Category: Cruise News

Seabourn’s Epic 2027 World Cruise: A Journey of a Lifetime

Seabourn has unveiled an extraordinary 145-day world cruise, setting sail from Miami in January 2027. This luxurious voyage aboard the Seabourn Quest promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for cruise enthusiasts. Travellers will explore 67 ports across 19 countries, all without the hassle of mid-journey flights.

Explore Iconic Destinations

The itinerary is a dream come true for those with a passion for travel. Guests will visit bucket-list destinations like Hawaii, Bora Bora, Australia, and New Zealand. The cruise also includes two transits of the Panama Canal and stops at remote gems such as the Galapagos Islands and French Polynesia. This makes it one of the most comprehensive world cruises ever offered by Seabourn.

Highlights of a Truly Global Itinerary

Seabourn Quest’s 2027 World Cruise offers a perfect blend of bustling cities and hidden treasures. Overnight stays in Sydney, Darwin, Hobart, Lima, and Papeete allow for in-depth exploration. The cruise will also make its inaugural visits to Wallaroo in Australia and Whangarei in New Zealand. Guests will enjoy extended time in Hawaii and multiple stops in French Polynesia, including Bora Bora.

Unforgettable Scenic Cruising

Scenic cruising is a highlight of this voyage. Passengers will sail through New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, the rugged Kimberley Coast of Australia, and Chile’s dramatic fjords. The journey also includes crossing both the Equator and the International Date Line, adding to the adventure.

Luxurious Inclusions for World Cruise Guests

Seabourn ensures a seamless and luxurious experience with a host of inclusions. Guests will enjoy upgraded Starlink WiFi for two devices, business or first-class flights, and private door-to-door transfers. Additional perks include luggage valet service, a pre-cruise hotel stay, and a medical services package worth $1,000.

Exclusive Onboard Experiences

World Cruise guests will indulge in exclusive dining experiences and private tasting menus. The cruise features expanded special events, including a gala dinner and access to President’s Events. A reduced 50% deposit at booking and the option to join immersive Seabourn Journeys ashore add to the appeal.

Life Onboard Seabourn Quest

Seabourn Quest is a pinnacle of ultra-luxury cruising, accommodating just over 450 guests in all-suite comfort. The ship offers a refined atmosphere, ensuring a personalised and intimate experience. Cultural performances, culinary events, and curated shore excursions are tailored for those embarking on the full world cruise.

Embark on this epic journey and discover the world in unparalleled luxury with Seabourn. This 2027 World Cruise promises to be an unforgettable adventure for UK cruise holidaygoers.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Exciting New York Changes for 2027

Carnival Cruise Line is shaking things up in New York. As part of its 2027 deployment plans, the cruise line is making significant changes. These updates are part of a broader strategy to enhance cruise experiences from iconic cities worldwide.

Carnival Venezia Bids Farewell to Manhattan

Carnival Venezia will leave the New York market before the summer of 2027. This ship has been a familiar sight in Manhattan, offering trips to Bermuda and the Caribbean. While Venezia’s next destination remains a mystery, Carnival assures that the ship will not be withdrawn entirely. For New York cruise enthusiasts, this means saying goodbye to Venezia and welcoming a new experience.

Welcome Carnival Firenze to New York

Carnival Firenze will make its debut in New York in May 2027. This marks the first time the ship will be homeported in the city. With its Italian-inspired design, Firenze brings a fresh vibe to the Manhattan cruise scene. The ship will offer a mix of itineraries, including short trips to Bermuda and Canada. Longer journeys will also be available, such as a seven-day cruise with three days in Bermuda.

Exciting Itineraries Await

Once in New York, Carnival Firenze will offer diverse itineraries. These include four- and five-day sailings to Bermuda and Canada. For those seeking longer adventures, there are eight-day Eastern Caribbean trips. These will visit Celebration Key, Grand Turk, and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. A special five-day cruise to New England and Canada is set for 19th August 2027, with stops in Portland, Maine, and Saint John, Canada.

One-Time Miami to New York Cruise

Before starting its New York season, Carnival Firenze will embark on a unique journey. The ship will sail from Miami to Manhattan on a one-time repositioning cruise. This 11-day Southern Caribbean adventure departs on 16th May 2027. It includes stops at Celebration Key, Aruba, Curaçao, and St Thomas. Expect longer port stays and a relaxed pace, typical of Carnival Journeys sailings.

