Simone Biles, Jim Parsons, and Lee Pace all grew up in this peaceful Texas town.

© <p>Old Town Spring Visitors Bureau</p>

It's hard not to be charmed by this seaside gem.

© <p>Tourism Australia</p>

Nicko Cruises has announced that Star Chef Johann Lafer, an official culinary ambassador of the company, will come onboard three river ships sailing the Danube in May 2027. As part of the exclusive “ship-hopping” concept, the celebrity chef will provide a culinary barbecue highlights on the Viktoria, Bolero and Celina, with a menu specially developed...

HX Expeditions is extending its HX Greenland Promise to cover all sailings to the region in 2027.  Originally launched in January, the deal now applies to all Greenland sailings in 2026 and 2027, giving guests and trade partners greater confidence when planning travel, the cruise line said in a press release.  It allows guests to transfer to another HX voyage, receive an additional 20 percent Future...

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions announced in a press release that it is offering guests a 50 percent reduced deposit on all active voyages departing October 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027. The limited-time offer is in response to increased demand for future travel, and the company aims to make it easier for guests to plan and...

Atlas Ocean Voyages has expanded its commercial team with the recent appointments of three veteran cruise industry professionals whose expertise will support the company’s continued growth, trade partner engagement and luxury market positioning. Joining the organization are Rod Gadala as vice president of revenue management, Nicole Aguirre as regional sales director, South-Central U.S. and Dorothea...

Mercedes-Maybach has selected the Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven shipyard to build its 72-guest Beyond Horizons superyacht, the centerpiece of its Maybach Ocean Club concept. The concept is conceived as an invitation-only private members’ club centered around a superyacht, which is planned to be delivered in 2030. A preliminary agreement for this next phase of the project...

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines recently promoted a new captain as Paolo Togonon will take over the helm of the Bollette. According to a social media update, Togonon has been serving as staff captain onboard the 2000-built vessel. Fred. Olsen said that the new captain began his maritime career in 2004 as a deck cadet, after...

Velarca, an Isola Corvus company, launched the Velarca Explorer, a 32-guest, 100-meter-long luxury expedition newbuild concept developed in response to a shifting expedition market, on June 19, 2026. The company said that the expedition market is being shaped by tighter environmental expectations, evolving guest behavior and increasing demand for quieter, less congested forms of exploration....

Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas recently kicked off a year-round cruise schedule out of the port of Tampa. After completing a winter season offering short cruises to the Bahamas from Fort Lauderdale, the 90,000-ton ship is now operating four- and five-night voyages to the Western Caribbean. In addition to one or two full days...

Here’s how to visit Bear Lake, an aquamarine aquatic dream on the Utah–Idaho border.

© <p>Ron Reiring / Getty Images</p>

Those photos could be revealing more than you think.

© <p>Getty Images</p>

1 Hotel Nashville has 215 guest rooms and suites, a spa, and a rooftop bar blocks away from downtown Music City. Here's what it's like to stay.

© <p>Douglas Friedman/1 Hotel Nashville</p>

Shop options from Gap, Lands’ End, and Spanx.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Finally, a travel sneaker that delivers real support without breaking the bank.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

From stunning beaches to breathtaking hikes, here's where to explore the beauty of the Golden State.

© <p>John Elk/Getty Images</p>

We tested over 50 pairs of sandals to find the best slides.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

From tabletop fans to handheld options, we tested 20 portable fans to find the best options for travel.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Whether you want to lounge on the beach, hit the theme parks, or explore the Sunshine State's cities and small towns, here's when to go.

© Getty Images

Trusted by T+L parents, these portable beds allow tiny travelers to sleep in comfort.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Don't want to check your bags but worried about the overhead bins filling up? Check if your personal item will fit under the seat in front of you with this guide.

© Getty Images

You won't regret seeing this celestial display.

© <p>Don Grall/Getty Images</p>

Here's why Ottawa, Ontario, deserves a spot on your travel list.

© <p>Sean Mandegar / Getty Images</p>

An ocean cruise gives you the big ship, endless food, the balcony cabin, and the postcard view across the harbor.

What it cannot give you is the slow, intimate angle of the city you only see from a smaller boat. In Istanbul, that smaller boat is the answer to the question many cruisers ask after their first morning ashore. What does this place look like from the water?

The Bosphorus is the strait that splits Istanbul between Europe and Asia. It is busy with ferries and fishing skiffs.

For a few hours, a private yacht turns the same water into something almost serene. Istanbul-based Lotus Yat runs private Bosphorus charters where the route, the timing, and the small details are arranged for you. You step on board and let the city come to you.

What Makes a Bosphorus Yacht Day Worth the Half-Day?

The half-day yacht charter sits in the sweet spot between a hurried shuttle tour and a full overnight stop. You leave the big ship after breakfast.

You spend three or four hours on the water. You are back in time for sail-away. The pace is slow on purpose.

What you see from a small boat is hard to describe to anyone who has only seen Istanbul from a tour bus. Ottoman-era wooden mansions called yali sit at sea level along both shores.

Their wooden facades and old marble landings still face the water the way they did two centuries ago. From the deck you read the city the way it was meant to be read, from front door to front door.

Lonely Planet’s Istanbul destination overview captures the layered feel of the city most cruisers want to taste on a port day. Coverage of the most peaceful waters to explore by yacht translates well to the Bosphorus, which is busy at the surface and surprisingly quiet on the water itself.

What Does the Bosphorus Yacht Itinerary Usually Cover?

A typical three-to-four hour Bosphorus charter touches six waypoints worth knowing about.

1. Dolmabahce Palace. The waterfront 19th-century palace where the last Ottoman sultans lived. Best seen from the European-side approach.
2. Ortakoy Mosque. The small, ornate mosque framed against the first Bosphorus Bridge. The classic Istanbul postcard moment.
3. Bebek waterfront. The neighborhood where Istanbul’s modern residents go for coffee. The yali line gets denser here.
4. Rumeli Fortress. Mehmed the Conqueror’s 1452 fortress that controlled the narrowest point of the strait before the fall of Constantinople.
5. Asian-side return. A swing past Beylerbeyi Palace and the Maiden’s Tower for a different angle on the city skyline.
6. Sunset finale. If the timing works, the last 30 minutes happen at golden hour. The minarets light up first.

The route does not change much from charter to charter because the captain reads weather and traffic on the day. The team handles the planning, which leaves you free to actually look at the city.

Why Does the Private Charter Work Better Than the Ferry?

The public ferries up the Bosphorus are excellent value and a real local experience. They are also crowded, scheduled, and pause at fixed piers that do not necessarily line up with the waypoints worth seeing.

A private charter changes the ratio between time on the water and time waiting in line. It can also be customised with add-ons such as a private guide, private transfer, live music, a photographer, onboard dining, decorations, drinks, and even a belly dancer.

The deck of a small yacht reads differently from a packed ferry deck. You can talk to your travel partner without raising your voice. You can ask the captain to slow down at a yali you find interesting. UNESCO’s Historic Areas of Istanbul World Heritage listing frames the protected sites visible from the strait.

A private yacht also moves you cleanly between the European and Asian shores in a way ferries do not. The crossing itself is the moment many cruisers remember most clearly. Coverage of destinations to explore on a Northern Europe cruise shows how the smaller-boat angle compounds the value of a wider cruise itinerary.

How Does Booking the Day Feel for a Cruiser?

The booking itself is the easy part. A short email exchange with the team, or the online booking system, is usually all it takes. You share your cruise stop and your sail-away window. The team takes it from there.

Pickup gets confirmed against your cruise port. The route gets shaped around the season’s sunset. Turkish coffee and light refreshments arrive on board ready for you. Even the small things, the cushions, the bottled water, the lens-friendly viewing spots, are already in place when you step on deck. The half-day arrives feeling effortless because everything that could have been a decision has already been handled.

The Easy Bosphorus Yacht Day

The best Bosphorus yacht days are the ones where the cruiser arrives at the dock and finds everything already arranged. The captain knows the route.

The refreshments are on board, and the add-ons are all arranged in advance. The route makes sense for the timing. The team takes care of the small decisions so the half-day stays focused on the city itself.

Cruisers who add a private Bosphorus charter to their Istanbul stop often describe it later as the part of the cruise they would repeat first. The big ship gives you the sea. The small yacht gives you the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does a Bosphorus Yacht Charter Usually Take?

A typical private charter runs three to four hours. Cruisers with a longer port window often pair the morning charter with an afternoon walk in Sultanahmet. Shorter sunset-only options run roughly 90 minutes.

Will I Be Back in Time for the Cruise Ship Sail-Away?

A well-timed charter aligns with the ship’s posted all-aboard. The Galataport cruise terminal sits a short distance from common Bosphorus charter pickup points, so the buffer is comfortable for most itineraries.

Is Private Charter Worth It Versus the Public Ferry?

For a single port day, the answer is usually yes. The private format removes scheduling pressure, and the day can be tailored to the occasion, including surprise birthday or proposal arrangements. The captain follows the day’s weather and light rather than a fixed timetable.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Go?

Late afternoon into golden hour is the most photogenic window. Cruisers with morning-only port windows can still see the route well, particularly under a clear summer sky. Evening sailings are just as beautiful, when the Bosphorus bridges and waterfront palaces are lit up.

Explora Journeys has unveiled the destination experiences that will be available during its inaugural summer 2027 Alaska season.  Fourteen departures are scheduled from May to September 2027 for the brand’s first season in the region.  Operating the itineraries will be the Explora III, which recently completed sea trials in the Mediterranean, ahead of her July 24 launch.  “Marking an exciting new chapter in our destination portfolio, the inaugural Alaskan...

As one of Europe’s most overtouristed destinations, Venice is tricky—but we’re here to slam the brakes on the Venice-bashing.

© <p>Lara D&#39;agostino/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

These Amazon essentials can help you fly more comfortably—and avoid common first-class faux pas.

© <p>rudi_suardi / Getty Images</p>

I tested several jackets in all kinds of rainy weather to find the best.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

You'll need these versatile, airy picks when visiting Thailand's jungles, beaches, and cities.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Holland America Line is introducing the “Farewell Dinner” as a new experience for guests to celebrate the end of their trip. Held in the Main Dining Room on the final evening of each voyage, the experience will feature a specially curated menu, the cruise line said in a statement. Complementing the meal will be the...

