Disney Cruise Line has made history as Disney Adventure completed her transit of the Panama Canal this week, becoming the largest passenger vessel by both capacity and gross tonnage to ever pass through the waterway.
The milestone transit occurred as part of the ship’s repositioning voyage to Asia, where she will enter service later this year. The Panama Canal Authority has officially confirmed the record.
Breaking the Previous Record
Disney Adventure stretches about 1,120 feet long and is roughly 152 feet wide.
At 208,000 gross tons and carrying approximately 6,700 passengers, she surpasses the previous record holder, Norwegian Bliss, which transited the canal in May 2018.
Disney Adventure’s passage highlights the growing number of cruise ships capable of transiting the Neopanamax locks, which opened in 2016 to accommodate larger ships.
The Panama Canal Authority reports that more than 40 Neopanamax cruise ship transits are expected during 2025, including inaugural passages by AIDAdiva, Brilliant Lady, Celebrity Ascent, and Star Seeker.
A New Chapter Begins for Disney Adventure
Disney Adventure’s path to this moment has been anything but straightforward.
Originally ordered by Dream Cruises as Global Dream, construction began at MV Werften in Wismar before Genting Hong Kong collapsed in early 2022, leaving the ship unfinished.
Disney Cruise Line acquired the incomplete hull, and Meyer Werft took over completion and redesign to Disney specifications.
After delivery in December, the ship departed Bremerhaven, Germany, crossed the Atlantic to the Bahamas for inspections, stopped at Port Canaveral, and now continues westward toward the Pacific.
Disney Adventure will homeport in Singapore, operating three- and four-night itineraries. This is Disney Cruise Line’s first permanent deployment in Asia.
The ship features seven themed zones drawing on Disney, Pixar, and Marvel properties. Notable features include Marvel Landing and the Ironcycle Test Run, an 820-foot roller coaster that Disney calls the longest at sea.
At 208,000 gross tons, Disney Adventure is the largest ship ever built for Disney Cruise Line.
Cunard’s flagship Queen Mary 2 reunited with her legendary namesake off the coast of Long Beach this morning, marking the first time the two ships have met in two decades.
Cunard’s Flagship Queen Mary 2 Reunites with Her Legendary Namesake (Photo: Cunard)
The historic rendezvous took place as Queen Mary 2 anchored near the retired Queen Mary during the ship’s 2025 World Voyage. The original Queen Mary, now permanently docked in Long Beach, is celebrating her 90th anniversary this year.
A Living Connection Between Generations
The reunion carries special significance beyond the shared name. Queen Mary 2’s starboard funnel actually houses a fully refurbished whistle from the original Queen Mary, creating a physical link between the two vessels.
The original Queen Mary debuted in 1936 and served as a transatlantic liner until her retirement in 1967. She was then permanently docked in Long Beach as a tourist attraction.
Queen Mary 2 entered service in 2004 and remains the world’s only true ocean liner in active service, regularly crossing between New York and Southampton.
Historic Panama Transit
The Long Beach reunion followed another milestone for Queen Mary 2, her first-ever transit of the Panama Canal.
After the rendezvous, the ship docked at the Port of Los Angeles for the first time in 17 years, staying overnight as part of her current World Voyage.
The 108-night voyage is taking passengers to more than 30 ports across the Americas, Australia, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
It’s Queen Mary 2’s first World Voyage in two years and includes overnight stays in destinations like San Francisco, Sydney, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Cape Town.
The retired Queen Mary now operates as a hotel and cultural attraction in Long Beach, featuring dining, tours, exhibits, and special events.
The CDC is investigating a gastrointestinal illness outbreak aboard Regent Seven Seas Mariner that sickened 27 people during a three-week voyage from Miami to Honolulu.
Seven Seas Mariner (Photo courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises)
According to the CDC, the outbreak affected 21 passengers and six crew members during the January 11 through February 1 sailing. The ship was carrying 631 passengers at the time, meaning roughly 3% of guests fell ill during the voyage.
Regent Seven Seas notified the CDC of the illnesses during the sailing. The agency has listed the cause as unknown, with laboratory testing still pending on stool samples collected from affected passengers.
What the Cruise Line Did
The luxury cruise line implemented several containment measures during the voyage. These included ramping up cleaning and disinfection procedures throughout the ship and isolating passengers and crew members who reported symptoms.
Regent followed the CDC’s outbreak response and sanitation protocols, according to the federal agency.
The Mariner had scheduled port calls in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico and other destinations during the transpacific repositioning voyage.
Still Under Investigation
Federal health officials say identifying the source of outbreaks can take time. While norovirus is frequently associated with gastrointestinal illness on cruise ships, the virus is not always immediately confirmed through testing.
The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program tracks outbreaks when at least three percent of passengers or crew report symptoms and requires cruise lines to report gastrointestinal illnesses within 24 hours.
The CDC continues to emphasize frequent handwashing as a critical step in reducing the risk of gastrointestinal illness aboard ships.
