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
It appears Jennifer Frost first encountered the teen — identified only as NJ in court, given her status as a minor — 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 “expressed satisfaction with her actions.”
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.
Passengers Left Stranded at Sarasota/Bradenton International as Delta, Allegiant, American Airlines, and More Face 12 Delays and 3 Cancellations Impacting...
Big 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 […]
Football star Mesut Özil met fans and led a youth training session at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in Penang on 29 April 2026, drawing around 500 participants to the campus. The event, organised by the […]
In Iraq’s holy city of Najaf, the shrine of Imam Ali stands unusually quiet as the regional war keeps pilgrims away. Shopkeepers and hotel owners near the site say the loss of visitors has left […]
A fountain show at Tokyo Aqua Symphony at Odaiba Marine Park has opened to the public. The name reflects the concept of harmony between Tokyo’s waterfront scenery and the fountain’s choreography, music, and LED lighting […]
When people think about visiting London, iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower Bridge often dominate the conversation. While these attractions are undeniably worth seeing, they only scratch the surface of what […]
Spanish budget airline Volotea has started adding a fuel surcharge to some tickets as jet fuel prices rise sharply, including on bookings that passengers had already made. The move may help airlines offset higher costs, […]
The United States Postal Service has marked the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a new set of eight stamps celebrating one of America’s best-known roads. The 2,448-mile route runs across the United States and […]
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 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 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. “In a complex macro and geopolitical environment, our team delivered another record quarter,” she...
Jamaica 2026 Tourism in Crisis Response Mode: Swift National Coordination and Aviation Resilience After Spirit Airlines Shutdown Disrupts Caribbean Travel...
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...
Bahamas police opened an investigation following the drowning death of an elderly cruise ship passenger.
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 (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.
BestCities Global Alliance has confirmed that its flagship Global Forum will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 21-24 January 2027, marking the event’s 10th anniversary. The announcement signals a milestone edition of the […]
Back in 1996, a quiet office in Willemstad opened its doors and changed the course of a Caribbean island. Most travelers passing through Curacao that year had no idea. They came for the pastel buildings, […]
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. “We are extremely proud...
Caribbean and United States Travel: Exploring the Caribbean’s Most Beautiful Less‑Crowded Beaches for Tranquil 2026 EscapesExplore the Caribbean’s most beautiful...
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...
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 has financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. Natalya Leahy, Chief Executive Officer, said: “In 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...
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 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. “If you go back and look before COVID, it was a single destination, which...
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings expects net yields to decline three to five percent, the company said in its earnings announcement on Monday. “This 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,...
Following her 134-day world cruise, Phoenix Reisen’s Amera entered drydock this week at Chantiers Naval de Marseille for scheduled refurbishment work. Working with the ship management company BSM, Phoenix Reisen is investing approximately 15 million euros in a number of upgrades. Work will cover the modernization of 160 guest bathrooms as well as the redesign...
France Travel Boom Ignites As Disneyland Paris Anniversary Spectacle Unleashes Record Crowds And New Attractions For Global TouristsFrance travel surges...
Greece Invests in Accessible and Inclusive Tourism, Enhancing Infrastructure and Services to Ensure Everyone Can Enjoy their Beauty, Boosting Tourism...
Explore the World’s Most Remarkable Tunnel in Switzerland That Transforms Travel Across EuropeDiscover Switzerland’s remarkable Gotthard Base Tunnel, a groundbreaking...
China and Australia Highlight Surge in Cross-Border Tourism as Travelers Seek Deeper Cultural Experiences Beyond Attractions: Essential Updates for Travel...
Greece Strengthens Coastal Protection with Expanded “Untouched Beaches” Policy Banning Sunbeds, Umbrellas and Watersports: All You Need to KnowGreece expands...
An Emirates flight from London Heathrow to Dubai was held on the ground after mobile phone alerts warned of new Iranian drone and missile attacks in the United Arab Emirates. The Airbus A380 had pushed […]
The UAE has restored full air operations after months of disruption caused by the US-Israel conflict with Iran, marking a major step towards recovery for regional travel and key hubs, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. […]
Three months into his post as Chairperson and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, John Chidsey is orchestrating a turnaround at the Norwegian Cruise Line brand, targeting internal execution failures he said are fixable. Speaking on the company’s first quarter 2026 earnings call, Chidsey pointed to the work head, describing missteps in marketing, revenue management...
Celestyal Cruises announced that its two ships have welcomed guests back in the Mediterranean, resuming their regular sailing schedule in the region. The Celestyal Journey and the Celestyal Discovery returned to Europe in late April after spending nearly two months stranded in the Arabian Gulf. After arriving back in Greece earlier this month, the ships...
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.
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?
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.
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?
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 Belém district, the Tagus waterfront from Cais do Sodré to Parque das Nações, 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 Apolónia or Alcântara terminals, both within easy access to bike-tour pickup points.
Porto: the Leixões 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 Câmara 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)
What Should Cruise Passengers Look For in a Bike Tour Operator?
(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
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.
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 calçada 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
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.
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.
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.
“Detailed 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.
Joe Maloney has been appointed as president of VacationPort, formerly Passport Online. Maloney brings more than two decades of leadership experience across the cruise and travel sectors, most recently serving as head of sales for Mitsui Ocean Cruises. According to a press release, he will lead VacationPort into its next chapter, focusing on innovation and...
