Category: Cruise News

Passenger Arrested After Carnival Cruise

A recent Carnival Cruise Line passenger found himself in hot water after disembarking from the Mardi Gras. Anthony Ridings was taken into custody by US Customs and Border Protection. This occurred after officers discovered disturbing content on his mobile phone.

Discovery During Routine Customs Check

Ridings had just completed his cruise when he was stopped for a routine check. Initially, there were concerns about potential illegal material involving children. However, the investigation took a different turn. Officers found videos allegedly showing adults engaging in sexual acts with animals, a serious offence under Florida law.

Investigation Initiated Post-Cruise

The exact reason Ridings came under scrutiny remains undisclosed. However, cruise ships have systems to detect illegal downloads via onboard WiFi. These systems can alert authorities once the ship docks in a US port. Wayne Ivey, a law enforcement official, shared details on social media. He clarified that the initial suspicion was child-related content, but the reality was different.

Formal Investigation Launched

Agent Josh Strait from the Internet Crimes Against Children Unit was called to Port Canaveral. He conducted interviews and began a formal investigation. During questioning, Ridings claimed the videos were meant to “shock” his friends. This statement did not deter the investigation.

Arrest Follows Forensic Examination

Ridings is believed to have disembarked on 27th December 2025. The Mardi Gras was transitioning between Caribbean itineraries at Port Canaveral. Initially, Ridings was not arrested. His phone underwent a digital forensic review to check for more illegal content. Sheriff Ivey explained that the phone examination was crucial before issuing an arrest warrant.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

After the forensic review, Ridings was arrested on New Year’s Eve in Daytona Beach. He remains in custody with a bond set at $300,000. The arrest has sparked significant public reaction. Many are relieved that the investigation led to charges and are calling for further action against those involved in creating such content.

Public and Cruise Line Reactions

The news of Ridings’ arrest has generated strong online reactions. Many express relief and demand stricter measures against similar offences. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and the role of cruise lines in monitoring illegal activities.

MSC Preziosa’s New Year Cruise: A Windy Adventure

MSC Preziosa’s New Year cruise took an unexpected turn. On 2nd January 2026, severe winds disrupted a lively celebration at sea. The ship was returning to Santos, São Paulo, after a four-night cruise. Brazilian DJ Alok was performing on the open decks when the weather worsened.

Guests Rushed Indoors as Conditions Deteriorated

As the winds intensified, the crew acted swiftly. They halted the outdoor performance and guided guests indoors. This was in line with standard maritime safety procedures. Social media footage from passenger Francisco Garcia captured the chaos. Guests and crew struggled against the powerful gusts. Security staff shouted instructions over the noise, urging everyone to move inside.

Challenges of Strong Winds at Sea

Strong winds at sea can be hazardous, especially on open decks. Sudden gusts can slam doors and shift deck furniture. They can also create wind tunnel effects, increasing the risk of falls. In extreme cases, passengers near railings might be at risk of losing balance. The crew’s quick response helped prevent any injuries.

Brief Tilt Sparks Passenger Alarm

During the storm, some passengers felt the ship tilt briefly. This added to the tension on board. Francisco Garcia recalled a passenger’s alarm, fearing the ship was capsizing. However, modern cruise ships like MSC Preziosa are equipped with advanced stability systems. A temporary tilt is not uncommon and does not indicate danger. The bridge team quickly adjusted the course, stabilising the vessel.

No Injuries as Crew Praised for Response

Despite the dramatic conditions, no injuries occurred. The ship suffered no damage, aside from a few spilled drinks and knocked-over items. Once the weather improved, celebrations resumed. DJ Alok continued his performance, much to the delight of the guests. Many praised the crew for their calm and effective handling of the situation.

Stormy Weather Near Brazilian Coast

At the time of the incident, MSC Preziosa was nearing Santos. The stormy weather was unexpected but handled with expertise. The crew’s swift actions ensured the safety of all passengers. This incident highlights the importance of safety protocols on cruise ships. It also serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sea travel.