This marks the second reported cruise ship illness outbreak in early 2026.
In January, Holland America Line experienced a confirmed norovirus outbreak that left nearly 90 passengers and crew members ill during a voyage running from late December through early January.
Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed it will broadcast the Super Bowl across its entire fleet on February 9, but sports fans hoping to catch the Winter Olympics will be out of luck due to broadcast restrictions.
Brand ambassador John Heald announced the plans in a recent video, explaining that all Carnival ships will show the big game between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.
Ships with large outdoor screens on the Lido Deck will host tailgate parties, while other vessels will broadcast the game in their main theaters.
Schedule Changes for Game Day
The cruise line is making several adjustments to accommodate the 6:30 p.m. Eastern kickoff time.
Ships scheduled for Elegant Evening on February 9 will move formal night to a different day during the sailing, allowing guests to watch the game in comfortable attire rather than formalwear.
Guy’s Burgers and other food outlets will stay open throughout the game, and the Lido Marketplace buffet, room service, pizzeria, and deli will be available for guests wanting game-day snacks.
The full game and halftime show will air, but guests should note that Super Bowl commercials won’t be shown. Heald explained that Carnival receives a direct satellite feed that doesn’t include U.S. commercial breaks.
Passengers not interested in football can still enjoy the regular schedule of activities, including trivia, comedy shows, and other entertainment.
Olympics Not Available Onboard
While football fans celebrate, Olympic enthusiasts will be disappointed to learn that the 2026 Winter Games in Italy won’t be broadcast on Carnival ships.
Guests who plan to follow Olympic events such as skiing, figure skating, bobsled, and others can purchase Wi-Fi packages to stream coverage on their personal devices.
Norwegian Cruise Line is pulling the plug on “Beetlejuice: The Musical” aboard Norwegian Viva, with final performances scheduled for late March 2026.
The show will wrap up less than three years after the ship joined the fleet.
The musical featuring the “ghost with the most” has been part of the Prima-class ship since shortly after her August 2023 debut.
While the 90-minute production didn’t make it onto the first sailings due to unspecified production delays, it eventually became a fixture of the ship’s entertainment lineup.
Norwegian hasn’t issued a formal announcement about the change, but the cruise line’s website now shows that “Beetlejuice: The Musical” will have its final performances during the March 21-28, 2026 sailing.
Second Broadway Show Cut in Recent Days
This marks the second Broadway production Norwegian has discontinued in recent days. Just before the Beetlejuice announcement, guests learned that “Jersey Boys” would end its run on Norwegian Bliss, with final performances February 8-15.
Two replacement shows will debut on Norwegian Viva after Beetlejuice closes. “Motor City Moves,” described as a high-energy tribute to Detroit’s iconic sound, premieres May 2-9 during the ship’s first Mediterranean sailing.
“Burn the Floor,” a ballroom dance production featuring championship dancers, follows on May 23-30.
Both shows already appear on other Norwegian ships.
Motor City Moves” runs on Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Sun, while “Burn the Floor” performs on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Epic.
Moving Away From Broadway
The trend indicates Norwegian Cruise Line is shifting from licensed Broadway productions to favor in-house entertainment.
While Broadway shows carry name recognition, they also require licensing fees and arrangements that can complicate shipboard production.
Popular game shows like “Deal or No Deal,” “The Price Is Right,” “Wheel of Fortune,” and “Press Your Luck” remain onboard, along with Syd Norman’s Pour House and comedy shows.
Alaskan Dream Cruises, a small-ship operator that has been sailing Southeast Alaska waters since 2011, has unexpectedly ceased operations and canceled all future sailings, according to a notice posted on the company’s website.
Photo: Alaska Dream Cruises
The Sitka-based cruise line had just completed its 2025 season and was offering itineraries for summer 2026, suggesting the shutdown was unplanned.
Booked guests and travel agents are being contacted regarding refunds, with specific details provided via email.
The sudden closure leaves passengers who booked 2026 voyages seeking refunds during what is typically a slower booking period before the Alaska cruise season ramps up in spring.
Four Small Ships
The company operated four expedition-style vessels: Alaskan Dream, Admiralty Dream, Baranof Dream, and Chichagof Dream.
These small ships accommodated 40 to 80 passengers, enabling access to narrow waterways and remote areas that larger cruise ships cannot reach.
Premium Pricing in a Competitive Market
Alaskan Dream Cruises targeted upscale cruisers seeking expedition experiences. An 8-night Inside Passage voyage was priced at $7,600 per person, double occupancy, visiting multiple glaciers and Alaska Native villages.
However, there were signs of financial strain. In 2025, the line offered Alaska residents a 70 percent cruise fare discount, potentially indicating struggles to fill cabins in the competitive small-ship market.
The small-ship expedition cruise sector has faced mounting financial pressures in recent years. Operating costs including fuel, crew wages, and port fees have risen significantly, while smaller vessels cannot achieve the economies of scale that benefit larger cruise operators.
