Category: Cruise News

A Winter Storm Disrupts Cruise Travel on the US East Coast

A powerful winter storm has wreaked havoc on cruise operations along the US east coast. Several cruise lines have faced delays and itinerary changes. The National Weather Service reports blizzard conditions in New York and New Jersey. Snowfall is expected to reach up to 24 inches, with wind gusts between 40 and 70 miles per hour. This severe weather has led to power outages and coastal flooding, affecting major cruise ports in the area.

Impact on Cruise Departures from New York

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas was scheduled to depart from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, on 22nd February. However, the intensifying storm, known as a bomb cyclone, forced a delay. The ship, which accommodates up to 5,510 guests, remained docked until conditions improved. It eventually set sail the following day. Passengers made the most of the delay, sharing photos of snowmen built on their balconies.

Meanwhile, MSC Meraviglia faced similar challenges in Brooklyn. The ship was set to embark on a seven-night Bahamas cruise. Due to the storm, the itinerary was adjusted. Calls to Port Canaveral and Ocean Cay were rescheduled, and Nassau was removed from the itinerary. MSC Cruises has yet to confirm these changes officially.

Norwegian Breakaway Braves the Storm

In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway departed Manhattan Cruise Terminal as planned. The ship embarked on a 12-night Caribbean cruise despite the challenging weather. It navigated winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour on its southbound journey. While no itinerary changes have been confirmed, adjustments may occur to avoid severe weather. The cruise includes stops at Puerto Plata, San Juan, Tortola, St Kitts, St Maarten, and St Thomas, returning to New York on 6th March.

Confusion Among Cruise Passengers

The differing decisions by cruise lines have caused confusion among passengers. While two ships remained docked, one set sail. This has led to questions about safety and operational choices. Each cruise line prioritises passenger safety, but the varying responses highlight the challenges of navigating severe weather.

Weather Challenges in the Bahamas

A separate weather system in the southern Bahamas has also affected cruise operations. Rough sea conditions have impacted sailings further south. This adds another layer of complexity for cruise lines trying to maintain schedules.

In conclusion, winter storms can significantly disrupt cruise travel. Passengers should stay informed and flexible. Cruise lines are committed to ensuring safety while providing memorable experiences.

Robert Downey Jr. Named Godparent of Disney Adventure

In a thrilling announcement on 23rd February 2026, Disney Cruise Line revealed that Hollywood icon Robert Downey Jr. will be the godparent of their newest and largest ship, Disney Adventure. This 208,000 gross ton vessel, designed specifically for the Asian market, is set to become the flagship of the fleet. It will embark on its inaugural journey from Singapore next month.

Strengthening Marvel Ties

Downey’s appointment as godparent enhances the ship’s connection to the Marvel universe, a key element of Disney’s entertainment empire. Josh D’Amaro, the incoming CEO of The Walt Disney Company, expressed his excitement. He stated, “Our new ship continues Disney Cruise Line’s tradition of bringing great stories to life at sea.” Downey, known for his iconic role as Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, shared his enthusiasm, calling the opportunity a “gargantuan blessing.”

Marvel-Themed Experiences Onboard

The Disney Adventure promises a unique experience for its 6,700 guests, with a strong Marvel theme. Downey’s portrayal of Iron Man for over a decade has left a lasting legacy. Onboard, passengers can explore Marvel Landing, a themed area with three major attractions. The Ironcycle Test Run, inspired by Iron Man, is the longest roller coaster at sea. Other rides include Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin, drawing inspiration from Ant-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy. Guests will also have the chance to meet Marvel characters, including Iron Man himself.

Singapore Sailings Begin in March

After some delays, Disney Adventure is ready to set sail. The ship was delivered to Disney in December 2025 and made a brief stop at Port Canaveral before heading to Asia. Currently, it is en route to Tokyo. Singapore will serve as its permanent homeport, offering three and four-night cruises to nowhere. The maiden voyage is scheduled for 10th March 2026, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Disney Cruise Line. The official christening date remains under wraps, but it is expected to occur shortly before the inaugural sailing.

