Category: Cruise News

Introducing Disney Believe: The Newest Addition to Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has announced its latest ship, Disney Believe, set to join the fleet in late 2027. This vessel will be the fourth in the Wish class, continuing Disney’s tradition of crafting large family-friendly cruise ships. These ships are renowned for their storytelling magic, drawing from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.

A Unique Theme of Promise and Possibilities

Disney Believe will feature a design theme centred on promise and possibilities. This gives it a unique identity within the Wish class. Each ship in this class has its own creative motif. For instance, Disney Wish focuses on enchantment, Disney Treasure on adventure, and Disney Destiny on heroes and villains.

Bringing Beloved Stories to Life

The new ship will bring to life stories of characters who believe in themselves and their dreams. Expect inspiration from films like Encanto, Frozen, Snow White, Moana, and The Little Mermaid. While specific details about venues and itineraries are still under wraps, the ship will likely follow the Wish class formula. This includes immersive entertainment, themed dining, and story-driven public spaces.

What We Know So Far

Disney Believe is slated to debut in late 2027. However, details about its homeport, maiden season, and booking timeline remain undisclosed. Disney is positioning this ship as a key part of its rapid cruise expansion. More information is anticipated in the coming months.

Expanding the Wish-Class Line-Up

Disney Believe will join the Wish-class line-up, which is central to Disney Cruise Line’s growth strategy. The class began with Disney Wish, followed by Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny. Disney Believe will be the fourth vessel in this series, contributing to Disney’s expanding global fleet.

Part of Disney’s Ambitious Cruise Expansion

This announcement is part of Disney Cruise Line’s significant fleet expansion. By 2031, Disney aims to have 13 ships, with new vessels arriving between 2027 and 2031. This includes Disney Believe, Disney Adventure in Singapore, and a new class of smaller ships. The expansion highlights the growing importance of cruising to Disney’s experiences division.

Reaching New International Markets

By the time Disney Believe sets sail, it will be part of a fleet serving a wider range of international markets. Disney Cruise Line is looking beyond its traditional North American base, adding capacity across various regions. This expansion ensures more holidaygoers can experience the magic of Disney at sea.

Holland America Line Adjusts 2026 Alaska Itineraries

Holland America Line has announced a significant change to its 2026 Alaska cruise itineraries. The cruise line will no longer navigate through Tracy Arm Fjord due to safety concerns. Instead, passengers will experience the stunning Endicott Arm.

Safety Concerns Prompt Change

The decision follows a major landslide in August 2025 near South Sawyer Glacier. This event caused a massive amount of rock and debris to fall into the fjord, creating a localised tsunami. Scientists have since been monitoring the area, noting the unstable conditions.

Geological Risks in Tracy Arm

The retreat of glaciers in the region has made the surrounding rock faces increasingly unstable. This raises the risk of further landslides. As a precaution, Holland America Line has removed Tracy Arm from its 2026 itineraries.

Endicott Arm: A Scenic Alternative

All affected sailings will now explore Endicott Arm, a nearby fjord in southeast Alaska. The first impacted cruise is scheduled for 4th May 2026 aboard the Koningsdam. Other ships, including Noordam, Zaandam, and Eurodam, will follow suit.

Experience Dawes Glacier

Endicott Arm is home to Dawes Glacier, known for its active calving. Passengers can expect to see large chunks of ice breaking off into the water. The scenic cruising experience will last around eight and a half hours.

Similar Scenic Beauty

While Tracy Arm is famous for its dramatic cliffs and icebergs, Endicott Arm offers a comparable landscape. Both fjords feature steep granite walls and breathtaking views. Early feedback from past cruisers suggests that Endicott Arm delivers equally impressive glacier vistas.

Safety First

Holland America Line emphasises that passenger and crew safety is their top priority. The itinerary change reflects this commitment. The updated itinerary is now marketed as Tracy Arm Fjord or Endicott Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer.

In conclusion, while the change may alter plans, the beauty of Alaska remains. Endicott Arm promises a memorable experience for all cruise holidaygoers.