Carnival’s 2027 plans promise exciting changes for New York cruise lovers. With new ships and itineraries, there’s much to look forward to. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these updates offer something for everyone.

Unexpected End to a Family Cruise Holiday

A family’s dream cruise holiday was cut short at Jacksonville, Florida. Several guests were denied boarding due to incorrect travel documents. The incident occurred on a Norwegian Cruise Line trip to the Bahamas. A passenger’s wife and parents were turned away because the parents, permanent US residents, lacked their physical green cards.

Long Journey Ends in Disappointment

The family had driven seven hours to reach the port. They were stopped during the check-in process. A Reddit post detailed their ordeal. “I bought my wife and in-laws tickets to the Bahamas from Jacksonville. They drove down there yesterday but were refused entry because my in-laws, permanent residents with passports and state IDs, didn’t have their physical green cards,” the post explained.

Strict Cruise Line Policies

The family sought a refund or future cruise credit from Norwegian Cruise Line. Their request was reportedly denied. They argued they were unaware of the need for physical green cards. “When I purchased the tickets, NCL didn’t ask to upload them, nor mention them during check-out,” the Redditor claimed.

Documentation Requirements

Norwegian Cruise Line’s policy is clear. Permanent residents must carry their physical green cards to sail. “US Alien Residents holding an Alien Resident Card (ARC), also known as a ‘Green Card’, must have the ARC to sail,” states the cruise line’s policy. Without it, boarding is denied.

Legal Obligations for Permanent Residents

US federal law mandates permanent residents carry their green cards at all times. This is crucial when entering or re-entering the country. Cruises to the Bahamas are international travel, making documentation essential. Confusion arises from closed-loop sailings, which allow US-born citizens to travel without a passport. However, this does not apply to green card holders.

Community Reactions

The cruise community offered mixed reactions. Some empathised with the family’s plight. Others stressed the importance of understanding travel requirements. This incident serves as a reminder to check documentation rules before travelling.

Outrage Over Child in Adults-Only Spa on Cruise

Cruise passengers recently took to social media to voice their frustration. The uproar began when a child was reportedly brought into an adults-only spa during a Thanksgiving cruise. Many guests felt this disrupted their paid-for promise of peace and tranquillity.

Expectations of a Child-Free Spa Experience

A cruiser shared their experience in a viral Reddit post. They had spent around $600 for a week-long pass to an adults-only thermal spa. Expecting a serene environment, they were surprised to find a young child in the spa with their father.

The Importance of Adults-Only Spaces

Adults-only areas on cruise ships offer a respite from bustling family zones. These spaces, especially thermal suites and spa facilities, are often sold at a premium. Guests pay for the promise of silence and relaxation.

Child Allegedly Allowed to Stay in Spa Area

According to the Reddit post, the child seemed restless and bored. The child was described as “jumping and squirming around” while the father appeared to be asleep or ignoring the situation. Other guests were visibly uncomfortable, feeling the situation was more than a simple mistake.

Common Issue for Seasoned Cruisers

For many experienced cruisers, this scenario is all too familiar. Adults-only areas, especially on family-oriented cruises, often face challenges. Some guests treat age restrictions as mere suggestions rather than enforced rules.

Staff Intervention and Parental Backlash

A spa attendant eventually intervened, explaining the adults-only policy. Instead of accepting responsibility, the child’s mother reportedly shifted blame. She told the child, “Oh, honey, THEY don’t want you in here, so now we all have to leave.” This response sparked further anger online.

Discussion on Responsibility

Many commenters felt the parents unfairly blamed the spa staff and the child. One commenter noted, “That poor kid… Not being wanted is a different level of hurt.” Another pointed out that the child hadn’t broken any rules; the adults had.

Plenty of Child-Friendly Alternatives Onboard

Adding to the frustration was the abundance of child-friendly activities available on the ship. The vessel offered a kids’ club, teen areas, an arcade, VR games, an escape room, water slides, a splash area, and bumper cars. As one commenter put it, “It’s not like there’s nowhere for the kid to go.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Winter 2027/2028 season promises an escape from the cold to sun-drenched beaches and warm seas. Running from September 2027 to April 2028, this season features a diverse array of itineraries. With 144 destinations across 47 countries, cruisers can choose from short two-night trips to grand 22-day voyages.

