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Today — 19 March 2026Travel

Holland America to Offer New 8-Day Itinerary in Southeast Asia

Holland America Line will offer a new eight-day itinerary to Southeast Asia as part of its 2027-28 winter season. According to a press release, the shorter cruise offers a rare opportunity to sail in the region with the company in less than 14 days. Sailing roundtrip from Singapore, the new itinerary will take place onboard...

Explora Journeys Unveils Ocean Wellness Program with Jannik Sinner

Explora Journeys has launched a wellbeing program onboard in collaboration with Grand Slam champion and Global Brand Ambassador Jannik Sinner. Titled “In Balance: A Jannik Sinner Ocean Wellness Program,” the program is now open for booking, the company said in a press release. It will be available across all journeys from April 24 on the...
Yesterday — 18 March 2026Travel

Disney Cruise Line Unveils Disney Believe, Its Next Wish-Class Ship

Walt Disney Company’s new CEO Josh D’Amaro has unveiled the name and the theme of the next Disney Cruise Line ship. As the fourth in Disney Cruise Line’s Wish class, the next ship will be named the Disney Believe and is expected to join the fleet in late 2027. In a press release, the company...

MSC Bringing Yacht Club to Two More Ships

Sailings on MSC Cruises’ two vessels, the Musica and MSC Orchestra, which are being upgraded to feature the MSC Yacht Club, are open for booking. The upgraded MSC Musica will set sail in November 2026 and MSC Orchestra in March 2027, the company said in a statement. The refurbishments are part of its ongoing modernization...

TUI Cancels Additional Sailings for Middle East Ships

TUI Cruises cancelled additional departures onboard two of its vessels due to the current conflicts in the Middle East. According to a statement issued on Tuesday, the cancellations now include all sailings set to take place onboard the Mein Schiff 4 through March 23, 2026. For the Mein Schiff 5, the cancellations include all the...

MSC Armonia Bids Farewell to South America

The MSC Armonia recently completed its winter season in South America and started a repositioning voyage to Europe. After serving the Brazilian market for the past four months, the MSC Cruises vessel kicked off a trans-Atlantic crossing on March 14, 2026. The 22-night cruise included a visit to Santos, where the ship is seen in...

Scenic Group Expands Singapore-Based APAC Team

Scenic Group announced it has expanded its Asia-Pacific team based in Singapore as part of its strategy to drive growth in the region. Operating as Scenic Tours APAC Pte. Ltd., the office supports the company’s efforts to capitalize on growing demand from high-net-worth travelers and the expanding luxury cruise segment across Asia-Pacific markets. According to...

AmaWaterways Christens AmaSofia on the Rhine

AmaWaterways held a christening ceremony for its newest river ship, AmaSofia, on March 14. More than 1,200 advisors attending the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam were invited to attend the celebration hosted on three of the river cruise line’s ships on the Rhine – the AmaPrima, AmaVenita and AmaSofia. The ship’s godmother is Sarah...

Mano Cancels Sailings Through April 2026

Mano Cruises reportedly cancelled all sailings that were set to take place onboard the Crown Iris through late April. Serving the Israeli market, the vessel was scheduled to launch its 2026 season in Haifa on March 12, 2026. According to a report by Greek shipping news website Arxipelagos, the departures were cancelled due to the...

V.Group Extends Its Procurement Platform Marcas to Broader Cruise Market

The procurement subsidiary Marcas of V.Group has previously in principle only been available to customers of the sister company V.Ships, plus a small number of direct clients. That is now changing. Marcas is now ready to offer its services to cruise and leisure operators outside V.Ships’ managed fleet, according to Per Bjornsen, CEO of V.Ships...

Saudi Arabia Joins Oman, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq and More in Middle East Plunging Global Crude Oil Markets, Resulting in Heavy Travel Expense Growth in US, UK, Canada, Germany, China, India: Everything You Need to Know

18 March 2026 at 14:39

Phoenix Reisen’s Amadea Meets Her Japanese Sisters

Phoenix Reisen’s Amadea has met up with the Asuka II and II in Kobe. The Amadea was the original Asuka, built in 1991 and was acquired by the German cruise and tour operator in 2006. She was built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at its shipyard in Nagasaki. The Amadea is currently on a 146-day world...