Unforeseen Festive Disruption on Celebrity Eclipse

A Christmas cruise meant to spread festive joy turned sour for some passengers on the Celebrity Eclipse. A gastrointestinal illness outbreak marred the holiday voyage, leaving several guests unwell. The cruise, an eight-night Eastern Caribbean journey, set sail from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, on 20th December 2025, and returned on 28th December.

Itinerary and Impact

The cruise visited stunning destinations like Antigua, St Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. However, the trip was overshadowed by illness. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 95 out of 3,042 passengers experienced symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps. Additionally, nine crew members from a total of 1,235 were affected. This represented 3.1% of guests and 0.7% of crew, surpassing the CDC’s reporting threshold of 3% for passengers.

CDC Notification and Onboard Response

Upon returning to Fort Lauderdale, the outbreak was officially reported to the CDC. The illnesses were spread throughout the voyage, indicating passengers fell ill on different days. In response, the crew took swift action. Enhanced sanitation and containment measures were implemented to curb further spread. Public areas underwent increased cleaning and disinfection. Affected guests and crew were isolated, and samples were collected for lab testing to identify the illness’s cause.

Potential Causes and Prevention

While the specific cause remains unidentified, most cruise ship outbreaks are linked to viruses like norovirus. These viruses spread easily through contaminated surfaces or person-to-person contact. Health authorities stress the importance of frequent handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before meals. Avoiding contact with high-touch surfaces like railings, lift buttons, and buffet utensils can also help reduce transmission.

Part of a Wider Pattern in 2025

This incident on Celebrity Eclipse was the only one reported for Celebrity Cruises in 2025. However, it marked the 22nd gastrointestinal outbreak across all cruise lines that year. Most outbreaks were attributed to norovirus, though some lacked a confirmed cause. Other identified agents included E. coli and ciguatera poisoning. The previous outbreak occurred on AIDAdiva in late November and early December, affecting 114 guests and crew.

Understanding Cruise Ship Health Risks

Despite common misconceptions, cruise ships are not inherently prone to illness. Hundreds of voyages in 2025 sailed without any reported outbreaks. The key to a healthy cruise experience lies in vigilance and hygiene. By following health guidelines and taking preventive measures, passengers can enjoy their cruise holidays with peace of mind.

A Daring Rescue at Sea

In a heart-stopping moment, a parent and child were saved by quick-thinking cruise staff after ending up in the water next to a docked cruise ship. The incident, captured in a viral video, shows the child being pulled from the water near the Carnival Sunrise, followed by a woman. Although details remain scarce, the video caption suggests the woman is the child’s mother, who jumped in to save her child.

Swift Action by Cruise Crew

The dramatic footage was taken from a nearby cruise ship at Celebration Key. It begins with crew members urgently monitoring the situation, having already thrown a life ring into the water. Additional crew members soon arrive with a ladder to assist in the rescue. The child is quickly brought to safety and handed to another family member, wrapped up to keep warm. Shortly after, the emotional woman is helped back onto the pier and embraced by her travel companions.

Applause for the Heroes

Onlookers cheered as the rescue unfolded, offering encouragement and congratulations to both the rescued individuals and the heroic crew. While the exact circumstances remain unconfirmed, it appears the child may have fallen from the pier, prompting the parent to jump in. Despite the lack of an official statement on their condition, both seemed unharmed, though medical teams likely conducted further assessments.

Similar Incidents at the Pier

While this incident was dramatic, it’s not entirely unprecedented. Such events can occur when ships are docked and passengers are moving between the pier and the vessel. In November 2025, a passenger unexpectedly fell into the water beside a Norwegian Cruise Line ship in Nassau. Originally scheduled to visit Great Stirrup Cay, the ship diverted due to rough seas. As guests returned, a man fell into the gap between the pier and the hull, an area lined with protective rubber fenders.

Quick Response Saves the Day

Videos from the Nassau incident show the man clinging to a life ring as bystanders called for help. Crew members quickly arrived with a ladder, pulling him to safety within moments. No injuries were reported, and it remains unclear whether he was a passenger, crew member, or port worker. Witnesses speculated he either slipped or misjudged his step while approaching the gangway.

Rare Overboard Incidents

While pier incidents are not uncommon, true overboard situations at sea are far rarer and more serious. These events highlight the importance of vigilance and quick response by cruise staff to ensure passenger safety.