Virgin Voyages: Embracing a Relaxed Dress Code

Virgin Voyages is reassuring its guests that its laid-back dress code remains unchanged. This comes in response to Norwegian Cruise Line’s recent decision to enforce stricter attire rules in certain speciality restaurants. In a playful email, Virgin Voyages highlighted its commitment to a relaxed onboard atmosphere. The cruise line humorously noted its “failure” to ban open-toed shoes, hoodies, and baseball caps, reinforcing its come-as-you-are philosophy.

Encouraging Self-Expression

Virgin Voyages has always stood out by promoting self-expression over strict dress codes. The cruise line’s official policy encourages guests to feel comfortable and express their personal style. While they suggest wearing more than just swimwear in restaurants and having footwear indoors, the emphasis is on personal choice. The company simply asks that attire is considerate of fellow passengers.

Special Events and Themed Nights

Virgin Voyages hosts themed events where guests can embrace bold fashion choices. For instance, the popular PJ Party invites daring outfits, but guests are expected to change into more conventional attire when moving around the ship. Scarlet Night is another signature event where many guests dress in red. Participation is optional, with some opting for full formalwear and others choosing subtle red accents.

Industry Contrast: Norwegian’s New Dress Code

Virgin Voyages’ reaffirmation of its relaxed dress code comes as Norwegian Cruise Line tightens its clothing rules in select dining venues. Norwegian’s new policy prohibits items like hoodies, flip-flops, and shorts, sparking mixed reactions among guests. Known for its “freestyle” branding, Norwegian’s stricter rules seem to contradict its image of flexibility and informality. This change poses practical challenges for travellers who prefer to pack light for their cruise holidays.

Virgin Voyages continues to champion a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy their cruise experience without the constraints of a formal dress code.

Disappearing Casino Offers on Carnival Cruises

Recently, many Carnival Cruise Line passengers have noticed a sudden disappearance of their casino-based offers. These offers, which often included complimentary cabins and discounted sailings, vanished without any clear explanation from the company. Frequent cruisers, including well-known influencers like Professor Melissa and Cruise With Jenn, have shared their experiences on social media.

Unexpected Changes for Loyal Cruisers

Some passengers reported a drastic change in their offers, going from numerous promotions to none overnight. One cruiser, who had previously won a significant jackpot, found their offers had disappeared earlier this year. When they contacted Carnival, they were informed that their offers were “accurate” and were advised to contact the collections department over an alleged outstanding balance, which the passenger disputes.

Understanding Casino Cruise Offers

Onboard casinos on major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC operate loyalty programmes similar to those in land-based casinos. Passengers earn points based on their wagering and playing time, whether on slot machines or table games. The focus is on metrics like “coin-in” and “theoretical loss” rather than just wins or losses. The higher a player’s theoretical value, the more generous the rewards, which can include free drinks, dining credits, and even complimentary or discounted cruises.

The Business Logic Behind Casino Offers

Cruise lines are willing to subsidise cabins for passengers likely to spend significant time and money in the ship’s casino. While these trips are often described as “free,” passengers usually pay taxes, port fees, gratuities, and extras like drinks packages or WiFi. The business model is straightforward: attract high-value players who will gamble onboard.

No Clear Reason for Offer Removal

Many affected passengers stress that their gambling activity has not decreased, nor have they cancelled cruises or broken any rules. Some still receive strong offers from rival cruise lines, sometimes through “status match” schemes. A few speculate that social media activity or brand criticism might be factors, though there’s no evidence to support this, and Carnival has not indicated this is the case.

Industry-Wide Changes in Casino Rewards

In recent years, the cruise industry has tightened casino rewards as demand for cruises has increased and ships have been sailing at full capacity. This trend might explain the sudden changes in casino offers, though Carnival has yet to provide a clear public explanation. For UK cruise holidaygoers, staying informed about these changes is crucial when planning future sailings.

Princess Cruises has made waves by setting a new Guinness World Record. Aboard the Regal Princess, they sold an impressive 3,410 margaritas in just eight hours. This record-breaking event took place during a port call in Cozumel, Mexico, on Tuesday, 17th February 2026.