China Overtakes Turkey, Lebanon, UK, US, Georgia, Albania, Iran, Bangladesh, and Several Other Countries as Greece’s Golden Visa Program Sees a Record-Breaking Twenty-Eight Thousand Investor Permits Issued in 2026, Boosting Foreign Investment, Economic Growth, and the Real Estate Market

18 March 2026 at 07:42

American Encore En Route to Pacific Northwest after Sea Trials

American Cruise Lines’ new riverboat, the American Encore, passed sea trials last week and is sailing to the Columbia and Snake Rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The riverboat is currently cruising along the coastal waterways of the Eastern Seaboard and will next sail through the Caribbean Sea, according to a statement. Helmed by Captain Andrew...
Before yesterdayTravel

Celestyal Cancels Additional Itineraries in the Mediterranean

Celestyal Cruises is cancelling additional itineraries of the Celestyal Discovery in the Eastern Mediterranean due to the conflicts in the Middle East. According to a statement issued on Tuesday, the vessel’s March 27 and March 30, 2026, departures will no longer go ahead. The company said that the sailings have been cancelled as it “finalizes...

PATA Foundation Announces New Board of Trustees in 2026

17 March 2026 at 20:41
PATA Foundation trustees with face imagesThe PATA Foundation today announces the appointment of a new Board of Trustees, the governing body entrusted with guiding the organisation’s strategic efforts to ensure that the next generation across Asia Pacific is equipped with […]

Carnival Schedules 2026 Q1 Conference Call

Carnival Corporation has scheduled a conference call with analysts for Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10 a.m. (EDT) or 2 p.m. (GMT). The first quarter’s financial results, which are expected to be released that morning, will be discussed during the call, the company said in a statement. A simulcast of the call will be available...

China records over 150 million inbound arrivals in 2025, spurred by visa-free policy

17 March 2026 at 14:57
Traditional Chinese temple with red lanterns, Li River karst mountains, Yangshuo town, and Spring Festival horse sculpture in ChinaForeign tourist arrivals to China surged in 2025, with spending rising by 40% year on year, China’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Sun Yeli said, as reported by CGTN. Inbound tourist trips exceeded 150 million last […]

Silversea’s Spirit Arrives in Europe for Summer Season

The Silver Spirit recently arrived in Europe for a summer season sailing in the Baltic, Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. Before starting its deployment in the region, the 2009-built ship is also set to undergo a major drydock at a local shipyard. Having completed its winter schedule in the Caribbean, the vessel kicked off a trans-Atlantic...

Shanghai Welcomes Two Luxury Cruise Calls in One Week

Shanghai’s North Bund welcomed two luxury calls last week , with the vast majority of passengers benefiting from China’s expanded visa-free entry policy. The week began with the arrival of Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer on March 6. Docking at the Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal on the North Bund. Port and immigration authorities reported that...

Sture Myrmell Named President of Aroya Cruises

Cruise Saudi has appointed Sture Myrmell as President of Aroya Cruises effective April 1, 2026, the company said in a statement. Based in Jeddah, he will oversee the cruise line’s commercial operations and guest experience, reporting to Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen. Clasen said that Myrmell’s expertise in operations, commercial strategy and market development will...

The Quiet Revolution: How Modern Propulsion Reduces Noise, Vibration and Emissions

As cruise operators face growing scrutiny around emissions and Underwater radiated noise (or noise performance), propulsion is increasingly being judged on more than efficiency alone. Advances in thruster design, hybrid power systems and fuel technologies show how quieter, cleaner operations can improve both passenger comfort and minimize underwater noise radiation which helps to protect marine...

Clasen Praises Aroya Team Following Safe Debarkation in the Gulf

Aroya Cruises confirmed that all guests who were onboard the Aroya when operations in the Arabian Gulf were suspended have safely disembarked the Aroya. In a statement shared on its website, the company said that it completed the debarkation operations on March 7, 2026. “I am incredibly proud of the professionalism and care shown by...

Hapag-Lloyd Charts Course for Indian Ocean Expeditions

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has unveiled 10 expedition cruises to the Seychelles and Madagascar aboard the Hanseatic Nature in winter 2027-28. In a press release, the company said this is the first time it is placing the Indian Ocean at the center of its expedition season. Sailing between October 2027 and March 2028, the voyages will be...