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is reassessing its bundled air program after Chairperson and CEO John Chidsey acknowledged on the company’s first quarter 2026 earnings call that the offering had been functioning more as a promotional subsidy than a genuine value-creating tool. Speaking on May 4, Chidsey said the program was being evaluated through the same...
Margaritaville at Sea has announced its first national brand campaign, “Welcome to Somewhere,” rolling out in May. Described as an effort to strengthen brand voice, the campaign is designed to place focus on the journey as much as on the destination. In it, the company is presented as a more relaxed, emotionally driven alternative to...
Antarctica21 announced in a press release that it had a busy 2025–26 expedition season, having sold 92 percent of its berth inventory. The company welcomed 2,847 travelers from 53 nationalities aboard with 40 percent coming from North America and 60 percent from the rest of the world. The season saw 42 voyages to Antarctica, South...
Major US cities are finalising their Cinco de Mayo 2026 programmes as the holiday officially arrives on Tuesday, 5 May, with parades, cultural festivals, live music, and culinary events scheduled from coast to coast. The […]
Australia’s largest new museum, Powerhouse Parramatta, is set to open in Western Sydney late 2026, marking the country’s most significant cultural infrastructure project since the Sydney Opera House. The 30,000sqm building, designed by Franco-Japanese architects […]
ITA Airways has launched the first nonstop service between Rome Fiumicino Airport and Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, closing a longstanding gap in transatlantic connectivity between the two cities. The inaugural flight operated on May […]
Atlas Ocean Voyages has formally transitioned to an all-suite experience across its fleet, reflecting the brand’s continued commitment to delivering a consistently elevated standard of luxury expedition travel. Effective April 2026, all guest accommodation will be […]
Princess Cruises has launched its new Star Princess for the 2026 Alaska season, with the next-generation ship now sailing weekly roundtrip voyages from Seattle. The vessel will operate 20 departures between May 3 and September […]
The World Health Organization has confirmed a hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius, a cruise ship anchored off the coast of Cape Verde in the Atlantic Ocean, after three passengers died and three others fell […]
A China Eastern Airlines aircraft struck an aerobridge on Saturday, 2 May, on arrival at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport after arriving from the city of the giant pandas Chengdu, as reported in South China Morning Post. […]
Emirates has restored 96% of its global network, marking a near-full return to operations as travel demand continues to rise. The airline now serves 137 destinations across 72 countries, offering more than 1,300 weekly flights, […]
TUI Hotels & Resorts is set to mark the Asian debut of its luxury hospitality brand, Mora, with the opening of The Mora Singapore in September 2026. The brand is aimed at holidaymakers who value […]
Princess Cruises has welcomed its newest ship, the Star Princess, to Port of Seattle, which will serve as its homeport for the inaugural Alaska season. The ship is set to sail 20 weekly roundtrip voyages from Pier 91 through Alaska’s Inside Passage from May 3 to September 13, 2026. To mark the occasion, a maritime plaque exchange was held between...
Jordan Freese was appointed group sales and operations manager for North America at Hurtigruten. This is the first time a fully dedicated resource will be allocated to group sales following the split from HX, the company said in a press release. Freese joins the company from Incredible Adventure, where she was general manager. “Jordan joining...
Carnival Corporation has broken ground for its new global headquarters in Miami. This marks the official start of construction on the new campus in Waterford Business District, with site work scheduled to begin immediately. To mark the occasion, Miami-Dade County formally recognized May 1 as “Carnival Place Day,” the cruise line said in a statement. “Breaking ground at 887 Carnival Place feels less like a beginning and more like a natural next step...
Oceanwide Expeditions has provided a timeline of the ongoing medical situation onboard the Hondius, which is currently off the coast of Cape Verde, according to a May 4 press update. On April 11, a passenger died onboard. The company said the cause of death could not be determined onboard. On April 24, this passenger was...
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is working quickly to optimize expenses, including making significant cutbacks shoreside. “While 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. “As part of...
Gibraltar-Spain Open Border Deal Bring Major Travel Changes Arriving This July: Everything You Need to KnowGibraltar introduces sweeping post-Brexit border...
How Billings Honors Tourism and Local Brewing During May FestivalsExplore May’s vibrant festivities in Billings, featuring National Travel and Tourism...
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026 and provided guidance for the second quarter and full year 2026. Highlights First quarter total revenue grew 10% to $2.3 billion. GAAP net income was $105 million, with EPS of $0.23. Delivered Adjusted EBITDA of $533 million in first quarter...
Orca AI has signed a memorandum of understanding with Samsung Heavy Industries to jointly develop and deploy autonomous vessel technologies, according to a press release. The collaboration will combine Samsung Heavy Industries’ autonomous solutions with Orca AI’s AI-powered maritime operations platform, enabling deployment of AI-assisted navigation, berthing and speed optimization across newbuild vessels and existing...
As Millennials and Gen Z drive demand for purpose-driven travel, HX Expeditions is leaning into science, education, and community engagement to differentiate itself from traditional cruise lines, according to Chief Executive Officer Gebhard Rainer. He noted that while geographic expansion is vital for customer retention, the depth of the experience is paramount. “Every customer you...
Royal Caribbean Group has been building the infrastructure of a loyalty ecosystem, including status matching across brands and a co-branded credit card. That appears to be paying off as repeat guests are big spenders, said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, speaking on the company’s earnings call on Thursday, April 30. “They tend to sell on...
