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Today β€” 7 May 2026Travel

Radisson opens its first Net Zero hotels in Manchester and Oslo

Radisson Hotel Group 2025 Responsible Business ReportRadisson Hotel Group has opened its first Verified Net Zero hotels in Manchester City Centre and Oslo City Centre, marking a milestone in the group’s drive to decarbonise its global portfolio ahead of a 2050 […]

TUI River Cruises Highlights Vienna Tours for Eurovision Guests

TUI River Cruises has highlighted a collection of land tours available to its guests visiting Vienna. In a statement, the cruise line said this could be of interest to those visiting Eurovision, Europe’s largest singing contest, whose finale will take place at Wiener Stadthalle on Saturday, May 16, 2026. The cruise line offers a seven-night...

Aman: Quiet Luxury and Exclusivity

As luxury hotel brands continue to enter the cruise industry, Aman at Sea is betting on a philosophy of β€œquiet luxury” and exclusivity to differentiate its product. According to President and Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Wilson, the brand’s transition to the ocean relies heavily on replicating its signature state of mind rather than simply building...

Regent, Oceania Delivering to Expectations at NCLH

While Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings works through a turnaround at its Norwegian Cruise Line brand, the company’s two luxury brands, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises, are holding firm, with management pointing to their steady performance as evidence that the wider cruise industry remains on solid footing. Speaking on the company’s first quarter 2026...

Mitsui Ocean Cruises Announces Promo for Japan Summer Sailings

Mitsui Ocean CruisesΒ hasΒ presentedΒ itsΒ β€œSummer in Japan Sale” for itsΒ 11 itinerariesΒ sailingsΒ from June to SeptemberΒ 2026.Β  With theΒ promo, $1,000 onboard credit is available per suite or $500 per guest (based on double occupancy)Β on all summer sailingsΒ departingΒ June 3 through September 19, 2026.Β  A 15% commission is also available for travel advisors, the company shared in a press release.Β  Operating the...

Regent: Driving Retention Through Service

The arrival of ultra-luxury hotel brands into the cruise industry isn’t a threat to established operators but a marketing asset, said Regent Seven Seas President Wesley D’Silva. For the company, the influx of competitors like Ritz-Carlton, Aman and Four Seasons helps resolve a challenge for the brand: convincing non-cruisers that an ocean voyage fits their...

MSC: Integrating Supply Chain and Suppliers

MSC Cruises is modernizing its supply chain and turnaround operations by prioritizing digitalization, demand forecasting and vendor integration, according to Paolo Raia, managing director of procurement and logistics. Highlighting the challenging nature of the turnaround process, he noted that the brand leverages synergies with its broader shipping and cargo divisions to be more effective. Calling...

Lindblad: $1,631 Net Yield Per Available Guest Night

Lindblad Expeditions posted a record net yield of $1,631 per available guest night in the first quarter of 2026, the highest quarterly figure in the company’s history, according to Chief Executive Officer Natalya Leahy. β€œThese results reflect the strength of our strategy and importantly, the discipline of our execution,” she said. Leahy said the company...

Firenze: Carnival Replaces Regular Cruises with Adults-Only Sailings

Carnival Cruise Line replaced 11 regular cruises onboard the Carnival Firenze with a series of new adults-only voyages as part of its SEA program. The new departures are now available for booking on the company’s website and include seven- to 14-night itineraries to the Mexican Riviera and Baja California. Sailing roundtrip from Long Beach, the...

Seabourn: Blending β€˜Art and Science’ of Hospitality

Global uncertainty is creating a sense of urgency among guests in the ultra-luxury cruise market, according to Seabourn President Mark Tamis. While sales of physical luxury goods may have softened slightly, the desire for high-end, once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences is actually accelerating, he said. β€œUncertainty hasn’t really suppressed demand for us. What it tends to do...

LG Electronics Debuts Cruise-Specific TVs and Display Management

LG Electronics USA has unveiled new commercial cruise television models and a centralized display management platform, addressing challenges specific to the marine environment. The company introduced 32-inch and 43-inch Commercial Cruise TV models designed for staterooms and crew cabins, along with the Pro:Centric Catena platform for managing displays across public spaces. The new cruise-specific televisions...

Luang Prabang Faces Tourism Slowdown During Pi Mai Lao: Insights Into the Visitor Decline

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/luang-prabang-faces-tourism-slowdown-during-pi-mai-lao-insights-into-the-visitor-decline/

Luang Prabang Faces Tourism Slowdown During Pi Mai Lao: Insights Into the Visitor DeclineLuang Prabang experiences a massive year-on-year decline...

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Holland America Reveals Post-Evolution Deployment for Oosterdam

Holland America Line is now accepting bookings for the first post-refit season onboard the Oosterdam, the company said in a press release. The Vista-class ship will be the first to undergo a major refurbishment as part of the Holland America Evolution, which is considered the largest fleet investment in the brand’s 153-year history. After undergoing...

Mein Schiff 3 Back in Service After Rotterdam Drydock

Mein Schiff 3 is back from its two-week stay in Rotterdam at Damen. The newly refurbished ship is now setting course for Norwegian itineraries departing from Bremerhaven. The drydock focused on improving the onboard guest experience, TUI Cruises said in a press release. The ship’s two themed suites, the Godparent Suite and the Captain’s Suite,...

Explora V Bow Section Launched at Fincantieri

Explora Journeys has launched the bow section of the Explora V at Fincantieri’s Palermo shipyard in Sicily. Scheduled for delivery in 2027, the vessel will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Following the first transfer from land to water and the initial outfitting in Palermo, the bow section will be transferred to Fincantieri’s Sestri...
Yesterday β€” 6 May 2026Travel

Hyatt Zilara Cancun gets a major refresh with 12 new dining venues and a reimagined spa

6 May 2026 at 22:01
Hyatt Zilara Cancun renovated resort exterior, pool and lobbyHyatt Zilara Cancun has completed a full renovation of its 310-suite adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, introducing redesigned accommodations, 12 overhauled dining venues and a reimagined spa. Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced the debut […]

Singapore Airlines delays launch of new first, business class seats on Airbus A350 due to supply chain constraints

6 May 2026 at 21:43
Singapore Airlines Airbus A350 taxiing at Changi Airport, SingaporeSingapore Airlines’ (SIA) next-generation first and business class seats on its Airbus A350-900 aircraft are expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2027 instead of the second quarter of 2026. β€œThe revised timeline […]

The University of Virginia now has its own hotel, restaurant and rooftop bar

Virginia Guesthouse hotel exterior at the University of Virginia, CharlottesvilleThe University of Virginia has opened a full-service hotel and conference center on its historic campus in Charlottesville, Virginia. The Virginia Guesthouse welcomed its first guests in April 2026, adding 214 rooms, a signature restaurant […]

Aroya Returns to Red Sea Ahead of Service Return

The Aroya recently returned to the Red Sea after spending nearly two months stranded in the Arabian Gulf. Following other ships that were also stuck in the region, the 150,000-ton vessel transited the Strait of Hormuz in late April. The ship then started a repositioning voyage to its homeport in Jeddah, where it is scheduled...

Spain Approves Hondius to Dock in Canary Islands and Patients Evacuated

Two patients with hantavirus and one suspected of being infected have been evacuated from the Hondius and are on the way to the Netherlands, the World Health Organization said, according to the Associated Press. The three people evacuated were a 41-year-old Dutch national, a 56-year-old British national and a 65-year-old German national who were transferred...

