A small child is receiving medical treatment in Madeira after a fall on a cruise ship. According to media reports, the two-year-old child fell around 10-13 feet as a TUI Cruises ship was docking on the Portuguese island in the Atlantic on Wednesday.
Two Year-Old Child Rushed to Hospital in Madeira
A ‘rapid intervention’ medical team was sent to the Mein Schiff 7 ship to assist. The child was then taken to the Dr Nelio Mendonca Hospital in Madeira’s capital, Funchal.
The only details shared so far is that the two-year-old in a “foreign national.” The circumstances that led to the fall and the child’s current condition have not been disclosed. An internal investigation is reportedly underway.
The Germany based cruise line seems to have dispelled initial reports of the severity of the child’s injuries. It had been reported the toddler was “fighting for life,” citing unnamed hospital sources who described the toddler’s injuries as “very serious.”
False Reporting on Two-Year Old Falls on Ship
“We can confirm an incident on Mein Schiff 7 in Madeira involving a child. However, the child was never in a critical condition, nor have life-threatening injuries. The child is in hospital for routine observation, and is in good condition and with family members,” TUI Cruises said.
Madeira port authority APRAM also acknowledged the fall, which happened within the ship while in port. Initial news reports the child may have fallen from a balcony have not been confirmed.
“The Regional Integrated Medical Emergency System was activated, with support and assessment carried out on site by the Rapid Intervention Medical Team,” it said.
The Mein Schiff 7, one of the line’s newer ships, docked early morning on April 22 during the week-long Canary Islands and Madeira roundtrip cruise from Grand Canaria. It departs later today and then calls at Santa Cruz de La Palma, Tenerife and Fuerteventura before returning to Gran Canaria on April 27.
The ship is carrying nearly 3,000 guests and more than 1,000 crew members. As of early 2026, TUI Cruises has eight ships and one under construction.
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(Photo via Polizia di Stato website)
Milan Babic, 58, was taken into custody when his MSC Cruises ship docked at the Port of Civitavecchia (Rome) after arriving from Genoa. He holds dual Serbian-Croatian citizenship.
Ship Security Officer Facing Extradition to Croatia
He was apprehended on an international arrest warrant issued by Croatia earlier this year. Authorities allege he was involved in ethnic cleansing operations during the 1990s in the former Yugoslavia. Babic is also wanted by Serbia in connection with the alleged murder of a Serbian national.
He is currently in custody awaiting an extradition hearing. An Italian court is expected to decide whether he will be sent to Croatia to face possible trial.
Italian news outlet Corriere della Sera reported that Babic had been employed by MSC Cruises for years, allegedly using a false identity.
According to officials, Babic was disembarking with other crew members in Civitavecchia when he became suspicious of what he believed were undercover officers. He returned to the ship and hid in a space near the engine room.
Search Lasted Hours Before Arrest
Border police spent more than three hours searching the vessel before locating and arresting him, officials said.
Prosecutors allege Babic was able to work for years by slightly altering his name on official documents. Italian authorities worked with the cruise line and immigration officials to confirm his identity.
Authorities say Babic was a member of a paramilitary unit operating in the Krajina region during the Serbo-Croatian War. The arrest warrant accuses him of “violent acts, deportations, and killings.”
What began as a two week sailing turned into a search at sea, after a cruise ship recovered five bodies in the Mediterranean.
(Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)
Sapphire Princess, operated by Princess Cruises, altered its route on April 21 while sailing from Sardinia to Cartagena, Spain, after a crew member spotted an orange life jacket in the water.
The ship immediately turned around and launched a search operation, deploying a fast rescue boat to investigate. Crew members recovered five deceased individuals from the sea.
A guest onboard told Cruise Radio, “Not long after leaving Sardinia the Captain announced that he was turning the ship around as something orange was floating in the Sea, it was a deceased body in a life jacket. Not long after there was another announcement Man Overboard, we were then informed not long after another 4 deceased persons were located.”
(Photo via Facebook/Sue Bradley)
In a statement to Cruise Radio, the company said:
“Princess Cruises confirms that on April 21, Sapphire Princess, while at sea en route to Cartagena, Spain, observed an orange inflatable lifejacket in the water. The vessel immediately altered course to investigate and, upon arrival on scene, deployed its Fast Rescue Boat.
Five deceased individuals were recovered by the Sapphire Princess crew members and coordinated efforts with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC). The individuals involved are not guests or crew of Sapphire Princess.
We extend our sincere condolences for this loss and are grateful to our crew for their swift response and efforts to render assistance.”
Recovering bodies at sea
Passengers onboard say the ship remained in the area for several hours, initially locating one body before discovering four more nearby.
Marine tracking data shows the vessel executed a full turn and spent nearly three hours conducting a search pattern before resuming its voyage.
Authorities have not released the identities of the individuals and are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Officials have not confirmed whether the case may be linked to a migrant vessel.
After completing the search, the ship increased speed and arrived in Cartagena on schedule.
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There’s something magical about a cruise, but if you’ve been on one before, it’s fair to say you wouldn’t quite know what to expect.
There are plenty of cliches and stereotypes around a cruise, but they really are lazy, and there’s so much to see and do to make every night fantastic.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)
While cruising, the daytime will be calm, with the opportunity to sit by the pool or explore a city, while at night the decks come alive, transforming into a hive of activity. So, what happens when you head back to your cabin to dress for the evening?
