaps that once existed in cruise security, investigations, and international cooperation. This compelling investigation into one of the most enduring mysteries at sea could finally bring the resolution Amy’s story deserves.

Explore New Cruise Deals

While the mysteries of the sea continue to intrigue, new adventures await. Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers for your next cruise holiday. Discover the wonders of the sea with peace of mind and exciting new deals.

Cruise enthusiasts aboard Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas faced an unexpected delay during their Northern Europe voyage. The ship arrived late in the Netherlands, impacting the planned itinerary. On 25th June 2025, the vessel docked in Rotterdam nearly three hours behind schedule. This delay shortened what was supposed to be a highlight port day for the 3,634 passengers.

Impact on Shore Excursions

The late arrival in Rotterdam significantly affected shore excursions to Amsterdam, which is an hour away by bus. The ship had previously enjoyed smooth visits to Oslo, Copenhagen, and Hamburg. However, maintenance issues led to speed restrictions, delaying the ship’s arrival from the scheduled 11 am to nearly 2 pm. Aurora Yera-Rodriquez, assistant vice president of guest experience at Royal Caribbean, informed guests about the necessary adjustments.

Shortened Time in Port

Despite the delay, the ship departed on time at 7 pm. This left passengers with less than five hours in port. Many spent this time on buses or adjusting their tour plans. Royal Caribbean assured guests of their safety and downplayed the maintenance concerns. However, the reduced time ashore was disappointing for many.

Changes to the Next Voyage

The maintenance delays are not isolated to this trip. Passengers booked on the next sailing, a 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruise departing Southampton on 29th June 2025, have also been informed of changes. Due to the same speed restrictions, the ship will skip its planned stop in Ålesund on 1st July. Instead, it will spend two full days at sea.

New Itinerary and Compensation

A replacement stop in Molde, Norway, is now scheduled for 2nd July, with an earlier arrival time. As compensation, Royal Caribbean is offering onboard credit. Interior and Oceanview staterooms receive $150, Balcony staterooms $200, and Suites $400. An additional $25 is provided for the third and fourth guests in a stateroom. All Royal Caribbean excursions for Ålesund have been cancelled and refunded automatically.

Understanding the Delays

Royal Caribbean has not confirmed the exact nature of the mechanical issue. However, the speed restrictions and itinerary changes suggest propulsion or engine-related maintenance. The ship is operating safely, but not at full cruising speed. This marks the second consecutive cruise affected by the issue. The cruise line is managing the situation to minimise further disruption.

Rotterdam as an Alternative Port

It’s important to note that Independence of the Seas calls on Rotterdam instead of Amsterdam. This is due to Amsterdam’s restrictions on cruise tourism, including a tourist tax hike and environmental regulations. Rotterdam has become the default alternative port for these reasons.

Virgin Voyages has made an exciting change to the itinerary of the Valiant Lady, ensuring passengers can witness the total solar eclipse on 12th August 2026. Originally, the cruise was set to experience 98% totality. However, after guests pointed out that the Scarlet Lady would be in the full path, Virgin Voyages took action. They adjusted the route to align with the path of totality, offering an unforgettable astronomical experience.

Itinerary Changes for the Best Eclipse Viewing

To provide the best possible view of the eclipse, Virgin Voyages has made several itinerary adjustments. Two ports have been cancelled, and dates at sea and in port have been rearranged. Stornoway, Scotland, originally scheduled for 10th August, has been replaced with Belfast, Northern Ireland, on the same date and time. Akureyri, Iceland, planned for 12th August, has been cancelled. Instead, the ship will spend the day at sea, perfectly positioned in the line of totality.

Revised Port Visits

The visit to Liverpool, England, has been moved to 9th August, replacing a day at sea. Siglufjörður, Iceland, will now be visited on 13th August from 1 pm to 9 pm, instead of the original 8 am to 5 pm. The rest of the 15-night voyage, departing on 5th August 2026, remains unchanged. Passengers will still enjoy stops in Dublin, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Isafjordur, and Reykjavik.

Guest Feedback Drives Positive Change

Passengers have praised Virgin Voyages for their quick response to feedback. The cruise line’s ability to secure a new course that ensures 100% eclipse viewing has been well-received. Viewing the eclipse at sea offers a significant advantage. It avoids potential obstructions or unpredictable weather conditions that might occur in port. The crew can manoeuvre the ship for optimal positioning and visibility, enhancing the experience.

