Carnival Cruise Line has stirred up conversation with a recent change to its late-night dining lineup—specifically, how it serves pizza after midnight. Known for its nearly round-the-clock pizza availability, Carnival has now shifted its late-night pizza service to the buffet starting at midnight.

What’s Changing?

Essentially, the pizza counter will now close at midnight, but that doesn’t mean pizza disappears. Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, shared the update, explaining:

“Over the years, many of you have written and spoken to me about food options and the wait time for pizza when you’re looking for a late-night snack. Now around midnight, our fabulous team on Lido will take over from our wonderful pizza chefs as our service moves from the counter to the buffet line. You can find delicious pizza still, but also other options like chicken tenders, hot dogs, sandwiches, cookies, and other desserts.”

This shift is designed to streamline operations and better utilize staff during quieter hours. On Carnival’s Excel-class ships (Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee), the late-night buffet—including pizza—will be served in Guy’s Pig & Anchor on Deck 8.

To sweeten the deal, Carnival has also announced that its pizza stations will open an hour earlier, running from 9:00 a.m. to midnight instead of the previous 10:00 a.m. start time.

Mixed Reactions From Guests

Not all passengers are thrilled with the change. One recent guest on Carnival Panorama described the late-night buffet offerings as “lackluster,” adding that while pizza was available, it wasn’t the “good kind” typically found at the pizza counter. Another traveler noted that pizza has always been part of the buffet’s offerings but found the menu underwhelming.

On the flip side, many guests appreciate the convenience of having pizza alongside other late-night favorites like chicken tenders and desserts. Carnival’s move aims to reduce wait times and simplify late-night dining.

Can’t Do Without Pizza?

For guests who still crave the pizza counter experience after hours, Carnival has you covered—24/7 pizza is available via room service.

This change might not please everyone, but it’s clear that Carnival is experimenting with ways to make late-night dining faster and more accessible. What do you think? Will this new system improve the midnight munchies experience or leave you longing for the classic pizza counter?

The post Carnival Cruise Line Changes Late-Night Pizza Options appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Captain John Murray, CEO of Canaveral Port Authority, delivered an optimistic outlook during his annual State of the Port address, highlighting significant growth in revenues and passenger movements while outlining exciting plans for the future.

Record-Breaking Numbers in FY 2024

Port Canaveral solidified its position as the world’s second-busiest cruise port, reporting:

• $191 million in total revenues, with cruise operations contributing $156 million.

• 7.6 million passenger movements, a 12% increase from the previous year.

• 911 cruise ship calls and 914,000 vehicles parked.

Captain Murray emphasized the port’s economic impact, stating:

“Port Canaveral continues to be a strategic economic driver for creating jobs, helping local businesses to grow and prosper, and bringing more guests to experience all that our port community has to offer.”

Enhancements and Investments

To accommodate growing demand, Port Canaveral introduced new parking facilities and upgraded its parking systems, ensuring a smoother guest experience. With 13 homeported ships and some of the world’s largest vessels in its fleet, the port has proven itself as a vital partner in the cruise industry.

Looking Ahead to FY 2025

The upcoming fiscal year promises even greater milestones:

• 16 homeported ships and a projected 8.4 million passenger movements.

• 1,030 cruise ship calls and significant ship upgrades.

• Projected revenues of $211 million, continuing its upward trajectory.

Exciting New Partnerships

Port Canaveral will welcome Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, the newest Icon-class LNG-powered ship, as well as debut homeporting partnerships with Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises—marking their first-ever operations from this port.

Captain Murray concluded with confidence in the port’s continued success, reinforcing Port Canaveral’s role as a cornerstone of the cruise industry.

The post Port Canaveral Breaks Records and Welcomes New Cruise Lines in 2025 appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced the cancellation of 38 cruises scheduled between November 2025 and April 2026, affecting itineraries on the Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Star, and Norwegian Dawn.

Which Cruises Are Affected?