Head’s Up: Carnival Cruisers Could Lose Their Status If They Don’t Do This One Thing

6 May 2026 at 20:34

It’s safe to say that Carnival Cruise Line caused a bit of a stir last year upon announcing major changes to their loyalty program.

Now comes word that unless cruisers take one very important step, they’ll lose their status entirely.

How to Avoid Losing Your Status

As of September 1, Carnival will be retiring its much-loved Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program. At that time, the line will be switching to the new Carnival Rewards program.

The new system involves earning stars in order to boost one’s status. Unlike under the previous program, the earned status is no longer a permanent, protected level. Instead, it must be re-earned every two years.

Carnival Rewards status-earning chart
Carnival’s explanation of how status will work under the new program. (Via Carnival.com)

While that has led to confusion among some longtime loyalists and anger among others, there seems to be no way to stop this in-motion train. (Carnival has made tweaks since the original announcement and may well make more in the months between now and September.)

Most assumed their loyalty status would automatically transfer to the new program. But as it turns out, it isn’t quite as simple as that.

β€œDue to privacy laws,” reads a warning from Carnival, β€œyour current status progress and benefits from the VIFP Club program will carry over only by opting in and enrolling in Carnival Rewards prior to when the new program launches September 1, 2026.” 

The Biggest Change

Under the former VIFP Program, the easiest and most popular way to earn points was by simply booking a cruise. Points were earned for each day spent on a Carnival ship. The new Rewards program, however, has shifted to a money-spent system.

A Carnival Rewards infographic explains how Carnival Cruisers can earn status qualifying stars: 3 stars per $1 spent, and 1 star for every casino point. Icons highlight cruise rewards, perk accumulation, and tips so you never lose status.

Not coincidentally, the line has been heavily promoting the Carnival World Mastercard to earn points and boost status.

And it’s worth noting that the line says those who already have the card will have their earned Fun Points balance converted to Carnival Rewards Points when the new program launches in September.

For complete information on everything related to the new program, head to CarnivalRewards.com.

JetBlue Adds 11 New Routes From Fort Lauderdale After Spirit Shutdown

JetBlue Airbus A220-300 aircraft parked in front of blue hangar at airportJetBlue has expanded its schedule at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), and a new loyalty status match for eligible Spirit Airlines Free Spirit Silver and Gold members is now available at jetblue.com and in the […]

Valencia Launches Spain’s First Motorsport Research Chair

Panel discussion during the launch of Spain’s first Motorsport Chair at Circuit Ricardo Tormo and VIU in ValenciaValencia has launched Spain’s first university chair dedicated to motorsport safety, performance and health through a partnership between Circuit Ricardo Tormo and the Universidad Internacional de Valencia (VIU). The new Motorsport Chair focuses on road […]

Cologne’s new tourism chief wants the city to work for residents, not just tourists

Stephanie Kleine Klausing, CEO of Cologne Tourist BoardCologne has appointed Stephanie Kleine Klausing as Chief Executive Officer of the Cologne Tourist Board, effective 1 April 2026. She brings nearly two decades of experience inside the organisation, having joined in 2008 and held […]

MSC Poesia Transits Panama Canal During Grand Voyage

TheΒ MSCΒ PoesiaΒ has transited through the Panama Canal during her 18-night Grand Voyage from Miami to Seattle.Β  The shipΒ sailed through the Caribbean and Central America beforeΒ this milestone, and is now in the Pacific, MSC said in a press release.Β  It will now continue north along the coast on the final leg of her journey to Seattle, where...

Cruise Ship With Virus Outbreak Heading to Canary Islands After Cape Verde Standoff

6 May 2026 at 19:06

The Canary Islands are making preparations to receive nearly 150 cruise ship guests and crew still aboard a virus-hit ship in the Atlantic.

A large cruise ship with a dark blue hull and white upper decks sails through icy Arctic waters, surrounded by floating ice, with rugged mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

Spain’s Health Ministry said the vessel is expected to arrive within three to four days, at which point passengers and crew will be examined, treated, and transferred to their respective countries.

Three people, a German and two Dutch nationals, died during the expedition ship MV Hondius’ sailing from South America to Cape Verde, where officials did not allow passengers to disembark.

Health officials have confirmed at least two cases of hantavirus, with five additional suspected cases, and say the virus may have been directly transmitted among humans.

Sick Crew Members Expected to Be Airlifted Off the Ship

Hantavirus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings or urine. Before the ship departs for the Canary Islands, authorities will determine which passengers require urgent evacuation while still in Cape Verde.

The ship’s doctor, described as being in serious condition, was expected to be evacuated on Tuesday on a medical flight to the Canary Islands, Spain’s Health Ministry said.

β€œThis intervention aims to assess the condition of the people on board, determine whether there are additional symptomatic individuals, and identify high- and low-risk contacts.

This will inform decisions on repatriation procedures and the ship’s route,” the Spanish Health Ministry posted on social media.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the government is putting β€œplans in place for the safe onward travel” for 19 British guests aboard the ship.

Operator Oceanwide Expeditions said another 17 are Americans and 13 are Spanish citizens. Most crew members come from the Philippines.

A British national who fell ill after the ship left St. Helena is now hospitalized at a private medical facility in South Africa and is reported to be improving, according to the World Health Organization.

In an update, the WHO said the β€œrisk to the general public is low,” but that human-to-human transmission cannot be ruled out. If confirmed, such transmission would be exceedingly rare.

β€œWe do know that some of the cases had very close contact with each other and certainly human-to-human transmission can’t be ruled out,” said Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO’s head of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention.

A similar hantavirus outbreak occurred at Yosemite National Park in 2012. Ten people became ill and three died.

Azamara Marks Advisor Appreciation Month with New Partnership

Azamara Cruises is partnering with Approach Guides for Travel Advisor Appreciation Month in May. During an initiative running from May 4 through May 31, the cruise line will combine new marketing tools with incentives and rewards for advisors, according to a press release. β€œAt Azamara Cruises, travel advisors are the driving force behind our continued...

Canary Islands Rejects Hantavirus-Hit Hondius Docking at Tenerife

The regional government of Spain’s Canary Islands is opposed to allowing the Hondius to dock on the archipelago, its leader said on May 6, according to Reuters. β€œThis decision is not based on any technical criteria, nor is there sufficient information to reassure the public or guarantee their safety,” Fernando Clavijo told radio station COPE,...

Pearl Seas Opening 2026 Cruise Season This Week

Pearl Seas Cruises is kicking off its 2026 cruise season this week, according to a statement. β€œWe are so pleased to begin our 12th season cruising the Great Lakes aboard Pearl Mist. Our crew is the most seasoned team in the region, and their years of experience enhances each of our itineraries on the Lakes...

Cruise Ship Orderbook Moves to $90 Billion of New Ships

The global cruise ship orderbook now totals some $90 billion in newbuild orders through 2039, according to the latest update from Cruise Industry News. Five more ships were ordered during the month of April, including a trio for Princess Cruises from Fincantieri, and two more Icon-class ships for Royal Caribbean International from Meyer Turku. The...

Hong Kong Touts Events Calendar, Connectivity in Cruise Hub Drive

Hong Kong is investing in infrastructure and pointing to busy events agenda to cement its status as a cruise hub in Asia, according to Marilyn Tham, general manager of mega events, MICE and cruise at the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Following a strong 2025 that saw a 20 percent increase in the destination’s cruise passenger...