Celestyal Cruises Adjusts Mediterranean Plans Amid Middle East Instability

Celestyal Cruises has recently announced the cancellation of several late March sailings. Ongoing unrest in the Middle East has disrupted the cruise line’s transition to its Mediterranean summer schedule. On 17th March 2026, the company confirmed that two voyages on the Celestyal Discovery will not proceed as planned.

Cancelled Sailings and Impact

The affected cruises include a three-night journey set for 27th March and a four-night trip scheduled for 30th March. Both were to depart from Athens, visiting the Greek Islands and Turkey. These cancellations follow similar actions for the Celestyal Journey, which had its 20th and 23rd March sailings withdrawn.

Winter Season Disrupted In The Arabian Gulf

During the 2025 to 2026 winter season, Celestyal Discovery operated from Abu Dhabi. It offered a variety of cruises around the Arabian Gulf, including stops in Doha, Khasab, and several UAE ports. However, rising tensions in the region have caused significant disruptions. The ship is currently docked in Dubai due to safety concerns affecting multiple cruise lines.

Safety Measures and Passenger Updates

Celestyal Cruises has ensured that all passengers in the region have disembarked safely. This includes guests from the Celestyal Journey, which remains in Doha until it is safe to continue its schedule. The company is working to reposition both ships back to the Mediterranean for the summer cruise season.

Options for Affected Guests

Passengers booked on the cancelled sailings are being offered a full refund or a future cruise credit. The cruise line advises customers to contact their original booking provider to discuss next steps. The timing of these cancellations poses challenges, as the Mediterranean season is just beginning and alternative options may be limited.

Future Plans for Celestyal Discovery and Journey

Looking ahead, Celestyal Discovery is set to operate short Greek Islands cruises throughout April and into mid-May. These will depart from Piraeus, visiting Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, Santorini, and Kusadasi in Turkey. Meanwhile, Celestyal Journey plans to offer longer voyages ranging from seven to 14 nights, extending into the Adriatic and including various ports.

British Passenger Airlifted from Star of the Seas During Caribbean Cruise

A 64-year-old British traveller experienced a severe health crisis aboard Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas. This incident occurred on 9th March during a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise. The ship had set sail from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Emergency at Sea

The vessel was about 200 nautical miles northwest of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, when the emergency was reported. The U.S. Coast Guard was promptly notified. They dispatched an MH-60T Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Borinquen to provide assistance.

Helicopter Crew Executes Complex Rescue

Upon arrival, the Coast Guard aircrew performed a hoisting operation. This involved lifting the passenger safely from the ship’s deck. Such rescues are highly technical, especially in open sea conditions far from shore.

Successful Medical Evacuation

After the successful extraction, the passenger was flown to Centro Médico Hospital in Puerto Rico. There, they received further medical treatment. Lt. Nicholas Forsythe, the mission’s co-pilot, praised the teamwork involved. He noted the professionalism of the Coast Guard, medical staff, and the ship’s crew.

Voyage Continues as Planned

Despite the mid-voyage evacuation, the cruise continued its itinerary. The seven-day round-trip journey concluded at Port Canaveral on 15th March 2026. Helicopter evacuations are not rare in the cruise industry. They are crucial on longer routes where ships are distant from ports.

Ensuring Passenger Safety

Cruise lines collaborate closely with coast guards and emergency services. This ensures passengers receive urgent care when necessary. Such partnerships are vital for maintaining safety on the high seas.

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The post originally appeared on Cruise Mummy.

Royal Caribbean’s New Private Destination: Royal Beach Club Lelepa

Royal Caribbean is set to unveil an exciting new private destination in the South Pacific. The Royal Beach Club Lelepa, located in Vanuatu, is scheduled to open its doors to guests in October 2027. This marks the cruise line’s first private destination in the Southern Hemisphere.

Location and Accessibility

Nestled on the northern coast of Lelepa Island, the beach club is about 1,200 miles northeast of Brisbane. It’s also conveniently located 25 miles from Port Vila and 350 miles north of Noumea, New Caledonia. This prime location places it within easy reach of popular cruise ports in the region.