• Norwegian Jewel:

All sailings between Nov. 23, 2025, and April 5, 2026, are canceled. These included 16 itineraries ranging from five to 14 nights, departing from Tampa to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.

• Norwegian Star:

The ship’s entire South America and Antarctica season—11 cruises between Nov. 20, 2025, and April 14, 2026—has been canceled.

• Norwegian Dawn:

All cruises from Nov. 2, 2025, to April 12, 2026, are affected. These voyages included an exotic mix of ports in Africa, Asia, and the Indian Ocean.

In addition, NCL has canceled two sailings on the Norwegian Sun and two on the Norwegian Getaway:

• Norwegian Sun: A 14-night South Pacific cruise scheduled to depart on Aug. 7, 2025.

• Norwegian Getaway: Sailings on Aug. 17 and Aug. 21, 2026, due to a ship charter.

What Happens Next for Guests?

Affected passengers will receive:

• A full refund to their original form of payment.

• A 10% discount as a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) for a future booking.

• Protected commissions for travel advisors on fully paid bookings.

NCL has cited fleet redeployment as the reason for these changes. Replacement itineraries are expected to be announced soon, with guests notified directly about deployment updates.

Stay tuned for updates as NCL reveals its revised plans. If you’re impacted, be sure to explore the Future Cruise Credit options for a future sailing!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels 38 Cruises: What Travelers Need to Know appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Carnival Cruise Line has announced an exciting lineup of 10 patriotic sailings in 2026 to commemorate America’s 250th birthday. These voyages will feature ship meetups, themed celebrations, and unique onboard experiences to mark this historic milestone.

A Patriotic Celebration at Sea

On July 4, 2026, Carnival will bring together seven ships on the East Coast near Celebration Key in the Bahamas and three ships on the West Coast near Ensenada, Mexico. Guests on these ships can enjoy festive deck parties, patriotic entertainment, and themed food and drinks designed to make the occasion unforgettable.

Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, expressed the company’s enthusiasm:

“We’re America’s cruise line, and we’re commemorating this milestone in a big way! Uniting our ships will multiply the fun and make America’s 250th birthday even more memorable for guests who celebrate at sea.”

Sailings to Suit Every Schedule

The 2026 lineup includes cruises ranging from three to eight days, departing from six U.S. homeports:

• East Coast: Miami, Port Canaveral, Jacksonville, and New York City

• West Coast: Long Beach and San Francisco

Here’s a closer look at the options:

East Coast Departures

• Quick Getaways:

• Carnival Conquest (Miami) and Carnival Glory (Port Canaveral) both offer three-day sailings to Celebration Key at Grand Bahama, departing July 3, 2026.

• Carnival Sunrise departs July 2, 2026, for a four-day Bahamas cruise from Miami, while Carnival Elation offers a four-day Bahamas sailing from Jacksonville.

• Extended Vacations:

• Carnival Celebration departs Miami on June 28, 2026, for a seven-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary, stopping at Celebration Key, Nassau, Amber Cove, and Grand Turk.

• Carnival Vista sails an eight-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from Port Canaveral on June 27, 2026, with stops in San Juan and St. Thomas.

• Northeastern Adventure:

• Carnival Venezia leaves New York City on July 1, 2026, for an eight-day cruise visiting Celebration Key, Nassau, and Half Moon Cay.

West Coast Departures

• California Sailings:

• Carnival Firenze (Long Beach) offers a three-day Baja Mexico cruise departing July 3, 2026.

• Carnival Luminosa sails a four-day cruise from San Francisco, departing July 2, 2026, to Ensenada.

• Carnival Radiance departs Long Beach on June 30, 2026, for a five-day Mexican Riviera cruise with stops in Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada.

On July 4, the West Coast ships will rendezvous at sea, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Why Sail on America’s 250th Birthday?

These cruises are more than just vacations—they’re a front-row seat to history. With exclusive events and Carnival’s signature fun, they promise to be an unforgettable way to celebrate America’s milestone birthday.