Cunard Unveils 2028 Program: 190 Sailings Across 36 Countries

Cunard hasΒ unveiledΒ its 2028 program, featuring 190 voyages in 36 countries.Β  Sailing from April 2028 to January 2029,Β its fleetΒ will visit 125 ports worldwide,Β includingΒ 19 overnight stays and 37 late-evening departures, according to a statement.Β  β€œOur new voyage collection is one of the most exciting programsΒ we’veΒ ever launched. From the historic moment all four Queens meet in Liverpool on...

Viking’s 2028–29 Expedition Voyages Available for Booking

VikingΒ has openedΒ bookings for its 2028–29 expedition voyages.Β  The season featuresΒ newly released departure dates acrossΒ itineraries in the Arctic, Antarctica and the Great Lakes, Viking said in a press release.Β  Operating the expanded expedition offerings in the polar regionsΒ areΒ theΒ Viking Octantis and her sister ship, the Viking Polaris.Β  β€œOur guests are curious travelers who seek meaningful experiences and...

Norwegian Targets Marketing Overhaul with New Leadership, Leaner Spend

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is moving to rebuild its marketing function at the Norwegian Cruise Line brand, bringing in new leadership and cutting overall spending, said Chairperson and CEO John Chidsey. Speaking on the company’s first quarter 2026 earnings call, Chidsey acknowledged that marketing underperformance has been a significant part of the brand’s occupancy shortfall,...

Ponant: Guest Insight and Real-World Scouting for New Itineraries

Developing new itineraries requires a balance of guest insights, regulatory understanding and real-world scouting, according to Sylviane de Tracy, director of cruise research and development for Ponant. The process begins with understanding passengers’ evolving expectations and preferences, she explained. β€œSurveys are being sent out with different options and different choices. Both our current customer base...

Carnival Corporation Working on Harmonizing Supply Chain Operations Across Brands

Data harmonization and advanced demand planning are currently hot topics as Carnival Corporation works to overhaul its supply chain operations, according to Kevin Muhich, head of MAST. With a portfolio of eight different brands, the company is currently focused on standardizing its Planned Maintenance System (PMS) across the fleet to eliminate operational inconsistencies. β€œWe have...

MSC Ready for Alaska Debut, Accelerating North America Growth

MSC Cruises is ready for the Poesia’s debut in Alaska, as the ship will spend the summer sailing Alaska cruises on Mondays from Seattle, marking the company’s entry to the region. β€œWe’re so excited for this moment,” said Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises North America. β€œFrom the time we announced the program until now,...

Lindblad Expeditions Eyes Fleet Expansion

Lindblad Expeditions is actively pursuing expansion of its expedition fleet, according to CEO Natalya Leahy. Speaking on the company’s first quarter 2026 earnings call, Leahy said fleet growth conversations are ongoing and that the current geopolitical environment has done nothing to slow them. β€œWe continue to be actively focused on looking to expand capacity in...

API’s Decade-Long Fincantieri Agreement Signals Flooring Evolution

API has signed another agreement (with a 10-year framework) with Fincantieri, which covers 23 vessels, deepening the Italian marine flooring specialist’s relationship that stretches back through multiple project cycles and hundreds of cruise ships since 1958. β€œThis is our third framework agreement,” said Veno Cravino, managing director at API. β€œFrom a strategic standpoint, both parties,...

Explora Journeys Attracting Land-Based Guests

Explora Journeys is targeting land-based luxury travelers by highlighting the value of ocean travel and redefining its onboard hospitality culture, according to President Anna Nash. With a significant portion of the luxury market still hesitant to book cruise vacations, Nash believes the niche must emphasize the operational simplicity of its product. β€œI think the opportunity...

PCEB and Marriott International Malaysia Sign MoU to Back Annual Penang Golf Challenge

PCEB and Marriott International Malaysia MoU signing ceremony in PenangThe Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) and Marriott International Malaysia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly support and promote the Penang Golf Challenge as an annual business and networking platform. The […]

ITA Airways expands Summer 2026 network with new Mediterranean routes and stronger Rome hub focus

4 May 2026 at 12:27

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/ita-airways-expands-summer-2026-network-with-new-mediterranean-routes-and-stronger-rome-hub-focus/

ITA Airways expands Summer 2026 network with new Mediterranean routes and stronger Rome hub focusITA Airways is set to broaden...

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Lakshadweep Streamlines Entry Rules, Eliminating Sponsor Requirement to Boost Tourism

4 May 2026 at 06:28

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/lakshadweep-streamlines-entry-rules-eliminating-sponsor-requirement-to-boost-tourism/

Lakshadweep Streamlines Entry Rules, Eliminating Sponsor Requirement to Boost TourismLakshadweep simplifies entry requirements in 2026, removing sponsor and police clearance...

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Carnival Cruiser Who Punched Teen In the Face Arraigned In Florida Court

6 May 2026 at 04:43

A 44-year-old woman who punched a 17-year-old during a cruise on board the Carnival Sunrise back in March was arraigned in a Miami-Dade courtroom on Tuesday.

How the Incident Happened

The 2019 Carnival Sunrise boasts a large, multi-level atrium where a central bar is surrounded by patrons at tables. A shiny disco ball glitters above, while ornate railings add elegance and shops entice in the background.

It appears Jennifer Frost first encountered the teen β€”Β identified only as NJ in court, given her status as a minor β€”Β at the Lido buffet on board the ship. Police reports indicate that Frost appeared intoxicated to the teen, and that the older woman attempted to insert herself into the teen’s conversation with several people she was traveling with.

Frost initially walked away from that first encounter, but soon after the two crossed paths again. It’s unclear why Frost eventually punched the girl in the face. During Monday’s hearing, it was established that NJ suffered a broken nose as a result of the punch.

How Frost Wound Up In Court

According to a report from Florida’s Local 10, Frost fled immediately after the incident, but was followed by witnesses who summoned security. While being questioned by security, Frost reportedly admitted to having punched the girl and β€œexpressed satisfaction with her actions.” 

Read More: Three cruisers dead following Hantavirus outbreak

Although initially detailed by the ship’s security team, it appears Frost managed to disembark when the vessel returned to Port Miami. After contacting an attorney, Frost returned to Miami to face the consequences of her actions.

Charged with aggravated battery, she was released on $2,500 bond while awaiting further court proceedings. Frost was also ordered to stay away from the victim.

Big Bus Tours Adds Thessaloniki to Its Greek Hop-On Hop-Off Network

Big Bus Thessaloniki open-top bus at White TowerBig Bus Tours has launched a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing service in Thessaloniki, adding Greece’s second-largest city to its network alongside Athens and giving travel agents a two-destination Greek product to sell. The London-based operator, which […]

Oceanwide Arranges Medical Evacuations from Hondius

Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed on Tuesday afternoon it is arranging the medical evacuation of two passengers requiring urgent care and another guest associated with the passenger who passed away on May 2. Two specialized aircraft are en route to Cape Verde and passengers will be transferred for onward medical evacuation to the Netherlands. The company said...

Oceanwide Provides Update on Hondius Situation as WHO Reports 7 Cases

Oceanwide Expeditions has provided an update on the ongoing medical situation onboard the Hondius, which remains off the coast of Cape Verde, according to a May 5 press update. The World Health Organization confirmed on May 4 that seven cases, including two laboratory-confirmed hantavirus cases and five suspected cases, have been identified. Three passengers have...