Coral Adventurer Runs Aground in Papua New Guinea

An expedition cruise aboard the Coral Adventurer faced an unexpected halt when the ship ran aground off Papua New Guinea’s east coast. This incident adds to a challenging period for the vessel. The grounding occurred early on Saturday, 27th December 2025, near Dreghafen Point, nestled between Nussing Island and Kumbam Island. This location is about 60 miles from Lae, the second-largest city in Papua New Guinea.

Details of the Incident

The Coral Adventurer set sail from Cairns, Australia, on Thursday, 18th December, embarking on a 12-night cruise along the picturesque Papua New Guinea coastline. However, strong local currents are believed to have played a role in the ship becoming stuck. Local authorities were notified shortly before 6 am. Onboard were 80 passengers and 44 crew members. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. A spokesperson for Coral Expeditions assured, “All passengers and crew are safe.”

Refloating and Inspection Plans

Efforts to refloat the ship are underway, with plans carefully aligned with tidal conditions to aid the process naturally. Once the vessel is freed, a comprehensive inspection of the hull will follow. Coral Expeditions stated, “An initial inspection indicates no damage to the vessel.” Authorities will also evaluate the surrounding marine environment for any potential fuel leaks or harm to nearby coral reefs. Currently, there is no confirmed timeline for when the Coral Adventurer will resume its itinerary. The ship was due back in Cairns for disembarkation on Tuesday, 30th December. If refloating efforts face delays or repairs are necessary, alternative arrangements for guests may be required, potentially affecting future sailings.

Previous Incident Casts a Shadow

This grounding incident comes on the heels of a tragic event earlier in the ship’s season. In late October, an 80-year-old passenger, Suzanne Rees, tragically passed away after being left behind during a shore excursion on Lizard Island, Queensland. Rees, travelling solo, had joined a guided hike during the first port visit of a planned 60-night circumnavigation of Australia. She reportedly separated from the group to rest and did not return to the ship before it departed. Upon discovering her absence, the Coral Adventurer returned to Lizard Island, launching search operations. Sadly, Rees was later found deceased some distance from the hiking trail.

Impact on Future Voyages

Following the tragic incident, the remainder of the voyage was cancelled, and guests were flown home on chartered flights. The cruise line acknowledged that it could no longer deliver the experience guests had anticipated. The recent grounding adds further uncertainty to the ship’s schedule, leaving future sailings in question. As the situation unfolds, passengers and cruise enthusiasts alike are keenly watching for updates on the Coral Adventurer’s return to service.

Living the Cruise Life: A New Way to Work and Travel

Imagine spending most of the year on a cruise ship, enjoying the open sea while working remotely. For Ryan Gutridge, a cloud solutions engineer from Florida, this dream is a reality. He spends around 300 days a year aboard Royal Caribbean ships, primarily the Freedom of the Seas. Surprisingly, this lifestyle costs about the same as living on land.

From Trial Cruises to a New Lifestyle

In 2021, Gutridge decided to test the waters. He booked two four-night cruises on Freedom of the Seas in September. His goal was to see if the onboard WiFi could support his work needs. The trial was a success. He realised he could work effectively while cruising. After doing the maths, he found that living on a cruise ship for most of the year was financially viable. With a budget of around £22,000 annually, including WiFi, drinks, and meals, his expenses were lower than living on land.

Loyalty Perks Enhance the Experience

Sticking with one cruise line has its perks. Gutridge benefits from Royal Caribbean’s loyalty programme, which offers discounts, free internet, and drinks. He advises trying different cruise lines initially. However, once you find the right fit, staying loyal can unlock valuable benefits. For Gutridge, Royal Caribbean offers the best perks, making his cruise lifestyle even more appealing.

More Than Just Financial Benefits

The cruise lifestyle offers more than just cost savings. Constant travel, entertainment, and dining are part of the package. Gutridge enjoys access to destinations that would otherwise require separate holidays. This lifestyle offers a unique blend of work and leisure, making it an attractive option for those who can work remotely.