Seychelles Introduces Comprehensive Cruise Strategy with UN SupportSeychelles unveils a strategic blueprint for cruise tourism development, aiming for sustainable growth...
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called for stricter security measures at the country’s tourist and archaeological sites after a lone gunman opened fire on visitors at the Teotihuacan pyramids, killing one Canadian tourist and injuring […]
Dubai Sets New Standards in Passenger Rights Protection: DCAA Launches Revolutionary Complaints Portal for Flight Delays, Baggage Issues, and Denied...
Tasmania’s Strategic Move to Boost Tourism: How Singapore and Indonesia Trade Mission Will Drive Visitor GrowthTasmania’s trade mission to Singapore...
United States: United Airlines Passenger’s Viral Deplaning Confrontation Sparks Backlash, Exposing Poor Aisle Etiquette-What You Need to KnowA United Airlines...
Papua New Guinea Now Has Access to Starlink’s High-Speed Internet, Transforming Connectivity for Remote Areas, Businesses, and Tourists with Reliable...
Oceanwide Expeditions has confirmed three guests have passed away onboard the Hondius which is currently located off the coast of Cape Verde. Media reports said the 174-guest ship is battling a hantavirus outbreak. Information regarding the number of guests and crew aboard was not immediately available. In addition, one passenger is currently being treated in...
Fiesta Americana Travelty Collection Launches Innovative Advisor Booking Platform: What You Nered To KnowFiesta Americana Travelty Collection introduces a new...
Star Alliance Unveils New Lounge at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport Terminal 3, Enhancing its Comfort and Functionality for International TravelersStar...
Club Med Québec Charlevoix Summer Launch Redefines Mountain Holidays with Nostalgic Adventure and Wellness EscapeClub Med Québec Charlevoix is launching...
The Global Allure of Türkiye: Exploring the Cultural and Sporting Events Driving 2026’s Record-Breaking Growth TrendsThe significant growth of Türkiye’s...
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. “It 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 “all flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available.”
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 — including JetBlue, Southwest, United and Delta — 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: “On the plus side,” their general sentiment read, “no one will ever have to fly Spirit Airlines again!”
Those impacted by the unexpected closure, however, weren’t laughing.
“We booked our flights and paid our fare months ago,” wrote one Redditor of their sudden plight. “Now 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. “We were literally heading out the door when my sister called to tell me the news,” she shared in a Facebook cruise group. “I 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. “I don’t want to say I told you so,” wrote one Redditor, “but yeah, I told you so. Always buy travel insurance.”
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.
P&O Cruises has announced its Early May Bank Holiday offer with discounted fares for additional guests on summer sailings. For new bookings made before May 5, 2026, third and fourth guests sail from £49 per person when booking a balcony cabin with two full paying adults, according to a statement. The deal applies to selected...
Discover The Nautilus Maldives: A Green Globe Certified Eco-Luxury RetreatThe Nautilus Maldives earns Green Globe Certification for its commitment to...
AmaWaterways has prepared benefits for Travel Advisor Appreciation Month in May. Advisors can take advantage of incentives, educational opportunities and giveaways, according to a statement. “Travel advisors remain at the heart of everything we do, and Travel Advisor Appreciation Month is an important opportunity for us to recognize their ongoing support and partnership,” said Catherine...
Trafalgar is launching a limited-time deal offering savings on select European river cruises. The Spotlight Savings offer is available on a range of 2026 and 2027 departures across Rhine and Danube itineraries while inventory lasts. It features solo supplement deals and shipboard credit for suite bookings, according to a statement. “River cruising continues to see...
MSC Cruises Launches Summer 2028 Caribbean Sailings: New Private Island, Exciting Itineraries, and MoreMSC Cruises has officially opened bookings for...
Aurora Expeditions Delivers Record Antarctic Season With 30 Voyages, World Southernmost Voyage and AI Innovation SurgeAurora Expeditions has completed its...
Tourvest Accommodation Launches Tulia, a New Safari Brand Offering High-Quality, Experience-Led Travel at the Accessible Prices, Expanding their Presence in...
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. “These new 2027 Greek itineraries—and the added value of the...
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...
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 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 “successfully 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.
“It 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.
Tourists and Business Travelers Rejoice: Washington Dulles Airport Launches Nonstop Flights to Seoul, Enhancing Direct Access to South KoreaTravelers gain...
Japan’s Fukushima Site Now Transforms into Dark Tourism Destination, Attracting Global TravelersFifteen years after Japan’s Fukushima nuclear disaster, the wrecked...
Russia Joins Kyrgyzstan, India, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan in Pioneering Collaborative Efforts as China and Vietnam Strengthen Ties to Unlock Unprecedented...
Singapore Airlines Enhances Travel Experience with New Hotel Check-In and Baggage Drop Service in SingaporeSingapore Airlines introduces an innovative downtown...
Cruise vacations still offer a lot of value, but the way you pay for them has changed. Today’s cruise experience is more à la carte, with a mix of included amenities and optional add-ons that can quickly increase the total cost.
(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
Part of avoiding that “nickel-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)
(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 ‘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
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
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.
Bridging Continents: The Emerging Strategic Tourism Alliance Between Vietnam and VenezuelaVietnam and Venezuela enhance tourism ties through eco-travel, digital shifts,...