Lindblad Expeditions Posts Record Q1 Occupancy

Lindblad Expeditions delivered a record first quarter occupancy of 93 percent even as it grew available guest nights by more than 6 percent, with Chief Executive Officer Natalya Leahy noting disciplined commercial execution and strengthening demand across the company’s global portfolio. β€œIn a complex macro and geopolitical environment, our team delivered another record quarter,” she...
Before yesterdayTravel

Oceania Dropping NCFs on 2028–29 Sailings

Oceania Cruises is eliminating non‑commissionable cruise fares (NCFs) on all newly launched sailings, set to be announced in May and June. Covering the 2028 summer and 2028–29 winter seasons and 2028 and 2029 Around the World voyages, the change is meant to simplify advisor compensation and expand their earning opportunities. Once the new itineraries go...

Royal Caribbean Targets Texas Market Dominance

3 May 2026 at 20:13

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/royal-caribbean-targets-texas-market-dominance/

Royal Caribbean Targets Texas Market DominanceExperience the best of the Gulf! Royal Caribbean targets Texas market dominance with Perfect Day...

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Solo Travelers Can Now Cruise Europe Without Extra Costs with Riviera Travel’s New Offerings

3 May 2026 at 20:12

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/solo-travelers-can-now-cruise-europe-without-extra-costs-with-riviera-travels-new-offerings/

Solo Travelers Can Now Cruise Europe Without Extra Costs with Riviera Travel’s New OfferingsSolo travelers can now book no single...

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Cruise Passenger Found Unresponsive While Snorkeling at Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay

5 May 2026 at 17:26

Bahamas police opened an investigation following the drowning death of an elderly cruise ship passenger.

Great Stirrup Cay

An American man, 83, died after being found unresponsive in the water Sunday during a stop at Norwegian Cruise Line’s private Bahamas destination, Great Stirrup Cay.

The man was found unresponsive by his son while snorkeling, Eyewitness News reported. Despite assistance by a lifeguard and medical personnel, he never regained consciousness. He was pronounced deceased at the scene, and his body was later transferred to New Providence for an autopsy.

Norwegian Getaway Guest Pronounced Dead at Great Stirrup Cay

It is thought the man was a guest on Norwegian Getaway, which was the only ship to call on May 3. The vessel was on a three-night sailing in The Bahamas and had earlier docked at Nassau. It returned to PortMiami on Monday, May 4.

The incident comes less than a month after the cruise company settled a lawsuit claiming negligence in the drowning death of a guest in Bermuda in 2024.

The suit was settled for an undisclosed sum just days before a trial was set to begin. The lawsuit alleged NCL failed to warn guests about dangerous riptides, the absence of lifeguards at the beach, and previous drowning deaths in the area.

norwegian getaway aerial
Norwegian Getaway (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)

Great Stirrup Cay, part of the Berry Islands chain, has been operated by Norwegian Cruise Line since 1977, when it became the first cruise line in the industry to develop a private island concept.

The cruise line recently spent about $150 million upgrading the 268-acre island with more amenities and guest experiences. These include a 28,000-square-foot pool area and the Vibe Shore Club adults’ retreat. The Great Tides Waterpark is set to open in late summer 2026.

Norwegian Cruise Line did not respond to a request for comment at the time of publication.

BW LNG Picks BASSnet Neo Software for LNG and FSRU Ops

BW LNG has signed an agreement with BASS Software to deploy BASSnet Neo software solution across its fleet of liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers and floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs). According to a statement, the contract win followed a global evaluation process covering up to 30 solutions in the market. β€œWe are extremely proud...

Malta Eyes Luxury Cruise Growth and Homeporting Expansion

Malta is working to attract more boutique cruise ships and expand homeporting operations, according to Arthur Grima, director of marketing for the Malta Tourism Authority. In 2025, in addition to 4 million tourists, the destination welcomed 870,560 cruise passengers who visited the country as part of 387 calls. While overall passenger volume increased by 2.5...

MSC: Leveraging LNG and AI to Meet Long-Term Sustainability Goals

As MSC Cruises continues to expand its LNG-powered fleet and explore next-generation ship designs, the company is focusing on building vessels capable of exceeding current sustainability targets over a three-decade lifespan, according to Chief Energy Transition Officer Michele Francioni. Cruise ships designed today will enter service in five years and operate for 35 years or...

Lindblad Expeditions Reports 2026 First Quarter Financial Results

Lindblad Expeditions has financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. Natalya Leahy, Chief Executive Officer, said: β€œIn a complex macro and geopolitical environment, our team delivered another record quarter, achieving 93% occupancy- highest in the Company’s history, record yields, and 16% EBITDA growth. These results reflect the strength of our strategy and...

New 2026 Cruise Expedition Report Out Now

The global expedition cruise market is at an inflection point with serious grow expected to start again soon as the all new 2026 Expedition Cruise Market Report from Cruise Industry News captures it all. Now available for instant download in PDF format, the 280+ page report is the most comprehensive independent analysis of the expedition...

Huna Totem Expands From One Port and Eyes Global Growth

Huna Totem has built up to four ports in Alaska and is extending its reach into the Caribbean, which is a transformation that Howard Sherman, president, Huna Totem Tourism Group, said reflects both the industry’s growth and Huna Totem’s evolving ambitions. β€œIf you go back and look before COVID, it was a single destination, which...

US Joins Israel, Canada, Spain, Germany, Brazil, UK, France, Jamaica, and Other Countries in Witnessing a Potential Travel Restoration and Global Tourism Bounce Back with Lower LPG, LNG, CNG and Oil Prices as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Qatar, Turkey, Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, and Oman Pile Pressure on Iran to Accept US Peace Talks ASAP: New Update You Should Know

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/us-joins-israel-canada-spain-germany-brazil-uk-france-jamaica-and-other-countries-in-witnessing-a-potential-travel-restoration-and-global-tourism-bounce-back-with-lower-lpg-lng-cng-and-oil-p/

US Joins Israel, Canada, Spain, Germany, Brazil, UK, France, Jamaica, and Other Countries in Witnessing a Potential Travel Restoration and...

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NCLH: Weak Q3 Expected with Europe and Alaska Challenges

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings expects net yields to decline three to five percent, the company said in its earnings announcement on Monday. β€œThis updated guidance reflects both the impact of the macroeconomic environment and the extent to which those pressures have compounded the execution and commercial challenges already facing our business,” said Mark Kempa, CFO,...

Phoenix Reisen’s Amera Enters Drydock

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UAE Joins Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Singapore, UK, Canada, Australia and US as Visa Screening, Dubai Property Reforms, Golden Visa Expansion and Stricter DXB Entry Rules Transform Middle East and Worldwide Travel Trends Across India, Europe and Southeast Asia in 2026 : Latest New Update Everyone Should Know

3 May 2026 at 09:09

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UAE Joins Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Singapore, UK, Canada, Australia and US as Visa Screening, Dubai Property Reforms, Golden...

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How Cruise Passengers Plan Bike Tours During a Lisbon Stop

4 May 2026 at 23:27

Portugal has become a steady fixture on European cruise itineraries over the past decade, with ports like Lisbon, Madeira, and Porto seeing a growing number of ship visits each year.