The cruise line will operate from 15 homeports, including key locations in North America, Asia-Pacific, and Australasia. Notable embarkation points include Miami, Port Canaveral, and Los Angeles. Internationally, Tokyo, Singapore, and Sydney are among the options. Excitingly, Norwegian Cruise Line will homeport two of its newest ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for the first time. This move expands the Southern Caribbean offerings.

Strong Focus on Caribbean, Bahamas, and Private Islands

The winter programme highlights the Caribbean and Bahamas, featuring popular ports like Nassau and Antigua. Norwegian Cruise Line’s private destinations, Harvest Caye in Belize and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, are also prominent. By 2027, Great Stirrup Cay will boast a new pier and a large waterpark.

Travellers from Los Angeles, Galveston, and New Orleans can explore the Mexican Riviera and Western Caribbean. These routes include stops at Cozumel and Cabo San Lucas. Ships like Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Escape will navigate these waters.

Asia-Pacific Sailings Offer Longer Port Stays

Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its presence in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Norwegian Spirit will operate voyages around Australia and New Zealand. Meanwhile, Norwegian Jade will sail from Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Destinations include Fremantle, Adelaide, and Okinawa.

To enhance the experience, the average port stay will be 9.5 hours. The season includes 71 late departures and 70 overnight stays, allowing more time to explore.

Free at Sea Plus Expands Onboard Flexibility

Norwegian Cruise Line is also enhancing its onboard offerings with Free at Sea Plus. This upgraded programme allows guests to customise their cruise experience. It’s perfect for those seeking more flexibility and personalisation during their voyage.

P&O Cruises has introduced its first-ever all-inclusive packages, marking a major change for one of the UK’s favourite cruise lines. These new offerings, available from 18th December 2025, apply to all P&O Cruises lasting five nights or more, starting from March 2026. The packages include drinks, WiFi, and onboard speciality dining credits, allowing guests to manage their expenses before boarding.

New Package Options

P&O Cruises now offers two package tiers: the Classic Package and the Deluxe Package. Both can be purchased at the time of booking, regardless of the fare type, including Select Price, Early Saver, and Saver fares. This flexibility ensures that all guests can enjoy the benefits of these packages.

What’s Included in the Classic Package?

The Classic Package costs £49 per person per day for cruises between five and 14 nights, and £45 per day for longer voyages. It includes the Classic Drinks Package, Essential WiFi for browsing and social media, and speciality dining credit. Dining credits vary by cruise length: £20 for five to nine nights, £40 for 10 to 14 nights, and £55 for 15 nights or more. These credits can be used in speciality restaurants like Sindhu and Epicurean.

Deluxe Package for a Premium Experience

For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Deluxe Package is available at £59 per person per day for five to 14-night cruises, and £55 per day for longer trips. This package includes the Deluxe Drinks Package, offering a broader selection of premium spirits, cocktails, and craft beers. It also features Ultimate WiFi, perfect for streaming and video calls. Dining credits are more generous, with £30 for five to nine nights, £60 for 10 to 14 nights, and £80 for 15 nights or more.

Significant Savings

P&O Cruises claims that these packages can save guests up to 32% on the Classic Package and up to 34% on the Deluxe Package compared to buying each component separately onboard. This translates to average daily savings of £23 and £30, respectively.

Effortless Budgeting for Your Cruise

The introduction of all-inclusive packages aims to simplify budgeting and offer peace of mind to travellers. Paul Ludlow, President of Carnival UK and P&O Cruises, stated, “Incredible value and effortless simplicity are at the heart of our cruise holidays, and that’s why we are so excited to be launching these new, all-inclusive packages. Guests can relax knowing that drinks, WiFi, and dining are all included.”

Exciting Developments for P&O Cruises

This announcement is part of a series of exciting developments for P&O Cruises. Recently, they launched their longest-ever voyage, the Epic World Explorer cruise. This 124-day journey on the Arcadia will explore Asia and beyond, visiting over 30 destinations. With these new packages and thrilling itineraries, P&O Cruises continues to enhance the holiday experience for UK cruise enthusiasts.