We take a look at the perfect night on a cruise, filled with indulgence, entertainment and adventure.
Dinner with a View
Any perfect experience needs to start with dinner. Whether you want a formal dining experience or something more relaxed, the views and level of service will make it feel like an event.
Opting for a fine dining experience will give you stunning views out to sea, combined with crisp table linens, attentive service and some exquisite menus that are cooked by some of the world’s top chefs. Imagine enjoying a delicate seafood dish while gazing out at the endless expanse of moonlit sea. Perfect? We thought so…
Entertainment That Rivals the West End
Dinner’s complete, the wine has relaxed you, and the conversation is flowing. It’s now time for the entertainment, and across many cruise lines, it’s exceptional.
Theatre shows, musical performances, and even acrobatics that rival the Blue Man Group are all frequently on stage, think Vegas but at sea.
You’ll find something to suit all tastes, and there is always a choice, always something happening, so you can tailor your evening to suit the mood you’re in.
A Visit to the Casino
As we get deeper into the night, it could be time to have a little flutter. Whether it’s enjoying the hustle and bustle of the in-house physical casino or kicking back in your cabin, enjoying the LoneStar online entertainment platform, no trip on a cruise is complete without at least a few hours at the casino. After all, you could win the money for an upgrade to your room or a premium steak dinner.
A ship’s casino is often one of the ship’s most exciting venues, with its bright lights and rhythmic chiming of the slots.
There’s a real buzz, just like you’d get on the Vegas Strip, and it’s a great opportunity to add a bit of glamour to your evening, whether you’re taking a seat at the blackjack table, spinning the roulette wheel, or just enjoying a drink and watching the whole spectacle unfold.
Cocktails Under the Stars
After the excitement of the casino, stepping out onto the open deck offers a refreshing change of pace. The night air is cool and invigorating, and the sky, free from city lights, reveals a blanket of stars.
Many ships feature outdoor bars or lounges where you can sip expertly crafted cocktails while listening to soft music. It is the perfect moment to pause and reflect, to take in the ocean’s vastness and the serenity it brings.
For couples, this can be the most romantic part of the evening. For friends, it is a chance to unwind and share stories of the night’s adventures. The gentle sway of the ship adds to the sense of tranquillity, making it easy to lose track of time.
Late-Night Indulgence
Just when you think the night’s about to end, the cruise pulls it out of the back with a bit of late-night indulgence. You’ll no doubt have worked up a bit of an appetite again, and the late-night buffets and 24-hour eateries on board mean that you won’t go to bed hungry.
Finish the evening with a slice of pizza or, better still, a decadent dessert. There’s always something there to tempt you, especially if you’re on board with the Princess fleet, who are well known for their mouth-watering menus.
A Perfect Ending at Sea
Eventually, the evening draws to a close, and you return to your cabin.
Perhaps you step out onto your private balcony one last time, listening to the gentle rhythm of the waves and seeing the extraordinary star patterns. There is a deep sense of contentment that comes from a night well spent, a blend of excitement, relaxation, and simple pleasures.
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A life jacket worn by a first-class passenger who survived the Titanic sold for $906,000 at auction on Saturday, nearly doubling its high-end pre-sale estimate and drawing global attention on the 114th anniversary of the disaster.
(Photo via Henry Aldridge & Son)
The item belonged to Laura Mabel Francatelli, a 22-year-old secretary traveling aboard the doomed ocean liner in April 1912.
It sold at Henry Aldridge & Son auctioneers in Devizes, England, to an unidentified telephone bidder. Pre-sale estimates had placed the value between $339,000 and $475,000.
Who was Laura Mabel Francatelli?
Francatelli was employed as a personal secretary to Lucy Duff Gordon, one of the most prominent fashion designers of the early 20th century, with salons in London, Paris, and New York. She was traveling with Duff Gordon and her husband, Sir Cosmo Duff Gordon, in first class as the group made their way to Chicago.
When the Titanic struck an iceberg at 11:40 p.m. on April 14, 1912, the three stayed together during the chaotic evacuation rather than separating.
Lady Duff Gordon had declined to board two earlier lifeboats that would have separated her from her husband. The group ultimately secured spots on Lifeboat No. 1, which was lowered at approximately 1:05 a.m. with only 12 people aboard, despite the lifeboat’s capacity of 40.
The lifeboat that sparked controversy
The graveyard where many of the Titanic passengers were buried in 1912.
Lifeboat No. 1 launched carrying fewer people than any other boat that night. Most of its occupants were men, despite Captain Smith’s call for women and children first.
After the Titanic sank, crewman Charles Hendrickson proposed returning to rescue survivors in the water, but the boat did not go back. The episode drew significant scrutiny at subsequent inquiries, and press reports began calling it the “Money Boat” after questions arose about payments Sir Cosmo made to crew members aboard.
The British Board of Trade inquiry ultimately concluded that the bribery charge against Sir Cosmo was unfounded, though his reputation never fully recovered.
Francatelli, along with seven other survivors from the lifeboat, later signed the life jacket — a detail that adds to its historical significance.
A rare piece of maritime history
The cream-colored vest is the only life jacket from a Titanic survivor ever to go under the hammer, according to Henry Aldridge & Son.
The garment features 12 cork-filled canvas pockets with shoulder rests and side straps, and bears the maker’s mark of Fosbery & Co. of Limehouse, London. Before the sale, it had been on display at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and at Titanic Belfast in Northern Ireland.