In fact, in 2026, over 300 cruise ships will call to Lisbon.

lisbon
The cruise port of Lisbon.

For cruise passengers, that usually means a full day in port, but not a lot of time to wander too far. You’ve got a window to explore, but it needs to be efficient and easy to plan around the ship’s schedule.

That’s where bike tours have started to stand out. They offer more flexibility than a standard bus excursion, while still keeping things simple for a day in port. Around Portugal’s main cruise terminals, these tours have become a popular middle-ground option for travelers looking to see more without overcomplicating their day.

This piece is for the cruise passenger who is approaching a Lisbon, Porto, or Funchal stop and would like a clearer view of how independent bike tours actually work, how to book one without overlapping with the ship’s all-aboard time, and how to pick an operator.

The category covered by best bike tours in Portugal and similar specialised operators has standardised on a specific shore-excursion logic that cruise passengers should understand before arrival in port.

Why Does the Cruise Passenger Bike Tour Look Different From a Land-Based Bike Tour?

bike tour seine river AmaWaterways
A bike tour the river (Photo courtesy of AmaWaterways)

The first thing to understand is that a cruise-day bike tour runs on a meaningfully tighter clock than a land-based tour.

A typical ship docks at 8 AM and requires passengers back on board by 5 PM, with all-aboard usually called 30 minutes earlier. The available shore window is roughly 8 to 9 hours, of which 30 to 60 minutes is usually consumed by the queue to leave the ship in the morning and the queue to return to the ship in the afternoon.

Operators serving the cruise category typically design tours within a recognisable set of parameters: a total duration of 4 to 6 hours with a built-in return-to-port buffer, pickup at the cruise terminal or a nearby designated meeting point within walking distance, and return to that same point at a stated time with weather and traffic contingencies documented in advance.

Portugal Cruise Port

The route is physically achievable for cyclists with mixed experience levels, since cruise groups vary far more than land-based tour groups, and the headline price includes the bike rental, helmet, water, and a basic snack so the passenger does not have to carry anything beyond a small day bag.

A definition useful here: a guided port-day excursion is a structured shore activity with a fixed start time, fixed return time, and operator liability coverage tied to the ship’s all-aboard schedule. Passengers who book independent excursions outside the ship’s official program take on the responsibility for returning before all-aboard, with the ship not waiting for late returns.

The cruise lines themselves often sell bike tours, but the operators they contract with are usually higher-volume operations charging 40 to 80 percent above what an independent passenger pays directly. The trade-off is the cruise line’s all-aboard guarantee: if the cruise-line excursion runs late, the ship waits.

What Are the Major Portuguese Cruise Ports for Bike Tours?

A man and a woman ride bicycles along a sandy beach at sunset, evoking the stress-free vibe of a Caribbean cruise. The man is on a black bike, while the woman rides a red one with a child seated in the rear. The low sun casts a warm glow over this joyful family scene.

Portugal’s three primary cruise ports each support a distinctive bike-tour profile.

  • Lisbon: the most-trafficked port and the broadest tour menu. Routes typically include the BelΓ©m district, the Tagus waterfront from Cais do SodrΓ© to Parque das NaΓ§Γ΅es, and the longer 35 to 50 kilometre option to Cascais and back via the coastal cycle path. Mediterranean cruise lines that include Lisbon among their most-recommended Mediterranean cruise ports typically dock at the Santa ApolΓ³nia or AlcΓ’ntara terminals, both within easy access to bike-tour pickup points.
  • Porto: the LeixΓ΅es cruise terminal sits 7 kilometres north of central Porto, and bike tours typically operate from a meeting point in central Porto with operators arranging a shuttle or taxi from the cruise terminal. Routes include the Douro waterfront from Ribeira to Foz, the Vila Nova de Gaia port-house tour, and the longer 30 to 45 kilometre option toward the Douro Valley vineyards.
  • Funchal: Madeira’s port supports a different category of bike tour, with elevation changes that demand more cyclist fitness. Routes include the coastal Promenade from Funchal to CΓ’mara de Lobos and the more demanding Levada-side tours that combine cycling with short hiking sections.

How Should Cruise Passengers Book Independently Without Missing the Ship?

The independent-booking calculation comes down to the buffer the passenger builds into the schedule. Cruise lines call all-aboard time 30 minutes before departure, and most ships sail within 5 to 15 minutes of the scheduled departure regardless of late passengers.

A safe independent-booking framework:

  • Book a tour that ends at least 90 minutes before all-aboard, not 30 minutes
  • Confirm the operator’s documented late-return protocol before paying
  • Get the operator’s phone number on a paper card before leaving the meeting point
  • Carry the cruise line’s local agent contact number as backup
  • Plan the return to the ship using a route that has redundancy (taxi available, public transit available, walking distance achievable)

The U.S. State Department’s country information page for Portugal covers the broader entry and emergency-contact framework that cruise passengers should know, and UNESCO’s World Heritage listing for the Alto Douro Wine Region covers the cultural context that makes the longer Porto-area bike tours particularly worth the time.

What Should Cruise Passengers Look For in a Bike Tour Operator?

A scenic view of a sandy beach in Portugal, lined with colorful umbrellas and numerous beachgoers in bikinis. The turquoise sea is calm, with a few boats in the distance. In the background, a town with white buildings sits atop a hill under a partly cloudy sky.
(Photo via Pixabay)

The right operator carries a few signals worth checking before the cruise sails. Stated experience working with cruise passengers (ideally with reviews mentioning specific cruise lines and ports) sits at the top of the list, paired with a documented return-to-port protocol that names buffer times relative to all-aboard rather than waving the question away.

A typical tour group of 6 to 14 passengers usually lands in the right zone for the operator (large enough to cover costs) and the passenger (small enough for a real guide-passenger relationship).

The bike fleet should include step-through, hybrid, and electric-assist options so passengers with knee or fitness considerations are not boxed out, and the headline price should include helmet, water, snack, and a basic mechanical kit so the passenger is not nickel-and-dimed at the meeting point.

The cancellation policy needs to cover ship itinerary changes (cruise lines occasionally skip ports), and a working communication channel for the day before arrival (WhatsApp or SMS, typically) lets the operator handle last-minute coordination without a phone-tag exchange across time zones.

A definition worth knowing: an itinerary change is a cruise-line schedule modification (skipping a port, arriving late, departing early) usually announced 24 to 72 hours ahead. The better bike-tour operators have a documented policy that refunds or reschedules when the ship’s port call is altered through no fault of the passenger.

Common Mistakes Cruise Passengers Make Around Port-Day Bike Tours

A black electric bicycle with a sturdy frame is parked on a paved area under a clear blue sky, perfect for Lisbon bike tours or cruise passengers seeking scenic shore excursions among trees and green grass peeking through the pavement.

The recurring mistakes that surface in operator post-tour surveys cluster around a small set of avoidable misjudgements. Booking a tour that ends 30 minutes before all-aboard rather than 90 minutes is the most common error, and the 60-minute difference is the difference between a calm return and a panicked taxi.

Skipping the tour-operator phone number is the second pattern: cruise passengers who lose track of time without a working number for the operator often miss connections that a quick call would have salvaged.