UK Joins Qatar, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Thailand, Singapore, and More Countries in British Airways’ Monumental Flight Disruptions, Slashing Dubai and Key Middle Eastern Routes Through May

17 March 2026 at 12:38
UK Joins Qatar, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Thailand, Singapore, and More Countries in British Airways’ Monumental Flight Disruptions, Slashing Dubai and Key Middle Eastern Routes Through May

British Airways has announced significant disruptions to its flight operations, affecting a wide array of destinations in the Middle East and beyond. The airline’s decision to slash key routes, including those to Dubai, comes amid a wave of cancellations and reductions across several high-demand destinations. This move, which impacts countries such as Qatar, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Thailand, Singapore, and more, has sparked concern among travelers and industry experts alike.

The post UK Joins Qatar, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain, Oman, Thailand, Singapore, and More Countries in British Airways’ Monumental Flight Disruptions, Slashing Dubai and Key Middle Eastern Routes Through May appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Uniworld Shares First Looks of S.S. Audrey and Marlene

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has unveiled the first renderings of its newest Super Ships debuting in 2027, the Audrey and Marlene, in a press release. “One-of-a-kind design has always been central to the Uniworld experience. With the S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene, we’re celebrating two women whose style defined an era,” said Ellen Bettridge, president...

MSC Cruises Launching Creative Studio in Edinburgh

MSC Group’s Cruise Division has acquired a production studio in Scotland which is set to become MSC Creative Studios. As a central hub for creative development, the new facility will support the growing entertainment and productions across MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, MSC said in a press release. Steve Leatham, VP of entertainment for MSC...

Ambassador Launches 2028-29 Season Earlier than Ever

Ambassador Cruise Line launched its 2028-29 season on March 12, 2026. According to a press release, this marks the earliest season launch since the Ambience’s inaugural sailing in 2022. There will be 35 sailings plus four Christmas Party dates aboard the Ambience and 39 itineraries aboard the Ambition. UK, Mediterranean, Nordics, Americas and Caribbean itineraries...

Marella Announces Pixie Lott and Lemar for 30th Birthday Sailings

Marella Cruises has announced more headline acts including British singer-songwriters Pixie Lott and Lemar for its 30th birthday sailings in May, the company announced. “We’re excited to announce even more headline acts with British stars such as Pixie Lott and Lemar for both new and returning cruise customers,” said Chris Hackney, chief executive officer at...

Hilton Introduces its new digital concierge: Hilton AI Planner

16 March 2026 at 20:50
Woman using laptop in a modern hotel room while planning a stay with Hilton AI PlannerHilton has announced its new Hilton AI Planner, a generative AI–powered digital concierge that helps travellers explore the company’s global portfolio of hotels and plan memorable stays with Hilton. The introduction of the Hilton AI Planner, now in beta testing at […]

Originating from Naples’ thin and chewy recipe, a trio of Connecticut pizze…

Originating from Naples’ thin and chewy recipe, a trio of Connecticut pizzerias have defined their own New Haven-style pie over the last century, known simply as 'apizza.'

© <p>Sven Rehder/Getty Images</p>

Check Out the Disney Cruise Line Commercial That’s Reducing People to Tears

16 March 2026 at 17:44

Forget who won the Oscar for Best Picture or which actors were left out of the annual In Memoriam section. The thing which unexpectedly had people talking all across social media was a Disney Cruise Line commercial.

Why Disney’s Ad Hit Home

Disney Cruise Line ad aired during the oscars. Via YouTube

Nobody plucks at the heartstrings better than Disney. But while we’re used to that where their movies and even in-park experiences are concerned, nobody expected for a simple ad to have that impact on the viewing audience at large. Yet the moment it began, people felt themselves bracing for what was to come.

Why? The instantly-recognizable “Married Life” theme from the soundtrack of the Disney animated feature Up. For those not in the know, that beloved film opened with a sequence in which we saw a couple meet as children, fall in love, experience everything life has to offer — both the good and the bad — before the wife passed away.

To call it heart-wrenching would be a massive understatement. So to hear the music which accompanied that gorgeous sequence play immediately clued viewers in to the fact that something special was about to unfold.