Make lasting memories with a travel journal you’ll actually want to write in.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

This is the best way to see one of the Pacific's most enchanting islands.

© <p>KiwiRail</p>

Waterways Leisure Tourism, the parent company of Cordelia Cruises, has announced that it has fixed the price band at Rs. 769/- to Rs. 808/- per Equity Share, with a face value of Rs. 10/- each, for its maiden initial public offer. The Initial Public Offering (IPO or Issue) of the company will open for subscription...

Skip these three foods and beverages to avoid feeling unwell on your next flight.

© <p>Margot Cavin/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Home to a single luxury resort, Pine Cay is a hidden Turks and Caicos paradise.

© <p>Pine Cay</p>

From maxi skirts to ballet flats, these finds look way more expensive than they are.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

The Alexandria Port Authority celebrated calls of two cruise ships in early June: the Aroya and the Regent Seven Seas Grandeur. Officials were onsite to welcome both vessels, with representatives from the Alexandria Port Authority and other governmental entities, including the Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Tourism and the Egyptian Tourism Authority. Following a...

Holland America Line’s has announced that the Rotterdam will sail its first season in the Mediterranean in fall 2027. There will be five new itineraries, spanning the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, the cruise line said in a statement. The 10- and 11-day voyages will call at destinations such as Lisbon, Naples, Kotor, Rhodes and Alexandria,...

Viking’s the Yidun departed Shanghai on June 5 on a 60-day sold-out repositioning voyage to Barcelona, marking the line’s first Mandarin-language transcontinental itinerary, according to a statement. The ship reached her first stop in the voyage which was Hong Kong followed by Singapore on June 12 (pictured). The ship last visited Singapore in January this...

Royal Caribbean is offering a series of perks for guests willing to change or cancel their bookings for the June 19, 2026, cruise onboard the Voyager of the Seas. “We are looking to see if you and your travel party have flexible travel arrangements. If your plans are set in stone, please mark this email...

Celebrity Cruises recently cancelled one of the sailings scheduled to take place onboard the Celebrity Equinox in 2027. According to a statement sent to booked guests, the August 12, 2027, departure will no longer go ahead due to a full-ship charter. “We understand that this is not an ideal situation, and we truly apologize for...

Mystic Cruises’ Atlas Adventurer is in the tank testing phase ahead of its construction at the China Merchants shipyard in China. According to an update shared by CEO Mário Ferreira, a scale model of the vessel’s hull was built to study its hydrodynamics. The testing is aimed at identifying potential areas for enhancements and improvements,...

As Australis rounded out its 35th anniversary season in Patagonia, the Chilean expedition cruise line is seeing strong passenger demand, a recovering European market, and a broadening demographic, according to the 2026 Expedition Market Report by Cruise Industry News. Felipe Castro, who oversees North American sales for the brand, said that sourcing is strong globally,...

It's called "The Beautiful" for good reason.

© <p>Brock/Adobe Stock</p>

Planning to drive from Chicago to Los Angeles? Check out these legendary Route 66 stops along the way.

© Getty Images

Get the group chat ready.

© <p>Courtesy of Curtain Bluff</p>

I've lived in the Sunshine State all my life, and these are the most beautiful parks, beaches, towns, and more.

© <p>NANCY PAUWELS/Getty Images</p>

Two experts share how to avoid being a target in the air.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

The Nordic nation is a dream destination for aurora hunters.

© paranyu pithayarungsarit/Getty Images

From hiking in national parks to exploring charming towns, here's what to see and do on this long drive.

© Getty Images/iStockphoto

Learn how Morgan Island became known as "Monkey Island."

© James Warwick / Getty Images

The site includes an ancient aqueduct that feeds water into the Trevi Fountain.

© Francesco Rotondo/Courtesy of Vicus Caprarius

Cast a love spell over your next post.

© Joe Raedle/Getty Images

From holiday fun to hikes, here’s everything you need to know about visiting this themed town in Washington's Cascade Mountains.

© <p>Taylor McIntyre/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Margaritaville at Sea Cruise Line is adding three original production shows to the entertainment offering aboard its upcoming ship, the Beachcomber.  Designed exclusively for the ship launching in January 2027, the shows will run multiple times per sailing, the cruise line said in a statement.  “Live music and original entertainment have always been central to the Margaritaville at Sea experience and are one of the ways...

As an extrovert, I learned to appreciate sitting in silence.

© <p>Courtesy of <a href="https://planets.teamlab.art/tokyo/" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="nofollow">TeamLab Planets Tokyo</a></p>

Azamara Cruises has unveiled its June Flash Sale valid for select 2026 and 2027 sailings.  Thanks to the promo, guests can get a discount of up to 20 percent on certain sailings, as well as up to $750 in onboard credit.  The offer is valid for new and individual bookings made June 16–30, 2026, and...

Crystal has released renderings and additional information about The Bistro on The Crystal Grace. Located on Deck 5, midship, this venue offers an elegant, relaxed setting for a morning beverage or an afternoon snack. The company said that guests will enjoy a curated selection of coffee, tea, light snacks and sweets available throughout the day,...

These portable carbon monoxide detectors offer peace of mind when away from home.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

We love these inflatable stand-up paddle boards that are easy to travel with.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Brett Milutin has been named chief operating officer (COO) of the Galveston Wharves. In addition to the new title, he will continue serving as executive deputy port director, Port of Galveston said in a press release. “This new title reflects the important and growing role that Brett plays in overseeing day-to-day port operations, including the...

We hit the trails to test dozens of pairs of the best hiking boots for men.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Bookings are open for Oceania Cruises’ new 2028 and 2029 program featuring more than 230 itineraries across the globe. Ranging from seven to 180 days, sailings include more than 60 overnight port stays in cities such as Copenhagen, Lisbon, Bangkok and Bali, but also smaller ports like Seville and Malé. With more than 80 Mediterranean...

Carnival Cruise Line, Starboard and Diageo have partnered to introduce a limited-edition Bulleit Bourbon as part of their celebration of America’s 250th anniversary this year. The single-barrel bourbon will be available exclusively in retail stores on 14 Carnival ships this summer. This collaboration complements Carnival’s planned A250 summer celebrations honoring America’s 250th anniversary from sea...

The “Gatsby Nights at sea” short cruise along the Cote d’Azur is returning to Hapag-Llyod’s Europa. Following what the cruise line said was a successful 2026 launch and enthusiastic guest feedback, the short cruise “Savoir vivre on the Cote d’Azur – with Gatsby Nights at sea” will be back May 27–31, 2027. “Our guests’ response...

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is looking for fund administrators to manage the Manhattan Cruise Terminal Community Fund (MCTCF).  As stated in a press release, the MCTCF is financed through a $1 per passenger fee collected from cruise lines operating at the terminal.   NYCEDC expects total funds for MCTCF to reach around $2 million by the end of 2026, with...

Port Tampa Bay has upgraded its cruise terminal infrastructure with three new passenger boarding bridges. The new bridges, two at Cruise Terminal 2 and one at Cruise Terminal 6, are designed to accommodate multiple vessel configurations and boarding heights, according to a statement. This is expected to enable various types of ships to call at...

Learn more about the phenomenon behind beautiful sunsets.

© Eiji Ogura/EyeEm/Getty Images

From Zimbabwe to Venezuela and beyond, these natural wonders are worth the trek.

© Christoph Wagner/Getty Images

Hurtigruten has relaunched the Vesteralen with a unique onboard concept inspired by the company’s 133-year history sailing the Norwegian coast, bringing this heritage to life throughout the guest experience. The ship now features historic details, coastal artwork, classic design references and tributes to ships and crew that have shaped Hurtigruten’s legacy. Menus take inspiration from...

AIDA Cruises will again be the event sponsor for Kiel Week in 2026, which will run from June 20-28, 2026. The company said in a press release that the AIDAnova will call on the port of Kiel during the week on June 20 and 27, and that the AIDAbella will call on June 21. The...

Ponant Explorations has unveiled its 2028 Arctic season, which is now open for booking. Sailing from May to October 2028, the season will feature more than 35 departures operated by four ships. The itineraries will be accompanied by polar activities including guided excursions, hiking, polar plunging, kayaking and more, as well as wildlife sightings, Ponant...

In Pinedale, find Western vibes without the crowds or high prices.

© <p>Visit Wyoming</p>

Including styles from Skechers, Crocs, Reef, and Clarks.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Adora Cruises announced that it will operate three additional departures in December 2026 aboard the Adora Magic City that do not call at any overseas port. The new sailings follow the news of pricing strength for cruises to nowhere in China. The sailings are scheduled for December 11, 18, and 25, each departing Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal...

The Harmony of the Seas returned to Europe in late May, kicking off a season in the Western Mediterranean following a five-year hiatus. As part of Royal Caribbean International’s summer deployment in the region, the Oasis-class vessel is scheduled to offer a series of seven-night cruises to Spain, Italy and France. Passengers can board the...

Plus, it has charming Tuscany vibes.

© <p>Visit Temecula Valley</p>

From a North Carolina barrier island to a coastal village on Japan’s Izu Peninsula, travel experts share their top picks.

© <p>Xantana/Getty Images</p>

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this travel editor-curated guide.

© <p>JoaoBarcelos / Getty Images</p>

From where to stay to what to do, here's everything you need to know about the cultural capital of French Canada.

© Mélanie Jean/Courtesy of Québec City Tourism

The drive from Calgary to Jasper offers some of the most beautiful views in Canada.

© <p>Mike Seehagel/Pursuit</p>

Fans say it “looks far more expensive than it is.”

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

This portable device can protect you from “the silent killer” in hotels and Airbnbs.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

The Port of Galveston has announced a plan to develop new facilities on Pelican Island, creating a new LNG bunkering site for cruise and cargo ships. According to a press release, the initiative is part of a $40 million project to create a multi-use berth that will also support cargo and shipbuilding operations, in addition...

Borgo Egnazia, in Puglia, Italy, blends winding stone alleys, handcrafted townhouses, and beachside luxury in southern Italy’s chicest hideaway.

