The cruise line has implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitation efforts and isolated all ill passengers and crew. The cruise line is cooperating fully with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP).
“The VSP is remotely monitoring the situation, including review of the ship’s outbreak response and all sanitation procedures,” the CDC said in a statement.
AIDAdiva departed from Hamburg, Germany nearly a month ago, and is calling at ports in the UK, US, Mexico, Japan and South Africa.
The outbreak was reported during port calls in the US, in New York City and Miami. The voyage ends in Hamburg in March 2025. The ship is carrying just over 2,000 guests.
Cruise Line Says the Rate of Infection Is Dropping
“Seasonal illness peaks between November and April and the AIDAdiva report reflects infection patterns on land,” the cruise line said. “We have added more hygiene protocols onboard, and cases are already going down.”
The federal health agency has recorded 21 cruise ship illness outbreaks so far this year with 16 of them confirmed as norovirus as the causative agent. There were a total of 18 cruise ship outbreaks in 2024.
The family of a man who died during a Royal Caribbean cruise last year has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the cruise line. Michael Virgil, 35, became agitated and was tackled by ship security staff. He died a short time later.
Cause of Death Report Cities Homicide
Source: Fox 11 Los Angeles
It has now been revealed that the cause of death was attributed to homicide, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s report. The family is now suing the cruise line. The suit alleges Virgil was served at least 33 alcoholic drinks as part of his all-inclusive “Deluxe Beverage” package.
When he was apprehended by security, he was pepper sprayed several times, physically restrained and then injected with a sedative.
The ME’s report cites mechanical asphyxia, obesity, cardiomegaly and ethanol intoxication as factors in the death. Virgil was on a four-day cruise out of Los Angeles to Ensenada, Mexico.
The complaint alleges staff continued serving alcohol after he became visibly intoxicated. Fiancée Connie Aguilar alleges in the suit that Royal Caribbean was negligent in the improper alcohol service and for the actions of its security and medical staff.
“Royal Caribbean fully understands and expects that alcohol overconsumption by passengers will result in the diminution of their inhibitions, motor skills and good judgment,” the lawsuit stated.
Source: Royal Caribbean
“Royal Caribbean expects this will foster the general party atmosphere that Royal Caribbean desires and promotes aboard its vessels, and which in turn enhances other revenue-producing shipboard activities such as gambling and the purchase of more alcohol.”
Following the incident, the FBI said it opened an investigation into the circumstances leading up to Virgil’s death but hasn’t shared any further details since.
In response to the lawsuit filing, Royal Caribbean said: “We were saddened by the passing of one of our guests, worked with authorities on their investigation, and will refrain from commenting any further.”
This lawsuit, alleging negligence in alcohol service and security response, follows a similar incident earlier this year when the family of a drowning victim sued a cruise line for negligence. That suit alleged the cruise line failed to properly inform guests of dangerous riptides and a lack of lifeguards at a popular beach port of call.
Carnival Cruise Line is bringing full holiday cheer to Celebration Key this season, marking the first time the cruise line’s exclusive Grand Bahama destination is celebrating the holidays since opening earlier this year.
Holiday Décor Transforms the Island
The island has been transformed into a festive tropical wonderland with holiday installations throughout the property. Paradise Plaza features larger-than-life stacked gift boxes, while Lokono Cove showcases a 20-foot Celebration Key–themed tree.
Santa’s Village at Starfish Lagoon includes an eight-foot sand sculpture tree crafted in tropical style, maintaining the destination’s island aesthetic while embracing holiday traditions.
Family-Friendly Holiday Activities
For families, Santa will be making special appearances for photos throughout the season, and the popular Junkanoo parade has received a holiday costume update to complement the festive atmosphere.
The Christmas experience extends beyond the island itself, guests sailing during the holiday season will find themed activities, seasonal menus, and special entertainment both at Celebration Key and throughout their cruise, blending Carnival’s signature fun atmosphere with traditional holiday elements.
Recent changes made by several cruise lines to their loyalty program have left many passengers threatening to take their business elsewhere.
In direct response to this opportunity, Virgin Voyages is introducing a status-match program specifically aimed at those dissatisfied passengers.