A Toast to Success

The previous record of 2,728 margaritas was shattered with the help of enthusiastic guests and crew. Princess Cruises proudly shared the news on Facebook, celebrating the achievement with the message, “Raise a glass, we did it!” The record was officially confirmed by a Guinness World Records adjudicator, who presented a certificate on board amidst a flurry of confetti and camera flashes.

Perfect Timing and Location

Cozumel, a bustling Mexican cruise port, was the ideal setting for this margarita marathon. Known for its tequila, a key margarita ingredient, the location added a touch of authenticity. Princess Cruises used Pantalones Organic Tequila for the cocktails, the same brand that christened their newest ship, Star Princess, in November 2025.

Regal Princess’s Caribbean Adventure

The Regal Princess was on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise, departing from Galveston on 15th February. The itinerary included an overnight stay in Cozumel, providing ample time for the record attempt. After Cozumel, the ship was set to visit Roatan before returning to Texas on 22nd February.

Contributing to the Record

While it’s unclear if off-duty crew members could buy margaritas to boost the count, the final tally exceeded the previous record by 682 drinks. The event was a festive occasion, complete with countless salted rims and citrus garnishes. Princess Cruises confirmed, “Ritas for the record is officially in the books.”

Cruise Ships and World Records

This margarita milestone is not the first time a cruise ship has made headlines with a world record. Cruise lines often use such attempts to engage passengers and create excitement on board. MSC Cruises, for instance, has hosted several record attempts across its fleet, including a notable one in March 2025.

In conclusion, Princess Cruises’ margarita record is a testament to the fun and unique experiences cruise holidays can offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, there’s always something extraordinary waiting at sea.

Legal Action Against Carnival Cruise Line

A passenger has taken legal steps against Carnival Cruise Line following a waterslide mishap on the Carnival Sunshine. Savannah Ward, hailing from Virginia, claims she sustained severe injuries due to unsafe conditions. The lawsuit was filed on 19th February 2026 in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida.

Incident Details

The unfortunate event occurred on 20th March 2025, during a six-night cruise to the Bahamas. The Carnival Sunshine, a 104,000 gross ton vessel, had set sail from Norfolk, Virginia, on 16th March. The incident took place on the penultimate day of the voyage. The ship continues to operate from its homeport in Norfolk.

Allegations of Negligence

Court documents reveal that Ward was injured while using a waterslide on the ship. Her feet collided with a wall at the slide’s end, causing significant harm. The lawsuit highlights that the slide’s final section, meant to slow riders, lacked adequate water levels. This section usually contains several inches of water to ensure a safe stop.

Claims of Crew Oversight

Despite the insufficient water levels, two crew members allegedly continued to send passengers down the slide. Ward’s injuries included a broken right foot and a sprained left ankle. She claims these injuries have resulted in permanent mobility issues, reduced strength, and chronic pain.

Questions Over Slide Operations

The specific slide involved in the incident remains unspecified. Carnival Sunshine boasts three slides in its WaterWorks park on Deck 10 aft. The yellow Twister slide offers a solo ride, while the green and blue Speedway Splash slides allow for side-by-side racing. Although these slides are not vertical drops, riders can still gain significant speed.

Water Management Concerns

All slides feature splashdown areas designed to manage water flow and decelerate guests safely. Water levels in these zones can vary due to several factors. These include the speed of dispatching riders, water displacement during splashdown, and the volume of water pumped through the system. As riders exit, water naturally leaves the runout area.

Safety Measures and Restrictions

Carnival Cruise Line enforces height and weight restrictions on WaterWorks attractions. These limits can differ based on the ship and slide type. Onboard signage typically provides detailed requirements. The lawsuit does not clarify whether these restrictions were a factor in the incident.

Discover the Culinary Delights on Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is set to launch its latest Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas, this July. This new vessel promises an extraordinary dining experience with 28 venues offering 24 global cuisines. From immersive supper clubs to innovative complimentary concepts, there’s something for every palate.