© <p>Borgo Egnazia</p>

Here's how a "washashore" can experience the best of Ptown in a single day.

© <p>DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images</p>

These lesser-known spots offer a quieter atmosphere, pristine nature, and endless shelling opportunities.

© <p>Dan Reynolds Photography/Getty Images</p>

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has licensed Versonix Seaware, a reservation and voyage management platform. “We are honored to partner with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, a brand that has set the standard for luxury hospitality worldwide,” said Yuri Polissky, COO of Versonix. “Luxury is defined by exceptional experiences delivered with effortless precision, and Seaware was built...

Swan Hellenic’s Minerva has earned the DCA ESG Certification from Dream&Charme, an internationally accredited certification body specializing in hospitality. The audit was conducted onboard by Giorgio Caire di Lauzet, CEO of Dream&Charme. The certification recognizes the company’s and the vessel’s dedication to environmental, social and governance excellence. The audit took place during the Hiroshima-to-Otaru cruise...

Sometimes the best solution is the simplest one.

© <p>Michael Malorny/Getty Images</p>

The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad chugs slowly along the shoreline, offering unhurried ocean views.

© <p>Lennon McNulty/Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad</p>

Century Cruises and United Waterways have confirmed the delivery of the river cruise vessel, the Century Star, from Dutch shipbuilder Concordia Damen. The newbuild is designed specifically for European waterways and underscores a strategic partnership that combines Century Cruises’ customer base and brand recognition with United Waterways’ European operating platform and infrastructure. United Waterways said...

Royal Caribbean unveiled six artists whose work will be featured on its upcoming ship, the Legend of the Seas, debuting in Europe in July 2026.  Emerging artists from across the Caribbean and Central America will debut original, destination-inspired artwork throughout the ship, as part of the cruise line’s Artist Discovery Program.  “Since its introduction on Icon of the Seas, the Artist Discovery Program has continued to...

Don't sleep on this Boston suburb.

© <p>Wangkun Jia/Adobe Stock</p>

With the September 1 launch of its new reward program looming large on the horizon, Carnival Cruise Line’s President, Christine Duffy, sat down with Brand Ambassador John Heald to address guest questions.

Points Based On Days, Not Trips

“I know there’s been a lot of questions,” admitted Duffy, making an understatement as large as the biggest ship in the fleet she oversees. In the widely-circulated YouTube video (which you can watch below), she and Heald then had a carefully scripted (but staged to appear casual) conversation about various Rewards-related topics, starting with Milestone Rewards.

Acknowledging the importance of loyalty, Duffy said that with the new program, Carnival would be “changing the way that we count milestones. So instead of it being the number of cruises you’ve taken, it will be based on the number of days that you sail.” 

While this may sound like a matter of semantics, it’s actually an incredibly important bit of information. “For people who tend to take longer cruises, it used to take them just as long as someone who was taking shorter cruises to get to those milestones.” 

And yes, once a guest opts in to the new Carnival Rewards program, their past cruises are converted to days. In other words, if you had sailed three 7-night sailings under the old program, that would translate into 21 points.

Points, Stars and Those Brand New Sail & Sign Cards

Perhaps recognizing that there’s been more than a little confusion among cruisers where some of the changes are concerned, Duffy and Heald set out to clarify the difference between “points” and “stars”, both of which accumulate over time.

As points accumulate, they can be used in a variety of ways, including to pay cruise deposits or to make onboard purchases or receive statement credits. There are additional points granted at various milestones. For example, once one has sailed 50 days, this milestone will automatically trigger 5,000 Carnival Rewards pointes being added to their account.

In addition, every dollar you spend on Carnival earns points.

The pair also revealed that Carnival’s Sail & Sign cards have been redesigned to include how many days one has sailed. “More than any other cruise line in the world,” said Heald, “our guests love to show their loyalty.” 

Those with unused benefits accumulated under the former VIFP program will have until the end of 2030 after opting into Carnival Rewards.

How to Earn Status

Under the new program, stars are collected to improve status… and those stars are based on the amount of money you spend with Carnival. Three stars are earned for every dollar spent on cruise fares as well as any onboard spending you do. (Think shore excursions, specialty dining, shore excursions, etc)

Gamblers can also earn stars, whether playing table games or slot machines.

Finally, those who opt to use a Carnival World Mastercard will also earn stars based on purchases made.

Essentially, while Carnival’s former program was truly based on loyalty, the new program is designed to provide bigger, faster payoffs to those who are spending more money. This means one can essentially purchase status as opposed to earning it.

The Important Step You Absolutely Must Take

Anyone wanting their VIFP rewards to transfer must make sure to opt into the new program prior to its launching. Why? Because this is in essence an entirely new program, cruisers must accept the terms and conditions under which Carnival Rewards will operate.

“Privacy rules prevent us from automatically enrolling guests,” explained Duffy, “even our longtime cruisers.” The one exception? Carnival MasterCard holders, who accepted the new terms and conditions upon accepting the card.

Neither Duffy nor Heald addressed the numerous complaints from Carnival loyalists who dislike various aspects about the program. Chief among those issues is the loss of lifetime status in favor of a system which must be re-earned every two years. (Only those who have achieved Diamond status before August 31, 2026 will be granted lifetime status.)

Read Next: Deadline looms for Carnival Cruise Line guests

💾

Aman at Sea is looking into adding Madeira in its itineraries, Administration of the Ports of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (APRAM) said in a press release.  The potential collaboration was discussed during the 68th MedCruise General Assembly, taking place June 9-12 in Palermo, Italy  “One new cruise line, Aman at Sea, operating within the premium luxury segment, expressed interest in including Madeira in its...

The hack is to freeze it solid.

© <p>izusek/Getty Images</p>

The capital of Haute-Savoie, France, is a gastronomic haven filled with esteemed chefs, standout cheese, and regional wine worth the trip alone.

© <p>Armando Oliveira/Getty Images</p>

The Hanseatic Spirit underwent its first scheduled drydocking for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, spending 10 days at Lloyd Werft in Bremerhaven. The ship got a fresh coat of paint and public spaces were refurbished to align with the “inspired by nature” design concept, according to a statement. “Hapag-Lloyd Cruises enjoys a trusting partnership with Lloyd Werft in...

The Mitsui Ocean Fuji will offer a 47-day voyage to the South Pacific from its homeport in Japan in early 2027. According to Mitsui Ocean Cruises, the South Pacific Paradise Cruise will be highlighted by visits to 13 destinations, including ports in Australia, Tahiti, Guam and Fiji. The company added that the voyage was designed...

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has presented its new Autumn/Winter 2027 program. It features 20 sailings departing between October and December 2027, allowing guests to see the Northern Lights in Arctic Norway, explore Morocco and the Mediterranean, or enjoy a festive escape, from Christmas markets to Caribbean island-hopping. It includes four maiden calls for the cruise...

HX Expeditions (HX) has announced its first-ever Artist in Residence program, launching with writer and novelist Katie Hale. The initiative is designed to bring creative perspectives onboard selected sailings, giving guests new ways to engage with the places they visit while supporting the arts. Gebhard Rainer, CEO of HX, said: “By introducing artists on board...

Dream Cruises partnered with Mrs. Malaysia Tourism Pageant 2026 to host the pageant’s talent show segment aboard the Genting Dream. Ten finalists showed their talents before a panel of judges, one of whom was Genting Dream’s Captain Johan Bohman, according to a press release. “At Dream Cruises, we are always looking for new ways to...

The Chinese cruise market has been marked by a pricing divergence this year between two product types: the conventional international itineraries visiting South Korea and other destinations, and the newly introduced cruises without port calls. The latter are commanding a pricing premium. Traditional South Korea voyages remain volume drivers for the season. Early-bird pricing for...

These destinations offer outdoor adventure, downtown charm, and family-friendly fun.

© <p>Ron and Patty Thomas/Getty Images</p>

Go for the rum and reggae, stay for the quieter, more surprising side of Kingston, Jamaica.

© <p>PhotoSpirit/Adobe Stock</p>

Seasonal boat owners face a logistics challenge most people never consider: their vessel can’t be left just anywhere and doesn’t move itself.

Boat transport between summer and winter marina. Or just following warmer water south for the season, requires planning that starts months earlier than most owners expect.

Long-distance boat transport involves more than just finding a marina. Proper handling of your boat requires careful planning. Without it, your boat transportation becomes more stressful and less predictable.

Planning the Seasonal Move Around Marinas, Storage, and Travel Dates

Seasonal boat moves typically happen twice a year, once for spring launch and again for fall haul-out. Both times of the year have hard deadlines driven by marina contracts and weather windows.

Add to this the fact that marina storage reservations at destination ports fill up quickly, especially in popular winter destinations like Florida, the Gulf Coast, and the Carolinas, and you begin to see why early booking is important.

Getting a boat transport cost estimate early allows owners to budget accurately before committing to a destination marina contract.

Haul-out dates at the origin marina and splash dates at the destination need to align with the carrier’s pickup and delivery timeframe. The owner’s own travel dates, whether flying or driving to the destination, need to be planned around when the boat actually arrives, not when they want to leave.

A 6-8 week planning window before the seasonal move is the minimum for avoiding scheduling conflicts.

Concern About Salt Air, Scratches, and Dockside Handling Mistakes

Salt air exposure during boat transport is a legitimate concern. Marine-grade surfaces, hardware, and electronics are vulnerable to oxidation if not properly covered during overland transport.

For those interested in yacht transport, especially, scratches and gelcoat damage from improper blocking or tie-down placement are among the most common complaints in boat transport damage claims.

Dockside handling- the lift, the block placement, the strap routing- requires handlers who understand hull geometry and weight distribution for the specific vessel type being transported.

To create a safer boat transport for your vessel, ask carriers specifically about their experience with your hull type (monohull, catamaran, pontoon, and center console). This is basic due diligence, not excessive planning.

Documenting the boat’s condition thoroughly with photos and video before pickup is essential for any damage claim process.

What Long Distance Boat Transport for Seasonal Travel Usually Involves

Overland boat transport uses a specialized trailer matched to the vessel’s beam, length, and hull configuration. Wide load permits are required for boats over a certain beam width. Most transport companies handle this as part of their logistics, but confirm it is included in the quote you receive.

