Star Princess has officially entered service and departed on Saturday, October 4 for her maiden voyage, an 11-night Western Mediterranean sailing from Barcelona.
The second Sphere-class ship is now offering limited departures from Barcelona before heading to Fort Lauderdale for her first winter in the Caribbean.
Guests onboard will be able to enjoy more than 30 bars and restaurants, exclusive entertainment options, and the largest casino in the Princess Cruises fleet.
A star is born in the Princess Cruises fleet as Star Princess, the second Sphere-class ship, has set sail from Barcelona on her maiden voyage.
Following a two-month delay and the cancellation of nine earlier sailings, the ship has now departed for the 11-night Western Mediterranean cruise on Saturday, October 4, 2025, officially beginning what will hopefully be many years of stellar service.
“Star Princess shines brightly as one the largest and most spectacular ships we’ve ever built, and we proudly welcome excited guests on her inaugural voyage,”said Gus Antorcha, President of Princess Cruises.
“From leading the newbuild team at the Monfalcone shipyard to watching our amazing crew now guiding her on her maiden voyage with our very first guests, this journey is a true honor for me and our dedicated crew,”added the ship’s master, Captain Gennaro Arma.
This inaugural sailing has visits planned to Marseille, Rome, Naples, Palermo, Cartagena, and Gibraltar before arriving back in Barcelona on Wednesday, October 15. Along the way, guests onboard will have plenty of time to experience all the brand new ship has to offer.
Following this first voyage, Star Princess is offering two more departures from Barcelona. The October 15 sailing is a 7-night cruise visiting Mediterranean voyage to Malaga, Gibraltar, Cartagena, and Marseille.
The October 22, 2025 sailing is of particular interest, as it will be the new ship’s first transatlantic cruise as she moves from Europe to her homeport in Fort Lauderdale. That 14-night one-way sailing includes visits to Palma de Mallorca, Gibraltar, and the Azores before the ship turns her bow toward Florida.
From Port Everglades, Star Princess will offer Caribbean sailings with both Western and Eastern routes, including visits to the Bahamas and Mexico. Guests can easily combine back-to-back cruises for more immersive vacations.
In April 2026, the ship will offer another amazing first with her April 13 departure, a 20-night sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle. This will be the ship’s first transit of the famed Panama Canal and will include stops in Aruba, Panama, the Mexican Riviera, and southern California.
From Seattle, Star Princess will spend the summer offering 7-night Inside Passage itineraries to explore Alaska, before returning to Fort Lauderdale in October 2026.
“We wish our Star Princess captain, senior officers, and crew much success – may her voyages be safe, her sunsets unforgettable, and may she shine, as her name promises, in the sky and on the seas,”said Antorcha.
The next memorable step for the new ship will be her official christening. The ceremony will be in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday, November 6, 2025, before she debuts her Caribbean itineraries.
A Star Princess Is Born
Just delivered to Princess Cruises on September 26, 2025, the new ship is certainly ready to shine with something for each of the 4,300 guests aboard. The crew of more than 1,500 international members stands ready to ensure everyone truly feels like a star.
“We warmly invite guests to come aboard our new Star Princess to experience the extraordinary and well-loved service Princess is known for,”said Arma.
The 177,800-gross-ton ship offers 30 different bars and dining venues, including the wildly popular Love by Britto specialty dining and an expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub.
The signature Piazza with its extraordinary glass sphere is the go-to spot for panoramic views at the heart of the ship. Guests can also take on the challenge of the pickleball court, immerse themselves in the candlelit atmosphere of live music under the Dome, or try their luck at the biggest casino on any Princess Cruises ship.
Just don’t miss the exclusive entertainment, including Spellbound by Magic Castle and the two new production shows, Meridian and Illuminate. Both productions showcase phenomenal effects and music with talented casts and breathtaking scenes.
It’s time to get going with Cruise Hive’s weekly news recap that keeps you up to date on major industry developments as well as unique cruise stories from across the globe.