Late Nights With Dad

The ad starts with a beautiful shot of a Disney ship cutting through the waters late at night. A dad whose baby isn’t able to sleep takes the child for a late-night stroll around the slumbering cruise ship. Simple enough, right? Cute, but not overly emotional.

But we then follow this father and son over the course of several years, each time on the ship, each time taking a late night stroll. “Dad,” asks the boy late one night, “can we do the walk?” Even when his offspring hits the sullen teenage years — opting to chill in the room instead of hang with the family by the pool — he still joins pop for a late night sojourn.

Two adults and a child walk on the deck of a Disney Cruise Line ship at night under a partly cloudy sky with a visible moon. The adults hold the child's hands, lifting them as they walk, capturing the magic seen in any Disney Cruise Line Commercial.

But it’s the final shots which really get us in the feels. As a now much older dad is laying in bed late at night, there’s a knock at the door. It’s his fully-grown son, now a dad himself, saying he and his child can’t sleep. The toddler reaches out, uttering one simple word — “Grandpa” — before we see the trio walking hand-in-hand on a moonlit night.

Cue the tears.

Don’t believe us? Check out the ad for yourself above. But don’t say we didn’t warn you.

💾

Those precious moments that you will always cherish. At Disney Cruise Line, we cherish them too. Make the memories that never leave you, where magic meets th...

Ocean Ventures Advisory Eyes Asia Newbuilding Potential

Ocean Ventures Advisory has been formed to guide and consult on cruise ship building in Asia and is headed up by Trevor Young who most recently was vice president of newbuilding at MSC Group, overseeing the newbuild programs at MSC and Explora. Young said more cruise ship newbuilds in Asia are coming, and the industry...

Disney Cruise Line Celebrates Family Moments in New Campaign

Disney Cruise Line launched a new ad campaign named “Midnight Magic” on March 15. According to a press release, the ad, which debuted during the Academy Awards on ABC, shows how moments on a Disney vacation can become lifelong memories and family traditions. The video follows a father and son during a nighttime stroll on...

Mein Schiff Flow Completes First Sea Trials

TUI Cruises’ newest ship, Mein Schiff Flow, completed its first extensive sea trials, technical and nautical sea tests, in the Mediterranean in February. Testing included engine performance, propulsion and maneuverability, as well as the ship’s key technical systems, the company said in a statement, which was accompanied by a video. Additionally, stabilizers, anchoring systems and...

Polar Latitudes to Launch Fly-Cruise Expeditions to Antarctica

Polar Latitudes Expeditions is launching new Fly & Cruise voyages to Antarctica starting in the 2027-28 season. The sailings will be operated by the Ocean Nova starting in January 2028 and will include charter flights between Punta Arenas in Chile and King George Island in Antarctica. According to the company’s Director of Product Development, Steffan...

Five Cruise Lines Planning Cruises in Arabian Gulf For 2026-27

While AIDA and Costa Cruises recently cancelled their sailings in the region, five brands are still planning to sail in the Arabian Gulf in 2026-27. Cruise Industry News looks at the current plans for all the brands that announced itineraries for the Middle East region during the upcoming winter season. MSC MSC is set to...

Seabourn Takes Alaska Deeper with New Denali Land Package

Seabourn has presented an optional pre-cruise land journey designed to extend guests’ exploration of Alaska in 2027 and 2028 called “The Denali Experience.” Designed to complement seven-day Inside Passage voyages, the land package pairs sightseeing with inland encounters that reveal Alaska beyond the coastline, the company said in a press release. It is an eight-day,...

P&O Changes Balance Due Date for New Bookings

P&O Cruises is changing the balance due date for new bookings for all cruises departing from December 1, 2026. According to a statement shared with travel agents, the company will now require guests to pay their balances 120 days before departure. The change is valid for bookings made after March 10, 2026, and does not...

Tauck’s Women-Only European Sailings Open for Booking

Tauck has opened for booking three women-only departures in Europe this year. Each will operate as what the company calls a Small Group journey (20 and 24 guests) led by a female director, with sailings to Ireland, Italy and Portugal. According to a press release, the journeys are designed to foster connection, cultural immersion and...