Boat transport cost varies significantly based on distance, vessel size, beam width, and whether the boat requires a custom cradle or blocking setup. Yacht transport for larger vessels involves additional considerations like crane lifts, specialized trailers, escort vehicles for oversized loads, and state-by-state permit requirements.

Most carriers provide marina-to-marina service, coordinating directly with the receiving marina on splash scheduling.

Insurance during transit is another aspect to consider; for example, what does your insurance cover, what is the deductible, and does it supplement your existing marine policy? Those questions should be confirmed in writing before pickup.

Boat transport cost varies widely. Getting a detailed boat transport quote early in the planning process is worth doing before committing to a destination marina.

Choosing Reliable Carriers with Clear Updates and Careful Coordination

Not all transport carriers handle boats, and among those that do, experience levels vary significantly by vessel type and route. Look for carriers that provide regular transit updates, a dedicated point of contact, and clear documentation of pickup and delivery windows.

FMCSA licensing verification applies to boat transport carriers just as it does to vehicle carriers; confirm operating authority before signing anything. Another way you can determine a good boat carrier is simply to explore references from other boat owners or marina operators that signal actual handling quality.

A carrier that coordinates directly with both the origin and destination marina removes a significant coordination burden from the owner.

Feeling Settled Once the Boat Arrives Clean, Covered, and on Schedule

A well-executed seasonal transport means the boat arrives in the same condition it left, covered, clean, and ready for launch prep.

Arrival on schedule matters as much as condition; marina slip reservations, haul-out crews, and the owner’s travel plans are all built around the delivery window.

Do a post-arrival walkthrough with the carrier’s delivery team before signing off on delivery documents. This protects you if damage is discovered during unloading.

The seasonal move done well becomes a routine rather than an annual source of stress.

Seasonal boat transport rewards owners who plan early, ask the right questions of every carrier, and choose transport partners whose experience matches the specific demands for their vessel and route.

Former Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) CEO Frank Del Rio has opened the discovery phase of his lawsuit against the company, serving a set of document demands on the company, three former directors and the compensation consultant that advised on his exit package. The requests, filed June 12 in the Circuit Court of the Eleventh...

The little-known Great Lakes Seaway Trail is one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S.

© <p>Artie Photography/Getty Images</p>

The board of directors of the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has named Jeremy Dunn as its new chief executive officer (CEO).  Effective July 7, 2026, he will replace Don Krusel, who served as GVHA’s interim CEO since December 2025.  Krusel is set to return to his position on the GVHA Board, GVHA said in a press release.  “Victoria has a unique harbor with unique opportunities. I’m excited...

How to plan a perfect trip to this Caribbean island with "the most extreme beach in the world."

© <p>Margaret Pattillo</p>

Holland America Line has announced that the Oosterdam will be positioned for a rare sunset eclipse viewing on August 12, 2026, off the coast of Spain, as part of a 13-day cruise departing Lisbon, Portugal, on August 9, that is open for booking. Astronomers have predicted that travelers who choose to view the solar eclipse...

For more efficient traveling, invest in an organizer that can keep toiletries, clothing, beauty products, and more tidy and secure.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Ride happier and longer in these top bike seats, tested by our experts.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

A celeb-loved trend travelers can finally get behind.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure; Jason Kempin / Getty Images</p>

One of the world's most amazing natural gems is just four hours north of Mexico City.

© <p>Evie Carrick / Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Learn how to be a better fellow passenger on the NYC subway from locals themselves.

© <p>LeoPatrizi/Getty Images</p>

MSC Cruises has released new images of its upcoming flagship MSC World Asia, highlighting The Spiral @ Tree of Life experience, which is set to become the longest dry slide at sea. Currently under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, the new flagship will begin Mediterranean cruises from December 4, 2026....

The 68th MedCruise General Assembly has come to a close in Palermo.  Starting on June 9 and ending on June 12, this year’s edition of the event hosted by the Port System Authority of the Sea of Western Sicily drew more than 240 participants.  As shared in a press release, 27 cruise lines were in attendance, and more than 700 B2B meetings were held, a record for a MedCruise General...

Atlas Ocean Voyages is launching Atlas Inner Circle, a new referral program rewarding past and new Atlas guests. Thanks to this, guests who refer a first-time Atlas traveler will get a $250 Future Cruise Credit per suite once the referred guest books and sails on their inaugural voyage. Guests sailing with Atlas for the first...

Azamara Cruises unveiled its 2027 Overland Experiences collection, allowing deeper exploration of destinations that its ships sail to.  The collection features 18 journeys across seven countries.  With enhanced programming, expanded access to destinations and small-group experiences, it is designed to foster connections with the places guests visit, the cruise line said in a press release.  “The Overland Experiences for 2027 invite...

Singapore Cruise Centre has announced that it will relocate all ferry and cruise operations to its new Singapore Cruise Centre (HarbourFront) terminal in two phases starting in July 2026. Jacqueline Tan, CEO of Singapore Cruise Centre, said, “Regional travel continues to play an important role in how people connect and conduct business across the region.”...

It's perfect for outdoor adventures.

© <p>Nicholas J. Klein/Adobe Stock</p>

Carnival Cruise Line issued a video update to inform guests of the current hurricane season, which started on May 15, 2026. Hosted by the company’s weather contributor, Amy Sweezey, the forecast says that fewer and weaker hurricanes are expected this year. “The big weather story for this season is that El Niño is making a...

Royal Caribbean announced that it has celebrated a construction milestone for the seventh Oasis-class vessel with a keel-laying ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The event marks the start of assembly of the company’s new ship and kicks off the next two years of construction ahead of its anticipated 2028 debut....

Jamaica’s tourism sector is entering a new era of transformation under the banner of Tourism 3.0, a strategy aimed at repositioning the destination for sustained growth, enhanced competitiveness and greater benefits for Jamaican workers and communities. Speaking at the opening of CTO Caribbean Week in New York, Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett underscored the resilience...

If you live in New England, chances are you've ridden this train.

© <p>Cerib/Adobe Stock</p>

They may be the key to a first class upgrade.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Galataport Istanbul is celebrating the arrival of Aroya Cruises at its cruise terminal for a second homeporting season. According to a social media update, the Aroya arrived at the port in early June for a series of 15 cruises departing from Istanbul. Visiting various destinations in Turkey, the operation will have significant impact on the...

A petition asking the Mexican government to bar Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico project recently hit five million signatures. Published on the Change.org platform, the petition was created in late May and asks Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo to stop the development. First announced in late 2024, the project aimed to build a new private...

The Carnival Legend arrived in Europe earlier this month to operate Carnival Cruise Line’s summer season in the region. Concluding a trans-Atlantic crossing that started in Miami in late May, the Spirit-class vessel docked at its new homeport of Dover on June 7, 2026. The ship is now offering a series of nine- to 12-night...

This World Ocean Month, Star Clippers has encouraged travelers to celebrate the seas with its marine-focused itineraries. The company said that World Ocean Month, celebrated in June, serves as a meaningful reminder of the responsibility shared by travelers and the tourism industry alike. Officially observed each year on June 8 as World Oceans Day, the...

A flight attendant's job can be more complicated than you think.

© <p>Mongkol Chuewong/Getty Images</p>

The U.S. travel advisory for Jamaica has changed from level 3 to level 2. Here's what you need to know.

© <p>Taylor McIntyre/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Because love shouldn't cost a thing.

© Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

Summer in Breckenridge, Colorado, brings wildflower hikes, scenic gondola rides, and fun festivals and events.

© <p>Jacobs Stock Photography Ltd/Getty Images</p>

From coast to coast, these are the best beach towns in the U.S.

© Jon Bilous/Getty Images

© Getty Images

Sail past stunning European castles, towns, and vineyards on these Rhine River cruises.

© <p>Courtesy of Riverside Luxury Cruises</p>

Here's everything you need to know to plan your trip to Sunriver, Oregon.

© <p>Sunriver Resort</p>

A short drive from Lisbon, this seaside escape boasts spectacular views.

© <p>Henrique Feliciano Photography/Getty Images</p>

Here's the best time for festivals, savings, and spotting the Southern city's blooming azaleas.

© <p>Heather Durham/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Visit Sydney for an unforgettable adventure. Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this Sydney travel guide.

© <p>Crown Sydney</p>

You've probably never experienced the great outdoors quite like this.

© <p>Tree Climbing at Silver Falls</p>

A new 24/7 public access defibrillator funded by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has been unveiled in Rosyth, Scotland. Guests and team members across the fleet and the cruise line’s UK office raised funds for the Norfolk-based charity Heart 2 Heart, with the installation supported by Cruise Forth, a volunteer-led organization promoting cruise tourism in and...

Adora Cruises launched its “Ahoy Shanghai, Nóng Hǎo Shanghai” city experience for the crew of the Adora Magic City on June 8.  Departing from Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, nearly 100 international crew members explored Shanghai’s landmarks, such as Yu Garden (City God Temple area), Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street and the Bund.   In a press release, the cruise line singled out a flash mob performance at the North Bund waterfront...

Best of all, it's not too far from the City of Angels.

© <p>Kristin Baalman/Getty Images</p>

It's the perfect base for a safari in Namibia.

© <p>Mokuti Etosha</p>

Easy passengers use their common sense.

© <p>Caia Image/Getty Images</p>

TUI River Cruises will sail its first-ever music-themed sailing, “Rewind on the Rhine,” this fall.  The three-night itinerary onboard the TUI Skyla will combine cruising through the castles, vineyards and riverside towns surrounding the Rhine in Germany with music programming featuring hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s.  According to a statement, the cruise will depart Frankfurt on November 18, 2026, sail down the Rhine and stop in Koblenz and Rüdesheim, before returning to Frankfurt on November 21, 2026.  “This themed cruise...

Disney Cruise Line’s first two-ship season in Alaska is underway. Marking the company’s largest deployment in the region, the cruise program includes the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder. The vessels arrived in the region in May, kicking off a series of cruises departing from Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada. The Disney Magic started its...

Carnival Cruise Line is introducing a new design for its Sail & Sign cards, as well as a new milestone recognition system as part of the new Carnival Rewards loyalty program. In a recent interview with the company’s Brand Ambassador John Heald, President Christine Duffy detailed the changes. “We know how important it is to...