Unique Features of Royal Beach Club Lelepa

Royal Caribbean has tailored this destination specifically for Australian travellers. The aim is to offer a more regionally focused experience compared to their other private destinations. Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean, emphasised the unique connection to Australian guests, promising a special experience.

The beach club will boast two main beaches and an adults-only retreat. Guests can enjoy nature trails and a variety of water activities. Snorkelling, kayaking, and paddle boarding are just a few of the options. Glass-bottom experiences will also be available, offering stunning views of marine life.

Design and Atmosphere

Early images reveal a vibrant, tropical design. Shaded pavilions, loungers, and social spaces will enhance the experience. Activities like beach volleyball, beach cricket, and lawn games will be on offer. The destination will operate as a tender port, with guests arriving via water shuttles. This approach aims to maintain an exclusive atmosphere.

Keri-Ann Chin-Sang, Senior Director of Product Development for Royal Caribbean, highlighted the natural beauty of the location. Crystal-clear waters and a mountainous backdrop create a stunning setting.

Culinary Delights and Refreshments

Dining and drinks will be a highlight of the Royal Beach Club Lelepa experience. Two eateries will serve a mix of Royal Caribbean favourites and local cuisine, all included in the cruise fare. Guests can also enjoy beverages from ten bars, offering everything from classic cocktails to regional drinks and local brews.

What to Expect Onshore

Unlike some newer beach club concepts, access to Royal Beach Club Lelepa is included in the cruise cost. This is similar to the Perfect Day at CocoCay experience, ensuring guests can fully enjoy the destination without extra charges.

Royal Beach Club Lelepa promises to be a remarkable addition to Royal Caribbean’s offerings. With its unique features and stunning location, it is set to become a must-visit destination for cruise holidaygoers from the UK and beyond.

Exciting Line-Up for Marella Cruises’ 30th Anniversary

Marella Cruises is gearing up for a spectacular 30th anniversary celebration. British music icons Pixie Lott and Lemar are set to headline the festivities. The celebrations will kick off on 1st May 2026, spanning the entire five-ship fleet.

Star-Studded Performances Await

Cruise guests can look forward to a week of entertainment. Pixie Lott will grace the stage on Marella Discovery, performing hits like “All About Tonight” and “Cry Me Out”. Meanwhile, Lemar will headline on Marella Explorer 2, delivering his popular tracks. More headline acts are expected to be announced soon.

Beyond the Music: Celebrity Appearances

The entertainment doesn’t stop with music. Michaela Strachan will appear on Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. She will host live Q&A sessions, sharing insights from her extensive TV career. Other notable guests include Fleur East, Boyzlife, La Voix, Eddie the Eagle, and Anthea Turner.

Unique Experiences on Each Ship

Each ship will offer its own unique version of the anniversary celebrations. Expect a Birthday Gala, “Party Like It’s 1996” events, and 1990s trivia quizzes. The aim is to create a nostalgic journey through the decade when Marella Cruises first launched in the UK.

A Nostalgic Journey for Cruise Enthusiasts

Chris Hackney, CEO of Marella Cruises, expressed excitement about the celebrations. He highlighted the all-inclusive offerings and seamless service that Marella is known for. The anniversary events promise to take guests on a nostalgic journey back to 1996.

Join the Celebration

Pixie Lott shared her enthusiasm for performing at the anniversary event. With a line-up of British stars and themed events, the celebration promises to be unforgettable. Marella Cruises invites both new and returning guests to join in the festivities.

UK Cruise Incident: Lessons from the Spirit of Discovery

A recent UK government investigation has highlighted significant shortcomings in the handling of a severe weather incident aboard Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Discovery. The report, released by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) on 11th March 2026, scrutinises the events of 4th November 2023. During a 14-night cruise from Portsmouth to the Canary Islands, the ship encountered a storm in the Bay of Biscay, resulting in 115 passenger injuries and one fatality.