Plenty of Perks, No Kids
Resilient Lady (Photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
Declaring the existing programs used by many hotel chains, airlines and cruise lines broken, Virgin Voyages is rolling out what they claim to be the “broadest Status Match program” offered in the travel industry: Beginning immediately, they will be offering instant elite status to anyone holding top-tier status with over 50 airline, hotel and cruise loyalty programs.
“Loyalty programs have gotten it backwards,” says Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages. “They ask for more, give less and call it a reward.”
He went on to say, “You earned your status. You put in the flights, the nights, the spend. Other programs responded by taking more and giving less. We’re responding by opening our doors and saying, ‘We see you, we appreciate you, come sail with us.’”
What Does Status Match Get You?
(Photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
As it has since the line was first launched, Virgin is working hard to drive home the point that they cater exclusively to those 18 and over. While that technically is not listed as a Status Match perk, the lack of children is a major (and oft-repeated) selling point.
Those wishing to apply to Status Match can do so between now and January 16, 2026 and book a sailing before March 31, 2026 on a voyage setting sail between now and Summer of 2027. Those accepted into the program will receive Blue Extras, a package of premium perks including morning lattes at The Grounds Club, complimentary laundry service, exclusive cocktail events and personalized guest support throughout the voyage..
Among the programs eligible for matching are Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Lattitudes program, Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus, Hilton Honors and more. And yes, members of Carnival’s VIFP club will be able to have their status matched as well.
30 Day Alaska Sailing
Scarlet Lady (Photo courtesy of Virgin Voyages)
Additionally, Virgin is offering a 2026 Alaska Summer Season Pass, which will offer guests 30 days on board the line’s newest ship, Brilliant Lady, as she embarks on her maiden season in Alaska.
The special includes a Central Sea terrace for two, daily drink credits, thermal spa passes as well as a Canon G7X camera, binoculars, a portable power bank and more.
Carnival Cruise Line is giving passengers more time to maximize their loyalty status before transitioning to its new Carnival Rewards program, pushing the launch date from early 2026 to September 1, 2026.
Extra Time to Earn Status
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
The cruise line announced the delay in a letter to VIFP Club members, explaining that all cruise activity through August 31, 2026 will now count toward final VIFP status. This means summer 2026 cruises will help determine starting status in the new program.
“We’ve been listening to your feedback about our upcoming Carnival Rewards program,” wrote Christine Duffy, Carnival’s president.
The move likely came from pushback from Carnival guests, many of them saying the new program is ‘a slap in the face.’
Benefits Remain Unchanged
Carnival is keeping the benefits announced when the program was first revealed.
Diamond guests retain lifetime status, while Platinum guests receive a 10,000-star boost every two years to help maintain their tier.
How the Two-Year Cycle Works
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
The new program operates on a calendar-year schedule with two-year status periods. When Carnival Rewards launches on September 1, 2026, passengers’ starting status will match their VIFP status as of August 31, 2026, and will remain valid through December 31, 2028.
This first cycle gives everyone four extra months to earn status. After that, earning periods run January 1 through December 31 every two years.
Stars Determine Status, Points Buy Rewards
The dual-currency system separates status qualification from redemption value. Passengers earn three stars per dollar spent on cruise fare and onboard purchases, with stars resetting every two years to determine tier level.
Points work differently; they’re spent on rewards like drinks, shore excursions, photos, and even cruise fare. Passengers earn 3 points per dollar on Carnival purchases, with 100 points equaling approximately $1 in value depending on demand.
Points never expire as long as passengers earn or redeem at least once every three years.
Credit Card Accelerates Earnings
The new Carnival Rewards Mastercard, launching in September 2026, accelerates both currencies. Cardholders can earn between four stars and six points per dollar on Carnival purchases, plus bonus earnings at grocery stores and restaurants.
Current Fun Points cardholders will see their balances automatically convert to Carnival Rewards Points.
Milestones Transition to Days Sailed
(Photo Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
The current milestone program ends August 31, 2026, with all earned awards remaining valid through August 31, 2030. The new system ties milestones to total days sailed rather than the number of cruises, with special recognition delivered during the cruise where passengers hit each milestone.
Diamond guests under Carnival’s current VIFP loyalty program will receive lifetime status under Carnival Rewards.
A P&O Cruises ship was forced to delay its departure at the UK’s largest cruise port due to thousands of bananas plunging into the sea.
The 5,200-guest P&O Iona was scheduled to depart the Port of Southampton Saturday evening but had to stay overnight due to a nearby cargo ship mishap.