Croatia Joins American, Spirit, Brazil, Lufthansa and More Airlines Around the World Investing to Develop Infrastructure, Expanding Fleet Size, Launching...
Europe Rolls Out Fingerprint-Scanning Biometric Border System Across 29 Countries as United States Tourism Plummets 5.5% and Barcelona Doubles Overnight...
Margaritaville at Sea has announced several initiatives to celebrate the Hero community during Heroes Month in May. Active and former duty military, first responders, nurses and educators will be celebrated throughout the month with experiences onboard and beyond the ship. According to a statement, the initiative builds on its Heroes Sail Free program launched in 2022 in partnership with GOVX. “Heroes month is about more than recognizing...
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. “Travel advisors are at the heart of everything we do,” said Janet Bava, Windstar’s chief commercial officer. “Their knowledge, dedication, and ability to match the right guest with...
Clera Challenges Recruiting Industry With AI Talent Agent Representing Candidates, Secures Three Million USD Funding SurgeClera is reshaping recruitment by...
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. “The Horizon Club trip was a fantastic opportunity for...
Brussels Airlines and Lufthansa Group Change Baggage Policy, Introducing Fees for Carry-On Luggage, Everything You Need to KnowBrussels Airlines introduces...
China’s Aviation Powerhouse Shatters Expectations with Unbelievable Q1 Profit Surge — But Will Soaring Fuel Prices Ground the Rebound?China’s leading...
Santorini Joins Venice, Dubrovnik, Kyoto, Phuket, Chicago, Amsterdam and More Global Cities Facing Intense Tourist Pressure as Locals Are Outnumbered:...
Royal Caribbean Group has set its sights on the Texas cruise market. “We’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 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. “Our new seasonal excursions connect our guests more deeply to the places they’re exploring,”...
Lufthansa 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, […]
Formula 1 has returned to Miami for the fifth consecutive year, with more than 275,000 spectators expected at the Miami International Autodrome over the course of the Grand Prix weekend. The event, centred on the […]
Churchill 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 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 […]
Jordan Travel Guide: How the Public Security Directorate is Championing Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Conscious ExplorationJordan Public Security Directorate promotes ecotourism,...
Taiwan Welcomes Canadian Tourists with Open Arms Offering the Perfect Balance of Adventure, Comfort and Connectivity for an Unforgettable JourneyTaiwan...
ITA Airways Revolutionizes Travel Sustainability with AI-Driven Technology to Achieve Major Fuel Savings and Emissions ReductionsITA Airways is revolutionizing sustainable...
Thailand and China Forge a Historic Tourism Partnership for 2026–2030 Aiming to Boost High-Value Segments, Expand Connectivity, and Foster Sustainable...
Carnival Cruise Line has retired many of its earliest ships over the decades, but most didn’t simply disappear.
Many went on to second lives with other cruise lines before eventually being scrapped, especially after the 2020 shutdown.
Below is a look at some of Carnival’s former ships and what ultimately happened to them.
Ship
Entered Service
Later Service Name(s)
Final Fate
Mardi Gras
1972
Olympic, Apollon
Scrapped (2003)
Carnivale
1976
Fiesta Marina, Olympic, Topaz
Scrapped (2009)
Festivale
1977
Island Breeze, Big Red Boat III
Scrapped (2003)
Tropicale
1982
Costa Tropicale, Pacific Star, Ocean Dream
Scrapped (2021)
Holiday
1985
Grand Holiday, Magellan
Scrapped (2021)
Celebration
1987
Grand Celebration
Scrapped (2021)
Jubilee
1986
Pacific Sun, Henna
Scrapped (2017)
Carnival Fantasy
1990
—
Scrapped (2020)
Carnival Ecstasy
1991
—
Scrapped (2022)
Carnival Sensation
1993
—
Scrapped (2022)
Carnival Fascination
1994
Century Harmony (briefly)
Scrapped (2022)
Carnival Imagination
1995
—
Scrapped (2020)
Carnival Inspiration
1996
—
Scrapped (2020)
Check out a bit of history behind the 13 former Carnival Cruise Line ships and see where they are now.
1. Mardi Gras
(Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Mardi Gras was sold to Carnival from Canadian Pacific in 1972 and was just over 18,000 gross registered tons. She sailed under the Carnival flag until 1993 and was then sold to Epirotiki.
Many names and a few cruise lines later, the ship was laid up and ultimately sold for scrap in 2003.
In 2021, Carnival debuted a new Mardi Gras from Port Canaveral, Florida. You can read our full review of the ship here.
The Excel-class ship features BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, an attraction later added to sister ships Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee.
2. Carnivale
The Carnivale after a complete transformation. (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Before being sold to Carnival in 1976, Carnivale was called Queen Ann Maria for the operator Greek Line. In 1993, Carnival transferred her to a subsidiary cruise line, Fiesta Marina Cruises.
After a few other cruise lines and the final name of Topaz sailing under the Peace Boat Organization, she was retired and laid up in April 2008.
The ship was beached in India to be scrapped that summer, with the process completed in 2009.
3. Festivale
Carnival Tropicale, Festivale, and Holiday (Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
Carnival acquired Festivale in 1977 from the South African Marine Corporation. She was originally a mail service ocean liner, but when Carnival bought her, they refit her into a cruise ship in Japan for $30 million.
After sailing for several cruise lines, she ended up with Premier Cruise Line under the name Big Red Boat III. When Premier went bankrupt in 2000, the ship was seized and ultimately scrapped in 2003.