The life jacket remained in Francatelli’s family after her death in 1967, before a private collector acquired it roughly 20 years ago. According to the auctioneers, the current seller decided it was time to pass the item on to another collector.
A Titanic lifeboat seat cushion also sold at the same auction for approximately $527,000. Its buyers were the owners of the Titanic museums in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Branson, Missouri.
The $906,000 sale price, while record-breaking for a Titanic life jacket, does not top the all-time high for Titanic memorabilia.
That record was set in 2024 when a gold pocket watch presented to the captain of the RMS Carpathia sold for roughly $2 million.
The Carpathia was the ship that arrived hours after the Titanic sank and rescued approximately 700 survivors from the North Atlantic.
Blue Lagoon Cruises has confirmed that MV Fiji Princess will not return to service following an incident in early April that left the ship significantly damaged.
What happened to Fiji Princess
On April 4, the 182-foot vessel ran aground on a reef near Monuriki Island, located approximately 30 miles from Nadi. The island is widely recognized as the filming location for the Tom Hanks film Cast Away. The reality television series Survivor is also filmed in the area.
Authorities said a sudden squall caused the ship’s anchor to drag, forcing the vessel onto the reef. The ship sustained significant damage and began taking on water, though no injuries were reported among those on board.
A ferry came alongside to evacuate the 30 guests, who later disembarked at Denarau Island. The ship was in the middle of a seven-day voyage at the time of the incident.
An Australian salvage team assisted with the recovery operation. More than 20,000 liters of fuel were removed from the vessel to prevent potential marine pollution to the reef system. Authorities reported no signs of fuel tank leakage.
What happens next for passengers
“With much sadness and following initial recovery efforts, we have made the difficult decision to retire MV Fiji Princess following an incident on April 4,” Blue Lagoon Cruises said in a social media statement.
The cruise line has processed refunds for April bookings. Sailings will continue aboard MV Yasawa Princess II, which is scheduled to enter service later this month. The ship features 22 guest cabins.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is leading an ongoing investigation into the incident. No timeline has been given for the release of a final report. MV Fiji Princess had been sailing in the Pacific for more than 20 years at the time of the incident.
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are joining forces to provide $175,000 in 2026 to help rebuild an American Legion Post in Ketchikan, Alaska. After more than 85 years at the same location, the Joseph T. Craig, Post 3 building was destroyed by arson in September 2023, according to a statement. The organization provides support to Ketchikan’s veterans, their families and the broader community. “At Princess Cruises, we are deeply...
Windstar Cruises’ Wind Star has completed the second and final stage of the company’s Setting Sails refurbishment project. This redesign is meant to bring a more refined, modern feel to the experience aboard the 148-guest vessel, which celebrated its 40th anniversary of operation earlier this month. The ship is now the first in the Wind Class fleet to complete Phases 1 and 2 of the refurbishment program, the company said in a statement. The Wind Surf is scheduled to complete Phase 2...
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is reintroducing its “Classical Music Meets Meditation” format aboard the Europa in 2027, the company said in a press release. The combination of classical music and guided mindfulness will be available during a 12-day journey from Santa Cruz to Cape Town sailing November 6-18, 2027. The Swiss CHAARTS ensemble, soprano Marlis Petersen and Italian composer and violinist Francesca Guccione will create a concert setting that will serve as backdrop for daily yoga, meditation and bodywork sessions. The combination is expected to enable guests to...
SeaDream Yacht Club announced its summer 2028 Mediterranean season, with 24 new voyages between May and October aboard the SeaDream II. The ship will be repositioned from Northern Europe to deliver a full season spanning 12 countries and more than 70 ports of call, due to what the cruise line said in a statement is an extraordinary demand for its Mediterranean program....
StarCruises has presented its “Knows Hong Kong Best” itinerary, envisaged as a staycation and getaway experience for Hong Kong travelers. The Star Voyager will be sailing from Hong Kong’s Ocean Terminal for a series of two-, three- and five-night Cruises to Okinawa in Japan, Vietnam and the coastal cities of Penghu and Keelung. The two-night High Seas Cruise also departs every Friday night and returns Sunday in the afternoon, according to a statement. ...
Every major cruise line operating from Florida’s Space Coast wants the same thing: more space at Port Canaveral. And Captain John Murray, the port’s CEO, has a clear answer for all of them. “Everybody wants the new terminal,” Murray said, speaking with Cruise Industry News. “And I refer to it as a non denominational terminal....
Meyer Turku has launched a five-year research program focused on developing cruise ship concepts and floating infrastructure for the coming decades, according to a press release. The MERiON program, co-funded by Business Finland, will run through 2030 and increase combined research investments by Meyer Turku and its ecosystem partners by up to 85 million euros....
Leanna Lakes has been appointed to the newly created role of technical and marine operations director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the company said in a press release. She will oversee the captains, quality and resource and port operations, and the management of the company’s technical colleagues in Norway. Fred. Olsen added that the position has been created to provide strategic and commercial leadership...
P&O Cruises has unveiled what it says is its biggest ever summer program, with 215 new cruises on sale, departing from March to October 2028. Sailing from Southampton and on fly-cruises from Malta, the summer program will visit 121 destinations in 29 countries, with 64 overnight calls and 69 late evening departures that are expected to give guests more time to explore...