Today’s edition includes coverage of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings unveiling a loyalty-match program across its three brands, a cruiser having to pay a hefty fee for bringing a huge amount of cash into Canada, and a well-known Hollywood couple being chosen as godparents to Princess Cruises’ Star Princess.
Get your daily cruise news fix by signing up for Cruise Hive’s Daily Update, delivered to your inbox each morning.
NCL Adds Fee for Ordering Multiple Entrees
Norwegian Prima Class Dining Room (Photo Credit: Melissa Herzog)
Guests opting for a meal in the main dining rooms aboard Norwegian Cruise Line ships will have to fork over $5 for each additional entree they order.
The new charge, which was quietly added to menus recently, is likely intended to discourage food waste and to prevent “travel influencers” from ordering multiple entrees just to take photos of them.
There continues to be no charge for ordering one entree. Also, there is unlikely to be any additional charge if an entree is sent back to the kitchen, for instance, because it is overcooked or undercooked.
Other cruise lines also charge for multiple entrees. Carnival Cruise Line, for example, allows guests to order up to two entrees but then adds a $5 fee for each additional entree.
And most cruise lines will add an up-charge for premium items, such as lobster or caviar, served in complimentary main dining rooms. These charges are typically clearly shown on menus.
The policy change followed an earlier decision by Norwegian Cruise Line to begin charging a $10 per person fee to those who make a reservation in a specialty restaurant but then don’t show up.
Norwegian to Honor Loyalty Tiers Across Brands
Norwegian Cruise Brands Loyalty
Starting with cruises departing on and after October 15, 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings will match guests’ loyalty tier status across its three cruise brands.
The new Loyalty Status Honoring Program matches status levels for members of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards, Oceania Cruises’ Oceania Club, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Society.
The three brands combined operate 34 ships, and the idea behind the loyalty match is to encourage guests to sail on more than one brand. Norwegian Cruise Line is considered a mass market brand, while Oceania is a premium line, and Regent offers an ultra-luxury experience.
The cross-brand loyalty matches are not automatic, as guests must request the match at least 10 days before each cruise. For each request, guests’ loyalty levels will be honored at each brand’s nearest corresponding tier.
The move follows a similar tactic by Royal Caribbean Group, which recently unveiled a loyalty match program for its three brands, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises.
Cruise Ship Rescues Refugees From Raft Near Cuba
Enchantment of the Seas Rescue (Photo Credits: Jeffrey Walker)
Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas was sailing an alternative route between Mexico and Cuba due to poor weather in the Bahamas, and the revised itinerary proved to be a lucky break for a group of refugees stranded on a raft.
On September 28, 2025, the ship was sailing from Tampa to Mexico for port calls at Costa Maya and Cozumel when she encountered the unstable raft with eight or nine people onboard. It was just after sunset, and the refugees used lights to signal the cruise ship for assistance.
The 2,252-guest Enchantment of the Seas immediately launched a lifeboat and brought the refugees onboard, where they received medical care and food. Appropriate authorities were notified, including the Mexican Coast Guard.
It is not unusual for refugees to be located in boats and other watercraft in the waters near Cuba, and under maritime law, ships that come upon them are required to assist.
There was no effect on the cruise itinerary, and Enchantment of the Seas proceeded as planned. The original itinerary was to be a 5-night Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay cruise, but storms swirling near the Bahamas in the western Atlantic caused the voyage to be altered.
Cruiser Makes Expensive Mistake in Canada
Cruise Ships Docked in Saint John, New Brunswick (Photo Credit: Doug McLean)
The failure by a cruise guest to disclose that he was carrying a large amount of cash into Canada left him $1,000 in the red.
That was the penalty the traveler paid for not declaring he was bringing about $23,000 into the country during his Canada/New England cruise aboard Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess.
The guest, who hailed from India and has not been identified, should have revealed the cash upon arrival at Saint John, New Brunswick, on September 3, 2025. Canada has no limit on the amount travelers can bring into the country — they simply have to declare anything over $10,000 Canadian.