Several small-ship lines have struggled post-pandemic as they compete not only with each other but also with the return of mass-market cruise ships to Alaska, which offer lower per-day pricing.
The company faced competition from other small-ship operators in Alaska, including Un-Cruise Adventures, Discovery Voyages, and National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.
Carnival Cruise Line is doubling down on Baltimore with a historic move.
For the first time in the cruise line’s history, two ships will homeport simultaneously in Maryland’s largest city starting in fall 2027.
Carnival Miracle will join Carnival Pride in Baltimore beginning November 20, 2027, following a 15-day transatlantic crossing from Civitavecchia, Italy.
The addition marks an expansion for Carnival, which has operated from Baltimore for more than two decades since establishing year-round service at the Port of Baltimore’s South Locust Point cruise terminal in 2009.
What Carnival Miracle Will Offer From Baltimore
The 88,500-ton Spirit-class ship will operate a range of Caribbean itineraries, including seven-, eight-, and nine-day sailings to the Bahamas and Eastern Caribbean.
Longer Carnival Journeys voyages of 12 and 14 days will visit destinations like Dominica, Guadeloupe, and St. Maarten.
Carnival Miracle accommodates approximately 2,124 passengers at double occupancy and features Guy’s Burger Joint, a specialty steakhouse, WaterWorks aqua park, Playlist Production shows, Alchemy Bar, and The Punchliner Comedy Club.
Carnival Pride Staying Year-Round
(Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line)
Carnival Pride, which has been the sole Carnival ship based in Baltimore, will continue its year-round operations with seven-day Bahamas and Bermuda cruises, plus extended nine-, 12-, and 14-day Carnival Journeys to Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Antigua, Tortola, and Martinique. The Spirit-class sister ship also carries about 2,100 passengers.
The dual-ship deployment positions Baltimore to compete more effectively with nearby Mid-Atlantic homeports, including Norfolk and Cape Liberty, which have seen increased cruise activity in recent years.
The expansion is part of an industry trend as cruise lines seek alternatives to congested Florida ports and target drive-to markets in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
Carnival Firenze Getting New Homeport
In related deployment news, Carnival Firenze will shift to Port Canaveral starting fall 2027, offering four- to 14-day Caribbean itineraries.
Sailings will include short Bahamas getaways with stops at Celebration Key, as well as longer Eastern and Southern Caribbean voyages.
Nassau, Bahamas has set another cruise passenger record, marking the third straight year of growth for what’s now the world’s busiest transit cruise port.
The port welcomed approximately 6.1 million cruise passengers in 2024 across nearly 1,600 ship calls. That’s a 9.5% increase over 2023’s total of 5.6 million guests, which was itself a record at the time.
“This milestone year for tourism underscores the critical role Nassau Cruise Port continues to play as the primary gateway for visitors to The Bahamas,” said Mike Maura, Jr., CEO and Director of Nassau Cruise Port.
The growth follows a pattern of steady increases. In 2022, Nassau welcomed 4.4 million passengers, up from 3.2 million in 2021.
Port authorities invested $300 million in revitalizing Nassau Cruise Port, which reopened in its upgraded form in May 2023.
The project added six new and expanded berths capable of handling the largest cruise ships afloat, including Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class vessels that can bring up to 7,600 passengers per call.
Additional improvements to downtown Nassau included expanded shopping and dining options and the rollout of free Wi-Fi for visitors in 2024.
The upgrades have delivered results. Nassau broke its single-day passenger record twice in 2024. On March 11, six ships brought 30,538 passengers to port. That record fell again on April 8 when five ships delivered 31,011 cruise guests in one day.
Bahamas Tourism Hits All-Time High
Nassau’s success reflects broader growth across the Bahamas. The country welcomed an unprecedented 12.5 million visitors in 2024, with cruise tourism accounting for 86.5% of total arrivals, or more than 10.6 million passengers.
“Visitor arrivals grew 11.4 percent year-over-year, surpassing 2023’s record and exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels by more than 72 percent,” Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper told Parliament.
Beyond Nassau, other Bahamian ports showed growth, including destinations with private cruise line islands across the region.
MSC Cruises is bringing its popular Yacht Club concept to two more ships in its fleet.
MSC Orchestra (Photo courtesy of MSC Cruises)
The cruise line announced that MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra will both receive the “ship-within-a-ship” concept during scheduled refurbishments between late 2026 and early 2027.
The upgrades will complete the rollout of Yacht Club across the entire Musica class, with all four ships in the series offering the premium enclave once the work is finished.
MSC Musica will get its Yacht Club installation first in late 2026, just ahead of its South American deployment. MSC Orchestra will follow in the first quarter of 2027 before it heads to the Mediterranean for a season sailing from Bari, Italy.
Once both ships are complete, 19 vessels across the MSC Cruises fleet will feature Yacht Club accommodations. The two Musica-class ships join sister vessels MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica, which already offer the premium experience.