TUI Cruises’ new Mein Schiff Flow is being redeployed for its inaugural winter season. The ship was originally scheduled to sail in the Arabian Gulf but will now move to sail from German homeports for the winter. While the geopolitical crisis forced the deployment change, CEO Wybcke Meier said it would work for the company...
The Marella Discovery II arrived at the DP World Limassol’s cruise terminal for the first time this year, marking the start of Cyprus’ 2026 cruise season. This is where the ship will homeport for the season, with 26 calls scheduled between April and November, according to a statement. The ship is sailing an eight-day itinerary with stops at Kusadasi, Mykonos, Piraeus, Souda (Crete) and Rhodes before returning...
Adora Cruises announced its partnership with China Foreign Culture Group Co., Ltd. and the Children’s Art Theater of the China Welfare Association from July 3 to August to launch the show “Adora Mountains and Seas: Fantasy Journey” on the Adora Magic City, and start the summer-themed sailing season. The company said: “We are very pleased...
Costa Cruises welcomed travel agents, partners and media onboard the Costa Diadema over the weekend for an event that marked the end of the 2025-26 cruise season in Brazil. The gathering also included an award ceremony that recognized over 20 travel agencies for their sales. “The Costa Brazil Awards is, above all, a recognition of...
A couple whose video about their experiences aboard the Margaritaville at Sea Paradise went viral found out that they’ve been permanent banned by the line. The unusual twist? Their original video was posted back in 2023!
‘We Showed Exactly What We Saw’
While Laura and Johnathan Fain’s video chronicling their time on the Margaritaville at Seaship got a decent amount of attention when posted back in 2023, he is quick to make clear it “wasn’t something where we were thinking, ‘Oh, maybe if we complain we’ll get a refund.’”
Rather, says Johnathan, who goes by Fain, “It was literally just posting our experience. We showed exactly what we saw.”
Adds Laura during a call with Cruise Radio, “It’s not like we made a mess and then filmed it! The response to the initial vlog wasn’t really controversial. But then I put out the TikTok,” which was by nature shorter and focused more heavily on the negative aspects of their trip.
“That’s what really blew up and is probably what offended them,” she says. “And I get it, to be honest with you. But I never thought it would lead to this!”
‘Maybe We Were Banned!’
Flashforward to the spring of 2026, when the pair decided it was time to give Margaritaville at Sea another shot. “We’d heard good things and were looking to do a cruise that would fit in our budget,” explains Fain. Yet when they attempted to book online, the system instructed them to contact customer service.
“I joked that maybe we were banned,” laughs Laura. What she didn’t realize was just how right she was: When Fain called, a customer service rep confirmed they were banned from the line and even revealed that a “bad review” was the reason.
“It says you are not allowed to board a cruise,” acknowledged the Margaritaville rep.
“I was shocked that they just said it, flat-out,” Fain admits.
Radio Silence
Despite making a video about the ban which accumulated nearly 125,000 views in its first week, the couple has not heard from the cruise line. (You can see their video in its entirety below.) “I’m not expecting to hear from them,” shrugs Fain.
Many in the comment section have assumed that the company might reach out in order to make amends. Laura, however, is quick to say, “We didn’t do this to get a free cruise or bash them again. We had no agenda.”
Despite what has gone down, the pair would like to give the line — which has undergone massive changes since their original posting — another shot… with, however, one stipulation. “I wouldn’t want it for free,” she says emphatically. “Nobody’s going to take away my credibility in that way. I can already imagine the comments people would make if we accepted a free cruise and had a positive experience.”
Adds Fain “And if we weren’t paying for it, we would disclose that. It’s important that we remain true to ourselves.”
Cruise Radio reached out to Margaritaville for comment, but received no response.
Margaritaville At Sea Cruise Line Banned us from ever sailing with them again. Back in 2023 We made a video "48 Hours On America’s WORST RATED Cruise Ship" A...
While many trips offer relaxation and adventure, only a select few deliver that unmistakable feeling of exclusivity. But what actually defines an “exclusive” vacation? Is it luxury, privacy, or something deeper? As travel trends evolve, exclusivity is no longer just about price tags, it’s about personalized experiences, freedom, and meaningful moments. In this article, we explore what truly makes a vacation feel exclusive.
The power of privacy and personal space
One of the defining features of an exclusive vacation is privacy. Travelers are increasingly seeking ways to escape crowds, long lines, and busy tourist hotspots. Luxury travel is often associated with convenience and the ability to bypass common travel frustrations, creating a smoother, more enjoyable experience.
This is where experiences such as private villas or all inclusive yacht charters stand out. Instead of sharing spaces with hundreds of other guests, travelers can enjoy a setting tailored entirely to them.
On a yacht, for example, the environment is intimate, with only your chosen companions and a dedicated crew onboard, creating a level of exclusivity that traditional cruises or resorts rarely match.
Personalization is the new luxury standard
Modern luxury is no longer defined by gold-plated amenities or extravagant décor. Instead, personalization has become the key driver of exclusivity. Travelers want experiences that reflect their identity, preferences, and lifestyle.
Research shows that many travelers view their trips as a form of self-expression, seeking unique experiences that feel tailored to them.
This shift explains the growing popularity of curated travel experiences. Whether it’s a custom itinerary, private excursions, or a chef preparing meals based on personal preferences, exclusivity lies in how well a vacation adapts to the individual.