Voyage Planning and Emergency Response Failures

The investigation revealed critical failures in voyage planning and emergency response. The Spirit of Discovery lost propulsion in the storm, leaving it adrift for nearly 18 hours. This led to violent movements, causing one of the highest injury rates recorded in similar incidents. Tragically, 85-year-old Trevor Gilks succumbed to a severe cervical spine injury, with the report noting delays in recognising the seriousness of his condition.

Storm Response and Medical Care Under Scrutiny

The MAIB report criticised the ship’s response to the worsening weather. Originally scheduled to visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the itinerary was altered due to adverse conditions. A planned stop at A Coruña was also cancelled when the port closed. Despite weather routing advice against crossing the Bay of Biscay, the ship proceeded, leading to the propulsion failure.

Consequences of Propulsion Loss

The propulsion loss occurred shortly after 12.30pm on 4th November. Violent motion caused the propellers to overspeed, triggering an automatic shutdown of the propulsion pods. The situation worsened when both pods unexpectedly parked at 90 degrees to the ship’s heading, exacerbating the vessel’s motion. This resulted in a mass casualty event on board.

Passenger Injuries and Medical Response

A total of 115 passengers sustained injuries, with eight requiring hospitalisation upon the ship’s return to Portsmouth. Injuries ranged from fractured hips and ribs to head trauma and spinal injuries. Passenger surveys indicated that 49% of respondents required further medical attention after the incident.

Key Takeaways for Cruise Safety

While cruising remains a safe mode of travel, this incident underscores the importance of robust safety measures. The MAIB report identifies crucial lessons in vessel safety, crew decision-making, and medical response. These insights aim to prevent similar occurrences in the future, ensuring a safer experience for all cruise holidaygoers.

Carnival Firenze Cruise Cancellations: What UK Travellers Need to Know

Carnival Cruise Line has recently cancelled a series of Carnival Firenze sailings. These were scheduled between 12th October and 16th November 2026. This decision affects over a month of short Baja itineraries for the 4,126-passenger ship.

Impacted Itineraries

The cancelled cruises were set to depart from Long Beach, California. They included 3-night and 4-night round trips to Ensenada. The longer voyages also planned a stop at Catalina Island.

Guest Notification and Apology

Carnival has informed affected guests about the changes. In their notice, they expressed regret for the cancellations. They thanked passengers for their understanding and looked forward to welcoming them on future sailings.

Reasons for Cancellations

Carnival has not publicly disclosed the reasons behind these cancellations. The affected departures were already removed from the booking system when the news emerged. There is no official word on whether this gap will be used for technical work or other operational needs.

Options for Affected Passengers

Guests with bookings on the cancelled cruises have two main options. They can transfer to a similar cruise by contacting Carnival by 25th March 2026. This option includes fare protection and a US$50 onboard credit per person, up to US$100 per stateroom.

Alternatively, passengers can opt for a full refund. No action is needed before the deadline for this choice. After 25th March, reservations will be automatically cancelled, and refunds will be processed. This includes pre-purchased packages and shore excursions.

Refund Processing Time

Carnival has stated that refunds should take about three weeks to process. However, the exact timing may vary depending on individual banks.

Limited Disruption

The cancellations seem confined to the mid-October to mid-November period. The 3-night cruise on 9th October and the one on 20th November 2026 are still set to sail as planned. This suggests the pause is limited to a specific part of the autumn schedule.

Recent Cancellation Trends

While Carnival hasn’t linked these cancellations to dry dock work, similar changes have occurred with other ships. For instance, Carnival Conquest had several 2026 voyages cancelled due to rescheduled maintenance. Carnival Liberty also experienced similar adjustments.

For UK cruise enthusiasts, staying informed about these changes is crucial. Whether you choose to reschedule or request a refund, Carnival offers options to suit your needs. Keep an eye on updates to ensure your cruise plans remain smooth and enjoyable.

Embark on a 115-Night World Cruise with Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is offering an extraordinary 115-night world cruise aboard the Coral Princess in 2028. This epic journey spans nearly four months, taking travellers across multiple continents. Departures are available from both the east and west coasts of the United States.