Join the Eclipse Cruise Craze

The total solar eclipse on 12th August 2026 is generating significant interest among cruise enthusiasts. Several cruise lines are tailoring itineraries around this rare event. The path of totality will cross Iceland, Greenland, northern Spain, Portugal, and parts of the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans. Cruise lines planning similar voyages include Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, Cunard, Carnival Cruise Line, and Marella Cruises.

Weather Considerations for Eclipse Viewing

While these ships aim for prime positioning, the visibility of the eclipse still depends on weather conditions. Clear skies are not guaranteed. However, being at sea allows cruise captains more flexibility to avoid cloud cover, enhancing the viewing experience. Whether aboard the Valiant Lady or another cruise ship, 2026 promises to be a memorable year for eclipse chasers.

A British woman, Lucy Roberts, found herself in hot water after a cruise holiday. The 39-year-old from Swanland, Yorkshire, was apprehended at Heathrow Airport. Her crime? Smuggling nearly £15,000 worth of stolen jewellery from her former workplace.

The Suspicious Getaway

Roberts had been the store manager at Daniella Draper Beverly, a high-end jeweller. During her tenure, she often took jewellery home, claiming it was to sort stock. This behaviour raised eyebrows among her colleagues. After resigning in early 2025, she embarked on a cruise, but her timing and actions were questionable.

Selfies That Gave Her Away

While on her cruise, Roberts sent selfies to her former colleagues. In these photos, she flaunted luxury jewellery. Her colleagues quickly recognised these items as missing stock from the store. Alarmed, they contacted the police, leading to a swift investigation.

Arrest at Heathrow

Upon her return, Roberts was arrested at Heathrow Airport. She was caught wearing £1,015 worth of stolen jewellery. Additionally, her suitcase contained another £13,880 worth. Body camera footage even captured her attempting to dispose of more jewellery during the arrest.

What Police Discovered

A search of Roberts’ home revealed a treasure trove of stolen goods. Police found 269 items valued at approximately £108,000. Including the jewellery from her cruise, the total theft amounted to around £125,000. Further investigations uncovered fraudulent returns and falsified stock counts.

Legal Consequences

Roberts faced Grimsby Crown Court, where she pleaded guilty to theft. She received a 28-month prison sentence. Detective Sgt. Krista Wilkinson of Humberside Police expressed disappointment, highlighting the betrayal of trust towards her employer and colleagues.

Jewellery Crimes on Cruises

Roberts’ case isn’t isolated. Earlier in 2025, an elderly couple on Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Constellation faced accusations of stealing a $1,100 ring in Sicily. Although the ship had departed, police intercepted them in Naples, recovering the ring. Their case remains unresolved.

Conclusion

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of trust and integrity. For cruise enthusiasts, it’s a cautionary tale about the consequences of dishonest actions. As always, enjoy your cruise holidays responsibly and ethically.

On the morning of 26th June 2025, a picturesque day in Ketchikan, Alaska, took a dramatic turn. A school bus carrying 46 cruise passengers collided with an SUV on Tongass Highway. This unfortunate event disrupted a planned shore excursion and resulted in three individuals being hospitalised.

Emergency Response and Passenger Safety

The accident occurred shortly after 9 am, as passengers were likely heading to a morning tour from the bustling Ketchikan Cruise Port. The SUV hit a power pole after the collision, causing the bus to veer into a roadside ditch. Emergency responders from the Ketchikan Fire Department swiftly arrived to manage the situation. Fortunately, there were no fatalities, and most passengers escaped serious injury.

After on-site medical evaluations, 44 passengers were cleared and returned to their ship via a replacement bus. The city’s official statement confirmed that all passengers and drivers were examined by EMTs and paramedics. Photos from the scene show the SUV’s front end severely damaged and the bus lodged off the road, illustrating the crash’s impact.

Cruise Ships in Port During the Incident

At the time of the accident, Ketchikan was bustling with cruise activity. Although officials did not specify which ship the affected passengers were from, several vessels were docked that morning. These included the Royal Princess from Princess Cruises, Norwegian Bliss from Norwegian Cruise Line, and Eurodam from Holland America Line. Later arrivals, such as Sapphire Princess and Koningsdam, docked after the incident.

A History of Tour Bus Incidents in Alaska

This incident is reminiscent of a previous accident on 6th September 2024. A tour bus carrying 24 cruise passengers overturned on the South Klondike Highway near Skagway after the driver experienced a medical emergency. That crash, in a remote area without cell service, resulted in 12 injuries and required assistance from passing tour buses before emergency services could arrive.