Sixteen containers aboard cargo ship Baltic Klipper came loose and fell into the sea just a few miles from Southampton. Many of the containers were filled with bananas, a few were empty and one was carrying avocados.
Source: Pixabay
It happened in the Solent – a narrow channel of water between Southampton and the offshore Isle of Wight and is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the UK. The Coast Guard issued a warning to all shipping on Saturday while it managed the salvage of the containers. It deployed search boats and aircraft to locate the containers.
Southampton Port (Source: Pixabay)
“HM Coastguard is closely monitoring the situation and working with the relevant authorities, including the vessel’s owners, who are responsible for recovering the containers,” the Coast Guard said.
“Broadcasts are being sent to warn local shipping and Selsey Coastguard Rescue Team is on patrol.”
Cruise Ship Expected to Complete Sailing Without Any Further Disruption
Iona was eventually given the all-clear to depart from Southampton late on Sunday – a delay of more than 24 hours. P&O Cruises says the delay won’t impact any of its scheduled port calls.
The ship is on a two-week sailing to the Canary Islands. It’s first port stop is on December 10 in Madeira. It is also due to call at Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Cádiz, Spain and Lisbon, Portugal.
The passenger disruption follows a similar incident earlier this year, when a mechanical problem caused the Carnival Horizon to delay its departure, resulting in passengers losing their first day of sailing.
“We are a company that’s never satisfied,” said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Celebrity Cruises, during a question-and-answer panel on Celebrity Xcel.
Nowhere is that sentiment clearer than on the new 3,276-passenger vessel. As the fifth in the line’s Edge Class, it offers several new additions – concepts that line president Laura Hodges Bethge said are the result of feedback from passengers who have sailed on the first four iterations.
From first-in-fleet restaurant concepts to phenomenal entertainment offerings, there’s a lot on Celebrity Xcel that will feel both familiar and refreshed. Here’s what you should be sure to check out if you sail and what needs a bit of work.
Don’t Miss These New Additions
Fans of the Eden dining, lounge and entertainment space on other Excel Class ships will likely appreciate the line’s fresh take via The Bazaar. As they approach the venue, passengers will pass through Market at The Bazaar, which sells jewelry, bath products and clothing that’s made by artisans local to the places the ship visits.
The Bazaar itself is laid out similarly to Eden, but with performances featuring costuming and dance inspired by traditions in the Caribbean and other regions where the vessel sails.
Instead of Eden Restaurant and Eden Cafe, cruisers can dine for a fee at Mosaic, a restaurant with a menu that switches from Caribbean-inspired to European as the ship relocates, and the complimentary Spice Cafe.
The latter is a don’t-miss eatery that serves items like deli sandwiches, build-your-own bowls and rotating local specials like quesadillas, tostones and more. There’s plenty of seating, as well as a drink station and a specialty coffee bar. It’s the perfect spot for a casual lunch or snack.
Shows in the Theater and The Club
Celebrity has long been a forerunner in the cruise industry when it comes to entertainment. It was firmly the leader in that area until Virgin Voyages came along, but with the new shows on Celebrity Xcel, it might have just reclaimed its title.
You simply must see “Chapters,” one of three new shows in Celebrity Xcel’s main theater. With a mix of goosebump-inducing vocals, pop-and-lock dance moves, aerial acrobatics, smoke, lasers, and even parkour set in front of a high-tech digital backdrop, it’s perhaps one of the most sophisticated productions you’ll find anywhere at sea.
In addition to other new shows – “Between Takes” and “Mainstage” – that promise to deliver equally jawdropping effects in the theater, be sure to head to The Club, the ship’s nightclub venue, for the excellent new spectacles there.
“Saddle Up Saloon” features a team of singers, dancers and acrobats who perform country hits, and “254 West” offers a Studio 54 vibe punctuated by both classic dance favorites and contemporary tunes.
Bora
Although we were skeptical at first, thanks to the sharing-plate style at this alfresco Mediterranean restaurant, we were pleasantly surprised – in fact, blown away – by the excellent cuisine and Greek vibes, featuring live music.
This for-fee outpost, located in the ship’s Rooftop Garden, features delicious items like eggs, French toast and avocado toast for brunch and haloumi, hummus, salted sea bass, and herbed chicken for dinner. There are also multiple seafood options – including shrimp so huge they could be lobster – for both meals. Want a cocktail with your food? Check out the bloody mary cart during brunch; it turns into a spritzer cart for dinner.