There's history, culture, and delicious food—without the crowds.

© <p>simonmayer/Getty Images</p>

Here’s how to plan the perfect vacation to Sint Maarten.

© <p>Wangkun Jia/Adobe Stock</p>

This may be one of the most exciting drives in the country.

© <p>Shaun Hunter/Wirestock/Adobe Stock</p>

Signature Travel Network welcomed top-performing members aboard the Azamara Quest for its annual Member Appreciation Cruise through the South of France, according to a press release. The weeklong voyage featured calls in Nice, St. Tropez, Cannes, Provence and Sète, offering members a firsthand experience of the Azamara product alongside fellow members and Signature team members....

I’m restocking ahead of summer travels.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Including petite dresses, shorts, pants, and more.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Packable, versatile picks that keep every step light.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

© Chiara Salvadori/Getty Images

Considering these two idyllic Italian destinations? This side-by-side comparison can help you decide which is best for you.

© <p>iStockphoto/Getty Images</p>

Here's where to soak up the sun on your next Bahamas getaway.

© <p>Khaichuin Sim / Getty Images</p>

Airline transfer partners are key when it comes to redeeming points and maximizing your savings.

© <p>Courtesy of American Express</p>

Here's what that means for turbulence, according to aviation experts.

© <p>Olena Ruban/Getty Images</p>

Dreaming of an overwater bungalow getaway in French Polynesia? Find out the best times to book your trip.

© <p>VV-pics/Getty Images</p>

In the market for a new handbag? Here's why you should plan a trip to Italy.

© <p>Alessandra Amodio/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Dominica is a haven for those who love to explore and connect on their Caribbean getaways.

© <p>Ulrich Hollmann/Getty Images</p>

Here’s when to head to Tennessee's capital city for smaller crowds, lower prices, and some of the best country music in the world.

© <p>Taylor McIntyre/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Whether you want the best weather or to beat the crowds, here's when to go to Florida's tropical islands.

© <p>Frederic Prochasson/Getty Images</p>

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has sea caves, hiking trails, lighthouses, and historic boutique hotels.

© <p>Sigrid Knutson/Bayfield Chamber &amp; Visitor Bureau</p>

These are the best times to visit Colorado, whether you're looking to ski, hike, or admire wildflowers.

© <p>Katie Aldrich/EyeEm/Getty Images</p>

Switzerland’s Grand Resort Bad Ragaz has mineral waters, saunas, and myriad treatments—all in one place.

© <p>Grand Resort Bad Ragaz</p>

AIDA Cruises has announced the 2027 edition of its Festival Cruise, with bookings now open. Combining cruising and a music festival, the fourth edition of this sailing will take place May 24–29, 2027, aboard the AIDAperla, the cruise line said in a statement. During the roundtrip voyage from Hamburg to Sweden and Denmark that includes...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has revealed its Spotlight Collection of immersive sailings for 2027. The collection features seven voyages that cover a range of themes, from wellness and genealogy to gastronomy and wine, with accompanying programming. In a press release, the cruise line singled out its first-ever wellness-focused cruise in partnership with Elemis aboard the...

Fresh seafood, cool breweries, and boutique hotels await.

© <p>Seven Palms Studio/Adobe Stock</p>

A nine-day Caribbean cruise sounds like nine days. Count the night-before flight and the slog home, though, and your car’s actually parked for eleven.

Leave it in the wrong lot at Newark Liberty, and you’ll spend more on parking than some people spend on the airfare.

The math nobody runs before booking

If you live anywhere in the New York-New Jersey metro area, Newark is probably your airport. It’s the one with direct flights to the Florida and Texas homeports, where most of the big ships actually sail from these days.

So, the catch. On-site parking at EWR runs about $35 a day in the economy lot, and closer to $70 a day for short-term near the terminals (the airport posts its own rates here).

Ten or eleven days of that adds up fast. The economy lot alone crosses $350 before you’ve set foot on the ship. Short-term doubles it.

And that’s assuming you get a spot. Newark is one of the busiest airports in the country, and the close-in lots pack out over summer and the holidays. Which, conveniently, is when everyone cruises.

On-site or off-site?

I’ll just say it: for anything longer than a long weekend, off-site wins. The lots a few minutes out run a free shuttle and charge a sliver of what the garages do. You give up five minutes on a shuttle and get back enough to cover a shore excursion or two.

If you want to price it out, Newark off-site airport parking lots near EWR show their daily rates and shuttle times before you book, so you’re locking in a number instead of crossing your fingers at the gate. Book ahead. It holds your spot, and it usually beats the drive-up rate, which is the sort of thing you tend to learn the hard way exactly once.

The exception is a quick getaway where you’re flying out and back on the same tight schedule. Then maybe the convenience of parking right at the terminal earns its keep. The longer you’re gone, the more lopsided the math gets toward off-site.

Fly in the night before. Seriously.

The most expensive mistake here has nothing to do with parking. It’s booking a flight that lands the morning your ship sails.

Roughly one in five flights shows up late, per the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and the ship leaves on schedule whether you made it or not. Miss the all-aboard and you’re booking your own flight to the first port of call, hoping you can beat your own cruise there.

Fly in the day before, and the whole scenario evaporates. You sleep, you reset, and if the airline ships your suitcase to Denver, you’ve got the hours to sort it out.

There’s a fuller case for arriving early that goes well past just dodging delays.

Just remember it puts another day on the car. Factor that into whatever lot you book.

Timing the airport on cruise day

Parking off-site means padding your timeline a little. The shuttle is quick, but “quick” still works out to ten or fifteen minutes once it loads up and swings past the other lots, and security is waiting on the far side of that.

My rule of thumb: take the buffer you’d normally give yourself and add thirty minutes. You’re hauling more luggage than usual, and the cost of missing this particular flight is a lot steeper than a rebooking fee. You’d be watching your cruise sail without you.

First cruise, still learning the moving parts? Run through some first-time cruise tips first. Most embarkation-day meltdowns trace back to small things you could have handled at home.

A note for Cape Liberty cruisers

Quick aside, if you’re sailing out of Cape Liberty in Bayonne instead of flying off somewhere: EWR sits barely ten miles away, about fifteen minutes.

People flying in from out of state will sometimes leave the car near the airport and take a rideshare to the pier after a night at an airport hotel. It often works out cheaper and calmer than parking at the cruise port, which hasn’t gotten any friendlier on price over the years.

For everyone else, the advice fits on a napkin. Decide where the car goes before you book the flight, and actually compare the off-site lots against the airport garages while you’re at it.

Handle that early, and the only real question left on cruise day is which side of the ship you want for the sail-past of the Statue of Liberty.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled a promo that entails half‑price premium drinks packages on selected autumn and winter 2026-27 sailings aboard the Bolette, Borealis and Balmoral.  For new bookings made by July 30, 2026 (inclusive), on selected sailings departing between October 2026 and January 2027, the premium drinks package is available from £20 per person per night.  It includes beverages ranging from cocktails and premium spirits to wines, beers, soft...

The Douglas Mawson of Aurora Expeditions made her maiden call at the Port of Caen-Ouistreham in France from June 5 to 7, coinciding with the 82nd anniversary of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy, according to the port. The call took place alongside the Clio of Grand Circle Cruise Line, which was making a turnaround...

It's just one of those experiences that stay with you.

© <p>Shilo Urban</p>

Avoid checked bag fees with these genius tricks.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Celebrity Cruises’ eight-ship summer season in Europe is now underway, following repositioning voyages of six ships. Joining the Celebrity Infinity, which has been sailing in the region on a year-round basis, the vessels recently completed trans-Atlantic crossings to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. The highlight of the season is the Celebrity Xcel, which completed the...

The Gemini was reportedly arrested in Greece due to Miray Cruises’ debts with DenizBank, a Turkish financial institution. According to HaberDenidez.com, the seizure of the 1992-built ship was confirmed earlier this week after a hearing by a Greek court. Initially set to kick off its summer season in the Eastern Mediterranean in late May, the...

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has collaborated with Approach Guides to provide travel advisors with personalized, co-branded marketing content and a fully co-branded version of ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com, reinforcing its commitment to the advisor community. The company said in a statement that since launching in 2022, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has introduced a distinct expression of luxury travel...

The Greek island of Santorini recently implemented new rules for cruise operations, changing the proportion of passengers who can disembark at specific piers. While a pier for large vessels is not available at the destination, cruise ships can tender passengers to different ports. In its recent ruling, the local government determined that only 30 percent...

Mat McLachlan History Cruises has announced the launch of an inaugural D-Day Anniversary River Cruise aboard AmaWaterways’ AmaLyra. The voyage will consist of an eight-day Paris-to-Normandy sailing along the Seine through France, departing June 3, 2027, fully escorted by an expert Historian, with two exclusive days exploring the D-Day landing beaches on the anniversary of...

It's hard not to fall in love with this Lake Huron gem.

© <p>Wiltser/Getty Images</p>

Plus, it's just two hours from London.

© <p>John Corry/Getty Images</p>

Don't forget to wash those hands.

© <p>Jeff R. Clow/Getty Images</p>

U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Mobile Passport Control app is a time-saving airport hack for returning international travelers.

© <p>Joe Raedle/Getty Images</p>

Enjoy a budget-friendly beach vacation at these coastal spots, from Florida to Greece.

© Getty Images

Joining a tour can take the guesswork out of planning, making adventures safer, more affordable, and fun.

© Getty Images

Nurses and teachers love them, too.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

These are the ideal times to plan a trip to the Emerald Isle.

© Getty Images

The Nakasendo Way has linked Kyoto and Tokyo for centuries.

© <p>Walk Japan</p>

Dive into your beach vacation with reef safe sunscreen that protects your skin and the ocean.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

This Natural Wonder of the World is a must-visit—here's how to plan a trip.

© <p>Lauren Breedlove/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Here's everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to this unforgettable city.

© Mrinal Pal/Getty Images

Blisters? We don’t know her.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Up your comfort and support with these padded bike shorts for men.