Cruise into the FIFA World Cup 2026

The excitement of the FIFA World Cup is set to sail the high seas in 2026. Carnival Corporation’s cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and P&O Cruises, have secured the rights to broadcast all 104 matches live. From 11th June to 19th July 2026, guests can enjoy the tournament while cruising, thanks to the Sport 24 Special Event Channels.

Experience the World Cup at Sea

The FIFA World Cup is a global spectacle, and the 2026 edition will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With IMG holding the global broadcast rights, cruise passengers won’t miss a moment. While five Carnival brands are confirmed, more cruise lines might join the lineup as the tournament approaches.

Where to Watch Onboard

Guests can catch the action both in their staterooms and in various public venues on the ships. Cunard’s Golden Lion pub and P&O Cruises’ Brodie’s venue will be buzzing with football fever. Special screenings for England matches will be held in larger venues like the SkyDome on P&O Cruises and The Pavilion on Cunard, catering to UK fans.

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises will offer outdoor screenings on their Lido Decks, weather permitting. Holland America will also use its World Stage theatres, while Princess Cruises plans lively viewing parties, encouraging guests to don their team colours.

Exciting Itineraries During the Tournament

Cruise lines are offering itineraries that coincide with the World Cup, blending live football with travel adventures. Holland America Line’s Noordam will broadcast matches during its 7-day Alaska Explorer cruise, departing Seattle on 5th July 2026. This journey includes stops at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka.

For those seeking a longer escape, Zuiderdam offers a 14-day Canada and New England cruise, leaving Boston on 20th June 2026. Princess Cruises also presents enticing options, such as a 7-night Mediterranean cruise on Sun Princess from Athens to Barcelona, departing 20th June 2026. Additionally, Diamond Princess offers a 9-night Circle Japan itinerary, sailing from Yokohama on 2nd July 2026.

Football and Travel: A Perfect Match

The FIFA World Cup is a fan-favourite event, and cruise lines are ensuring guests don’t have to choose between travel and football. With matches available at sea, passengers can enjoy the best of both worlds. As Kate Garden, commercial director of IMG, puts it, “From private staterooms to open-air decks, guests will be able to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of the tournament as we bring the spirit of the stadiums to sea next summer.”

Embark on a cruise holiday that combines the thrill of live football with the joy of exploring new destinations. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or a travel enthusiast, the 2026 World Cup at sea promises an unforgettable experience.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Unexpected Delay: What Happened?

A Carnival Cruise Line ship, the Carnival Firenze, faced an unexpected delay due to a technology glitch. Scheduled to set sail for the Mexican Riviera on 15th December 2025, the ship remained docked in Long Beach, California. A connectivity issue disrupted onboard systems, preventing the ship from departing as planned. The exact cause of the problem remains undisclosed.

Guest Experiences During the Delay

Passengers were informed of the delay, with the ship originally set to leave at 3 PM. However, it stayed in port well into the evening. By the morning of 16th December, the ship was still docked. It eventually departed later that day. One passenger shared their experience on Reddit, noting the system crash and issues with the Carnival Hub app and onboard Wi-Fi.

Impact on Itinerary

The technology failure raised concerns about the cruise itinerary. Onboard systems manage crucial aspects like bookings, shore excursions, and dining reservations. An announcement on 15th December warned of potential itinerary changes. Originally, the ship was to visit Cabo San Lucas on 17th December, followed by Ensenada on 20th December, and return to Long Beach on 21st December.

Revised Itinerary Details

Due to the delay, the itinerary was adjusted. If the ship departed on 15th December, Ensenada would be moved to 16th December, with Cabo San Lucas on 18th and 19th December. However, as the ship stayed overnight, it sailed directly to Cabo San Lucas for the planned overnight stay. By 17th December, the ship bypassed Ensenada, likely cancelling the port visit.

Carnival’s Response and Guest Communication

Many guests turned to Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, for updates. On 16th December, Heald communicated via social media, stating he had no new information but assured guests that updates would come from the ship. He thanked passengers for their patience and promised further communication from the Captain.