Both MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra measure 92,409 gross tons and currently carry 3,223 passengers. They’re considerably smaller than MSC’s newest ships, like MSC World America, which features the largest Yacht Club in the fleet.
MSC Cruises is always looking for new ways to enhance the onboard experience, striving to create exceptional and elevated concepts to ensure that guests will remember their cruise as the ultimate vacation experience,” the cruise line said in a statement.
The company hasn’t disclosed how many Yacht Club suites will be added to each ship or whether other public areas will be modified during the refurbishments.
What Yacht Club Passengers Get
The Yacht Club concept gives guests access to exclusive areas separate from the ship’s main public spaces. This includes a suite-only restaurant, private lounge, and dedicated sun deck.
Accommodations feature larger suites with 24-hour butler service and concierge assistance. In-suite amenities include daily refreshments, premium bath products, and packing and unpacking services.
Additional perks include private shopping appointments in onboard boutiques outside regular hours, customized shore excursions, and private transportation in select ports.
MSC Cruises plans to continue adding Yacht Club to future ships, including upcoming World-class vessels scheduled to debut through 2031.
There was also some pushback from the crew themselves. In a mixed reaction, it was suggested the Maritime Union of Australia’s protest aim was more about increasing union membership than pushing for better pay and conditions.
Union protest criticized by some crew members
Some also said the union hasn’t spoken to them about working conditions. One added that the union’s aims were unrealistic. “They’re comparing Australian standards to international maritime contracts.”
“Carnival Cruises is paying its crew as little as $2.50 an hour to work on its Australian cruise ships. This has got to be the worst labor exploitation we have ever seen, and it’s happening in plain sight,” said union organizer Shane Reside.
“When companies like Carnival behave like this, it casts a cloud over all of us. We will not stop until this ugly exploitation is stamped out for good.” Reside said the union has detailed its grievances, but Carnival management refuses to negotiate in good faith.
The protest at Station Pier in Melbourne attracted about 100 people. Carnival has three ships based in Australia.
“Let’s call the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) activity for what it is: to increase membership and raise revenue. They don’t care about our employees except to try to get a portion of their paycheck for their treasury,” it said ahead of the protest.
“This so-called campaign is offensive to the dedicated shipboard team members who take pride in their work.”
The union claims Carnival “exploits a loophole in the Coastal Trading Act,” while the company responded that it “meets, and in most cases exceeds” what is require under the Maritime Labour Convention.
Carnival Cruise Line has notified guests that recommended gratuities and Bottomless Bubbles prices will increase starting April 2, 2026, marking the cruise line’s first gratuity hike since April 2023.
Daily gratuities for standard staterooms will rise from $16 to $17 per guest, while suite guests will see rates increase from $18 to $19 per day. The increases apply to both U.S. and European departures.
Guests who prepay gratuities through Carnival’s Cruise Manager before April 1 can lock in current rates for any open sailing.
Unless prepaid, recommended gratuities are automatically added to guests’ Sail & Sign accounts. Adjustments can be made during the cruise but not after disembarkation.
Bottomless Bubbles package hike
The adult Bottomless Bubbles package will also increase from $9.50 to $11.99 per person, per day, plus a 20 percent service charge. Pricing for children 17 and under remains unchanged at $6.95 per day plus the service charge.
Thank you, most especially, for your support of our onboard crew,” Carnival said in a guest notice signed by VP of Guest Services Colleen Oliverio.
“Our shipboard team members work hard to provide exceptional and friendly service, and your gratuities go directly to benefit the crew in addition to their base pay.”
Carnival’s announcement follows a wave of gratuity increases across the cruise industry. Margaritaville at Sea recently raised its rates again, now charging $22 per night for staterooms and $25 for suites.
Disney Cruise Line increased rates in January 2025, and Royal Caribbean implemented a modest increase in November 2024.
Even with the increase, Carnival’s gratuities remain among the lowest in the mainstream cruise market.
Royal Caribbean currently charges $18.50 per day for standard cabins, while Margaritaville at Sea now charges $22, well above Carnival’s new $17 rate.
A legal challenge has temporarily shut down work at Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico project after a local environmental group was granted an injunction.
(Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)
Municipal leaders in Mahahual, Mexico, say the change of land use granted on behalf of Royal Caribbean’s project is legal and transparent. It follows the legal filing by the local group DMAS, which claims the amendment was made illegally.
Change of land use granted illegally, says environmental group
DMAS claims it requires public consultation first, but council leader Jaime Aguilar Cheluja says this is not mandatory. “This is mandatory only when the municipal planning programs and instruments established are formulated for the first time or are fully updated,” Aguilar Cheluja said.
He said the change of land use request only relates to about 3% of the total project, which doesn’t necessitate a period of public consultation. The change was requested by Royal Caribbean Group.
DMAS’s legal filing led to a suspension of work on the project after a court granted an injunction on January 25. The group claimed in the filing that land use for more than 107 hectares within the Perfect Day cruise tourism project was illegally reconfigured.