4. Tropicale
The Tropicale in Los Angeles in 1986. (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Tropicale was a monumental ship for Carnival, as she was their first new build. She began sailing in 1982, mainly in the Caribbean.
The ship was later transferred to Costa as Costa Tropicale, then to P&O Australia as Pacific Star. She was eventually sold to Pullmantur Cruises, refurbished, and sailed as Ocean Dream.
After a final stint with Peace Boat, the ship was scrapped in January 2021.
5. Holiday
The Holiday departing Los Angeles in 2000. (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Holiday was Carnival’s second purpose-built ship. Constructed in Denmark, Holiday entered service in 1985. In 2003, she was refurbished, and in 2005, during Hurricane Katrina, she was used as temporary housing for victims of the storm.
She sailed from Alabama to the western Caribbean until 2009, when she was transferred to Iberocruceros and renamed Grand Holiday.
She later sailed as Magellan for Cruise & Maritime Voyages. After CMV ceased operations in 2020, the ship was purchased at auction and eventually sent to Alang, India, where she was scrapped in 2021.
6. Celebration
Celebration was built for Carnival in Sweden and entered service in 1987. She sailed for the line until 2008, when she was transferred to Iberocruceros and renamed Grand Celebration.
After brief stints with Costa and Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, the ship continued sailing under different operators until being sold in 2020.
She was ultimately scrapped in Alang, India in 2021.
The original Jubilee (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Jubilee entered service in 1986 and was one of three Holiday-class ships. In 2004, she was transferred to P&O Cruises Australia and renamed Pacific Sun.
In 2012, she was sold to HNA Cruises and renamed Henna. After HNA shut down operations in 2015, the ship was eventually sold for scrap and dismantledin Alang, India in 2017.
8. Carnival Fantasy
Fantasy was the first ship in Carnival’s new Fantasy class when she entered service in March 1990. Built at Kavaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland, the ship initially sailed Caribbean cruises from Miami.
In 2007, the ship was re-christened Carnival Fantasy and refurbished in 2008, 2016, and 2019. She sailed for Carnival for 30 years until the cruise industry shutdown in March 2020.
Carnival Ecstasy debuted in 1991 as the second ship in the Fantasy class.
She resumed service briefly in 2022 for a farewell season out of Mobile, Alabama, before her final voyage in October of that year. The ship was scrapped shortly after, arriving in Aliaga, Turkey in November 2022.
10. Carnival Sensation
(Photo courtesy of Carnival)
Launched in 1993, Carnival Sensation was one of the early Fantasy-class ships, built in Finland and sailing itineraries from ports including Miami, Tampa, and Port Canaveral.
Over the years, she underwent several updates and remained a staple of Carnival’s fleet, known for her distinctive interiors and classic “Fun Ship” features.
Fascination entered service in 1994 as the fourth member of Carnival Cruise Line’s Fantasy class. Built in Helsinki, Finland, she sailed from ports including New York, San Juan, and Jacksonville during her time with the line.
After being laid up in 2020, the ship was sold with plans to be converted into a floating hotel and briefly renamed Century Harmony. Those plans never materialized.
She was ultimately sold for scrap and arrived in Pakistan in 2022 for dismantling.
12. Carnival Imagination
Like her Fantasy-class sisters, Imagination was built at Kavaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland. The ship entered service in 1995 and most recently sailed Mexican Riviera itineraries from Long Beach, California.
The ship was renamed Carnival Imagination in 2007 and was refurbished most recently in 2016.
The vessel entered long-term layup status in July 2020; Carnival announced the ship had been sold for scrap in August 2020 and was sent to the scrapyard in Aliaga, Turkey.
13. Carnival Inspiration
The Carnival Inspiration shown at her last homeport of Long Beach, California.
Built in 1996 at the Kvaerner Masa-Yards in Helsinki, Finland, Inspiration was the fifth entry in the Fantasy class. Renamed Carnival Inspiration in 2007, the ship was most recently refurbished in 2010.
The ship sailed Mexican Riviera cruises from Long Beach, California. After the cruise industry shut down in March 2020, Carnival announced in July that the ship and Carnival Fantasy had been sold for scrap and sent to the shipbreakers in Aliaga, Turkey.
Final Thought
While many of Carnival’s early ships found second lives across the industry, most have now been retired and scrapped, especially following the 2020 shutdown.
Today, Carnival’s fleet has shifted toward larger, more efficient ships, marking a clear end to the era of its original vessels.
For many travelers, Egypt isn’t a standalone trip. It’s a port of call, a pre- or post-cruise extension, or a journey that unfolds along the Nile itself.
Pyramids in Egypt (Photo courtesy of Celebrity Cruises)
Ocean ships regularly call in ports like Alexandria and Port Said, offering a gateway to Cairo and the pyramids. At the same time, river cruises between Luxor and Aswan have become one of the most popular ways to experience the country, connecting ancient temples and historic sites in a way that feels both structured and immersive.
But no matter how you arrive, by sea, by river, or as part of a longer itinerary, Egypt has a way of shifting from a destination on your schedule to something much harder to define.
Because once you’re there, it stops feeling like a stop on a trip and starts becoming something you carry with you.
When History Stops Feeling Dist
You’ve read about ancient Egypt before. We all have. Textbooks, documentaries, random facts that never quite stick.
But standing in front of the pyramids is different.