Fred. Olsen Brings Lifesaving Equipment to Liverpool Waterfront

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has sponsored the addition of a defibrillator at Liverpool’s Pier Head. The 24/7 public-access defibrillator was unveiled on March 12, with an essential CPR training session delivered to community stakeholders onboard the cruise line’s ship, the Bolette. The equipment has been funded in support of the Heart 2 Heart charity, helping...

AmaWaterways Rolls Out Extended European River Sailings

AmaWaterways has introduced a new City Escapes program, offering extended time in Europe’s cities along the Seine, Rhine and Danube rivers in 2026 and expanding further in 2027. According to a press release, these departures are intentionally scheduled during quieter travel periods to allow guests to experience each destination with fewer crowds and more time...

Hapag-Lloyd Kicks Off 2026 Amazon Season

Hapag-Lloyd has launched its 2026 Amazon season with the Hanseatic Spirit departing Belém this week on an 18-day upstream expedition along the river. The company has sailed this approximately 4,000 km (2,385 mi.) journey deep into the heart of the Amazon for nearly 30 years. Two voyages, one upstream and one downstream are offered each...

TUI Cruises Completes Evacuations from the Middle East

TUI Cruises has completed the evacuation of approximately 2,500 guests from Mein Schiff 5 in Doha, Qatar, following the outbreak of conflict in the region on February 28, according to a report from Schiffe und Kreuzfarhten Mein Schiff 5 and its sister ship, Mein Schiff 4, became stranded in the Persian Gulf after strikes on...

Costa Toscana Sailing in the Mediterranean After Drydock

The Costa Toscana is currently cruising in the Western Mediterranean after undergoing a drydock at the Chantier Naval de Marseille shipyard in France earlier this year. As part of the ship’s regular maintenance schedule, the two-week project was completed in mid-February. In addition to routine work, the drydock included technical updates and class inspections. The...

Celebrity River Cruises Unveils Destination Discovery Program

Celebrity River Cruises has unveiled a destination discovery program featuring four experience categories designed to connect travelers to European culture, the company announced. Available across all 2027 and 2028 Celebrity River Cruises itineraries and pre- and post-cruise stays in Prague, Budapest and Amsterdam, the program includes the Storyteller Series, Skillmaster Series, Keys to the City...

There’s an Abandoned Island Hiding in Plain Sight at Disney World

Discovery Island welcomed Disney World guests for 25 years before closing in 1999.

© <a href="https://flickr.com/photos/mwjw/" data-component="link" data-source="inlineLink" data-type="externalLink" data-ordinal="1" rel="noopener">Mark Walter via Flickr</a>

CDC Confirms Norovirus Outbreak on Star Princess Caribbean Cruise

14 March 2026 at 05:52

More than 150 cruise ship guests and crew have fallen ill during a Caribbean cruise this week.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) was informed of the outbreak on March 11 and confirmed norovirus as the cause.

More than 150 guests and crew reported sick

The Star Princess, featuring multiple decks with balconies and orange lifeboats, glides through calm, clear water under a clear sky. Its striking blue wave designs shine as it completes sea trials ahead of its inaugural sailings.
(Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)

The CDC reports 104 guests and 49 crew members experienced diarrhea and vomiting. According to CDC data, this is the first cruise ship norovirus outbreak confirmed this year. A previous outbreak in January was caused by E. coli.

Guests reported enhanced cleaning and sanitation procedures onboard, and ill guests and crew were isolated. More than 4,300 guests are currently sailing on Star Princess, which concludes its Caribbean voyage Saturday at Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.

The week-long Western Caribbean sailing departed Florida on March 7 and called at Roatán, Honduras; Belize; and Cozumel, Mexico.

“We quickly disinfected every area of the ship and added extra sanitizing throughout the voyage,” Princess Cruises said. “We also separated anyone feeling unwell so they could rest comfortably in private as an added precaution.”

Embarkation for the next cruise is delayed

port everglades fort lauderdale florida
(Photo courtesy of Port Everglades)

Princess Cruises says it will conduct an intense deep cleaning when the ship docks Saturday. Guests booked on the next departure have been notified by email that embarkation is delayed.