Photo Booth
If a bit of mystery is what you’re craving on Celebrity Xcel, seek out the photo booth inside The Club, just to the right of the bar. Put your name on the list to have your photo taken, and you and up to three of your friends are sure to end up with more than just some fun snapshots.
For good reason, it’s an exceptionally popular venue, so be sure to get there early, and set aside at least an hour once you’re inside.
Celebrity Flagship
As an ode to Celebrity Cruises’ history, the new ship houses the line’s first onboard mini-museum, Celebrity Flagship. The space holds a giant model of Celebrity Xcel (with a Magic Carpet that actually goes up and down) and several display cases filled with memorabilia dating back to when the line was owned by the Chandris family of Greek shipping fame.
When you’re done exploring, head to the adjoining shop, which sells all sorts of branded merchandise and logowear bearing Celebrity’s well-known “X” symbol. For an additional fee, items can also be personalized with engraving or embroidery.
The Attic
The top floor of Celebrity Xcel’s two-deck The Club nightclub has been transformed into an adult gaming area with a handful of classic arcade games, digital darts, pool tables and foosball, among other diversions. All of the games are free to play, but you’ll pay extra for vending machine items that include an impressive array of both drinks and snacks.
A ledge with counter seating offers views onto the dance floor and performance space below, which is where the ship’s spectacular “254 West” and “Saddle Up Saloon” take place.
Spa Expansion
If you’re up for a day of added-fee relaxation, you can purchase a thermal suite pass. Celebrity Xcel has more dedicated spa space than its Edge Class counterparts. Cruisers will find a brand-new hydrotherapy pool in a dedicated room that will help them to melt their cares away.
Outside, the new Vitamain D Deck sun deck, located at the very front of the vessel, offers a serene space that’s a sunbather’s paradise.
What Needs Tweaking
Bora Shade
As we mentioned above, Bora offers a fantastic overall dining experience. The only drawback is that there’s very little shade, so wear sunscreen and prepare to sweat when the weather is warm. The space could do with a fully covered awning and some adjustable shades to block out the rays, particularly in the morning as the sun comes up and in the afternoon when it’s directly overhead.
Pickleball Court
The good news: In a first for the line, Celebrity Xcel has its own dedicated pickleball court. The bad news: It’s in a terrible location.
Found in the top-deck Rooftop Garden, peaceful seating areas and lush vegetation surround the court – not exactly an ideal spot for the sound of pickleballs hitting paddles and passengers grunting as they work up a sweat. Plus, it can also be a pain for players. One rogue serve, and the ball will end up in the bushes.
Digital Elevator Buttons
Although digital elevator buttons aren’t a new concept, we noticed that the ones on Celebrity Xcel were particularly problematic. If you don’t hit the button for your floor exactly in the right spot, you risk activating a different floor instead. Lean up against the wall absentmindedly when the elevator car is crowded, and you’ll be inadvertently pressing all of the buttons, meaning you’ll stop on every single floor. Be mindful of this if you’re not taking the stairs.
Port Canaveral has officially earned recognition as the world’s busiest cruise port, processing 8.6 million passenger movements during fiscal year 2025.
The achievement marks a 13 percent increase over the previous year and represents the highest passenger volume in the port’s history.
Record-Breaking Passenger Volume Reflects Port Growth
(Photo Courtesy of Port Canaveral)
The milestone underscores Port Canaveral’s dominance in the North American cruise market, where it serves as homeport for 18 vessels across seven major cruise brands.
The port currently supports over 1,000 sailings annually, solidifying its position as a critical hub for cruise operators seeking reliable, high-capacity infrastructure.
“This distinction reflects our commitment to providing a quality experience and supporting our cruise partners’ business growth,” said Capt. John Murray, Port Canaveral’s CEO, in a statement.
$912 Million Investment Plan Drives Future Capacity
(Photo Courtesy of Port Canaveral)
The achievement arrives as Port Canaveral advances its Port Canaveral Advantage initiative, a $912 million, five-year capital improvement program designed to expand capacity and modernize operations. The project includes expansion of two existing cruise terminals, development of a seventh new terminal campus, additional parking facilities, and deployment of new technology aimed at streamlining the boarding process and passenger convenience.