The money was discovered by officials of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), who had boarded the ship as part of their routine customs process. Agents seized the funds, and the guest was required to pay the $1,000 fine in order to get the money back.
CBSA posted the action on social media, with a cautionary warning to others that such sums of cash must be disclosed upon entry into Canada.
The US has the same disclosure limit, of $10,000 USD. There was no indication that the cruise guest ran into similar trouble in any US port during his sailing.
Hollywood Celebrity Couple to Name Star Princess
Star Princess Godparents
A-list Hollywood celebrity Matthew McConaughey is known for his superb acting talent and his philanthropy toward children’s health and education programs, and he will soon add another achievement as godparent, with his wife Camila, to Princess Cruises’ new Star Princess.
The cruise line chose the couple for their “signature warmth and spirit.” They are also the founders of their own company, Pantalones Organic Tequila, which is part of Princess’ Love Line Premium Liquors collection, sold on the line’s ships.
The christening ceremony is set for November 6, 2025 at Port Everglades, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the new-build’s US homeport. More details about the festive event are yet to come.
The 4,300-guest ship, second in the line’s Sphere class after Sun Princess, will make her debut in Barcelona on October 4, 2025, when she sails her inaugural cruise from the Spanish city.
The ship will sail a second cruise from Barcelona before operating her transatlantic crossing to Florida. After the christening event, the ship will sail a 3-night cruise to Princess Cays, Bahamas, and then begin operating 7- and 14-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings through mid-April 2026.
Star Princess will deploy to Seattle in April 2026 and sail Alaska cruises during the summer season.
Norwegian Cruise Line Announces a Big Homeport Swap
Norwegian Joy Departing Miami (Photo Credit: Just dance)
The Norwegian Cruise Line ships now homeporting in Jacksonville and Tampa, Florida — Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Dawn, respectively, are swapping deployments starting in November 2026.
It means that Norwegian Dawn will sail from Jacksonville, on the East Coast, and Norwegian Gem will operate from Tampa, on the Gulf Coast. There is not much difference between the two ships except that Norwegian Dawn is slightly smaller in terms of double occupancy capacity.
The cruise line has not disclosed a reason for the swapped deployments.
All previously published cruises on both ships, from November 2026 to spring 2027, are cancelled, and booked guests have been notified. New itineraries are expected soon.
The line also revealed that, due to port availability, several sailings in late 2026 aboard Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Joy also are being cancelled.
In 2026, Norwegian Getaway’s November 16, 20, and 25, and December 14 and 18 cruises are cancelled, as are Norwegian Joy’s December 18, 21, 24, and 28 voyages.
Guests on the cancelled sailings are being offered future cruise credits, as the line hopes to garner as many rebookings as possible.
Shutdown Has Limited Effect on Cruise Vacationers
Cruise Ships in Port Canaveral (Photo Credit: Santiago Castillo Chomel)
Travelers preparing for their cruise vacations can expect little impact on their plans resulting from the US government shutdown, since federal airport and cruise port employees continue to work, albeit on an unpaid basis.
This includes TSA agents, FAA staff, including air traffic controllers, and Customs and Border Control agents, who are all considered essential workers and must report to their posts as scheduled.
The government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, forced the closure of some federally operated attractions, such as national parks and museums, frequently visited on port calls. This will affect some shore excursions, including, for example, to the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John.
The biggest challenge for cruisers is likely coming from possible delays in airport security lines and customs processing at air and cruise ports. With hiring and training programs paused, staffing shortages could affect some operations.
Cruisers should continue to arrive at their departure airport two hours ahead of domestic flights and three hours for international flights. However, to avoid any serious delay, it’s always a good idea for cruisers to arrive in their departure port city the day before their ship sails.
More Cruise Headlines
Here are even more top stories from Cruise Hive in the past week: Carnival Cruise Line will move Carnival Venezia from New York to Miami in 2027; the dreaded norovirus stomach bug impacted a Royal Caribbean cruise sailing from San Diego; and a storm with high winds caused an MSC Cruises’ ship to ditch a port call in Norway.