All-inclusive yacht charters take this concept even further. Every aspect of the journey, from destinations to daily activities, can be adjusted in real time, offering a level of flexibility that few other travel options can provide.
Access to unique and remote destinations
Another key factor that elevates a vacation is access. Exclusive travel often means going where others cannot. This might include hidden beaches, private islands, or remote coastal towns that are inaccessible to large crowds.
acht-based travel excels in this area. Unlike traditional cruises, which follow fixed routes and dock in busy ports, yachts can reach secluded coves and lesser-known destinations. This creates a sense of discovery and adventure that enhances the overall experience.
Travelers today are also prioritizing meaningful and unique experiences over material luxury. According to travel insights, there is a growing demand for trips that offer authenticity and memorable moments rather than just high-end accommodation.
Seamless experiences and effortless comfort
Exclusivity is also about how easy a vacation feels. When every detail is taken care of, travelers can fully relax without worrying about logistics. This is one of the reasons all-inclusive travel has surged in popularity.
With all-inclusive yacht charters, everything from accommodation and meals to activities and crew service is included in one package. Guests can enjoy gourmet dining, premium drinks, and curated experiences without constantly reaching for their wallet or planning the next step.
This seamless approach eliminates stress and allows travelers to focus on what truly matters: enjoying the journey.
The emotional side of exclusivity
Beyond tangible elements, exclusivity is deeply psychological. Luxury travel often fulfills a desire for uniqueness, status, and personal growth. Experiences that feel rare or “once-in-a-lifetime” tend to leave a stronger emotional impact.
Time spent on a yacht, for instance, changes how people perceive space and time. The open sea, combined with a personalized environment, creates a sense of freedom and escape that is difficult to replicate on land. This emotional connection is what transforms a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
All in all, an exclusive vacation is not just about luxury, it is about how a trip makes you feel. Privacy, personalization, unique access, and seamless comfort all contribute to that elevated experience.
As travelers continue to seek deeper and more meaningful journeys, traditional definitions of luxury are evolving.
Experiences like all-inclusive yacht charters perfectly capture this shift, offering not just comfort, but freedom, individuality, and unforgettable moments. In the end, what makes a vacation truly exclusive is not just where you go, but how uniquely it is yours.
Windstar Cruises will use d-flo Limited’s TravelComms software to manage guest travel communications, d-flo has announced in an online press release. The TravelComms platform is designed for travel companies to manage customer communications before, during and after trips through online and offline channels. “We’re very proud to have been selected to help Windstar Cruises achieve...
Royal Caribbean International’s new Legend of the Seas recently sailed from the Meyer Turku shipyard for its first set of sea trials. According to an update shared by the company, the LNG-powered vessel will spend the next 10 days at sea undergoing a series of real-world tests. The company said that the trials will push...
The Aroya recently transited the Strait of Hormuz, marking the departure of all ships that were stranded in the Arabian Gulf. Following five other vessels, the Cruise Saudi-owned ship passed the strait on Sunday as part of a repositioning voyage to the Red Sea. The 150,000-ton ship is now sailing to the port of Jeddah,...
Atlas Ocean Voyages revealed a new Assurance Program for 2026 European expeditions that enables guests to cancel their trips and get full reimbursement. Thanks to the initiative, eligible voyages can be cancelled for any reason up to 15 days before departure, with guests receiving a 100 percent cruise fare value as Future Cruise Credit (FCC),...
Azamara Cruises has unveiled a new lineup of original stage productions developed in partnership with RWS Global to be introduced across its fleet. It includes two brand-new shows exclusive to the Pursuit and two shows to be gradually rolled out across the fleet: the Journey on May 21, 2026, Quest in November 2026 and Onward...
Princess Cruises’ newest ship, the Star Princess, completed its first-ever transit of the Panama Canal. This marks a significant moment in the ship’s inaugural season, the cruise line said in a press release. “A Panama Canal transit is a true ‘must-do’ journey for travelers around the world, and it’s especially meaningful when one of our newest ships makes this iconic...
Adora Cruises has revealed the inaugural itineraries for its latest vessel, the Adora Flora City, with sales scheduled to open on May 20, 2026. According to a press release, the vessel will depart from Guangzhou Nansha International Cruise Home Port on her five-night maiden voyage, calling on Hong Kong and Chan May, Vietnam. The maiden...
Carnival Corporation completed bridge simulator tests evaluating S-100 navigational data in collaboration with international hydrographic offices and industry partners, the company said in a press release. The tests were conducted at Carnival’s Center for Simulator Maritime Training (CSMART) in Almere, Netherlands, and were recognized as an official International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Test Bed and Sea...
Hurtigruten has highlighted seaweed as a sustainable ingredient used in various products onboard. The cruise line said in a press release that the ingredient, which is deeply rooted in Nordic food, is featured in many dishes, beverages such as gin, beer and tea, as well as bath and body products. “Seaweed has become an exciting expression of modern Norwegian cuisine – flavorful, versatile, and deeply connected to...
Travelmarvel is offering discounted deals on its all-inclusive European river cruise itineraries this summer. The offers include: Seven-night highlights of the Danube river cruise, which was £3,497 and is now £1,595 per person 14-night European Gems river cruise, which was £4,895 and is now £2,295 per person Seven-night Douro Discovery river cruise, which was £3,495...