“As an extra precaution, the ship will undergo additional disinfection in Fort Lauderdale,” the cruise line said. Check-in will begin at 12:30 p.m., with staterooms available in the afternoon. All guests must be onboard by 4:00 p.m., and the ship will depart shortly after.

Guests are advised not to arrive before 12:30 p.m. Those with Princess hotel or transfer packages will receive updated pickup times at the hotel or airport.

This is the second ship to report a gastro outbreak in 2026, following 23 reported cases in 2025.

Indian Restaurant to Debut Aboard Valiant Lady

Virgin Voyages is launching what it describes as its boldest culinary venture yet – an Indian restaurant at sea. Named Ariya, the restaurant will open in May exclusively aboard the Valiant Lady following her drydock, the company said in a press release. “Ariya is the next chapter in our food and beverage collection that we’ve...

Silversea Announces Upgrades for Spirit in Drydock

The Silver Spirit will get a series of upgrades during its upcoming drydock, which is set to take place between mid-March and early May. According to a press release, the 2009-built vessel will see major enhancements, including new dining venues, reimagined public areas and upgraded staterooms. Silversea said that the refurbishment will be similar to...

HX Expeditions Boosts 2026 Travel Advisor Program

HX Expeditions has announced a major expansion of its travel advisor program for 2026. In a press release, the company said that this includes doubling its Americas support team, launching its 10-city North American roadshow and rolling out a new booking platform. “The travel advisor community is absolutely central to our continued growth. In 2026,...

March Update: Here Are the Latest Secondhand Ship Moves

Cruise Industry News highlights some of the key transactions and developments that occurred within the secondhand cruise ship market between February and the first weeks of March 2026. Lumina (ex-Seven Seas Navigator) Company: Avora Residences Capacity: 490 guests Tonnage: 28,550 Year built: 1999 Move: To sail for Avora as part of a charter agreement Date:...

Carnival Cancels 11 Firenze 2026 Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line is cancelling 11 cruises onboard the Carnival Firenze that were set to take place between October 12 and November 16, 2026. According to a statement shared with booked guests, the cancellations are related to a redeployment effort. “We have made some changes to the itinerary plans for the Carnival Firenze and, unfortunately,...

AIDA Cancels 2026-27 Winter Season in Middle East

AIDA Cruises will not offer any cruises in the Middle East during the winter of 2026/27 as the situation in the region remains uncertain and cannot be reliably predicted for the foreseeable future, the company said in a press release. Consequently, the planned repositioning cruises of AIDAprima around Africa have also been cancelled. The company...

UK Report Criticizes Cruise Ship Response After Storm Injures 100

13 March 2026 at 00:09


A new investigation into a 2023 cruise ship incident has criticized the medical response after an elderly passenger suffered a fatal injury during a storm at sea.

saga spirit of discovery
Saga Spirit of Discovery

The report from the Marine Accident Investigation Branch examined the incident aboard the Spirit of Discovery operated by Saga Cruises.

Investigators say an 85-year-old passenger, Trevor Gilks, suffered a severe spinal injury after falling as the ship rolled violently in a storm off northern Spain.

The vessel had lost propulsion and was being battered by winds of about 70 miles per hour with 30-foot seas, leaving more than 100 passengers injured.

The report found delays in recognizing the seriousness of the spinal injury and said the passenger received suboptimal treatment on board.

According to investigators, a key diagnostic X-ray was not performed, and the patient was not placed on a spinal board. Over the next two days, he became paralyzed.

A doctor later recommended a medical evacuation, but the captain declined due to weather conditions. The ship eventually docked in Portsmouth, England.

Saga Cruises said it disagrees with several findings in the report but has since taken steps to strengthen safety procedures.

New Florida Bill Could Kill Plans for Mega Cruise Port Near Tampa

13 March 2026 at 00:03

Plans for a new cruise port near Tampa are in doubt after Florida lawmakers passed a new coastal protection bill. The House passed the coastal resiliency bill, following unanimous backing in the Senate last month.

A long cable-stayed bridge with multiple support pillars extends over Tampa Bay’s blue waters under a clear sky, connecting two distant land masses—a vital link considered in the latest Port Proposal for mega cruise ships.
(Photo via Shutterstock)

It is now headed to Governor Ron DeSantis’ desk for signature. DeSantis hasn’t publicly indicated whether he will sign or veto it. If it is signed, it would become effective July 1.