Antonella Vázquez, DMAS President, said the organization is not anti-cruise tourism or opposed to development. “However, we are in favor of respecting the law, urban planning, and the community’s right to a healthy environment.”
DMAS and its supporters worry that the development will negatively impact a protected mangrove area and the town’s water supply. “We are not going to touch anything in the mangrove conservation area,” said Royal Caribbean’s director of innovation, Jay Schneider in response.
The cruise company is planning an 80-hectare water park and related amenities near the existing cruise ship pier.
Cheluja said the council is fully behind the project, which is the largest private investment project of its kind ever in southern Quintana Roo.
A court hearing to address the injunction is expected to take place in the next few days.
Princess Cruises added two specialty dining venues to Diamond Princess, Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill steakhouse, with reservations now available for all sailings.
Makoto Ocean
Makoto Ocean debuts on Deck 7, featuring Chef Makoto Okuwa’s Edomae-style sushi that previously launched on Sun Princess and Star Princess.
The menu includes signature dishes like truffle salmon, snow crab temaki and toro tartare, paired with Japanese-inspired cocktails including the Genmai Negroni and Kodai No Hana made with yuzu juice and Doburoku sake.
Crown Grill Steakhouse
Crown Grill, previously recognized among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses at Sea,” now occupies the former Savoy Dining Room on Deck 5. The restaurant serves premium aged beef, chops and fresh seafood in what Princess describes as an elegant atmosphere with attentive service.
Both restaurants cost $55 per person. Guests who book the Princess Premier package get specialty dining included in their fare, meaning no additional charge for either venue.
With Makoto Ocean and Crown Grill now onboard Diamond Princess, and also recently added onboard sister ship Sapphire Princess, we’re proud to enhance the guest experience,” said Sami Kohen, Princess Cruises Vice President Food and Beverage.
Current Deployment
Diamond Princess currently sails roundtrip from Singapore, visiting Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam before returning to Japan. The ship was built in Japan alongside sister ship Sapphire Princess.
For 2027, Princess Cruises plans its largest Japan season ever, with both Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess sailing from the Tokyo region throughout the entire season.
City officials in Amsterdam are now mulling a full ban of ocean cruise ships in the Netherlands capital.
(Photo courtesy of Pavels Dunaicevs / Shutterstock.com)
Amsterdam’s mayor and some aldermen say a ban of ocean-going cruise ships within a decade is now their favored option.
A full ban is not a new idea although the existing plan was to restrict cruise ship traffic and eventually relocate the central Passenger Terminal Amsterdam to the Western Harbor Area outside the city.
Ship limits were to begin this year. This entails only one ship call per day and no more than 100 calls by ocean cruise ships a year. All ships are required to plug in to shore power from 2027. There were also plans to limit the number of river cruise ships.
The next phase of this original plan was to relocate the passenger terminal to outside the city by 2035, although this is still pending the publication of a full feasibility report.
Call for full cruise ship ban by 2035
Viking Longship Mani, Expeditions ship Viking Polaris and Viking ocean ship Venus on the North Sea Canal, Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo courtesy of Viking)
Based on the cost of a new passenger terminal and the reduced revenues due to the cruise ship restrictions, some city officials now say it makes sense to just impose a complete ban on cruise ship traffic in the city.
However, it is not an official proposal up for debate yet. That decision will be taken by the city council after local elections in March. Councilman Rob Hofland said: “We are finally going to free Amsterdam from these floating apartment blocks.”
If a complete cruise ship ban is implemented, it doesn’t mean cruise ship guests won’t get the opportunity to explore Amsterdam.
Nearby Rotterdam is being touted as an alternative port of call. In fact, some cruise lines already call there instead of the capital. This is partly due to public opposition to large cruise ships and demonstrations by anti-cruise activists. Rotterdam is around a one-hour drive from Amsterdam.
A new cruise port could be established in the Tampa, Florida area, opening up the region to cruise traffic on the largest modern cruise liners for the first time.
Tampa, Florida
Seattle-based SSA Marine has published a draft proposal for a new cruise port and terminal facility in Manatee County on a 300-acre site known as the Knott-Cowen tract.
Tampa Bay Bridge Limits Cruise Ship Size
Aerial drone photo of Tampa Bay Florida USA Sunshine Skyway Bridge. (Image via Shutterstock)
This would give the largest cruise ships an option to dock in the Tampa area. Currently the height clearance of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge doesn’t allow the largest cruise ships access to Port Tampa Bay.
SSA Marine is touting the project as a gamechanger for the region’s cruise tourism. “Our new port will complement existing cruise activities in the region,” the company says.
“It would be able to service the newer, larger, low-emissions cruise vessels that would otherwise be unable to visit due to the height restrictions of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge,” says Stefano Borzone, president of SSA Marine’s Cruise Division.