Southern Chinese cruise hubs Xiamen and Guangzhou have launched new 2026 sailings as Xiamen launched its new season, including a themed voyage, while Guangzhou concluded a winter/spring season and is preparing for a newbuild to arrive. In Xiamen, the 2026 cruise homeport season officially started on April 1 with the Adora Mediterranea departing from the...
Ambassador Cruise Line has announced a new three-year partnership with England Golf, the governing body for amateur golf in England, naming Ambassador as the organization’s Official Cruise Line Partner, effective from April 1, 2026. The partnership will see Ambassador receive brand and marketing exposure across England Golf’s digital ecosystem, including its website, social media channels,...
With the Strait of Hormuz now reopened for maritime traffic, the six cruise ships that were stranded in the region are expected to resume service soon. MSC Euribia Cruise Line: MSC Cruises Status: Repositioning to Europe Next Scheduled Cruise Departure: May 16, 2026, from Kiel, Germany Upcoming Itineraries: Northern Europe and Scandinavia Currently on its...
Funchal’s cruise terminal in Madeira handled 335,748 passengers in the first quarter of 2026, representing a 24.79% increase compared to the same period last year. In a press release, Paula Cabaço, CEO of Madeira Ports (Portos da Madeira) and chair of the Port Authority of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (Administração dos Portos da Região...
An air and sea search has been called off for a missing guest who went overboard during a cruise from Australia, likely confirming a second death onboard within hours.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
A man is believed to have climbed the railings and jumped from Carnival Splendor, according to reviewed CCTV footage.
The man’s family had earlier reported him missing. The incident came just a few hours after a woman died while snorkeling at Moreton Island, off the Queensland coast, during a port call.
Neither of the two guests has been officially named, and the incidents are not related, the cruise line said.
Search and Rescue Operation Found No Trace of Missing Guest
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) conducted a search and rescue operation lasting approximately 16 hours but called it off in the early evening without success. The man is now presumed dead.
“Following an intensive air and sea search involving multiple assets, the missing person was not located and AMSA has now released all assets from tasking,” a Maritime Safety Authority spokesperson said.
The cruise line also issued a response, “All appropriate authorities have been alerted and Carnival will assist in their investigation upon the ship’s return to Sydney. Carnival’s Care Team is supporting the guest’s family and our thoughts and prayers are with them.”
Carnival Cruise Line stated it believes the act was deliberate. The guest “climbed over the safety railing and jumped overboard. A review of the CCTV footage confirmed the guest’s action.”
Hours Earlier, a Guest Died While Snorkeling
The man overboard alert sounded just before 2 a.m. on April 18. The approximately 3,000-guest Carnival Splendor returned to Sydney on Sunday, where it is homeported year-round.
Just a few hours before the overboard incident, a 67-year-old female guest from Tasmania experienced difficulty while snorkeling at Moreton Island. She was pulled from the water but did not respond to resuscitation efforts.
The Celebrity Infinity recently completed its 25th year of service for Celebrity Cruises. Built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, the vessel was delivered on February 25, 2001. As the second ship in the company’s Millennium-class series, the Infinity initially offered a trans-Atlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale before embarking on its maiden voyage...
Tarragona Cruise Port officially launched its 2026 cruise season on Thursday, April 16, and expects a record season in terms of calls and passengers. Eighty-one calls are planned, representing a 28.6 percent increase over 2025. They will bring nearly 160,000 passengers (+23.3 percent) in the eight-month season from April to November. The port said in...
Avalon Waterways has highlighted its commitment to meeting the growing demand for personalization and choice through its guest-first philosophy. The company said in a press release that it was building its river cruise model around personalization before flexibility became an industry trend. According to Avalon, luxury in travel is being redefined: It is more about...
Dream Cruises is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a year-long “Decade of Dreams” celebration aboard the Genting Dream, featuring a series of programs, themed events, enhanced entertainment and collaborations throughout 2026. Sailings will be offered year-round from Singapore and, from April 20 onwards, from Kuala Lumpur via Port Klang, including two-, three-, four- and five-night...
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has unveiled new pre- and post-cruise programs for voyages from fall 2027 through early 2029, the company announced in a press release. The programs are designed to enhance selected itineraries, allowing guests to extend their journey before or after their cruise. The programs range from guided city tours and nature-focused excursions to private...
Star Trek: The Cruise X is set to sail Feb. 20-27, 2027 from New Orleans aboard Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, the company said in a press release. The seven-day voyage will travel to Cozumel, Mexico, George Town, Grand Cayman and Montego Bay, Jamaica. The cruise will commemorate 40 years of Star Trek: The...
After weeks stuck in limbo in the Arabian Gulf, a flotilla of five cruise ships has passed through the Strait of Hormuz en route to their long-delayed European cruising seasons.
Celestyal Discovery First Ship Through Strait of Hormuz
(Photo courtesy of Celestyal Cruises)
Celestyal Cruises’ Celestyal Discovery was the first to sail through on Friday. Sister ship Celestyal Journey also made it through the strait safely. MSC Cruises confirmed MSC Euribia is safely out, as did TUI Cruises’ ships, Mein Schiff 4 and Mein Schiff 5.
TUI Cruises paid tribute to its crew and “all those who supported and enabled the safe passage with great professionalism and prudence.” The company added that the focus is now on the ships’ onward journey toward the Mediterranean.