A Growing Trend Among Remote Workers

Gutridge is not alone in his choice. A growing number of people are opting to live on cruise ships for extended periods. They sell most of their possessions and move from one sailing to another. While there are challenges, such as repetitive food and fleeting friendships, the benefits often outweigh the downsides. For many, the cruise lifestyle offers a unique and fulfilling way to live and work.

Carnival Cruise Line Expands Adults-Only Cruises for 2026

Carnival Cruise Line is set to enhance its adults-only cruise offerings in 2026. The expansion comes under the Sailings Exclusively for Adults (SEA) programme. This decision follows high demand for casino-focused cruises, as shared by Carnival’s brand ambassador, John Heald.

Heald expressed excitement about the additional adults-only cruises planned for next year. The SEA programme, first launched in 2025, caters specifically to adults. It features enhanced casino access, themed parties, bingo events, and entertainment tailored for a mature audience.

How the Adults-Only Cruises Work

SEA cruises differ from standard sailings. They are available by invitation only. Interested guests must register through a dedicated sign-up link to receive a booking offer. Heald advises registering promptly, as spots are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

In 2026, three ships will host these exclusive adults-only departures: Carnival Glory, Carnival Dream, and Carnival Paradise.

Transatlantic and Long Itineraries Highlight Programme

A highlight of the SEA programme is a 15-night transatlantic crossing on Carnival Dream. Departing from Galveston on 16th February 2026, the cruise sails to Barcelona. This offers an extended adults-only experience at sea.

Carnival Glory will also feature two major adults-only itineraries in 2026. In early March, it will embark on a 15-night transatlantic journey from Port Canaveral to Barcelona. The cruise will visit ports in Portugal and Spain.

After reaching Europe, Carnival Glory will offer another 15-night adults-only cruise. This roundtrip from Barcelona explores the Mediterranean and Canary Islands. Destinations include Spain, Italy, and Morocco, with stops in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Tangier, and Livorno.

Caribbean Option From Tampa

For those seeking a shorter adults-only escape, Carnival Paradise presents a 10-night Caribbean cruise in April 2026. Departing from Tampa, the itinerary includes stops in Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, the Dominican Republic, and Florida. This cruise combines warm-weather destinations with the SEA programme’s adult-focused atmosphere.

With longer itineraries and transatlantic crossings now available, Carnival’s expanded SEA programme for 2026 offers more choices for adult cruisers. It’s perfect for those seeking casino-centric sailings without family-focused activities onboard.

Exciting Returns for Crown Princess and MSC Magnifica

Two iconic cruise ships are back in action after extensive dry dock refurbishments. Princess Cruises’ Crown Princess and MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica have unveiled fresh venues, revamped public areas, and enhanced guest experiences. These updates highlight the cruise lines’ dedication to modernising their fleets and staying competitive.

Crown Princess: New Entertainment and Casino Spaces

Crown Princess has returned to service after a three-week dry dock in Singapore, which started on 29th November 2025. This refurbishment led to the cancellation of several voyages. The ship, accommodating 3,080 guests since 2006, now boasts several guest-facing improvements.

One standout addition is O’Malley’s Irish Pub on Deck 7. This new venue replaces the Wheelhouse Bar and offers live music, classic pub fare, and late-night snacks. With seating for 134 guests, including 12 bar stools, O’Malley’s is already a hit on other Princess ships.

Gatsby’s Casino on Deck 6 has been reimagined with a redesigned bar, upgraded gaming equipment, and new slot machine themes. The former Internet Café on Deck 5 is now an EFFY Lounge and High-End Vault, showcasing jewellery and hosting cocktail events.

Routine technical maintenance was also completed, including propeller work and a fresh coat of exterior paint. Crown Princess set sail from Singapore on 19th December 2025 for a 16-night cruise to Brisbane, arriving on 4th January 2026. She will cruise from Brisbane and Sydney to Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu, before a 114-night world cruise in May 2026.

MSC Magnifica: Major Two-Month Refurbishment

MSC Magnifica has also returned to service after a significant two-month refurbishment at the Palumbo Malta Shipyard. This update, which began in October, prepares the ship for her winter season. The 95,128-gross-ton vessel, in service since 2010, now features new dining and wellness options.