SSA Marine, which already has a presence at Tampa Port and other port facilities across Florida, is working with the land’s owner Slip Knott LLC to develop the new facility.
Slip Knott says the project is expected to generate around 31,000 direct and indirect jobs and “boost labor earnings by approximately $1.6 billion.”
“Cruise activity brings visitors, supports small businesses, and generates employment across a wide range of sectors, from hospitality and transportation to logistics and maritime services,” the company added on its website.
The project is still at the early planning stage with no specifics shared about what a finished cruise port and terminal would look like.
“A project of this magnitude will have many layers of review and due diligence,” said Jacki Dezelski, president of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. Along with the construction and dredging work, the timeline for completion would likely be around the end of the decade at least.
A water leak caused flooding on an MSC Cruises ship with impacted guests offered compensation. It happened aboard MSC Seaview during a South American cruise last week.
MSC Seaview (Photo courtesy of MSC Cruises)
The cruise line worked to fix the leak, apologized and compensated guests. Video footage obtained and posted online by a Brazilian news outlet showed standing water in a corridor with guests walking barefoot. The cruise line said water entered a “number of guest cabins” but hasn’t disclosed exactly how many.
MSC said a fault in a water line caused the flooding.
MSC Issues Apology, Compensates Affected Guests
We are sorry for the inconvenience caused to our guests as a result of a leak on the ship. A fault was detected in a water line and unfortunately this resulted in water entering a number of guest cabins and the public corridor.”
“The fault was quickly isolated and resolved by our technical teams and all affected cabins were deep cleaned.”
The company said the flooding posed “no risk to guest safety” and all impacted guests were informed as soon as possible. “We offered a range of compensation offers depending on the degree to which guests were affected, including upgraded cabins and full refunds.”
MSC also offered onboard credit of up to $150.
Another Brazilian news outlet reported around 40 staterooms were affected. Guests were temporarily moved to public areas while inspections and repairs were completed and staterooms were given time to dry out. This reportedly took several hours.
The incident happened two days into a week-long cruise which departed Santos, Brazil and ended this weekend. During a subsequent port call in Maceio, the ship was checked by port authority inspectors and cleared to continue sailing.
During the repairs the ship continued its voyage and there was no interruption to onboard services.
Royal Caribbean Group is detailing Points Choice, a new loyalty program capability that allows guests to earn cruise points on any of its three brands and apply them wherever they choose across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea.
The program, launching January 30, 2026, connects the company’s existing loyalty programs (Crown & Anchor Society, Captain’s Club, and Venetian Society) giving guests flexibility to direct their earned points to the program where they’ll have the most value. Casino rewards programs give players perks that go from free credits, cashback on losses, to food vouchers and free rooms.
How Point Conversions Work
Guests continue earning cruise points as they always have, based on stateroom category and nights sailed.
The new points comes after the sailing, when guests have up to 14 days to decide which loyalty program receives their earned points. It should be noted that point values vary by brand.
A Royal Caribbean balcony stateroom earns 1 Crown & Anchor point per night, which converts to 3 Captain’s Club points on Celebrity or 1 Venetian Society day for every 3 Royal nights on Silversea.
Celebrity’s top suites earn 24 Captain’s Club points per night, converting to 2 Crown & Anchor points or 1 Venetian Society day.
Silversea’s expedition suites earn 1 VS day per night, worth 2 Crown & Anchor points or 24 Captain’s Club points.
Points Choice is designed with our guests at the center,” said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “Our guests are exploring more of our brands than ever before, and we believe our loyalty experience should grow with them.”
Building on Status Match
Points Choice builds on Royal Caribbean Group’s Status Match program, introduced in May 2024, which allows loyalty members to enjoy equivalent tier status across all three brands.
A Crown & Anchor Diamond member, for example, receives equivalent recognition when sailing Celebrity or Silversea.
Together, Status Match and Points Choice create what the company calls the most integrated loyalty ecosystem in the cruise industry.
The program eliminates the need for guests to “start over” when exploring different brands within the Royal Caribbean Group portfolio.
Moving Between Brands
Royal Caribbean Group designed Points Choice to show how cruisers move between brands, from multi-generational trips to couples getaways and milestone celebrations.
Rather than operating brand loyalty programs in isolation, the company now enables guests to guide their loyalty journey across its entire portfolio.
Exchange rates will be published annually and may change. Additional information on point conversion details and frequently asked questions is available on Royal Caribbean Group’s website.
Last summer, Carnival Cruise Line announced it would be revamping its loyalty program this year, but it wasn’t well received, as many VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club guests looked to other cruise lines.
Norwegian Cruise Line also lets guests status match between brands.
Will Carnival Cruise Line follow suit? And is this the new way to keep guests within the cruise line’s own ecosystem? We’ll have to wait and see.
Don’t forget you can also snag some great last minute cruise deals from companies like Dunhill by doing a quick google search. Cruise companies are always trying to fill up ships last minute so you can usually find some steep discounts!