Set Sail on a Global Adventure

The Coral Princess, accommodating 2,000 guests, will embark on this grand voyage on 3rd January 2028. Travellers can choose roundtrip options from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, or Los Angeles, California. The ship will cover approximately 36,000 nautical miles, visiting 49 ports in 24 countries across five continents.

Crossing the Equator and International Date Line

During this remarkable journey, the Coral Princess will cross both the Equator and the International Date Line. This creates a sweeping global itinerary that showcases diverse cultures and destinations. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the world in a meaningful and immersive way.

Flexible Itinerary Options

While the full 115-night itinerary is available, Princess Cruises also offers shorter segments. These range from 20 to 100 nights, catering to those who prefer a shorter adventure. This flexibility allows more travellers to experience the magic of a world cruise.

New Destinations Await

The 2028 world cruise introduces new highlights, even for seasoned travellers. Coral Princess will make its maiden call at Mossel Bay in South Africa. This coastal town is renowned for its stunning scenery and historical significance, with ancient caves nearby.

Explore the World’s Wonders

The voyage includes a transit through the Panama Canal, followed by visits to Hawaii and the South Pacific. Stops in Samoa and Fiji are on the itinerary before heading to Australia and New Zealand. The journey continues into the Indian Ocean, visiting Mauritius and Réunion Island.

Discover Africa and Europe

The cruise will explore parts of Africa and Europe, including Casablanca in Morocco. Mediterranean and Adriatic ports such as Barcelona, Sicily, and Dubrovnik are also on the list. After exploring Europe, the ship will cross the Atlantic Ocean, completing the roundtrip back in North America.

Extended Stays for Deeper Exploration

Princess Cruises is focusing on longer stays in several destinations. This allows passengers more time to explore ashore, creating deeper cultural connections. It’s an opportunity for unforgettable moments and extraordinary exploration, all wrapped in Princess’ signature warmth.

Royal Caribbean Unveils New Entertainment on Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is set to revolutionise cruise entertainment with its latest ship, Legend of the Seas. The cruise line has announced an exciting new show, America’s Got Talent LIVE, which will debut on this vessel. This innovative production promises to bring the thrill of the popular TV franchise to the high seas.

A Dynamic Entertainment Experience

Inspired by the long-running television series, the show will offer a variety-style stage performance. Guests can look forward to a rotating lineup of talented acts. Expect to see magicians, musicians, aerialists, acrobats, and other speciality performers. This dynamic approach ensures a fresh experience with each performance, as different acts will appear throughout the cruise.

Redefining Live Entertainment at Sea

Christine Coachman, Royal Caribbean’s vice president of entertainment, emphasises the cruise line’s commitment to exceptional live shows. “America’s Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas perfectly embodies our vision of world-class entertainment,” she states. The show aims to deliver jaw-dropping performances across various mediums, including stage, air, water, and ice.

What to Expect Onboard

While the partnership with America’s Got Talent is confirmed, specific details about the show’s format remain under wraps. Unlike the TV version, the cruise adaptation may not include audience voting or interactive judging. However, the diverse range of performances is expected to captivate guests, showcasing talent from around the globe.

Exciting Collaborations and Future Announcements

Erica Gadecki, Executive Vice President of Partnership Solutions at Fremantle, expresses enthusiasm about the collaboration. “We’re thrilled to bring Got Talent to an all-new at-sea experience,” she says. As the ship’s debut approaches, more features and surprises may be revealed, adding to the anticipation.

More Entertainment Aboard Legend of the Seas

America’s Got Talent LIVE is just one of the many entertainment options on Legend of the Seas. The ship, part of Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, will also host a stage production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This family-friendly show is designed to delight guests of all ages.

Setting a New Standard in Cruise Entertainment

Royal Caribbean’s introduction of a globally recognised entertainment franchise to a cruise ship stage is an industry first. With its high-production spectacles and innovative shows, Legend of the Seas is poised to set a new standard in cruise entertainment. Holidaygoers can look forward to unforgettable experiences on their next voyage.