The third is underestimating the heat in summer, since Portugal cruise season peaks in July and August when daytime highs in Lisbon and Porto reach 32 to 36 degrees Celsius, and tours in that window need earlier start times, more water, and electric-assist options for passengers who do not regularly cycle in heat.

viking river ship porto portugal
A Viking river ship in Porto, Portugal (Photo courtesy of Viking)

The cobblestone factor is the fourth misjudgement. Lisbon’s central districts are paved with calΓ§ada portuguesa, the traditional cobblestone surface, and cyclists with certain joint issues find the cobblestones uncomfortable on a standard hybrid bike (a wider-tyre or electric option helps).

Mixing the tour with a long lunch on the same day is the fifth: the 4 to 6 hour bike tour plus a 90-minute lunch plus the leaving and returning queues at the gangway consumes the full port day, and passengers who plan additional stops sometimes underestimate the cumulative time.

The sixth and final pattern is booking on price alone. The cheapest tour is rarely the right one, and the right operator is the one whose cancellation policy, return-to-port protocol, and experience with cruise passengers all hold up to a brief phone or email conversation before the ship sails.

The same comparison-shopping discipline that experienced cruisers apply to choosing among the four basic stateroom categories before booking the ship itself carries through to the shore-excursion decision once the itinerary is set.

Frequently Asked Questions From Cruise Passengers

A person on a mountain bike stands on grassy terrain, gazing at distant mountains bathed in sunrise lightβ€”a perfect scene for Lisbon bike tours or unforgettable Lisbon shore excursions under a clear blue sky.

How much should an independent bike tour in Portugal cost?

A 4 to 6 hour cruise-day bike tour in Lisbon, Porto, or Funchal typically runs €60 to €110 per passenger inclusive of bike, helmet, water, and a basic snack.

Electric-assist bikes add €15 to €25. Smaller-group premium tours with a wine tasting or specialty-food component run €120 to €180. Operators booking primarily through cruise lines charge meaningfully more for the same route.

What if the cruise line skips Lisbon or Porto due to weather?

The better independent operators have a documented refund or reschedule policy when the ship skips the port through no fault of the passenger.

The policy should be in writing before the tour is paid. Some operators offer credit toward a future booking; others refund 70 to 100 percent depending on how much advance notice they receive. The cancellation conversation should happen at booking time, not after the ship has already skipped the port.

Are electric-assist bikes worth the upgrade?

For most passengers over 50, in Portugal’s hilly central districts, on a tour longer than 25 kilometres, or in summer heat, yes. The electric assist evens out the elevation profile that otherwise becomes the limiting factor for mixed-fitness groups. The €15 to €25 premium typically pays for itself in the willingness to actually finish the route rather than turning back early.

Can solo cruise passengers join a tour without a companion?

Yes. Most operators run tours with mixed solo-and-couple bookings, and a typical tour of 8 to 12 passengers usually has 2 or 3 solo travelers. Solo cyclists generally find the experience welcoming, and the smaller-group format makes it easier to chat with fellow passengers than the larger cruise-line excursions allow.

A Final Note for Cruise Passengers Planning a Portuguese Port Day

The Portuguese cruise itinerary is one of the cleaner European cruise destinations to combine with independent shore excursions, and a quality bike tour is one of the highest-value-per-hour options available in the 8 to 12 hour port window.

The passengers who book carefully (with a 90-minute buffer before all-aboard, a phone number for the operator, and a documented refund policy if the ship skips the port) come back to the ship calm, on time, and with a meaningfully better understanding of the destination than the bus-tour passenger who saw the same neighborhoods through a coach window.

The Portuguese cycling network is built for the casual visitor, the operators serving the cruise category have matured into a real specialty service, and the planning effort required is small compared with the experience-quality difference at the end of the day.

The Skies are Open! The Heart-Stopping Moment the UAE Lifted its 2026 Flight Ban

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Three Dead in Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship

4 May 2026 at 22:37

Three passengers have died and at least three others are ill in a suspected hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius, an expedition cruise ship currently anchored off Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. The World Health Organization confirmed the situation Sunday.

A large cruise ship with a dark blue hull and white upper decks sails through icy Arctic waters, surrounded by floating ice, with rugged mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.

Of the six symptomatic individuals, just one case of hantavirus infection has been confirmed in a laboratory so far, while the other five are suspected cases, the WHO said.

Two crew members, one British and one Dutch national, are currently experiencing acute respiratory symptoms requiring urgent care, according to ship operator Oceanwide Expeditions.

Dutch couple among the dead

Two of the deceased were a married couple. A 70-year-old Dutch man died onboard on April 11 and was declared dead on arrival to the remote Atlantic island of Saint Helena on April 24. His 69-year-old wife collapsed at Johannesburg’s international airport while attempting to fly home to the Netherlands and died there.

Oceanwide Expeditions said at the time that it had not confirmed whether the couple’s deaths were connected to the onboard outbreak.

The third victim was a German national, although the official cause of death has not been established, Oceanwide said.

One confirmed hantavirus case

After the ship left Saint Helena, a British national fell sick on April 27. He is now in critical condition at a private medical facility in Johannesburg and is the only case confirmed to be hantavirus, according to South Africa’s Health Department. The UK’s Foreign Office said it is monitoring the situation and is in touch with the cruise company and local authorities.

Oceanwide Expeditions said 149 people remain onboard, including 17 Americans. They will not be allowed to disembark in Cape Verde, the island nation’s health minister told Radio Cabo Verde. The ship is considering sailing to Las Palmas or Tenerife in the Canary Islands for disembarkation.

How hantavirus spreads

Hantavirus is most commonly spread when infected rodents’ urine, saliva, or droppings dry out and become airborne, and humans become infected by inhaling the contaminated particles, according to the WHO. There is no dedicated treatment or cure, though early detection improves the odds of survival. Unlike norovirus, which is commonly reported on cruise ships, hantavirus cases at sea are essentially unheard of.

The WHO stressed there is no need for alarm. β€œThe risk to the wider public remains low. There is no need for panic or travel restrictions,” WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge said.

β€œDetailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew,” the WHO said.

The MV Hondius, operated by Netherlands-based Oceanwide Expeditions, departed Ushuaia, Argentina and made stops in Antarctica and Saint Helena before anchoring off Cape Verde. The ship has a passenger capacity of 170.

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WHO Confirms Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Anchored Off Cape Verde After Three Passengers Die

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Star Princess Debuts in Seattle as Alaska Season Begins

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Coimbra, Portugal: Build Unbreakable Family Bonds in This Ancient City of Dreams

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Oceanwide Provides Timeline Update on Hondius Medical Situation

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NCLH Trims Shoreside Staff, Eyes Offshoring

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is working quickly to optimize expenses, including making significant cutbacks shoreside. β€œWhile ship operating costs had remained relatively consistent over the past several years, we see a meaningful opportunity to reduce our shoreside costs,” said John Chidsey, chairperson and CEO, speaking on the company’s second quarter earnings call. β€œAs part of...

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Seychelles Introduces Comprehensive Cruise Strategy with UN Support

2 May 2026 at 11:58

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How Airline Shutdown and Resulting Cruise Chaos Is a Teachable Moment

3 May 2026 at 18:21

Among the many people dealing with the unexpected shutdown of Spirit Airlines are hundreds of cruise passengers. With literally no advance notice, they are suddenly scrambling to find alternative modes of transport in order to board their awaiting ship.

What Spirit Airlines Said

While Spirit has faced financial struggles for years, their sudden closure caught most by surprise. β€œIt is with great disappointment that on May 2, 2026, Spirit Airlines started an orderly wind down of our operations, effective immediately.”