Carnival Corp (CCL) is bringing back dividend payouts after a record-breaking full year performance.
The group’s 2025 full year results saw a 60% jump in adjusted net income to $3.1 billion, driven by $26.6 billion in revenue, an all-time record high.
Record High Full Year Revenue
The results and the dividend reinstatement pushed Carnival’s share price up nearly 10% the day of the announcement.
It also announced an upcoming change is planned to scrap its US and UK dual-listing. It aims to become a single New York-listed business subject to shareholder approval.
“2025 was a truly phenomenal year,” said CEO Josh Weinstein. “We set new records across our business, achieved investment grade leverage metrics and, as announced reinstating our dividend.”
“We’re always trying to figure out how to make the experience onboard meet and exceed expectations. “We have a tremendously ridiculous price-to-experience ratio gap between what we give to our guests and what you can get in land-based alternatives. That value proposition, I think, is getting clearer and clearer when it comes to how we can market this.”
The fourth quarter adjusted earnings exceeded analysts’ forecasts of $454m, with quarterly revenue at $6.33 billion.
With two-thirds of capacity sold for 2026, the company expects to increase earnings further in 2026 with adjusted net income of around $3.5 billion.
It was the fourth time in 2025 it outperformed guidance thanks to strong last-minute booking volume.
Carnival announced a 15 cents per share dividend is payable in late February 2026.
Carnival Corp CFO David Bernstein said the company structure will be simplified by delisting Carnival PLC from the London stock exchange.
Delisting From UK Stock Exchange
“We believe it will also increase liquidity for stock trades and increase weighting of the stock in major U.S. stock indices,” he said. This means unifying into a single corporate entity listed only in New York.
This will then “streamline governance and reporting, and reduce administrative costs,” Bernstein added. Existing Carnival PLC shareholders would be issued Carnival Corp. shares on a one-for-one basis, making Carnival PLC a UK subsidiary wholly owned by Carnival Corp.
This will be formally proposed at shareholder meetings in April, with an expected completion in the second quarter.
Carnival’s move follows Royal Caribbean (RCL), which reinstated its dividend in 2024 as cruise line across the industry return to shareholder payouts after the pandemic recovery period.
Royal Caribbean’s Haiti private destination Labadee won’t be getting any cruise calls for the entirety of 2026. The long suspension will continue for the rest of this year, “out of an abundance of caution,” the cruise line says.
It comes as Haiti’s gang related issues continue to impact overall security of the country since a state of emergency was issued in March 2024.
Highest Level State Department Travel Advisory
The country remains under a Level 4 “do not travel” advisory. The U.S. State Department advises Americans to stay away “due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited health care.”
“We have been monitoring the evolving situation and have extended our pause to Labadee through December 2026. We have already communicated with guests directly,” Royal Caribbean said.
The cruise line last called at Labadee in April 2025, and also halted cruise calls for more than six months in 2024.
Royal Caribbean cites ongoing risk assessments of safety even though unrest is centered mainly on the capital Port-au-Prince. It says it continues to monitor developments. Labadee is located on the northern coast, more than 100 miles from Port-au-Prince.
As a private destination it is exclusive to ship guests and has a round-the-clock security presence. The 260-acre site has a private beach, and an array of leisure amenities such as cabanas, a zip line, water slides and boating.
The cruise line has shared itinerary revisions with travel advisors and guests. For most cruises, it has disclosed the replacement port calls although for a few sailings, the scheduled Labadee call is being replaced by a sea day.
The revised itineraries affect sailings on 12 Royal Caribbean ships, which include Allure of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Star of the Seas.
Port calls substituted for Labadee include Nassau, Grand Turk, Cozumel, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Cruises that cross multiple climate zones offer variety and contrast within a single trip. You might experience tropical heat one day and cool coastal weather the next, sometimes within the same week.
Packing effectively for these shifts requires planning rather than simply bringing more items.
Limited cabin space and airline luggage restrictions make overpacking impractical. The goal is to prepare for changing conditions while keeping your wardrobe and gear manageable. Smart packing focuses on adaptability, layering, and thoughtful item selection.
Preparing for Changing Conditions Early
Before packing anything, review the itinerary carefully. Note the regions, typical seasonal weather, and whether the cruise includes sea days or overnight port stays. This context informs every packing decision that follows.
Some travelers also think about communication tools during port days or excursions. Mobile radios are occasionally used in group travel situations, and keeping essentials like Motorola radio batteries organized ensures equipment remains usable if brought along.
While not required for most cruisers, planning for accessories follows the same logic as preparing for weather changes.
Layering as a Core Strategy
Layering is one of the most effective ways to handle varying climates. Lightweight base layers can be worn alone in warm destinations or combined with insulating pieces in cooler regions. This approach reduces the need for bulky, single-purpose clothing.
Mid-layers such as light sweaters or fleece jackets provide warmth without taking up much space. Outer layers, like a packable jacket, protect against wind or rain and can be easily removed. Together, these pieces adapt to a wide range of temperatures.