They’re not just big. They’re overwhelming. Solid. Real in a way that photos never quite capture. You look at them and realize they’ve been standing there for thousands of years, outlasting empires, generations, entire versions of the world.
And suddenly, history doesn’t feel distant anymore.
It feels close. Almost personal.
You start to imagine the hands that built them. The lives that moved around them. The stories that unfolded in their shadow. And for a moment, time folds in on itself. Past and present blur together in a way that’s hard to explain but impossible to ignore.When History Stops Feeling Distant
It’s not just something you see.
It’s something you feel.
The Quiet Power of the Nile
Then there’s the Nile.
It doesn’t demand your attention the way the pyramids do. It doesn’t tower or overwhelm. Instead, it moves slowly. Steadily. Almost quietly.
But that’s exactly where its power lies.
Sit by the river long enough and you start to notice things. The way the light shifts on the water. The rhythm of boats drifting by. The stillness that settles in, almost without you realizing it.
It’s calming. Grounding.
And maybe a little surreal.
Because this is the same river that shaped one of the world’s greatest civilizations. The same water that ancient Egyptians depended on, traveled along, built their lives around.
And here you are, just… sitting beside it.
It makes you pause.
When was the last time a place made you slow down like that?
Layers of Mystery That Pull You In
Egypt doesn’t give you all the answers.
In fact, it does the opposite.
You walk through temples covered in hieroglyphs, knowing they tell stories, detailed, complex, meaningful stories, and yet so much of it still feels just out of reach. You visit tombs that were sealed for centuries, filled with objects meant for another life, another world.
And instead of clarity, you’re left with questions.
Who were these people, really?
What did they believe when they built all this? What did they hope would last?
The mystery isn’t frustrating. It’s compelling.
It pulls you in.
Because in a world where we’re used to instant answers, Egypt reminds you that not everything is meant to be fully understood. Some things are meant to be wondered about. Revisited. Thought about long after you’ve left.
Small Human Moments You Don’t Expect
It’s easy to think Egypt is all monuments and history.
But some of the moments that stay with you the longest are much smaller.
A conversation with a local shop owner. A shared laugh over something simple. The way someone offers directions, even if you didn’t ask. The rhythm of everyday life unfolding around you.
These are the moments that ground the experience.
They remind you that Egypt isn’t just ancient. It’s alive. Full of people, stories, routines, and warmth that you don’t always expect if you’re focused only on the landmarks.
And honestly, these interactions often feel just as meaningful as standing in front of something world-famous.
Maybe even more.
Because they’re real. Immediate. Human.
Why It Stays With You Long After You Leave
You leave Egypt eventually.
Everyone does.
But it doesn’t really leave you.
It shows up in unexpected ways. A photo that catches your eye. A documentary you suddenly want to watch. A random thought about something you saw but didn’t fully understand at the time.
And you start to realize something.
You didn’t see everything.
You couldn’t have.
Egypt isn’t the kind of place you fully experience in one pass. It unfolds slowly. In layers. And sometimes, it’s only after you’ve stepped away that you begin to understand what you actually experienced.
That’s why some people feel drawn back. Not because they missed something obvious, but because they want to see it differently the second time around.
With more context. More awareness.
Sometimes, that even means choosing to join Inside Egypt’s 10 day tour of Egypt, not as a typical tourist move, but as a way to go deeper into something that clearly has more to offer than a surface-level visit.
Because once you’ve felt that pull, it’s hard to ignore.
Egypt as a Personal Journey, Not Just a Trip
At some point, the trip stops being about the places.
It becomes about you.
What did you notice? What stayed with you? What changed, even slightly, in how you see the world?
Egypt has a way of doing that. Of shifting your perspective without making a big announcement about it. You don’t always realize it at the moment.
But later, it’s there.
Maybe you think differently about time. About history. About what it means to leave something behind that lasts. Maybe you feel a little smaller in the grand scheme of things, but also more connected to it.
It’s subtle.
But it matters.
And it raises a question you might not have expected when you first booked the trip.
What did this place actually change for me?
A Place That Becomes Part of You
And for cruise travelers, that’s often the surprise.
What begins as a single port stop or a planned Nile sailing can quickly turn into something more lasting. A place you thought you’d “check off” ends up being one you think about long after the ship has moved on.
Whether you experienced it from the deck of a river ship drifting past temples, or during a long day ashore from a Mediterranean cruise, the feeling tends to be the same.
PSA Isabela’s Enhanced Tourism Data Collection to Drive Growth, Investments, and Policy Reform in the Philippine Tourism IndustryPSA Isabela enhances...
United States Kicks Off New York’s Electrified Future with Groundbreaking DC Fast Charging Corridor in Syracuse, Connecting Communities and Boosting...
Spirit Airlines is preparing to cease operations as soon as Saturday after a $500 million government rescue package collapsed, leaving the bankrupt budget carrier with no clear path to survival. Bondholders rejected the terms of […]
Yulara Joins Port Douglas, Lord Howe Island, Thredbo, Healesville, Cape Otway, Angaston, Esperance, and Dampier: Australia’s Most Captivating Small Towns...
Global Travel Trends 2026: AI Personalization, Sustainable Aviation, and the Rise of the ‘Adventure Retiree’Explore the transformative travel trends of 2026. From AI-driven...
Fast-Track Your Move to Paraguay: Golden Visa Program Grants Permanent Residency for $150,000Paraguay new golden visa, offering foreign investors permanent...