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Cunard has launched a sweepstakes that offers travelers the chance to win passage on the Queen Mary 2’s 450th transatlantic crossing this November, according to a press release. “Transatlantic travel is the foundation of Cunard’s rich heritage and remains one of the most iconic experiences in luxury travel today,” said Liz Fettes, senior vice president,...

Hôtel Plaza Athénée is one of Paris's most iconic hotels, with 154 guest rooms and 54 suites and a swoon-worthy courtyard.

© <p>Eric Laignel/Hôtel Plaza Athénée</p>

From airport outfits to dinner plans, these pants handle it all (no hemming required).

© <p>Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Fincantieri and TUI Cruises celebrated the delivery of Mein Schiff Flow at the Monfalcone shipyard. The vessel is the second of two next-generation InTUItion-class cruise ships, designed for dual-fuel operation (liquefied natural gas and marine gas oil). “With the delivery of Mein Schiff Flow, we celebrate a new milestone in our collaboration with TUI Cruises...

Drones are a major cause of near midair collisions around the biggest U.S. airports.

© <p>Pakhnyushchyy/Getty Images</p>

Here's everything to know about the island's natural wonder, from its history and geography to the best way to get there.

© <p>Maria Ligaya/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Many of these overproof spirits are banned by TSA for their high alcohol content.

© <p>Cegli / Getty Images</p>

Soak in thermal pools among mountains, jungles, and icebergs.

© Bri Amato

Aurora Expeditions has recorded strong growth from the North American market for its 2025-26 Antarctic season, the cruise line said in a press release. Its U.S. bookings increased by 37 percent year-over-year, with travelers from the region accounting for one in three Aurora expeditioners last season. By comparison, the broader North American Antarctic market grew...

It's also one of the largest urban recreation areas in the U.S.

© <p>trekandshoot/Getty Images</p>

Stay in waterfront bungalows, swim with sea turtles, and more on this island off the coast of Puerto Rico.

© <p>Chris Marinaccio/Travel &#43; Leisure</p>

Marella Cruises has unveiled PJkini, said to be the world’s first hybrid outfit between a pajama and a bikini. Designed to take guests from cabin to pool to restaurant without having to change, the outfit is meant to encourage them to embrace guilt-free relaxation while on holiday. The cruise line said in a press release...

AIDA Cruises is reportedly cancelling most of the visits to the Greek island of Santorini scheduled for the AIDAblu in 2027. Five of the six calls planned for the summer season will no longer go ahead, according to a report by Schiff und Kreuzfahrten. The visits were part of a series of seven-night cruises to...

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ Great Stirrup Cay paid around $840,000 in environmental penalties for Covid-era environmental infractions, according to a report by The Tribune. The amount was revealed by Zane Lightbourne, the Bahamas’ Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, in what is described as a rare public disclosure of the value of an environmental enforcement...

There are many things we think about when the word “cruise” pops up, but darn near the top of that list would have to be food. While we’re big believers that you will never go hungry on a ship, we also manage to get ridiculously excited when a cruise line announces additions to their culinary lineup… which is exactly what Carnival Cruise Line just did. However, there’s a catch…

‘A Bold Step Forward’

In a move designed to whet our appetites, Carnival revealed a program they’re calling The Next Course. And while they’ve shared lots of details about the restaurants and experiences which The Next Course will encompass, they also let us know we’ll have to wait a bit for the biggest and best of these changes. Why? Because they’ll be rolled out starting with the introduction of the Carnival Festivale.

That means that while you might start dreaming about the meals you’ll have tonight, you won’t actually be able to experience them until May of 2027.

That said, Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy believes it’ll be well worth the wait. “Our latest culinary adventure marks a bold step forward to give guests an unforgettable experience with a variety of new, vibrant flavors fleetwide.” 

Four New Restaurants to Debut

When Carnival Festivale is rolled out, it will feature several new concepts, but not only where food is concerned. There will also be a new lounge dubbed The Spark (which will feature cocktails inspired by iconic songs) as well as a bar called Mix, which sounds like a playful take on the line’s successful Alchemy Bar.

But we’re here to talk about food. So what type of food, exactly, will Carnival’s new restaurants focus on?

First up is Uku Lei Lei, a complimentary restaurant described as a space in which “Hawaii’s vibrant spirit meets bold Asian flavors.” The menu is expected to feature dishes such as poke bowls, Mongolian beef short ribs and tropical desserts, all served in a space with a relaxed island vibe.

Next on our “to eat” list is Le Bistro Musicale, described as having the spirit of a Parisian cafe and “a menu that reads like a love letter to classic French cuisine.” French onion soup, chicken cordon bleu and, of course, crispy steak frites are on the menu at this hot spot, which will come with an upcharge.

Those hungering for something fresh from the ocean will want to head to Emeril’s Coastal Seafood. The menu at this specialty restaurant is described as fresh seafood infused with the celebrity chef’s Creole flair. The atmosphere will be refined but relaxed, offering everything from fresh oysters to chef-driven specialties that “celebrate the best of land and sea.” 

Rounding out the new additions is Fetaccine, a complimentary restaurant “where Greek seaside flavors meet rich Italian culinary tradition. The menu will feature a wide variety of offerings, from chicken parm to Greek lamb chops.

New Menus, Fleetwide

So far, there’s no word on when or if any of these new offerings might eventually find their way onto ships other than Festivale or her sister ship, Tropicale, which will begin welcoming guests in 2028.

However, The Next Course does include the rollout of refreshed menus across the fleet, and the addition of Bagels At Sea. The Chef’s Table Menu will also be revamped with an emphasis on regionally-inspired flavors. Additionally, Carnival is promising fun pop-up concepts, expanded grab-and-go options and the previously announced Express Dining option.

Read Next: What you need to know about Carnival’s Express Dining option

There is a particular joy cruisers know well: the moment the lines drop, and the water opens up ahead.

For many, that feeling need not end at the gangway. A boat of your own brings a version of it within reach any weekend you like.

It is a natural step for anyone who loves the water. A retailer such as the Avalanche Motorsports site shows just how many options exist.

It is a North Carolina dealership, and one of the largest-volume boat, powersports, and RV sellers in the southeastern United States. This guide explains why cruise fans take to boat ownership so naturally.

Why Do Cruise Lovers Make Great Boat Owners?

Because they already understand the appeal. A cruiser knows the pull of the open water, the rhythm of a day spent afloat, and the simple pleasure of watching the shore slip by. A boat scratches that itch between sailings.

The skills transfer too. Cruise fans tend to be comfortable around water, attentive to weather, and happy planning a day on the move. Those instincts make the learning curve of boat ownership far gentler.

It also fills the gap between trips. A cruise is a highlight of the year, but a boat turns any free Saturday into time on the water. The waiting between voyages becomes a season of smaller adventures instead.

And the social side carries over. The time on the water that makes a cruise special is exactly what a day on your own boat delivers. The meals, the company, and the views all carry over, just on a smaller, more personal scale.

What Kind of Boat Fits the Cruise Lifestyle?

The one that matches how you like to spend a day afloat. Cruisers value comfort and sociability, which points toward certain types. Consider these:

1. Pontoon boats. Spacious, stable, and built for relaxed group days.
2. Deck boats. Room to socialize with a bit more speed and sportiness.
3. Bowriders. Versatile for cruising, swimming, and watersports.
4. Cabin boats. A small cabin for overnighting, the closest to a cruise.
5. Center consoles. Ideal if fishing is part of the plan.

Each suits a slightly different day on the water. The cruiser who loves deck time and dining gravitates toward pontoons and deck boats, while anglers lean to center consoles.

There is more to the water than boats, too. The same outdoors that draws people to fishing trips and quiet coves is reachable in many ways. A jet ski, kayak, or small cabin cruiser each suits a different pace.

Is a Boat or Powersport Right for You?

It depends on your budget, your water, and the kind of fun you are after. The options range widely in cost and use. A few figures help:

• Pontoon boats commonly seat 8 to 12 people for relaxed days out.
• A new jet ski often runs $9,000 to $16,000.
• Trailerable boats of 18 to 22 feet tow behind most SUVs.
• Golf carts start around $8,000 and suit waterfront communities.

A boat is the natural fit for cruise lovers who want space and time afloat. Powersports like jet skis add speed and thrill, while a golf cart suits the lake-community or marina lifestyle that often comes with boat ownership.

The wider draw is simply the water itself. Whether the goal is fishing, swimming, or watching the sun set over the open ocean, the right vessel turns that wish into a standing weekend plan. Match the purchase to the life you want.

How Do You Choose Your First Watercraft?

By thinking past the purchase to the whole experience. A boat is a commitment, so buy with the full picture in mind. The table below frames it.

Factor	Why It Matters
Intended use	Relaxing, fishing, and watersports need different boats
Where you boat	Lakes, rivers, and coast suit different hulls
New vs used	Used lowers the cost of getting started
Dealer support	Service and parts keep you on the water
Total ownership cost	Trailer, storage, fuel, and upkeep all count

The dealer is a bigger factor than first-timers expect. A retailer with a full service department and a deep parts catalog keeps small problems from becoming lost weekends.

Think of it as choosing a vessel the same way you would when choosing the right size of cruise ship: match it to your crew, your plans, and your comfort. Get that right, and the water becomes a year-round destination.

Charting Your Purchase

• Cruise lovers already have the instincts that make boating easy.
• A boat fills the long stretches between sailings with water time.
• Pontoons and deck boats suit the social, relaxed cruise style.
• Weigh boats against jet skis and golf carts by use and budget.
• Buy from a dealer with strong service and parts support.

Bringing the Cruise Feeling Home

The love of the water is what makes a cruise unforgettable, and it does not have to stay on the open sea. A boat of your own brings that same feeling within reach whenever you want it, turning ordinary weekends into something to look forward to.

Match the vessel to your crew and your plans, lean on a dealer who will support you, and the stretch between cruises becomes its own kind of adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Owning a Boat a Lot of Work?

It takes some upkeep, but less than many expect. Routine cleaning, winterising, and basic maintenance keep a boat healthy, and a good dealer’s service department handles the rest. For people who already love the water, the effort is usually a small price for weekends spent afloat whenever they choose.

What Is the Best Boat for Beginners?