Despite these rare occurrences, the vast majority of cruise excursions in Alaska proceed without incident. Thousands of organised tours take place each year, offering guests unforgettable experiences in the Last Frontier.

Explore Safe and Exciting Cruise Excursions

While incidents like these are concerning, they are rare. Cruise excursions remain a popular and safe way to explore Alaska’s stunning landscapes. With thousands of options available, guests can enjoy memorable adventures with peace of mind.

Save up to 40% on Cruise Excursions! Choose from over 4,000 excursions with a return-to-ship guarantee.

What started as a peaceful escape turned into an unexpected adventure for Silversea cruise passengers on 26th June 2025. A sudden tidal drop left their zodiac boats stranded near Adele Island, off Australia’s remote Kimberley coast. This incident occurred during a 10-day luxury cruise on the Silver Cloud, which was journeying from Darwin.

Stranded by the Tide

Around 70 guests and 10 guides embarked on a zodiac tour of Adele Island, known for its stunning birdlife and coral beds. However, they were caught off guard by a rapid tidal retreat. The tide fell quickly, leaving the zodiacs grounded in shallow waters. Passengers found themselves knee- to thigh-deep in the sea, unable to return to the ship.

Quick Response from the Crew

The crew acted swiftly, guiding passengers across 500 metres of coral beds to reach deeper waters. Additional zodiacs were dispatched from the ship to bring everyone back. Photos captured the scene as guests waded through shallow waters, assisted by crew members, with the sun setting in the background.

Rescue Efforts Continue

By 8:00 p.m. local time, most passengers were safely back on board. The ship’s medical team treated minor injuries like scrapes and twisted ankles. However, 10 passengers and some crew remained on Adele Island, waiting for the tide to rise so their zodiacs could refloat. The Silver Cloud stayed nearby, with high tide expected at 11:59 p.m.

Questions Arise

Observers questioned why the dramatic tidal changes weren’t better anticipated, given Silversea’s reputation for expedition expertise. Adele Island is known for its extreme tidal shifts, with sea levels dipping into negative measurements at low tide. Although no serious injuries occurred, the experience was described as disorganised and physically demanding.

Challenges Faced

Zodiacs are not designed for long delays, and no immediate provisions like food or water were available. Fortunately, temperatures remained between 23°C and 27°C, avoiding heat-related issues. Despite the discomfort, some passengers maintained their humour, calling it a “true expedition,” while others expressed surprise at the situation.

This unexpected adventure serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of expedition cruises. While the experience was challenging, it also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of both passengers and crew.

P&O Cruises has introduced a new system for reserving spots in their kids club, The Reef. Parents can now pre-book places for their children before the cruise begins. This change ensures a guaranteed spot for young cruisers. However, it comes with a fee. Daytime sessions cost £4.95, while evening slots are priced at £8.95.

Impact on Families

For families with two children, these fees can quickly add up. Attending all sessions could cost up to £38 per day. This is in addition to the regular cruise fare. The new system is currently being tested on the Iona ship. There is no timeline for when it will be implemented across the entire fleet.

Free Onboard Options Still Available

Despite the new charges, some spots in The Reef will remain free. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis. This means families can still try their luck once onboard. However, there is no guarantee of availability.

Recent Changes to The Reef

This isn’t the first change to The Reef’s booking system. Last year, P&O Cruises introduced cancellation fees. Cancelling less than 24 hours before a session incurs a £5 fee. No-shows are charged £10. These fees apply only to The Reef, which caters to children 12 and under.

Teens Club Remains Unaffected

The teens club, H2O, remains unaffected by these changes. It caters to children aged 13-17 and does not require advance booking. H2O is more of a casual hangout space, unlike The Reef, which offers organised activities.

Comparisons with Other Cruise Lines

Some parents appreciate the option to secure a spot during busy periods, like school holidays. However, other cruise lines offer free kids clubs without the need for reservations. Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line all provide this service. These lines also operate out of the UK, similar to P&O Cruises.

Concerns from Parents

Many parents are unhappy with the new charges. The costs can quickly escalate, especially for families with multiple children. For example, two children attending two sessions a day for four days could cost over £100. This is a significant expense for families who prefer not to risk waiting until they are onboard.

Accusations of Penny-Pinching

Some cruisers have accused P&O Cruises of penny-pinching. They feel the new charges are an unnecessary burden. The additional costs may deter loyal guests who are used to more relaxed policies on other cruise lines. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how this change will affect P&O Cruises’ reputation among UK holidaygoers.