The Saudi Arabia-based Aroya Manara, previously the only major cruise ship still in the Gulf, has now departed Dammam and is heading toward the Strait of Hormuz, though its transit remains uncertain given current conditions.
Although the five European-owned ships made it through the conflict zone, it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing. They transited during a narrow window before Iran reimposed restrictions on the strait hours later, citing tensions tied to the U.S. military presence in the region. Iranian officials said “strict controls” had been restored.
One Cruise Ship Reported a Possible Incident
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a cruise ship may have been involved in an incident off the coast of Oman. A ship captain reported a “splash in close proximity” caused by an unknown projectile. Authorities have not identified which cruise ship was involved.
Separately, two India-flagged cargo ships, including a tanker, were reportedly fired upon after not receiving authorization from Iran to transit the strait.
MSC Cruises saidMSC Euribia will begin its Northern Europe season in mid-May.
“MSC Euribia has departed Dubai, safely transited the Strait of Hormuz, and is now en route to Northern Europe. The passage was completed in close coordination with the relevant authorities,” the cruise line said.
“The ship will now be able to return sooner than previously anticipated. Departures on May 16 from Kiel and May 17 from Copenhagen will operate as originally scheduled.” Guests with canceled cruises will have the option to transfer their bookings.
Celestyal Discovery is now bound for the Suez Canal (South Anchorage), with an estimated arrival on April 24, as it continues its repositioning voyage toward Europe.
Five cruise ships have transited the Strait of Hormuz, completing what became a two-day passage of five vessels stranded in the Persian Gulf since the onset of conflicts in the Middle East. MSC Cruises confirmed on Saturday that the MSC Euribia has departed Dubai, safely transited the strait and is now en route to Northern...
Atlas Ocean Voyages has presented the suite collection for the Atlas Adventurer, scheduled for launch in late 2028. Portuguese studio Oitoemponto designed the suites divided into three categories for the 400-guest luxury expedition sailing ship, according to a statement. The design is said to reflect the Art Deco spirit of 1930s cruise ships, featuring materials including polished marble, high-gloss mahogany and hand-finished metals. “Atlas Adventurer represents a pivotal step forward for our brand and for expedition travel,” said James...
MSC Cruises has confirmed that the MSC Euribia has departed Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, has safely transited the Strait of Hormuz and is now en route to Northern Europe. The passage was completed in close coordination with the relevant authorities, the company said. The Euribia is on course to resume her Northern Europe season, and...
Global Ports Holding (GPH) showcased its North European cruise port network at a press conference held during a Miami Beach industry event. The portfolio encompasses ports in Scotland, Liverpool and Bremerhaven. In a press release, GPH explained that it continues to see a substantial cruise ship orderbook and growing demand across Northern Europe, which it says reinforces the long-term potential of the region. Greenock Cruise Port Greenock Cruise Port’s deep-water berth...
Silversea has unveiled its 125-day World Cruise 2029 onboard the Silver Whisper called “A Pacific Awakening.” Sailing from San Diego on January 5, 2029, the world cruise will explore more than 60 destinations in 19 countries, spanning Polynesia, Micronesia, Melanesia, Australia, Asia and New Zealand. In a press release, Silversea shared that the voyage will feature six signature events and one included overland experience. “The depth and variety of experiences around...
Commuting along the Norwegian coast is set to become more eco-friendly with the addition of new P-12 electric hydrofoil vessels. Norway’s Boreal has ordered 20 of these vessels from Sweden’s Candela Technology, the latter said in a press release, noting that this will mark the world’s largest electric fleet to date. “Candela P-12 is the...
Azamara Cruises has announced a new partnership with MJM Marine for the execution of the upcoming Azamara Forward enhancements aboard the Azamara Quest. The collaboration follows MJM Marine’s previous work on the refit of the Azamara Pursuit. “This partnership with MJM Marine reflects our commitment to thoughtfully evolving the Azamara Cruises experience while delivering the...
Lindblad Expeditions’ CEO, Natalya Leahy, has shared insights into what lies ahead for adventure travel and the transformative power of exploration. Leahy said that expedition cruising is entering a new phase of strategic maturity, and identified where the real growth is coming from, how portfolio mix is shifting, what “responsible expansion” now looks like, and...
The woman who was served 15 shots of tequila aboard the Carnival Radiance — and suffered injuries as a result — is speaking out about the lawsuit which netted her a $300,000 victory. Meanwhile, reaction to her win has largely involved people debating personal responsibility.
‘They Treated Me Like a Criminal’
In a video shot by her attorney, Diana Sanders says that the crew “treated me like a criminal” as she attempted to obtain information about what had taken place. After waking up at the bottom of a staircase in a crew area, Sanders says she received “conflicting information” about what had transpired.
“I was very concerned that they wouldn’t tell me exactly what had happened,” she continued. She turned to a lawyer in an attempt to get the CCTV footage, but claims that Carnival had “all the tapes right before, but nothing afterward and they will not show us what happened that day.”
As for the process of taking Carnival Corporation to court, “I felt bullied,” she shares. “Everything they did was to either mentally torment me or financially torment me.”
The jury, however, “saw what they were trying to do, how they were trying to defame my character” and, she says, “make me look like a bad human being.”
Sanders attorney, Spencer Aronfeld, briefly touched upon personal responsibility… a topic which many across social media thinks should have played a much bigger role in this particular case.