AquaDome Market and Complimentary Dining Options

Legend of the Seas will feature a variety of complimentary dining options. Guests can enjoy quick service outlets like Park Cafe, El Loco Fresh, Surfside Bites, and Basecamp. The AquaDome Market introduces six food stands, five of which are brand new concepts. These include Seoulmate for Korean rice bowls, Cajun Kitchen for New Orleans gumbo, and Adobo for street tacos. La Española offers Spanish-style bites, while Simply Pressed serves smoothies and juices. Crème de la Crêpe will delight with French-style crêpes.

For those seeking a 24-hour option, The Pearl Cafe provides salads, sandwiches, sweet treats, and coffee. Sorrento’s will satisfy pizza cravings from lunchtime until late, and Sprinkles offers unlimited soft serve ice cream. For sit-down meals, The Surfside Eatery, Windjammer, and the main dining room are available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

New Immersive Dining Experiences

Legend of the Seas introduces two exciting immersive dining experiences. The Hollywood Supper Club offers a multi-course meal inspired by Hollywood’s golden age. Each course is paired with grand cocktails, creating a glamorous dining experience.

The Royal Railway: Legend Station takes guests on a five-course culinary journey along the ancient Silk Routes. Starting in China with Pork and Shrimp Siu Mai, the journey continues through Turkey, India, Persia, and Italy. This experience is designed to captivate diners of all ages and tastes.

Speciality and À La Carte Dining

Beyond complimentary options, Legend of the Seas boasts a range of speciality and à la carte dining venues. Izumi Hibachi & Sushi returns, offering both lunch and dinner. Izumi in the Park will serve sushi and Japanese cuisine, adding to the ship’s diverse culinary offerings.

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas promises an unforgettable dining adventure. With its array of global cuisines and innovative dining concepts, this ship is set to redefine cruise dining. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to the seas, the culinary experiences on board are sure to impress.

Discover the Romance of River Cruises

River cruises often get a bad rap, especially among couples. Many believe these cruises lack privacy, flexibility, or romance. Some think the experience is too rigid or centred around the ship. However, river cruising offers a unique, immersive travel experience. With smaller ships and central docking locations, it’s perfect for exploring together at a leisurely pace. Katherine Greaves, Head of Cruise Product at Riviera Travel, debunks some common myths about river cruising for couples.

Myth 1: Dining is All About Shared Tables

A major concern for many is the dining experience on river cruises. Couples often worry that smaller ships mean a forced social atmosphere, especially during meals. They fear formal dining with large communal tables and little chance for private meals. In truth, river cruise dining is flexible. Guests can choose their preferred dining style, whether social or intimate.

River cruise ships offer various dining arrangements, including tables for two. This allows couples to enjoy meals in a relaxed setting. Whether savouring regional cuisine or a leisurely breakfast overlooking the river, dining becomes a personal and unhurried experience. Couples can decide whether to mingle with other travellers or enjoy a quiet meal together.

Myth 2: Lack of Privacy on Smaller Ships

Another misconception is that smaller ships mean less privacy. Some assume that fewer guests result in shared or exposed spaces. In reality, river cruise ships are designed to offer both sociable and private areas. Cabins are comfortable and well-planned, often featuring French balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows.

These design elements bring the scenic beauty of the river right into your room. Quiet lounges, sun decks, and intimate public spaces provide ample opportunities for couples to unwind together. You can enjoy time alone while watching the world drift by. The focus is on creating a relaxed environment with space to retreat or socialise as you wish.

Myth 3: Strict Schedules Dominate River Cruises

Many believe river cruises follow a strict schedule, leaving little room for spontaneity. However, this is far from the truth. River cruises offer a balance of planned activities and free time. You can explore destinations at your own pace, choosing excursions that interest you.

The smaller size of river cruise ships allows for docking in central locations. This means you can step off the ship and start exploring right away. Whether you want to join a guided tour or wander on your own, the choice is yours. River cruising offers the flexibility to create your own adventure.

Embrace the River Cruise Experience

River cruises provide a unique way to travel, especially for couples. They offer a blend of privacy, flexibility, and romance. With thoughtfully designed ships and flexible itineraries, you can tailor your experience to suit your preferences. So, why not consider a river cruise for your next holiday? It might just be the perfect getaway for you and your partner.