Seattle–Rome Flight Business Impact 2026: How One Route Is Transforming Aviation EconomicsExplore how the Seattle–Rome route is reshaping airline competition,...
A wildfire burning on Mount Faeta in Tuscany has destroyed around 800 hectares of woodland and forced the evacuation of approximately 3,000 people, Italian authorities said on Friday. The fire has been active since Tuesday, […]
Türkiye’s tourism income rose 4.2% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026 to reach $9.89 billion, according to data published by the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat). The figure covers the January to March period and […]
Aldi Süd is selling the Öschberghof, its five-star hotel and golf resort in Donaueschingen on the edge of the Black Forest, after around 50 years of ownership. The buyer is the Gustav Zech Stiftung, a […]
A 40-year-old man was rescued from strong waves after attempting to cross into the United States from a beach in Tijuana, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by migrants along coastal border routes. Lifeguards from Tijuana’s […]
How the Almatar and Wakanow Partnership is Strengthening African Travel Infrastructure Integrating Advanced Saudi Travel TechnologyHow the strategic alliance between...
Breaking the Silence: How Arab Women Writers are Redefining Modern Travel LiteratureExplore how Arab women writers are transforming travel literature....
United States Elevates Miami’s Global Profile as Jupiter Festival Connects Media Innovation, Creator Economy, and Experiential Tourism: Check It Out...
In a communication that was quietly sent to travel agents, Norwegian Cruise Line revealed a change to their popular Free at Sea package. While some guests will soon find themselves paying more where gratuities on the drink package price are concerned, this change will not be made across the board.
Who Will Pay More For Norwegian’s Drink Package?
Clearly aware that this change would not be well received, Norwegian’s note to travel partners started with a request that they “not share this publicly or discuss it with your clients before May 1, 2026, when this change will apply.”
(Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
And what, exactly, is the change? An increase to the gratuities charged as part of the Free at Sea package. For those not in the know, while the Free at Sea package offers what NCL calls “free, unlimited open bar,” that claim comes with an asterisk. Why? Because as with the associated “free” dining, gratuities are automatically added.
It is the gratuities attatched to the drinks package which will be increased on some cruises. As NCL’s missive explains, “the price of our Free at Sea prepaid beverage package gratuities on new bookings for two-to-five day cruises will be $32.00 per person, per day.”
It later adds that “for cruises of six days or longer, which make up the majority of our sailings, the gratuities will remain at $28.50 per person, per day.”
Why They May Have Kept This Change Quiet
Typically, when cruise lines raise gratuities, they inform guests in advance and allow those who want to avoid paying the increase a window of opportunity in which to do so. In this case, however, Norwegian Cruise Line went out of their way to ask that travel partners not inform guests of the change in advance, thus guaranteeing that passengers would be unable to snag themselves the lower gratuity.
The cruise line’s note goes out of its way to provide agents with talking points, including that “even with this change, the Free at Sea beverage package continues to offer exceptional value.”
It’s important to note that impacted guests do still have a way of saving a bit of money. “This change,” Norwegian says, “only applies to prepaid pricing, which remains lower than onboard pricing. As such, we recommend locking in new bookings and adding Free at Sea’s package gratuities prior to sailing to secure the preferred price.”
Hilton Continues Global Expansion with Record Development and Strong Q1 Results, Boosting Tourism Across North America, Europe and BeyondHilton's Q1...
Grasp Technologies Appoints Maria Chevalier as CEO to Drive Innovation in Travel Data and Corporate Travel SolutionsGrasp Technologies Appoints Maria...
Namibia to Build Third Terminal at Hosea Kutako International Airport with Enhancing their Aviation Infrastructure and Passenger Experience, Boosting Southern...
Leonardo Hotels Strengthens Italy Expansion with Appointment of Luca De Giorgi as New Regional DirectorLeonardo Hotels Strengthens Italy Expansion with...
Greek National Tourism Organization Hosts Event in Istanbul to Highlights their Strengthened Istanbul-Athens Air Connection with Boosting Tourism Growth Flows...
Austria and China Connected as China Eastern Airlines Opens New Vienna–Xi’an Nonstop RouteChina Eastern launches nonstop Vienna–Xi’an flights, linking Austria...
Holland America’s Rotterdam is back in service after a two-week dry dock in the Netherlands, and guests sailing this summer’s Northern Europe season are already on board experiencing the changes.
The Two Week Dry Dock
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
The ship returned to service April 26 after work completed in its namesake port. The upgrades touch nearly every corner of the ship, covering entertainment venues, suites, public spaces, the casino, spa, and retail.
The biggest focus was live music. Billboard Onboard and Rolling Stone Lounge both got additional seating and a redesigned central lounge connecting the two spaces, improving sightlines for performances.
The Crow’s Nest added a dedicated live music stage alongside its existing lecture and enrichment programming. A new outdoor stage and bandstand also went in at the Sea View Pool on Deck 9 aft.
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
On the accommodation side, 22 Vista Suites received new sofa beds, expanding them to quad occupancy for up to four guests without changing the overall suite layout or amenities.
Elsewhere, new carpeting was installed throughout staterooms, corridors, and public areas. The main dining room got more flexible table configurations.
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
The casino added roughly 20 slot machines along with new seating and TVs at the table games area. The Greenhouse Spa received a new ergonomic hair-washing station.