‘Shouldn’t A Nurse Know Better?’
In handing down their verdict, the jury determined that Carnival was 60 percent responsible for the incident, with Sanders 40 percent responsible. But for many responding to coverage of the story — including our own initial article — that seemed unreasonable.
“Wait,” responded a Facebook commenter, “she’s a nurse? Shouldn’t a nurse know better than to drink that heavily?”
“Accountability must begin with the drinker,” posted another. “No one forced [her] to drink.”
Others speculated as to what effect this might have on future policies related to drinks served on board. “Now they’ll change the rules, dial back the number of drinks you can consume and how often.”
Carnival has indicated that it intends to appeal the decision.
We discuss a significant legal victory in a case against Carnival Cruise Line. My client, Diana Sanders, a nurse from Northern California, was excessively se...
After 27 years sailing for NCL, Norwegian Sky leaves the fleet later this year for new horizons. The 2,000-passenger ship is one of two older vessels joining India’s largest cruise operator, Cordelia Cruises.
Norwegian Sky is on a transatlantic crossing ahead of a final season sailing in northern Europe and the Mediterranean. After calls in the Azores, Portugal and Spain, the ship arrives in Le Havre, France. It will spend the summer sailing in Northern Europe, the British Isles, and then the Mediterranean.
Starting next week, Norwegian Sky will visit ports in France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Germany during its farewell season. From mid-May, it positions to Southampton for longer cruises around the British Isles.
Norwegian Sky will then reposition for a short season in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean. Its final departure under the NCL flag is from Piraeus September 9, transiting the Suez Canal to Dubai. After this 21-night cruise, the ship is handed over to Cordelia Cruises.
The transfer to Cordelia is part of an initial long-term charter agreement for two Norwegian ships announced a year ago.
Norwegian Sun is also scheduled to join Cordelia in November 2027.
The two NCL ships will be renamed Cordelia Sky and Cordelia Sun respectively. Sky is expected to undergo a refurbishment before embarking on its first India cruises in September 2026.
Cordelia Sky to sail to Southeast Asia next year
The cruise line announced details of itineraries for Cordelia Sky last year. The ship will debut on a five-night cruise to Goa and Lakshadweep from Mumbai.
From July 2027, the company plans to deploy Sky on Southeast Asia itineraries with week-long sailings from Chennai to Singapore.
“These itineraries are designed not only for Indian travelers, but also for international guests,” said Cordelia CEO Jurgen Bailom. “The intent is continuity, not disruption. The Sky allows us to operate these high-demand routes at a larger scale, with greater capacity and more balcony cabins.”
A cruise ship tour of Norwegian Sky. This ship is Norwegian Cruise Line's oldest ship that was launched in 1999. This narrated deck tour that was shot in Dec...
Virgin Voyages has reached out to cruisers who were upset about not only a recent itinerary change but the way it was handled. Acknowledging their misstep, the line essentially promised to do better moving forward.
Why Some Cruisers Are Upset
While the Valiant Lady did sail out of NYC like sister ship Brilliant Lady, pictured here, she wound up going north as opposed to south. (Photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
Rarely are those about to set sail happy to hear about itinerary changes, as they tend to be less desirable than the originally scheduled route. That was most definitely the case for most passengers booked upon the Valiant Lady’s April 6 sailing out of New York City.
Originally intended to be a five-day trip to Bermuda, passengers were informed a few days before embarkation that they would, instead, be sailing north to Canada due to a possibility of bad weather. Adding insult to injury, at least in the eyes of some, was the borderline cheeky way in which Virgin addressed the itinerary change.
“St. John will feel a little bit different from Bermuda,” read one segment of the letter, “with crisp, coastal air and a completely new backdrop to explore. You may want to bring a few extra layers.”
Of course, for some cruisers, the warning came too late as they had already flown into New York City from other locations. While many did their best to roll with the proverbial punches, some made their complaints public — with a few related Instagram vids garnering a whole lot of attention.
“We’ve Seen Your Messages”
Facing the situation head-on, if a tad after the fact, Virgin Voyages posted a response to unhappy sailors via their Instagram page. “Welp,” it began. “That Bermuda-Canada email really wasn’t it. We’ve seen your messages, and we get it.”
The missive continued: “This wasn’t the trip you were planning for — and we should have spoken to that reality. We understand why you’re disappointed. We agreed we need to do better, and next time we will.”
It concluded by saying, “Itineraries can change for safety, but you deserve us to be real about it when they do.”
“This Situation Is Not Funny to Me”
In a separate Instagram post featuring a photo of the dark side of the moon, Virgin again addressed the original email. And as is their wont, they did so in a typically sardonic manner. “We missed the mark. So NASA, if you want to fly our team to the moon next, we’ll gladly stay there and hide behind some moon rocks. (We’ll make sure to bring extra layers, too.)”
Not everyone however, saw the humor. One commenter acknowledged it was a “fun social media post” before asking “But what are you doing to make the situation right? This post alone just feels like you’re making fun of the situation.”
One passenger who’d been on board the Canada-bound sailing didn’t see the humor in the situation. “I was on that voyage and extremely disappointed,” they wrote. “I feel that the refusal to issue refunds and $100 per person [onboard credit] per person was wholly inadequate… you should have cancelled the cruise or allowed us to get a refund. Sorry, but this situation is not funny to me.”
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