Pontoon and deck boats are popular first choices, since they are stable, spacious, and easy to handle. They suit relaxed, social days on calm water, which is what most new owners want. The best beginner boat ultimately depends on your local waters, your group size, and how you plan to use it.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Into Boating?

It varies widely. A solid used boat can start in the low five figures, while jet skis often run $9,000 to $16,000 new. Beyond the purchase, budget for a trailer, storage, fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Buying used and from a supportive dealer keeps the entry cost manageable.

Do You Need a License to Operate a Boat?

It depends on your state and the boat. Many states require a boater education card or safety course, especially for newer or younger operators.

Checking your local boating regulations before you buy is wise, and a reputable dealer can point you toward the right requirements.

For years, Half Moon Cay has been consistently ranked as one of the most popular destinations out there for Carnival Cruise Line guests. Now, not only has the name been changed to Relax Away Half Moon Cay, but the hot spot has some competition from sister site Celebration Key. But which is right for you?

Different Strokes

While both will offer a family plenty of amenities and ways to have fun in the sun, Relax Away Cay and Celebration Key offer vastly different experiences. While Carnival does offer sailings which visit both spots, many ships will stop at one or the other. That means that as guests begin planning their ideal vacation, they might need to take a closer look at each destination and decide which is right for them.

Half Moon Cay, as we’ll call it moving forward for simplicity’s sake, has been operated by Carnival since the late 1990s, but recently underwent a pretty massive glow-up. Despite the pretty massive expansion, Half Moon Cay does not feature a traditional pool, nor does it boast a water park.

Celebration Key, on the other hand, has two large freshwater lagoons as well as a large waterpark.

And that simple comparison speaks volumes about what each destination is — and isn’t.

Which Is Right For Your Party?

Everything about Celebration Key is bigger, bolder and louder that what you’ll find at Half Moon Cay. Celebration is more in keeping with Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day CocoCay or Norwegian Cruise Line’s currently-expanding Great Stirrup Cay.

Like those other destinations, Celebration Key offers not only more thrills but more opportunities to spend money. While there are many things to do at no charge, the big-ticket items — including the water park — come at a premium price.

Half Moon Cay, meanwhile, is a bit more low key. Its beaches feature thousands of free umbrellas and beach loungers. It’s color schemes are a bit more muted than the bright, fiesta-like structure at Celebration Key.

Even before Celebration Key opened, Carnival was making it clear that these were two very distinct experiences. Amy Martin Ziegenfuss, who at the time was serving as Carnival Cruise Line’s Chief Marketing Officer, explained it this way: “Half Moon Cay is much more of a hang out, have a drink at the tiki bar and enjoy the beach” vibe.

“At Celebration Key,” she added, “you can do that but so much more.” 

Or, as Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy said at the opening ceremony for Half Moon Cay’s expansion, “We wanted to keep [Half Moon Cay] a little bit more relaxed and low-key versus what you see at Celebration Key with the big lagoons and swim-up bars and the castle the slides.”

That difference is as intentional as it is, at least for now, permanent. “Would we ever see a Perfect Day CocoCay-like experience at [Half Moon Cay]?” Duffy pondered. “No, I think we really wanted to keep [this] pristine and relaxing, more of a chance to enjoy nature.”

Read Next: Carnival addresses drink package related rumor

Sure, Celebration Key has been getting a lot of attention since opening. But this week, Carnival Cruise Line gave that private destination spot’s big sis, Relax Away Half Moon Cay, some love as they unveiled some big changes which have recently been made to the much-loved hot spot.

What’s New at Relax Away, Half Moon Cay

Already one of the most popular destinations visited by Carnival’s ships, the latest additions have majorly upped Half Moon Cay’s game. And perhaps the most important change is one which guests have long awaited: A new pier which puts an end to the need for tendering.

Just in case you haven’t eaten enough on the ship, Relax Away, Half Moon Cay has also upped their food and beverage game with venues such as the Orchid Beach Grill, Hibiscus Beach Grill and several other locations.

Our personal favorite upon a recent visit? The Luna Tide Beach Bar, with its potent cocktails and the kind of view that vacations (and great Instagram pics) are made for.

Getting From Here to There

With the island having majorly expanded its footprint, there’s a lot to see. Those wanting to take in all the sites at their own pace can walk along the Papaya Pathway. But never fear, there are also regularly-running trams which run from the Coconut Line Tram Station (stop No. 1) to the Avacado Station (where you’ll find the great bar we mentioned above).

According to the map, walking the entire route would take approximately an hour… which should give you some idea of just how big the newly-expanded destination is.

While there are plenty of free loungers and umbrellas scattered about, there are also cabanas of varying sizes which can be rented for the day.

Everything Old Is New(ish) Again

The already existing side of the island has also received a bit of a makeover. The existing amenities have been upgraded, while many activities and excursions will still be found here.

With 22 ships currently making calls to Relax Away, Half Moon Cay, Carnival says the Paradise Collection — including Celebration Key — now comprises the largest portfolio of exclusive cruise destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Read Next: Celebration Key marks a major milestone

If there’s one problem with many cruise lines, it’s that once mid-tier levels have been achieved, it becomes increasingly difficult to reach the next level and their valuable perks. Recognizing that, Celebrity Cruises is making a change that will thrill their most loyal guests and provide an added incentive to those working their way up the proverbial ladder.

New Milestone Rewards at Higher Tiers

The loyalty program offered by Celebrity Cruises is called the Captain’s Club. As with most loyalty programs associated with a cruise line, points are earned based on the number of nights sailed and the category of stateroom booked.

Tier levels in Celebrity Cruises’ loyalty program range from Preview at zero points all the way up to Zenith, which one hits upon accumulating 3,000 or more points.

In the past, there was a fairly large gap between the two highest tiers, with Elite Plus ranging from 750 points up to 2,999. And those who’d hit the magical 3,000 point Zenith had essentially scaled the heights.

Beginning on June 11, 2026, however, those upper echelon tiers will under go modifications which offer extra rewards upon hitting various milestones.

What Are the New Tiers and Rewards?

Once the change goes into effect, those who hit the 2,500 point milestone will gain access to a slew of new benefits. Like what?

• 480 minutes of Premium Wi-Fi, which is actually double the minutes Elite Plus members received in the past.

• 20% off specialty dining.

• One free photo taken by the ship’s photographers.

• A “surprise in-room amenity” on their actual milestone sailing.

Another set of bonus benefits kicks in when Captain’s Club members hit the milestone of having accrued 2,250 points. At that level, all of the benefits listed above get a bump. This means they’ll receive 720 minutes of Premium Wi-Fi, 25 percent off specialty dining, and two free photos. They’ll also receive a surprise in-room amenity as well as complimentary “Extend Your Stay” privileges where available, which allows guests to enjoy the ship’s amenities right up until 90 minutes before the vessel is to depart on her next journey.

The New Highest Level: Triple Zenith!

In addition to perks already offered upon reaching the Zenith tier — which begins at 3,000 points — guests will receive 35 percent off specialty dining, three complimentary pictures and a surprise amenity on their milestone sailing.

Previously, Zenith represented the highest possible level. Now, however, two new milestone levels have been added.

At Double Zenith — which, as the name applies, kicks in at 6,000 points — guests may enjoy a complimentary lunch in one of the specialty dining venues on embarkation day, a free specialty dinner during the cruise on which they hit the milestone, and a celebratory bottle of champagne.

Finally, there is the new Triple Zenith tier, hit upon when a guest has earned 9,000 points. At this level, guests may enjoy a complimentary seven-night Bermuda or Caribbean sailing in a Sky Suite as well as those perks rewarded to Double Zenith guests.

For full details on the Captain’s Club — including terms and conditions — you can click here.

Read More: What Carnival cruisers must to do avoid losing loyalty status

By now, you likely have heard the shocking news that Carnival Corporation experienced a data breach potentially impacting millions of people. How, exactly, did the information get leaked and what can be done to prevent yourself from being further victimized by the hackers?

What Carnival Is Saying

It’s important to note that the incident in question involves Carnival Corporation, meaning it stretches far beyond Carnival Cruise Line customers. While Carnival Cruise Line may be the best known of the impacted entities, the breach also impacts such subsidiary lines as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Cunard and more.

According to a letter being sent to those impacted, Carnival’s IT team first identified a potential issue involving an employee’s account being accessed by an “unauthorized actor” back on April 14. And while soon after, rumors began circulating, it was not until May 27 that Carnival began informing people via a letter.

“We have determined that your full name, address, email address, phone number and passport number were obtained” by the hackers, reveals the letter.

How Experts Say This Happened

ShinyHunters, the group which has claimed responsibility for the hack, is well known for having pulled off similar data breaches in the past. Ismael Valenzuela, the Vice President of Labs Threat Research and Intelligence at cybersecurity group Arctic Wolf, says that ShinyHunters “has been wreaking havoc across major brands, and the Carnival data breach shows just how effective their tactics have become.” 

So what exactly is their preferred method? “By compromising a single employee account, the group gained access to internal systems and extracted large volumes of customer data,” explains Valenzuela.

He adds that the group’s playbook “hasn’t changed because it continues to work. They gain a foothold through identity-based attacks, move quickly to [remove] data at scale, and then use it for leverage under a pay-or-leak model.” 

What You Should Do… Immediately!

“Anyone potentially impacted should assume elevated exposure,” says Valenzuela. As for what actions they should take, he suggests it’s best to “reset passwords, tokens and API keys that could have been exposed, enable phishing-resistant multi-factor authentification and closely monitor for suspicious or unauthorized account activity.” 

To that end, those whom Carnival is reaching out to with word that their information was potentially breached are being offered “a complimentary 24-month membership to TransUnion’s credit monitoring.” 

To do so, consumers must head to the TransUnion website armed with an activation code provided by Carnival Corporation. Codes can only be activated by August 31, after which they will no longer work.

It’s crucial that those potentially impacted monitor their email inboxes for an email from Carnival Corporation. These emails contain information about the breach, but may unintentionally wind up being directed to one’s spam email box.

Read Next: Carnival Reveals “Cut Off” Notice Scam

Cruise ships may appear to be floating hotels, but in reality, they’re gigantic science labs cruising across the ocean.