Two speciality restaurants have been introduced. Butcher’s Cut, an American-style steakhouse, offers premium meats and seafood. Kaito Sushi Bar provides a delightful sushi experience. These additions enhance the dining options available to guests.

Both Crown Princess and MSC Magnifica are ready to offer unforgettable cruise experiences. Their recent upgrades ensure they remain top choices for cruise enthusiasts. Whether you’re exploring the South Pacific or enjoying fine dining at sea, these ships promise a memorable journey.

An Urgent Search for Missing Cruise Passenger

An international search is in full swing after a passenger vanished during a Mediterranean cruise on the AIDAluna. The missing woman, Qin Dong, is a Chinese national living in Germany. She embarked on a solo five-night cruise, boarding the ship in Palma de Mallorca on 10th December 2025. However, she was not present when the ship returned to the same port on 15th December.

Disappearance Linked to Marseille Port Call

The AIDAluna’s itinerary included stops in Marseille, Palamos, and Barcelona, with a sea day on 11th December. The ship docked in Marseille at 8am on 12th December, which is the last confirmed day Dong was seen onboard. Cruise officials confirmed that Dong did not officially disembark at any point during the journey. Despite this, friends received text messages from her around 8pm on 12th December, two hours after the ship left Marseille. This suggests she went missing while still onboard.

No Emergency Alerts Reported Onboard

Interestingly, no emergency alerts or search operations were reported during the cruise. It remains uncertain if Dong went overboard, as no incident triggered a ship-wide response. Onboard records show minimal activity from Dong, with only one drink, an orange juice, charged to her account. Since the ship’s return, family and friends have taken to social media, urging anyone with information to come forward. “Even the smallest clue or memory could be crucial!” they plead.

Three Countries Involved in the Investigation

The investigation now spans three countries. French authorities are involved since the disappearance occurred while docked in Marseille. Chinese officials are notified due to Dong’s citizenship, and German authorities are engaged because AIDA Cruises is a German line and Dong resided in Germany. Despite the ongoing investigation, AIDAluna continued its itinerary without delays or changes. The Sphinx-class ship, accommodating around 2,100 guests and 600 crew, is currently operating Mediterranean cruises from Palma de Mallorca.

The mystery surrounding Qin Dong’s disappearance remains unsolved. As the search continues, authorities and loved ones hope for any information that could shed light on her whereabouts.

2025 was a whirlwind year for the cruise industry. It was filled with exciting new ships and announcements about future destinations. However, not all news was positive. There were tragedies, scandals, and controversies that kept the industry in the headlines. Let’s revisit the most significant cruise news stories of 2025. Which ones do you recall, which are new to you, and which would you prefer to forget?

January: A Year of Surprises for Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas marked its first anniversary in January 2025. Surprisingly, guest reviews revealed a decline in popularity. Initially expected to be a fleet favourite, its ranking among cruise ships dropped significantly. This unexpected shift left many wondering about the reasons behind the change in sentiment.

Carnival’s New Policies Stir Debate

Carnival Cruise Line made headlines with two major policy changes. First, they introduced stricter rules for under-21s, reshaping family cabin bookings. This move sparked debates among passengers about the true motives and enforcement of these rules. Additionally, Carnival reinforced its ban on cash games outside the casino. This decision surprised many cruisers, highlighting the strictness of onboard gambling regulations.

February: Controversies and Cancellations

A balcony fire on Carnival Glory turned a weekend cruise into a tense situation. Although the fire was controlled, passengers claimed mistreatment during the investigation. Their allegations raised further questions about the incident. In another twist, a couple’s cruise booking mysteriously vanished, only to be followed by an unexpected refund. The story took a bizarre turn when the identity of the person who cancelled the trip was revealed.

Sky Princess Itinerary Changes Cause Disappointment

Princess Cruises made drastic changes to Sky Princess itineraries, leaving many guests disappointed. Sun-soaked routes were swapped for entirely different destinations. This sudden change forced passengers to rethink their holiday plans and question the reasons behind such a significant shift.

2025 was indeed a year of ups and downs for cruise enthusiasts. While some stories brought excitement, others left passengers and industry insiders puzzled. As we look back, these events remind us of the ever-evolving nature of the cruise world.