Conclusion

While the delay was unexpected, Carnival Cruise Line worked to keep guests informed and adjust plans accordingly. Such incidents highlight the importance of flexibility and communication in cruise travel. For UK holidaygoers planning a cruise, staying informed and prepared for changes can ensure a smoother experience.

Cruise Holidays: Meet the Unlikely Star of the Seas

Cruise holidays are known for their diverse mix of travellers. However, a recent Royal Caribbean cruise had an unexpected celebrity onboard. A tiny teacup chihuahua named Blondie stole the spotlight on the Freedom of the Seas.

Blondie: The Viral Sensation

During a December 2025 cruise, Blondie became an internet sensation. Videos of the adorable dog quickly went viral on social media. Her TikTok account, @bruiserandellewoods, references the film Legally Blonde. The account showcases Blondie’s adventures, capturing the hearts of many.

Onboard Adventures

Blondie boarded the ship at PortMiami on 4th December 2025. The Freedom-class ship was setting sail for a four-night Caribbean cruise. From the moment she stepped onboard, Blondie attracted attention. Passengers and crew were charmed by her presence.

A New Kind of Entertainment

Despite the ship’s entertainment offerings, Blondie became the main attraction. Guests were more interested in meeting the tiny dog than attending shows. Her calm nature and gentle temperament made her a beloved figure on the ship.

Winning Hearts at Sea

One TikTok video, viewed over 300,000 times, shows Blondie snuggling with passengers. Her owner noted she became the ship’s emotional support animal. Crew members also enjoyed her company, often stopping to greet her with smiles.

Service Dog at Sea

Blondie’s presence on the cruise was not by chance. She is a trained service dog, allowed onboard under Royal Caribbean’s policy. Most dogs are not permitted, but service dogs like Blondie are exceptions. Her owner ensured all necessary approvals were in place before sailing.

Royal Caribbean’s Service Animal Policy

Royal Caribbean welcomes service dogs on all ships. However, pets are not allowed. A service dog is defined as one trained to assist a person with a disability. Guests must submit documentation 60 days before sailing, including medical notes and vaccination records.

Blondie’s journey on the Freedom of the Seas was a unique experience. Her presence brought joy to many, proving that even the smallest travellers can make a big impact.

a cruise ship. This incident underscores the strict no-tolerance policies regarding firearms on cruises, especially in international waters.

Unexpected Turn of Events on a Cruise Holiday

A cruise holiday took an unexpected turn for Mary Robinson, a 69-year-old grandmother from Oklahoma. She embarked on a Royal Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 1st December 2025. Unbeknownst to her, a handgun and ammunition were in her purse. The oversight was only discovered when the ship docked in Nassau, Bahamas.

Security Breach at Embarkation

Despite passing through security in Florida, the firearm went unnoticed. It wasn’t until Robinson attempted to reboard the ship in Nassau that authorities found the weapon. The discovery led to her arrest by Bahamian police. Her holiday, meant to celebrate her adopted son’s 12th birthday, was cut short.

Legal Consequences in the Bahamas

Robinson faced serious legal consequences. She appeared in court on 4th December 2025, pleading guilty to unlicensed possession of a firearm and ammunition. Her attorney explained that she had forgotten about the gun, citing a touch of dementia. Bahamian law mandates a minimum 24-month prison sentence for such offences.

Fine Instead of Imprisonment

Fortunately, the magistrate showed leniency. Instead of a prison sentence, Robinson was fined $8,000. However, she couldn’t pay immediately and spent nearly a week in Fox Hill Prison. Her granddaughter, Graci Exendine, launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising over $12,000 to secure her release.

Community Support and Release

The campaign received overwhelming support, and Robinson was released on 8th December. Exendine expressed gratitude to donors and supporters on social media. Robinson remained in Nassau temporarily while arrangements were made for her return to the US.

Implications for Cruise Travellers

This incident highlights the importance of adhering to cruise security protocols. Cruise lines enforce strict no-tolerance policies for weapons. Travellers should double-check their belongings to avoid similar situations. This case serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of carrying firearms on international cruises.

Conclusion

Cruise holidays offer relaxation and adventure, but security is paramount. Robinson’s experience is a cautionary tale for all cruise holidaygoers. Always ensure compliance with security regulations to enjoy a worry-free cruise experience.