To inquiring students, a cruise ship is more than vacation images, swimming pools, and buffet meals. It’s a real-world classroom where physics, biology, chemistry, engineering, weather science, and environmental studies come alive.

Just think about that. How does a gigantic ship float? How does it make fresh water at sea? What causes waves? What animals exist beneath the surface? These questions make a regular excursion an interesting science experience. Let’s go into the cruise ship science lessons all curious students should know.

1. The Physics of Floating: Why Cruise Ships Do Not Sink

Buoyancy is one of the first science lessons children can learn on a cruise ship. It looks unbelievable at first that such a big metal construction can float. After all, if you drop a small metal spoon in water, it will sink. So, how does a cruise ship stay afloat?

Shape and displacement are the answer. A cruise ship has a big, hollow body that displaces a lot of water. The displaced water provides an upward force called buoyant force. When the upward force is equal to or greater than the ship’s weight, the ship floats.

It’s a bit like lying on a pool float. Your body might sink on its own, but the float spreads your weight over a broader area. It also pushes the water out of the way. The ship accomplishes the same thing, just on a much larger scale.

Cruise ship buoyancy also gives students a useful bridge between what they see and what they study in class. A learner can watch a vessel move through water, then connect that sight to mass, volume, density, and force.

When a classroom task asks students to calculate buoyant force, the deck example suddenly feels more useful. That is where physics assignments help can fit naturally into the lesson by linking cruise ship examples with formulas, diagrams, and real scientific thinking.

The goal is not to treat physics as a set of dry numbers. It is to understand why a floating ship proves the math in front of them. Students need to explain how shape changes the result. They also need to understand why air inside the hull matters. Once these ideas click, the ship becomes more than a machine for travel. It becomes a moving example of applied physics.

A Simple Experiment for Students

Students can try this idea out with aluminum foil. First, take a piece of foil and twist it into a tight ball. Then drop it in water. It could sink. After that, form another piece into a little boat and put it on the water. It will probably float. Same stuff, different shape. That’s science at work.

2. Ocean Biology: Discovering Life Beneath the Waves

A cruise ship sails through one of the world’s most spectacular ecosystems: the ocean. The trip might also be a chance for students to study marine biology, which is the study of life in the sea. The water is full of living beings that rely on one another, from microscopic plankton to huge whales.

Plankton are tiny, but they are very significant. They’re food for many fish, whales, and other water creatures. They also produce oxygen and maintain the ocean food web. Without plankton, the ocean would be like a city without grocery stores.

Students may also see seabirds, dolphins, flying fish, or coral reefs, depending on the course of the tour. Every glimpse can raise tremendous questions. Why do dolphins swim alongside ships? How do seabirds locate food? Why do we call coral reefs the “rainforests of the sea”?

What Students Can Observe from the Deck

Students can maintain a science diary during the trip. They can log animal observations, water color, wave height, meteorological conditions, and location. Over time, patterns may emerge. Some animals, for example, may be more frequent near the coast. Others may be found in deeper waters.

3. Weather Science: Reading the Sky at Sea

Another exciting cruise ship science lesson is weather. Out at sea, students get a clear picture of how clouds, wind, temperature, and pressure affect day-to-day living. Changes in the weather can feel more dramatic because of the wide-open water.

Clouds are very well suited for study. If you see tall, black clouds, it may rain or storm. Thin, wispy clouds could mean fair weather. They could also show that a change in the weather is on the way. Waves and ship movement can be influenced by wind direction and speed.

Students can also study air pressure. If the air pressure lowers, there may be inclement weather on the way. As it rises, it frequently brings calmer weather. This is why ships rely on weather instruments and satellite data to plot safe courses.

Weather science on a cruise is like reading a narrative in the sky. The terms are clouds, wind, and waves. Students merely need to learn how to read them.

4. Chemistry at Sea: Turning Saltwater into Fresh Water

One of the surprising facts about cruise ships is that many of them can create fresh water from seawater. This is a fantastic lesson in chemistry. Ocean water is too salty to be drunk safely. Cruise ships have specific systems that take the salt out. These systems generate pure water for bathing, cooking, washing, and sometimes even drinking.

Desalination is a frequent method. The procedure takes salt out of water. Some ships boil seawater until it evaporates, leaving the salt behind. The water vapor is then cooled and condensed back into fresh water in liquid form. Other ships utilize filters. This is called reverse osmosis.

In this session, students witness how science can tackle actual problems. A ship out at sea cannot simply plug itself into a city water line. It has to find its own source. That’s chemistry, engineering, and survival functioning in tandem.

5. Engineering and Sustainability: Building Smarter Ships

Cruise ships are engineering marvels. They require engines, navigational systems, stabilizers, waste systems, kitchens, elevators, safety equipment, and communication equipment. All this has to fit together like organs in a living organism.

Students can learn about how engines and propellers drive ships. They can also see how stabilizers prevent rocking and make the ride more comfortable. GPS, radar, maps, and qualified personnel keep the ship on course with navigation systems.

But modern cruise science is about sustainability, too. Ships have to manage waste, preserve energy, protect marine life, and prevent pollution. This is a question that matters to students. How can ships be cleaned up? What fuel should they burn? How can travelers experience the ocean and help protect it?

These questions are not only for scientists. They are for future engineers, designers, environmental leaders, and well-informed people.

Conclusion: A Cruise Ship Is a Floating Classroom

Science lessons are everywhere on a cruise ship, from the ocean below to the clouds above. On one trip, students can learn about buoyancy, marine life, weather, chemistry, engineering, and sustainability. The best part is that these teachings aren’t stuck in a textbook. They are happening, altering, splashing, and moving in real time.

To the inquisitive learner, a cruise ship is a great big key that unlocks the mysteries of the ocean. Each wave is a question. Each machine has a story to tell.

When an animal is sighted, the door to discovery opens. So, next time you see a cruise liner, don’t only think about vacation. Think science, discovery, and the unending classroom that is the sea.

Spain’s Imserso senior travel programme still has spare places on 36 cultural tours scheduled for the final days of May and throughout June, as operator Turismo Social races to fill unsold capacity before the current […]

Heavy traffic brought parts of Turkey’s Anadolu Motorway to a standstill as millions of people began travelling for the country’s extended Eid al-Adha holiday break. Long queues formed on the Ankara-bound lanes through Bolu, particularly […]

The oneworld Alliance is expanding its presence at London Heathrow Airport as Alaska Airlines launches new nonstop flights between Seattle and London from 22 May 2026. The new service increases oneworld’s Heathrow membership to 14 […]

Aman has opened reservations for Amanvari, its new luxury resort on Mexico’s Baja East Cape, ahead of the property’s official opening on 1 August. The 18-casita resort is located within the Costa Palmas community on […]

Fly Khiva will launch direct scheduled flights between Istanbul Airport and the Uzbek city of Termez from 30 May 2026, expanding air links between Turkey and Central Asia. The new service will operate twice weekly […]

Price charts are one of the most important tools for you as a trader or investor. Whether you’re starting out or you’ve been watching the markets for a while, knowing how to read a chart […]

Long work trips can support career growth, strengthen client relationships, and open the door to new places. They can also make a home feel far away. Missed dinners, time zone gaps, and late meetings can […]

Pope Leo XIV will arrive in Madrid on 6 June 2026 for a four-day stay as part of a landmark apostolic journey across Spain, the first papal visit to the country since Benedict XVI attended […]

Penang is strengthening its position as one of Asia’s fastest-growing business events destinations, backed by record industry growth, expanding infrastructure and a major pipeline of conferences and trade events for 2026. The Malaysian state hosted […]

Azamara Cruises has announced its new cruises for the spring, summer and fall of 2028 — one of the most ambitious and destination-forward seasons in the brand’s history. The new line-up of cruise itineraries features […]

Antalya Airport has been named host of Routes Europe 2027, winning the right to stage one of the aviation industry’s most influential route development forums after a record-breaking year in which the Turkish airport handled […]

Preferred Hotels & Resorts has announced a new wave of luxury hotel openings for summer 2026, adding boutique resorts, wellness retreats and historic city properties across Europe and Africa. The new additions include hotels in […]

American Airlines has launched four new nonstop routes between the United States and Europe as part of its largest summer schedule to date, adding flights to Budapest, Prague, Athens and Zurich. The airline began the […]

A sinkhole discovered beside one of only two runways at New York’s LaGuardia Airport forced the closure of Runway 4/22 on Wednesday, triggering more than 200 flight cancellations and approximately 190 further delays in a […]

Taiwan drew strong interest from international event planners and travel buyers at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, using a mix of AI-powered tourism tools and Taiwanese food experiences to promote itself as a leading MICE destination in […]

Spanish senators have increased pressure on Aena over the management of airports in the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands, calling for island governments to have a greater role in decisions that affect air connectivity. […]

Poipu Beach on the Hawaiian island of Kauai has been named the best beach in the United States for 2026 by coastal scientist Stephen P. Leatherman, widely known as “Dr. Beach.” The annual ranking once […]

The world’s first ATR 72-600 featuring the ATR HighLine “All-Business Class” configuration touched down in Kuala Lumpur, marking a major milestone for regional aviation. ATR’s new cabin concept received certification from both EASA and the Malaysian authorities earlier this month, confirming its readiness for commercial operations worldwide. The delivery represents a dual first […]

A Detroit-bound Air France flight was diverted to Canada after a passenger who had recently travelled from central Africa was found to be on board during newly introduced US Ebola travel restrictions, as health authorities […]

While aviation networks are functioning, ongoing security concerns in the Middle East continue to create uncertainty for travellers. Regional carriers have largely restored operations. Emirates is currently flying to more than 137 destinations across more than 70 […]

Travel has shifted. Many people no longer want to simply check landmarks off a list; they want to understand how a place actually feels to live in. That means slowing down, paying attention to everyday […]

Qatar has launched a summer-long cultural programme across Canada featuring fashion, public art, literature, film and sport-related events as the country prepares to deepen ties ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The initiative marks […]

Prague has strengthened its position as one of the world’s leading destinations for international meetings after ranking sixth globally in the latest International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings. The Czech capital also announced a […]

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has announced the launch of full public sales for flights between Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport and London Heathrow. This key route, which introduces the new aircraft on […]