Making it entirely clear, the airline went on to say β€œall flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available.”

A yellow Spirit Airlines airplane is flying above the clouds with a blue sky in the background. The word "spirit" is prominently displayed on the side as it cruises along, unaffected by any Spirit shutdown rumors.

Even as this news was impacting both travelers and Spirt Airlines employees who suddenly found themselves both unemployed and, in many cases, stranded, other airlines stepped up to help. Several β€” including JetBlue, Southwest, United and Delta β€” agreed to cap ticket prices for displaced Spirit Airlines guests with confirmation of payment.

These airlines agreed to do so for limited times ranging from 72 hours to two weeks.

How Cruisers Are Reacting

Given that Spirit Airlines has become the popular butt of many a joke in recent years, it’s not surprising that some turned the news into a commonly-repeated punchline: β€œOn the plus side,” their general sentiment read, β€œno one will ever have to fly Spirit Airlines again!” 

Those impacted by the unexpected closure, however, weren’t laughing.

β€œWe booked our flights and paid our fare months ago,” wrote one Redditor of their sudden plight. β€œNow we’re at the airport trying to find a flight that won’t cost us a fortune. And no, before you ask, we didn’t buy travel insurance, which I always have in the past!” 

Another passenger shared a similar story. β€œWe were literally heading out the door when my sister called to tell me the news,” she shared in a Facebook cruise group. β€œI thought she was joking and told her it wasn’t funny. Well, joke’s on me because now our only option is to drive seven hours and hope we make it!”

Moving Forward

A common theme among cruisers addressing the shutdown? Buy travel insurance. β€œI don’t want to say I told you so,” wrote one Redditor, β€œbut yeah, I told you so. Always buy travel insurance.” 

A close-up of a hand holding a Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance document, with a suitcase and a boarding pass on a table in the foreground and an airplane visible through an airport window in the background.

The other commonly shared advice? To always fly to your embarkation point at least a day in advance. In fact, Norwegian Cruise Line recently instituted a policy requiring that anyone taking advantage of their Air/Sea program to do exactly that. Why? In the event of travel delays which might derail one’s arrival at the cruise port in a timely manner.

Read Next: Everything You Need to Know About Travel Insurance

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1 May 2026 at 20:12

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MSC Cruises Launches Summer 2028 Caribbean Sailings: New Private Island, Exciting Itineraries, and More

1 May 2026 at 18:12

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/msc-cruises-launches-summer-2028-caribbean-sailings-new-private-island-exciting-itineraries-and-more/

MSC Cruises Launches Summer 2028 Caribbean Sailings: New Private Island, Exciting Itineraries, and MoreMSC Cruises has officially opened bookings for...

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Source: Travel And Tour World

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Original Source: Travel And Tour World
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Star Clippers Reveals 2027 Greek Island Sailings

Star Clippers has introduced a new collection of 2027 Greek Island sailings aboard the Star Flyer. The itineraries showcasing smaller ports across the Aegean are now open for booking, with departures throughout the spring and fall seasons, the cruise line said in a press release. β€œThese new 2027 Greek itinerariesβ€”and the added value of the...

Riviera Travel Expands No Single Supplement Cabins for Solo Travelers

Riviera Travel is expanding its offerings of no single supplement cabins across some of its most popular European river cruises for 2026, according to an announcement. Solo travelers can now book select departures on itineraries including The Blue Danube, Cruise the Heart of Europe, Rhine, Moselle & Medieval Germany, The Douro, Porto & Salamanca, and...

Mount Roberts Tram in Juneau Closes After Two Employees Are Injured

3 May 2026 at 13:25

Alaska’s Goldbelt Tram, located beside Juneau’s downtown cruise dock, will remain closed for several days after two employees were hospitalized following an accident at the base station.

The incident happened just days after the 2026 Juneau cruise season got underway.

No cruise passengers were involved

A red building with large windows stands before a forested hillside, where cables lead up to a tram station. In the foreground, a wooden railing and pier evoke the sense of adventure often found on an Alaska cruise.

A cable car came into the base station faster than expected, injuring two staff members who were later taken to the hospital. One was unconscious at the scene, but both were released over the weekend.

Goldbelt confirmed five employees were aboard the tram at the time and no cruise guests were present. The three other staffers did not require medical treatment.

Capital City Fire and Rescue responded to the scene, saying it β€œsuccessfully stabilized the cabin and gained access to all occupants.”

The tram remained closed Friday and is not expected to reopen for several days. Director of Operations and Facilities Ben Moorhead said representatives from the lift manufacturer and state safety officials are traveling to Juneau to assess the situation.

β€œIt came in faster than anticipated, and docked at a higher rate of speed,” Moorhead said. He added that coordination is underway with the lift manufacturer to determine what happened and make necessary repairs.

Tram ride is a popular shore activity for cruisers

The Goldbelt Tram is one of Juneau’s most popular attractions for cruise guests. It carries riders 1,800 feet up Mount Roberts, offering panoramic views of downtown Juneau and the Gastineau Channel.

At the top, visitors can explore hiking trails, a bar and grill, a gift shop and a theater.

The closure comes at the start of what is already a closely watched season.

The 2026 Juneau cruise season began just days ago with the arrival of Holland America Line’s Eurodam and marks the first year operating under new daily cruise passenger limits.

Morocco’s Tourism Revenue Hits Record $3.1 Billion in Q1 2026

1 May 2026 at 12:59

Read full article: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/moroccos-tourism-revenue-hits-record-3-1-billion-in-q1-2026/

Morocco’s Tourism Revenue Hits Record $3.1 Billion in Q1 2026Discover why Morocco's tourism revenue surged by 24% in Q1 2026,...

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Source: Travel And Tour World

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How to Avoid Hidden Cruise Fees Before You Sail

3 May 2026 at 06:04

Cruise vacations still offer a lot of value, but the way you pay for them has changed. Today’s cruise experience is more Γ  la carte, with a mix of included amenities and optional add-ons that can quickly increase the total cost.

A large cruise ship with a blue hull and yellow lifeboats is docked at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal beside a white domed building, with city buildings and cranes visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)

The frustration isn’t the extra charges themselves, it’s not knowing what to expect ahead of time. A little preparation can make a big difference.

Here are seven ways to avoid feeling nickel-and-dimed on your next cruise.

This article was originally published in 2017 and has been updated to reflect current cruise pricing, packages, and onboard policies.

1. Know Before You Go

The easiest way to avoid feeling nickel-and-dimed on a cruise is to understand what’s included before you even step onboard. Your cruise fare typically covers your cabin, main dining venues, entertainment, and transportation between ports. But a lot of extras fall outside of that base price.

Gratuities, shore excursions, drink packages, WiFi, and specialty dining are some of the most common add-ons. In recent years, cruise lines have also expanded paid options, including premium restaurants, exclusive deck areas, and certain onboard experiences.

The more familiar you are with your specific ship and cruise line ahead of time, the easier it is to set a realistic budget and avoid surprises once you’re onboard.

2. Set Expectations

The NCL Norwegian Sky, adorned with colorful hull artwork, sails on calm blue water near a city skyline at sunset. The sky is partly cloudy with soft sunlight, marking the ship's final season in this stunning setting.

Part of avoiding that β€œnickel-and-dimed” feeling comes down to expectations. If you go into a cruise assuming everything is included, those extra charges can feel frustrating. But if you already know where the added costs are, they’re much easier to accept.