Fabrics That Work Across Climates
(Photo courtesy of Holland America Line)
Choosing the right clothes for traveling is essential. Look for garments made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials that help regulate body temperature in warm and humid environments. These fabrics also dry faster, which is helpful when laundry access is limited.
In cooler climates, the same materials can be layered effectively. Natural fibers like merino wool are often favored because they provide insulation while remaining breathable. Selecting versatile fabrics reduces the total number of items you need to pack.
Footwear for Diverse Destinations
Footwear presents a common packing challenge on multi-climate cruises. Space constraints limit how many pairs you can reasonably bring. Selecting shoes that perform well in multiple settings is essential.
Comfortable walking shoes are usually the highest priority, as they suit both sightseeing and casual onboard activities. A second pair, such as sandals or dress shoes, can cover warm-weather excursions or formal evenings. Weather-resistant options add flexibility in cooler or wetter ports.
Accessories That Add Flexibility
Small accessories can significantly expand your comfort range. Scarves, hats, and lightweight gloves take up minimal space but provide warmth when temperatures drop. They can be easily removed and stored when not needed.
Sun protection accessories are equally important in warmer regions. Sunglasses and a packable hat help manage intense sunlight without adding bulk. These items offer practical benefits across multiple climates.
Managing Cabin Storage Efficiently
Cruise cabins are designed for efficiency, not excess storage. Using packing cubes or compression bags helps keep clothing organized and accessible. This is particularly helpful when rotating outfits for different climates.
Separating warm-weather and cool-weather items allows you to retrieve what you need quickly. Keeping rarely used items stowed reduces clutter and makes daily routines smoother. E
Efficient storage supports adaptability throughout the trip.
Laundry Planning on Longer Cruises
Many multi-climate itineraries span more than a week. Laundry services or self-service facilities are often available onboard, though availability varies by ship. Planning to do laundry once can significantly reduce how much you need to pack.
Quick-drying fabrics make hand-washing feasible if needed. Rewearing versatile items after laundering helps maintain a streamlined wardrobe. This approach supports smart packing without sacrificing comfort.
Balancing Comfort With Practicality
Packing for multiple climate zones is ultimately about balance. You want to be prepared without feeling burdened by excess gear. Each item should earn its place by serving multiple purposes.
Thoughtful selection reduces decision fatigue during the trip. When everything works together, adjusting to a new climate becomes routine rather than stressful. This balance enhances the overall cruise experience.
Adapting as the Journey Unfolds
A cruise that spans different climates highlights the value of flexibility. Weather can change unexpectedly, and personal comfort needs may shift over time. Packing with adaptability in mind allows you to respond with ease.
Rather than aiming for perfect preparation, focus on readiness.
When your clothing and gear can adjust along with the itinerary, you spend less time managing logistics and more time enjoying the journey itself.
Princess Cruises’ Discovery Princess has been named “Coolest Way To See Alaska” in Good Housekeeping’s 2026 Travel Awards.
Good Housekeeping selected winners through expert reviews, consumer feedback, and real-world testing by its editorial team.
Discovery Princess earned top marks for blending innovation, luxury, and family-friendly entertainment while delivering authentic Alaskan experiences. The award reinforces Princess’s position as the leading cruise line in Alaska.
What Makes Discovery Princess Stand Out for Families
The ship brings Alaska’s culture and environment onboard through Princess’s signature “North to Alaska” immersive programming.
Park Rangers stationed onboard in Glacier Bay provide live narration and lead Junior and Teen Ranger programs. Storyteller series feature cultural ambassadors, adventurers, authors, photographers, and Iditarod champions sharing authentic Alaskan perspectives.
Beyond traditional cruising, the ship offers unique experiences like Puppies in the Piazza and Campfire Movies Under the Stars—entertainment designed to engage all ages. Youth and teen activities include Gold Rush Treasure Hunt and the Great Alaskan Fishermen’s Race.
Dining reflects Alaska’s seafood heritage. Discovery Princess sources fresh salmon, halibut, and crab locally throughout the voyage.
A unique “Cook My Catch” program lets guests enjoy the fish they reel in during select shore excursions. The ship features Alaska craft beers, local spirits, and signature Alaska-themed cocktails.
2026 Alaska Season Expansion
(Photo courtesy of Princess Cruises)
Princess is operating its biggest Alaska season ever in 2026. Discovery Princess sails the popular “Voyage of the Glacier” route between Vancouver and Anchorage (Whittier), featuring Glacier Bay National Park.
The season marks the debut of Star Princess, the cruise line’s newest ship, offering weekly seven-day Inside Passage round-trip cruises from Seattle. Overall, Princess’s Alaska program for May through September 2026 includes eight ships, 180 departures, and 19 destinations.
For an extended time in Alaska, Princess Cruisetours combines seven-day Glacier cruises with 3-10 nights at Princess-owned Wilderness Lodges.
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