New Law Would Likely Prohibit Port Construction

The bill sets out a framework to protect coastlines and their habitats. Sen. Jim Boyd of Bradenton, FL added an amendment seeking enhanced protections specifically for Manatee County’s Terra Ceia Aquatic Preserve.

This would likely prohibit the dredging work required for the proposed new Tampa cruise port in the Knott-Cowen Tract. This would have been a game changer for cruise tourism in West Florida, as the cruise port site is south of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, enabling the largest cruise ships to call.

Oasis of the Seas at the port of Nassau, Bahamas.
Oasis of the Seas at the port of Nassau, Bahamas. (Baldwin040, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

The height clearance of the bridge limits the size of the ship that can call at the existing Port Tampa Bay. The new port development is a joint venture project between SSA Marine and Slip Knott LLC.

SSA Marine said last month: “We are committed to environmental stewardship and to creating long-term economic opportunity for Manatee County and West Central Florida. We look forward to engaging with residents, officials, and community leaders in meaningful dialogue.”

SSA Marine hasn’t shared many details about the work required at the site ahead of port construction. The bill allows for dredging and drilling only under special circumstances, such as for environmental improvements. 

Strong Local Opposition to the Project

The project has been controversial, with strong local opposition citing concerns about water quality and the health of the preserve’s ecosystem. An online petition against it has garnered nearly 20,000 signatures

How Slot Machines Became a Cruise Casino Staple — and Why Digital “Pokies” Are Growing

12 March 2026 at 22:45

Walk into almost any cruise ship casino after dinner and you’ll hear it right away. The familiar chime of slot machines, spinning reels, and celebratory jingles when someone hits a small jackpot.

A row of digital slot machines titled "Mo Mummy" stands in a casino setting, featuring a sleek Norwegian Aqua design. The machines display vibrant graphics of pyramids and treasure, while upholstered chairs invite players to enjoy this immersive experience.

Slots have long been the backbone of cruise ship casinos. They are easy to play, require no special knowledge of rules, and allow passengers to jump in for a quick round between shows, dinners, or late-night drinks.

Interest in this format has grown alongside the expansion of digital gaming platforms.

Many enthusiasts search for guides, reviews, and discussions about where to enjoy these games safely and effectively, which is why content about crown casino online pokies often appears in conversations about modern casino entertainment and online gaming culture.

These discussions help players understand how pokies work, how different game mechanics influence potential outcomes, and how to navigate the wide variety of titles available today.

I often emphasize that knowledge enhances enjoyment: understanding volatility, bonus features, and payout structures can make the experience far more engaging.

How Pokies Evolved from Mechanical Machines

A row of brightly lit slot machines with various games onscreen is seen in a lively Florida casino ship environment. Empty black chairs are positioned in front of each machine, and the floor is carpeted with a patterned design, setting the stage for an exciting cruise gambling experience.
Casino slots in Victory Cruises

The earliest pokies were entirely mechanical. A lever triggered spinning reels with printed symbols, and winnings depended on simple combinations. While the concept was straightforward, it captured the imagination of players worldwide.

Key stages of evolution

  • mechanical machines with physical reels
  • electronic slots introducing digital displays
  • online pokies featuring advanced animations and bonus rounds

Each step added new layers of interactivity.

Features That Define Modern Pokies

Modern slot games, both onboard ships and on digital platforms, now include features designed to keep gameplay dynamic.

Some of the most common mechanics include:

  • Cascading reels that trigger additional spins after wins
  • Expanding wild symbols that increase winning combinations
  • Free spin rounds with multipliers and bonus mini-games

These features add an element of surprise and variety, which helps explain why slot machines remain among the most popular games in cruise casinos.

Classic Pokies vs Modern Online Pokies

AspectClassic PokiesModern Online Pokies
Visual StyleSimple symbols and limited colorsHigh-definition graphics and themes
Gameplay MechanicsBasic paylinesMultiple features and bonus systems
Interaction LevelMinimalHighly interactive
AccessibilityPhysical casino locationsAvailable on desktop and mobile devices
Game VarietyLimitedThousands of different titles

The table shows how dramatically the format has evolved over time.

