Virgin Voyages is making waves with its new 2025 Summer Season Passes, allowing unlimited sailing during the summer months. These passes provide access to their adult-only, all-inclusive ships, perfect for those seeking multiple adventures in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Book early to secure your spot on these epic voyages!
Celebrity Cruises has unveiled its 2026-27 itineraries, offering a mix of immersive voyages to destinations like Europe, the Caribbean, and Alaska. Featuring new ports of call and enhanced onboard experiences, these cruises promise luxury, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for more details on these exciting sailings!
Carnival Cruise Line celebrated a milestone with its seven millionth guest from the Port of New Orleans, the Litteral family from Georgia, who boarded the Carnival Valor on September 30. Loyal Carnival cruisers, the family was welcomed by Captain Antonio Modaffari and the crew with a special celebration. The Litteral’s son, Zachary, also achieved Diamond VIFP status during this voyage. Carnival operates year-round from New Orleans, carrying 400,000 passengers annually.
That’s one ship delivery in 2025, none in 2026, and one ship in each of 2027 and 2028. This limited orderbook should also position us well to continue to create demand in excess of capacity growth,” he noted.
Those orders include the Star Princess in 2025, followed by newbuilds for Carnival Cruise Line in 2027 and 2028.
Starting in 2025, Haines, Alaska will introduce a new fee of $9 per cruise passenger, with increases scheduled for 2027 and 2029. The fee will help cover port maintenance and other local needs as the town prepares to welcome more ships each year. Haines, a quieter port compared to Juneau or Skagway, expects 100,000 visitors in 2024.
Royal Caribbean is sending two of its largest ships, Symphony of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, to dry dock for simultaneous refurbishments. Both mega-ships will undergo significant updates to enhance guest experiences and maintain their status as industry leaders. These changes promise fresh amenities, new technology, and upgrades for future sailings.
Norwegian Cruise Line is ditching à la carte pricing at its specialty restaurants, opting for a flat fee instead. Starting October 1, 2024, cruisers will pay a set price for dining experiences at popular venues like Cagney’s and Le Bistro. This move simplifies dining costs and enhances the premium, all-inclusive feel of NCL’s offerings.
Hurricane Helene is disrupting cruise schedules across the eastern Gulf of Mexico, affecting five major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Disney, Carnival, and Virgin Voyages. With winds expected to reach 115 mph, several ships have altered their itineraries to avoid the storm, prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew. Stay safe!
Climate activists from Extinction Rebellion and Stop Croisières blocked the port of Marseille with canoes, preventing cruise ships from docking for about three hours. The protest, which targeted the environmental impact of cruise ships, ended peacefully with 20 activists detained. Marseille’s mayor and public have increasingly criticized the cruise industry’s effects on the city.
Carnival Cruise Line is gearing up for the grand opening of **Celebration Key**, its exclusive Caribbean destination, launching in July 2025. This exciting new stop will feature over 30 diverse food and beverage venues, from full-service restaurants and food trucks to snack shacks and swim-up bars. With offerings like Bahamian specialties, BBQ, seafood, and the new **"Island Eats"** program offering complimentary meals, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you're seeking a casual snack or a full dining experience, Celebration Key promises to elevate your cruise vacation!