Ready to plan your patriotic adventure? Visit Carnival Cruise Line’s official website for more details and booking information!

The post Carnival Cruise Line Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with Special Sailings in 2026 appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Carnival Cruise Line has officially added Bluetooth speakers to its list of banned items, putting an end to a long-standing debate about their place onboard. According to the updated policy on Carnival’s website, “All speakers (including Bluetooth, portable, and wireless types) and radios are prohibited and will be held and returned at the end of the cruise.”

The reasoning behind the ban is clear: important announcements made over the ship’s public address system must be heard by all passengers. However, Carnival emphasizes that guests can still enjoy their favorite music, movies, and shows with earphones in public areas.

Why the Ban?

Previously, Bluetooth speakers were allowed onboard but discouraged in shared spaces such as pool decks, lounges, and dining areas. However, on a cruise ship where communal areas are limited, loud music from speakers can easily:

• Drown out important safety or event announcements.

• Disrupt the ambiance of shared spaces.

• Annoy fellow passengers with clashing music preferences or excessive volume.

Passenger Opinions on the Ban

This move comes after increasing frustration among guests about inappropriate speaker use. The topic gained traction last August when Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald conducted a poll on Facebook, asking followers whether Bluetooth speakers should be banned. Over 20,000 people responded, with 88% agreeing they should be prohibited.

Heald shared his personal stance, stating, “My personal opinion…is that we should not allow Bluetooth speakers onboard at any time.”

Many passengers echoed his sentiments. One guest described an experience where someone’s speaker was blasting so loudly on the pool deck that even their own group had to shout over the noise.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Not everyone supports the outright ban. Some travelers argue that Bluetooth speakers should be allowed if used respectfully. For instance:

• Inside staterooms: At a low volume that doesn’t disturb neighbors.

• Off the ship: During excursions or private activities.

As Carnival implements this change, it reinforces the importance of balancing personal enjoyment with respect for the shared cruising experience.

What Should You Pack Instead?

For your next Carnival cruise, consider leaving the speaker at home and opting for a good pair of headphones or earbuds. They’ll keep you entertained without disturbing others—and ensure you comply with the updated rules.

Carnival’s Important Information to Know Before You Go link and here is the Prohibited item list

The post Carnival Cruise Line Bans Bluetooth Speakers: What Travelers Need to Know appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Carnival Cruise Line and the Port of Baltimore have solidified their partnership with a new five-year agreement, effective January 1, 2025. The contract ensures the world’s largest cruise line will continue sailing from Baltimore through 2029, with an option to extend for another five years.

A Commitment to Maryland Cruising

Governor Wes Moore celebrated the agreement, highlighting Baltimore’s status as a leading cruise market:

“The international cruise industry recognizes Baltimore as one of the top cruise markets in our nation. We are delighted to have Carnival Cruise Line continue serving Maryland for another five years.”

Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy echoed this sentiment:

“We’re proud of our 20-year history in Baltimore and grateful for this strong partnership. We’re excited to build on this relationship and continue delivering unforgettable vacations.”

Economic Impact and Milestones

The Port of Baltimore is thriving, with over 444,000 passengers in 2023—the third-highest in its history and the best since 2012. The cruise industry generates:

• Over 400 local jobs, including 220 at the port.

• $1 million in economic impact per sailing.

Carnival’s Baltimore history includes significant milestones, such as introducing Carnival Pride as the port’s first year-round ship in 2009 and its return following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

Why Baltimore Stands Out

The Port of Baltimore is known for its convenient location, just off Interstate 95 and near BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, making it accessible for cruisers across the East Coast and Midwest. Executive Director Jonathan Daniels emphasized the port’s appeal:

“Many cruisers choose to explore Baltimore before or after their trip, enjoying the city’s rich offerings.”

Carnival’s Baltimore Offerings

Carnival currently offers five- to 14-day cruises from Baltimore, with itineraries to:

• The Bahamas and Bermuda

• Turks and Caicos

• New England and Canada

• And more!