Most modern cruise ships offer a mix of included and for-fee experiences. That can range from specialty dining and premium drinks to spa treatments and certain attractions. It’s not necessarily about being overcharged, it’s about how those options are presented once you’re onboard.

Going in with a clear understanding of what you’re likely to pay for helps remove the surprise factor. And in many cases, that’s what makes the biggest difference in how you feel about your overall cruise experience.

3. Use a Travel Agent

A good travel agent can help you understand what to expect on your specific ship before you sail, but you can also get a solid overview by reviewing a Carnival Cruise Line guide ahead of time.

For example, if you’re booking a cruise on one of Norwegian’s newer ships, an agent can explain options like The Vibe Beach Club or specialty dining packages, including how pricing works and whether it makes sense to book ahead of time.

Even if you’re used to booking on your own, having someone walk you through the details can help you avoid surprises later. It’s less about the cost itself and more about how those options are presented.

4. Book All-Inclusive (or Bundled Options)

A large Virgin Ship Brilliant Lady, debuting in 2025, sailing on the ocean at sunset.
(Photo Courtesy of Richard Branson/Facebook)

One way to limit surprise charges is to bundle as much as you can before your cruise. While most mainstream cruise lines aren’t fully all-inclusive, many now offer packages that combine things like drinks, WiFi, specialty dining, and shore excursion credits.

Some cruise lines promote these as β€˜included’ perks, but that doesn’t always mean everything is fully covered. In many cases, gratuities or upgrade fees still apply, especially with drink packages and WiFi plans.

If you’re looking for a more straightforward experience, luxury cruise lines tend to include more upfront, sometimes covering drinks, excursions, and even airfare. But for most travelers, bundled packages on mainstream lines can still offer good value as long as you know what’s included and what isn’t.

5. Make a Plan

Once you understand what costs extra, it helps to go in with a basic plan. That doesn’t mean scheduling every minute, but having an idea of what you actually want to spend money on.

If there are specialty restaurants you want to try, excursions you don’t want to miss, or packages you’re considering, decide that ahead of time. That way, you’re choosing where to spend instead of reacting to every offer once you’re onboard.

A little planning goes a long way. It helps you prioritize your onboard spending around what matters most and keeps those extra charges from adding up without you realizing it.

6. Stick to Your Plan

A row of brightly lit slot machines lines one side of the Carnival Mardi Gras casino, featuring colorful carpeting and empty chairs. The environment is clean and modern, recently refreshed after dry dock, with ceiling lights and digital displays.

It’s easy to loosen up once you’re onboard. You’re on vacation, everything is right in front of you, and it’s designed to be tempting. That’s part of the experience.

But if you’ve already decided what’s worth spending on, it helps to stick to it. That doesn’t mean you can’t be flexible, but having a plan gives you a baseline so you’re not making every decision in the moment.

Even a little discipline can keep your onboard spending from getting out of hand, especially on longer cruises where those extra charges can add up quickly.

7. Keep a Rainy Day Fund

Even with a plan, unexpected costs can still come up. Whether it’s a last-minute excursion, a specialty dinner you didn’t plan on, or something small that adds up over time, it helps to have a little cushion set aside.

Think of it as built-in flexibility rather than a backup for mistakes. That way, if you do decide to spend a little more than expected, it doesn’t take away from the overall experience.

Having that buffer can make it easier to enjoy the trip without second-guessing every purchase along the way.

8. Check Pricing Before You Sail

CARNIVAL CELEBRATION PORT MIAMI

Cruise lines now make it easier to preview and book many extras before your trip. From drink packages to shore excursions, pricing is often available in the cruise line’s app or website ahead of time.

In many cases, these options are cheaper to book before you board. Taking a few minutes to review pricing in advance can help you avoid paying more onboard and gives you a better idea of what your total cruise cost will look like.

Final Thought:

Cruising today is more customizable than it used to be, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The key is understanding what’s included, what costs extra, and deciding ahead of time what matters most to you.

Once you go in with a plan, those added options feel less like surprises and more like choices. And that makes it a lot easier to enjoy the experience without worrying about the final bill.

Margaritaville at SeaΒ HonorsΒ Heroes with New Ship Venue, Cruise Giveaway

Margaritaville at SeaΒ has announced several initiativesΒ to celebrateΒ the Hero communityΒ duringΒ Heroes MonthΒ inΒ May. Active and former duty military, first responders, nurses and educatorsΒ will be celebrated throughout the monthΒ with experiences onboard and beyond the ship.Β  According to a statement, the initiative builds on itsΒ Heroes Sail Free programΒ launched in 2022 in partnership withΒ GOVX.Β  β€œHeroes month is about more than recognizing...

Windstar Rolls Out Perks for Travel Advisor Appreciation Month

Windstar Cruises has presented benefits available to travel advisors during Travel Advisor Appreciation Month in May. According to a statement, this includes rewards, incentives and booking tools. β€œTravel advisors are at the heart of everything we do,” said Janet Bava, Windstar’s chief commercial officer. β€œTheir knowledge, dedication, and ability to match the right guest with...

Signature Travel Network Hosts Horizon Club in Australia

Signature Travel Network brought together approximately 70 agency owners for Horizon Club, an invitation-only recognition experience held across Sydney and Melbourne, Australia, from April 12 to 19, according to an announcement. Hosted by The Travel Answers Group, the Horizon Club represents Signature’s recognition for agency owners. β€œThe Horizon Club trip was a fantastic opportunity for...

Royal Caribbean Wants to Own Texas Market

Royal Caribbean Group has set its sights on the Texas cruise market. β€œWe’re expecting to own the Texas market as it relates to cruising into the Caribbean,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, speaking on the company’s first quarter earnings call April 30. A new terminal that opened in 2022 in...

Avalon Waterways Introduces Seasonal Excursions for 2027

Avalon Waterways has unveiled new seasonal excursions for 2027 designed to take place exclusively during specific times of the year, according to a press release. The excursions span spring, summer, fall and winter and are timed to regional activities and traditions. β€œOur new seasonal excursions connect our guests more deeply to the places they’re exploring,”...

Lufthansa recovers missing Oscar after TSA refused to let director carry it onto flight

Pavel Talankin, co-director of Mr. Nobody Against Putin, sits smiling on red-carpeted theatre steps in a black tuxedo and bow tie, holding his gold Academy Award statuette after winning the Best Documentary Feature award at the 2026 Academy AwardsLufthansa has recovered an Academy Award statuette that went missing after a TSA security agent at New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport barred Russian director Pavel Talankin from carrying it onto a flight to Frankfurt, […]

Kentucky Derby week brings thousands of visitors to Louisville as Churchill Downs hosts two days of racing

Churchill Downs entrance with the Barbaro bronze statue in the foregroundChurchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, is hosting one of the most celebrated weekends in American sport and travel, with the 152nd Kentucky Oaks and the 152nd Kentucky Derby taking place on consecutive days. Tens of […]

Spirit Airlines is gone: all flights cancelled and 17,000 jobs lost as carrier closes for good

Empty Spirit Airlines check-in desks and self-service kiosks at an airport terminalSpirit Airlines has ceased all operations effective immediately, cancelling every scheduled flight and leaving approximately 17,000 employees out of work. The Florida-based budget carrier announced the shutdown in a statement published in the early hours […]
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