The Effy Jewelry boutique was also refreshed, bringing Rotterdam in line with updates already completed on Koningsdam, Westerdam, and Zuiderdam.
What It Means for Cruise Guests
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
If you’re booked on Rotterdam for a Northern Europe sailing this summer, you’re getting a noticeably refreshed product. The live music expansion is the most meaningful change for most guests.
HAL has built its identity around Music Walk, and adding outdoor and panoramic-view stages gives passengers more places to catch performances without crowding into the same venues.
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
The suite sofa bed additions are the clearest win for families and small groups. Previously, booking a Vista Suite for four guests was a more complicated proposition.
Now 22 of those suites comfortably sleep four, which makes Rotterdam a stronger option for multigenerational travel without the cost of booking two separate cabins.
This is also a routine dry dock refresh, not part of Holland America’s larger Evolution program, which is a separate $500 million fleet overhaul targeting older Vista and Signature class ships starting with Oosterdam in Fall 2027.
Rotterdam sails seven-night Northern Europe itineraries through the summer before repositioning for Caribbean sailings this winter.
A cruise ship guest was pronounced dead off the California coast after falling from a stateroom balcony.
The woman, who hasn’t been named yet, went over the balcony and landed on a deck below. It is unclear how far she fell.
Woman fell from balcony onto a lower deck
(Photo Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
It marks the third overboard or fall death on cruise ships in just two weeks. She was a guest on the Carnival Firenze which was sailing near Catalina Island when the incident occurred. The woman’s family raised the alarm with ship crew.
“All appropriate authorities have been alerted. As is customary, law enforcement will board the ship today on Catalina Island to conduct the required investigation,” the cruise line said earlier.
“Carnival’s Care Team is supporting the guest’s family, and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their loved ones.”
Carnival Firenze’s path after leaving Long Beach, California. (Image via Marine Traffic)
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told the media the FBI is handling the investigation. The circumstances leading up to the fall have not been disclosed by authorities.
Carnival Firenze is on a short Baja Mexico cruise roundtrip from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Catalina Island is situated about 20 miles from Los Angeles. The ship left the island and visits Ensenada, Mexico today before returning to Long Beach on April 30. The ship has capacity for more than 5,000 guests.
Third cruise ship fall in the past two weeks
This incident comes days after a Norwegian Cruise Line crew member went overboard off the coast of Massachusetts. According to surveillance video footage, the Norwegian Breakaway employee fell into the sea around 12 miles off Cape Cod at the weekend.
Norwegian Breakaway (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
A large-scale US Coast Guard air and sea search operation was conducted but suspended several hours later without success.
The incident led to a delay in embarkation for the next voyage out of Boston on Sunday. “These efforts required the vessel’s full attention before the voyage could safely resume toward Boston,” NCL said in an update to new departing guests.
“Situations such as these are never easy, and the safety and wellbeing of those at sea remain at the heart of every decision we make.”
Just a week earlier, a Carnival Splendor guest in his 70s went overboard off the coast of Brisbane, Australia, which the cruise line says was a deliberate jump based on CCTV footage.
A days-long search operation took place and he too is now presumed dead. There have been six reported overboard incidents so far in 2026.
In an unexpected move, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a change that could impact how future Haven guests book when traveling with families.
While many cruisers say it’s about time the change was made, others worry about the impact on their experience in The Haven.
Some Non-Haven Guests Will Now Have Limited Access
The major change — which has already taken effect — was announced via a note to travel partners and affected guests.
It said that as of now, “guests staying in a non-Haven stateroom (such as a balcony) that physically connects to a Haven stateroom and they are traveling with the guests in the Haven stateroom may dine at The Haven restaurant at no charge, including no service fee, for the duration of the sailing. Guests in the connecting non-Haven stateroom may take advantage of this offer as long as the guests in the connecting Haven stateroom are present at the time of dining. Haven guest(s) can make arrangements for this offer through the pre-cruise Concierge Desk.”
It is important to note that guests staying in the connecting room will not have access to any other Haven perks, amenities, or areas.
And guests traveling with those staying in the Haven but not in the directly connecting suite will not be able to dine at the Haven restaurant.
‘That Will Be Abused’
Needless to say, reaction amongst cruisers in general and those who enjoy Norwegian’s ship-within-a-ship concept was swift and varied.
Many across social media recognized that this will have a relatively low impact given the small number of qualifying non-Haven staterooms. Others, however, focused more on human nature, with several assuming “That will be abused.”
“Not to be ‘that person,’” wrote one Haven fan in a Reddit forum, “but we pay for exclusivity and for an elevated product. Why should I pay more so that people who are paying less can enjoy the same elevated dining experience?”
Others wondered if this was the first step toward other changes… including the ability to buy certain Haven-related perks without committing to the pricing of an actual stateroom in the Haven.
Holland America Line, for example, has the Club Orange program, which allows guests who are not staying in a suite to purchase perks normally only available to those in the more highly-priced staterooms.
Given that cruise lines often engage in a follow-the-leader type mentality, it’s reasonable to question whether this policy will be adapted by others. Will Celebrity Cruises, for example, begin selling limited access to Luminae, the high-end restaurant available only to guests staying in The Retreat?
Another question is how this might affect Norwegian’s thought process regarding future additions to its fleet.
Should the change prove popular, might new builds incorporate more non-Haven staterooms with connecting doors?