Looking Ahead

As Carnival prepares to celebrate 20 years of sailing from Baltimore this October, the future looks bright for this longstanding partnership. Whether you’re planning a tropical getaway or a New England escape, Baltimore remains a top embarkation point for unforgettable cruise vacations.

For more information and to book your next cruise, visit Carnival Cruise Line.

The post Carnival Cruise Line Extends Partnership with Port of Baltimore Through 2029 appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

MSC Cruises has officially kicked off its highly anticipated winter 2024-25 cruise season, featuring the MSC Divina, MSC Seaside, and MSC Seascape setting sail from Miami. With a diverse range of itineraries and world-class amenities, these ships promise to deliver unforgettable Caribbean adventures.

Highlights of the Winter Cruise Season

• MSC Seascape: Homeporting in Miami, this stunning ship offers week-long Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.

• Eastern Caribbean: Ports include Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Nassau, San Juan, and Puerto Plata.

• Western Caribbean: Stops include Mexico, Honduras, Belize, and Ocean Cay.

• MSC Divina: A versatile lineup of itineraries ranging from short getaways to extended voyages, including:

• Three- and four-night cruises to Ocean Cay and Nassau.

• Ten-night sailings to Jamaica, Aruba, Curaçao, and the Bahamas.

• A special 14-night itinerary for an extended Caribbean escape.

• MSC Seaside: Another fan-favorite ship departing Miami every Sunday, offering seven-night journeys to:

• Ocean Cay and key destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Ocean Cay: A Signature Stop

All itineraries include a visit to the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. With pristine beaches, water activities, and sustainability at its core, Ocean Cay is a highlight of any MSC cruise.

Leadership Insights

Lynn Torrent, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of MSC Cruises USA, emphasized the appeal of these ships:

“MSC Divina, MSC Seascape, and MSC Seaside are not only fan favorites but also highly competitive ships in the U.S. market. With an expanded selection of itineraries from Miami, we’re offering guests more opportunities to explore the Caribbean in unparalleled style.”

Neil Palomba, Executive Vice President of MSC Cruises USA, added:

“This season brings European elegance, cutting-edge design, and personalized service to U.S. travelers. From quick getaways to extended vacations, our ships ensure an extraordinary experience for all.”

Looking Ahead: MSC World America

In April 2025, MSC Cruises will welcome its newest ship, MSC World America, with its naming ceremony taking place at the brand-new PortMiami terminal. This addition underscores MSC’s commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional cruising experiences.

Plan Your Winter Escape

Whether you’re seeking a brief retreat or an immersive journey, MSC Cruises’ winter season offers something for everyone. With luxurious amenities, outstanding dining, and world-class entertainment, your dream Caribbean adventure awaits!

For more information and to book your cruise, visit MSC Cruises.

The post MSC Winter Miami Departures, Caribbean Itineraries & Ocean Cay Highlights appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Calling all young explorers! Are you ready for a vacation filled with endless fun, new friendships, and thrilling adventures? Welcome to Camp Ocean—the ultimate onboard paradise for kids, packed with excitement for every age group!

Housed on the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship, Camp Ocean offers a dynamic range of experiences that spark imagination and keep children entertained throughout the voyage. From toddlers to tweens, there’s a dedicated space for every age group to ensure an unforgettable experience for all.

A World of Wonder for the Little Ones

For the youngest cruisers (ages 2-5), the Penguins Room is a delightful retreat. This penguin-themed play area, complete with vibrant murals and soft, kid-friendly furnishings, creates the perfect environment for little ones to explore and play.

Engaging Activities: Led by trained youth counselors, activities like arts and crafts, storytelling, and interactive games are tailored to help your child grow socially and creatively—all while having loads of fun!

Potty Training Not Required: Even if your toddler isn’t fully potty-trained, you can relax knowing that they’re in good hands, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the cruise.

Parental Peace of Mind: While your children are immersed in fun, you can enjoy some well-deserved relaxation on the ship or disembark for an excursion, knowing they’re safe and happy.