Why This Matters for Travel Advisors
(Photo Courtesy of Port Canaveral)
For travel advisors, Port Canaveral’s continued investment in infrastructure matters significantly. The port’s geographic position as a drive-to market, with approximately 75 percent of passengers driving from within the southeast, offers advantages over fly-to homeports.
Easy terminal access, ample adjacent parking, and Central Florida’s centralized location make it an attractive option for cruise passengers seeking easy cruise embarkation.
Industry Recognition and Modern Facilities
(Photo Courtesy of Port Canaveral)
As cruise demand continues to grow, Port Canaveral’s infrastructure investments position it to maintain its market leadership while accommodating projected future growth in passenger sailings from the Central Florida region.
Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess arrived at Port Canaveral over the weekend to launch a winter season of Caribbean and Bahamas sailings, marking the newest and largest Princess ship to homeport in Central Florida.
New Ship Brings Expanded Capacity to Port Canaveral
The 3,660-passenger Sky Princess builds on the success of Princess’s inaugural Port Canaveral schedule, which debuted last year aboard Caribbean Princess.
Both ships will operate from the port in 2026, giving passengers expanded options for Caribbean cruising from Central Florida.
Port Canaveral CEO Capt. John Murray spotlighted the partnership’s value. “Sky Princess is a great addition to the lineup of cruise options from Central Florida,” he said.
Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer, noted that passengers appreciate the convenience of sailing from the Space Coast, particularly given that approximately 75 percent of cruisers drive to the port.
Sailing Schedule and Itineraries
Sky Princess sails weekly cruises from Port Canaveral.
Sunday departures offer eight-day voyages to Amber Cove (Dominican Republic), St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and San Juan. Monday departures feature six-day cruises to Grand Turk, Nassau, and Freeport.
What’s Onboard Sky Princess
Part of Princess Cruises’ Royal-Class fleet, the 141,000-ton Sky Princess debuted in 2019 and carries 1,830 staterooms, including more than 400 suites.
The ship features Sky Suites that accommodate up to five passengers and some of Princess’s largest balconies at sea.
Dining options include specialty venues like The Crown Grille steakhouse, The Catch by Rudi seafood eatery, and Sabatini’s Italian restaurant.
Port Canaveral’s Growing Cruise Fleet
(Photo courtesy of Port Canaveral)
In 2015, Port Canaveral ranked as the world’s busiest cruise port.
With both Sky Princess and Caribbean Princess now operating from Port Canaveral, Princess Cruises solidifies its presence at the Space Coast port and offers passengers more flexible scheduling for winter Caribbean sailings.
Philadelphia is getting its first cruise terminal.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced the groundbreaking of the PhilaPort Cruise Terminal, a new 16-acre facility in Tinicum Township that will begin welcoming cruise passengers in April 2026, timed to coincide with America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
What Passengers Need to Know
The new terminal will be Norwegian Cruise Line’s exclusive homeport in Philadelphia, with an initial commitment of 41 sailings per year through at least 2033.
Passengers will have convenient access to the facility, located adjacent to Philadelphia International Airport. The terminal is being developed through a partnership between PhilaPort, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, and Energy Transfer Marketing and Terminals.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings operates three cruise brands—Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—all of which are expected to offer sailings from Philadelphia.
The press release mentions sailings to Bermuda and other destinations, though specific itineraries have not yet been detailed.
Why Philadelphia Now?
(Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
The timing is significant. Philadelphia’s 2026 debut as a cruise homeport coincides with the city’s role as a centerpiece in America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
The city’s maritime heritage and proximity to popular cruise destinations make it an attractive alternative to other Northeast homeports.
PhilaPort Executive Director Jeff Theobald called the partnership “a unique opportunity,” stressing the work required to coordinate the project among multiple stakeholders.
Daniel Farkas, Executive Vice President at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, described Philadelphia as “our newest homeport” and a “strategic milestone” for the company’s expansion plans.
Economic Impact and Next Steps
(Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)
PhilaPort projects the cruise terminal will generate 2,185 direct and indirect jobs and approximately $300 million in annual economic output for the Commonwealth.
Construction schedules, project milestones, and terminal amenities will be announced as development progresses.
The new terminal positions Philadelphia as a convenient gateway for East Coast cruise travel, offering an alternative to established New York, New Jersey and Baltimore homeports.
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