Unexpected Cruise Cancellation Leaves Passengers Stranded in Hong Kong

Thousands of cruise enthusiasts found themselves stranded in Hong Kong when StarDream Cruises unexpectedly cancelled the Star Voyager’s Valentine’s getaway. Scheduled for 13th February 2026, the two-night round trip to Xiamen, China, was called off due to unforeseen technical issues. The cancellation left 2,395 guests waiting at the Kai Tak and Tsim Sha Tsui cruise terminals, eager to embark on their journey.

Last-Minute Announcement Causes Frustration

The timing of the cancellation announcement added to the passengers’ frustration. Many had already spent hours at the terminal when the news broke. The announcement came around 9 pm on the day of embarkation, long after guests expected to be settling into their cabins. A formal letter confirming the cancellation was issued at 11:45 pm, leaving passengers in a state of confusion and disappointment.

Chaotic Scenes at the Terminal

The atmosphere at the terminal was chaotic, with large crowds left standing for extended periods. Passengers described the scene as disorganised, with little immediate clarity on the situation. “I was only given a bottle of water,” one passenger shared with the South China Morning Post. Another passenger, who had booked the exclusive Palace Suite, expressed frustration at being treated like “refugees” in the crowded waiting area.

Efforts to Ease Tensions

In an attempt to ease tensions, crew members distributed bottled water and later provided dinner vouchers worth HK$200, approximately £20. However, these efforts did little to alleviate the frustration of those who had been eagerly anticipating their cruise holiday.

Compensation Options for Affected Passengers

In the days following the cancellation, StarDream Cruises announced compensation options for the affected travellers. Guests could transfer their booking to any other two- or three-night sailing aboard Star Voyager, departing on or before 30th August 2026. These rebookings would be honoured at no additional cost, even if the new sailing had a higher fare.

Additional Compensation and Refunds

As a goodwill gesture, affected cabins were offered a HK$200 onboard credit. This was in addition to previously outlined compensation, including HK$200 per guest and HK$500 to cover transportation costs related to the disrupted departure. Alternatively, passengers could opt for a full refund while still retaining the HK$200 per guest payment and HK$500 transportation allowance.

In conclusion, while the cancellation of the Star Voyager’s Valentine’s cruise was a disappointment, StarDream Cruises has taken steps to compensate affected passengers. For UK cruise holidaygoers, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of flexibility and understanding when unexpected travel disruptions occur.

Celebrity Cruises Cancels February 2026 Sailing of Celebrity Infinity

Celebrity Cruises has announced the cancellation of the Celebrity Infinity’s 16th February 2026 departure. This decision follows a technical issue and power failure on the previous voyage. The ship now requires further repairs before it can set sail again.

Impact on the Best of Greece Itinerary

Guests were set to embark on an 11-night Best of Greece cruise from Piraeus. However, the cruise line has informed passengers that this itinerary will no longer proceed. The ship was scheduled to visit Mycenae, Crete, and Rhodes, as well as ports in Cyprus and Turkey.

Technical Issues and Safety Concerns

The cancellation comes after a power loss at the end of the previous sailing. This incident led to an early disembarkation for guests. Although the exact cause remains undisclosed, passengers reported hearing the “bravo bravo bravo” emergency announcement, often linked to a fire onboard. Celebrity Cruises has not confirmed if a fire occurred.

Significant Repairs Required

The complete cancellation of the 11-night voyage suggests extensive repairs are needed. These may involve specialist parts or technicians. The ship must be fully operational and safe before resuming service.

Compensation for Affected Passengers

Celebrity Cruises is offering a generous compensation package to those affected. All passengers will receive a full refund, including non-refundable deposits and pre-paid amenities. Refunds will be processed within 14 business days, though bank processing times may vary.

Future Cruise Credit

In addition to refunds, guests will receive a future cruise credit equal to 100% of the cruise fare paid. This credit is valid for any Celebrity Cruises sailing within the next year. It can be used across the fleet, not just on Celebrity Infinity or Greek itineraries.

Support for Flight Arrangements

For those who booked flights through Celebrity Cruises, the company is providing assistance. They are committed to ensuring travellers feel supported as they adjust their plans. This comprehensive approach aims to ease the inconvenience caused by the cancellation.