Exciting Adventures for Growing Kids

As kids grow, so do their interests—and Camp Ocean has it covered with specialized spaces for older children.

Stingray Room (Ages 6-8): With vibrant underwater decor and comfy seating, the Stingray Room is perfect for inquisitive minds. Youth counselors lead exciting activities like scavenger hunts and sports tournaments, encouraging teamwork, curiosity, and friendly competition.

Shark Room (Ages 9-11): For older kids, the Shark Room is the ultimate hangout. Designed with their interests in mind, it features video game tournaments, science experiments, and themed parties. Here, they’ll make new friends, embrace independence, and create unforgettable memories.

Dive Into Dr. Seuss-Inspired Fun

At Camp Ocean, the magic continues with Dr. Seuss Bookville, a colorful, whimsical space dedicated to the world of Dr. Seuss. Families can enjoy:

• Cozy Reading Nooks: Snuggle up with your favorite Dr. Seuss classics and let your imagination run wild.

• Interactive Storytime: Join in fun-filled story sessions and even meet some beloved Dr. Seuss characters!

Creating Lasting Memories

Camp Ocean is more than just a place for kids to play—it’s an adventure-filled journey that they’ll remember for years to come. With thoughtfully designed spaces, exciting activities, and a dedicated staff, your little ones are guaranteed to have a blast while cruising. From diving into the magical world of Dr. Seuss to enjoying the themed rooms, there’s something for every child aboard a Carnival Cruise!

Set sail for fun and adventure at Camp Ocean—your child’s dream vacation awaits!

The post Camp Ocean: Ultimate Onboard Adventure for Kids on Carnival Cruises appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

MSC Cruises will debut its first-ever Alaska season in 2026, offering seven-night sailings from Seattle between May and September. In addition to exploring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes, MSC will offer two unique repositioning cruises between Miami and Seattle, featuring a rare transit through the historic Panama Canal.

The cruises will take place on MSC Poesia, a 2008-built ship that’s perfectly suited for navigating Alaska’s narrow channels and getting close to the region’s glaciers. Passengers will visit iconic Alaskan destinations like Juneau, Tracy Arm Fjord, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan, along with a stop in Victoria, British Columbia.

The repositioning cruises, which will occur when the ship moves between its winter home in Miami and its summer base in Seattle, will include up to 10 destinations on the West Coast. Highlights include stops in Puntarenas, Costa Rica, Cartagena, Colombia, and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, before crossing the Panama Canal.

Lynn Torrent, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer for MSC Cruises USA, noted the rising demand for northern itineraries. She highlighted that MSC Poesia will cruise Alaska in the summer and move to Miami for the winter, offering travelers the chance to experience the Panama Canal transit.

In Seattle, which celebrated 25 years of Alaska cruises in 2024, the port is set to implement shore power by 2027, requiring all cruise vessels to connect to the electrical grid while docked.

MSC Cruises’ entry into the Alaska market marks an exciting new chapter for the line as it continues to expand its global offerings.

The post MSC Cruises Launches First Alaska Season in 2026 with Panama Canal Sailings appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.

Royal Caribbean Group’s Icon of the Seas will make history next week when it connects to PortMiami’s new shore power system.

“Icon will start utilizing shore power at Port of Miami next week,” announced Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.

PortMiami has recently introduced an ambitious shore power program, allowing ships to plug into the grid while docked. This move, starting with the world’s largest cruise ship in early November, represents a key environmental initiative by Royal Caribbean.

In addition to this milestone, Liberty highlighted other eco-friendly advancements. The Celebrity Xcel, launching late next year, will be the company’s first methanol-capable ship, marking a significant step in its energy transition.

He also noted the recent trans-Atlantic voyage of the Utopia of the Seas, which successfully operated using bio-LNG, further underscoring Royal Caribbean’s commitment to sustainable cruising.

The post Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas to Begin Using Shore Power in Miami appeared first on T C Cruisingtime.