Why Slots Remain Popular on Cruise Ships

A slot machine with a bull on it features a chance to win a free cruise.

Cruise casinos offer a mix of table games and slot machines, but slots consistently attract the largest crowds.

One reason is accessibility. Unlike games such as blackjack or poker that require learning rules or strategies, slots allow passengers to start playing immediately.

Another factor is variety. Cruise casinos typically feature a wide range of themes and game styles, from classic fruit machines to modern video slots based on movies, mythology, and adventure themes.

For many passengers, slot machines are simply another form of onboard entertainment, similar to attending a show or trying a new restaurant.

Responsible Gaming at Sea

Cruise lines emphasize responsible gaming in their onboard casinos. Passengers are encouraged to treat casino play as entertainment and to set limits on time and spending.

Most cruise casinos operate only while ships are in international waters, and they follow regulations designed to ensure fair play and transparency.

For guests who enjoy gaming in moderation, the casino can be a lively and social part of the cruise experience.

Final Thoughts

holland america casino
(Photo courtesy of Holland America)

Slot machines have been part of the cruise casino environment for decades, offering an easy and entertaining way for passengers to try their luck at sea.

While the technology behind these games has evolved dramatically, the core appeal remains the same: simple gameplay, quick rounds, and the excitement of seeing the reels line up just right.

Whether played onboard a cruise ship or through modern digital platforms, slot games continue to evolve while remaining one of the most recognizable forms of casino entertainment.

Princess Cruises Increases Gratuities — But That’s Not All They’re Charging More For

12 March 2026 at 05:59

If you’re planning to set sail on a Princess Cruises ship, be prepared to shell out a bit more money than you might originally have budgeted. Why? Because the line has increased the daily gratuities which are paid, they say, directly to the crew. How much was the increase and what other fees were bumped up? Read on for details.

A hotel room from the Princess Sanctuary Collection features a large bed adorned with white linens and olive green pillows. There is a desk and chair in the background, with ample natural light streaming in through large windows. A flatscreen TV on the wall to the right displays a logo.
Princess suite guests will now pay $20 per person, per day in gratuities. (Photo courtesy of Cruise Radio)

How Much You’ll Pay

The increase made to the daily gratuities — which Princess calls a “Crew Appreciation” charge — amounts to $1 per person, per day, regardless of stateroom category. That means those in a standard cabin will now pay $18 per person per day. Those opting to stay in a Mini-Suite, Cabana or Reserve Collection stateroom will be paying $19 per person, per day. Finally, those booked in Suites will be charged $20 per person per day.

No doubt aware that this type of change is never received well by the cruising public, Princess opted not to make a formal announcement or send a press release. Rather, word began spreading amongst cruisers after they noticed an update to the line’s website outlining the changes.

Service Charges Increased, Too

Another change that went unannounced regards the service charge added to things such as specialty dining, drinks and other purchases. Princess has now increased that charge from 18% to 20% across the board. The change went into effect on March 7, with some guests reporting they were informed via a letter left in their stateroom.

A top-down view captures the elegance of round tables draped in white tablecloths aboard the Sun Princess cruise, each accompanied by several chairs in a patterned carpeted room. Bottled water and small centerpieces add charm to the serene setting.

The letter reads in part that the increased service charge “will apply to applicable dining and beverage purchases made onboard, excluding any prepaid packages. This includes experiential, specialty, and casual dining cover charges, a la carte food items, and a la carte beverage purchases excluded from a package.”

More: Princess Adds Premiere Dining Option

Meanwhile, the updated website reads as follows: “A non-refundable service charge of 20% of purchase will be automatically added to optional purchases of drinks, dining room and specialty dining, private group funtions and other elected products, services or amenities provided to guests that are no included in the cruise fare.” 

In essence, this means that any purchase made on board — outside of the various shops — will see a 20% charge added to the base price. Those purchasing Princess Plus or Princess Premium packages will not be impacted.

Shipping Fee Doubled

princess ocean ready medallion

Finally, Princess revealed that they are now charging $20 for those wishing to have their Princess Medallions shipped to them in advance of the cruise. Previously, shipping was available for half that price at $10. Guests may still pick up the Medallion at their port of departure at no charge.

Read Next: Carnival Rolls Out New Dining Option

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