Also, Royal Caribbean unveiled the Bahamian-vibe tender boats it will use to transport guests to its new beach club in Nassau, and Marella Cruises has lost out on a plan to have two new-builds join its fleet.
The 4,132-guest ship, which is operating multiple 7-night Mediterranean itineraries simultaneously, was supposed to call on Cannes on Sunday, October 5, 2025.
However, the Seaside-class vessel will now proceed straight to the following port of call, which is in Genoa, Italy, to hunker down until the worst of the wind passes.
The ship was originally supposed to arrive in Genoa on October 6 at 8:00 a.m. local time, but will now arrive in the port at approximately 5:30 p.m. on October 5.
“We regret to inform you that we have to change our itinerary due to adverse weather conditions. Rough seas and strong winds are expected in Cannes on Sunday, October 5, the day of our stopover, which could impact our ability to enter the port and maneuver safely,”reads a translated letter from MSC Cruises.
“In the interest of our safety, we have decided to cancel our stopover. Instead, we will moor in Genoa, which offers adequate shelter against the expected winds,” the update continued.
🔎 Prudence ce week-end, un temps perturbé revient sur l'Hexagone :
🌧️ Samedi, pluies et rafales de 120 km/h attendus le long des côtes de la Manche
⚠️ Fort coup de vent en Corse la nuit de samedi à dimanche (150 km/h possible).
According to Meteo France, which is the official French meteorological administration, the winds are coming from a high pressure system heading toward the Azores, a low pressure system dubbed Storm Amy that is approaching Scotland, and far reaching remnants of the now-dissipated Hurricane Imelda.
Much of France is currently under a Moderate Wind Warning, or a Yellow Alert, which means the winds could cause minor to moderate damage.
The port call to Barcelona, Spain, on October 4, 2025, will still go ahead as planned.
Impact on Disembarkation
While October 5, 2025, was not meant to be an embarkation day for new passengers, some of the current guests were supposed to conclude their sailings in Cannes, France.
These guests will now have to disembark in Genoa, Italy, on the evening of October 5. They will then be transported to Cannes via bus.
Cannes is around 141 miles from Genoa and the drive takes approximately three hours.
MSC Seaview (Photo Credit: Wayleebird)
“Because of this situation, you will have to disembark in Genoa on Sunday evening,” MSC Cruises stated.
To help you get to your final destination, we have set up a free bus service between the port of Genoa and the Cannes cruise terminal.”
This obviously will put some in a bind, as these passengers likely would have made travel arrangements with the expectation of disembarking in Cannes on the morning of October 5.
This means airport transfers, flights, trains and other related plans will likely need to be rearranged.
Impacted guests will most likely need to book hotels and push back their flights home to the following day.
It’s unclear if MSC Cruises is providing any compensation for this inconvenience, but many cruise lines will reimburse non-refundable travel expenses due to a cancellation.
For disembarking passengers and those staying onboard, any shore excursions booked through MSC Cruises for Cannes should be automatically cancelled and refunded.
Back-to-back cruises are simply two or more consecutive cruises. They are voyages booked on the same ship one after the other, with the main benefits being a more extended vacation, less hassle, and lower overall costs than separate trips.
A back-to-back cruise, which you’ll often see listed as a B2B cruise, is pretty much exactly what it sounds like: two or more cruise trips that run one right after the other on the same ship.
They differ from consecutive cruises, as the booking must be on the same ship, and it must be booked in a way that allows you to stay on that ship without having to pack up and depart.
In some cases, you can even book a B2B cruise that will allow you to keep the same cabin or suite, which I can tell you makes the entire cruising experience so much easier.
Carnival Cruise Ship in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: byvalet)
B2B cruises also differ from single long itinerary cruises, which a cruise line will view as a single trip. With a true B2B cruise, you book separate reservations for each leg, but stay on the same ship.
I should also mention that side-to-side cruises differ from B2B cruises, as they involve switching between different ships that dock in the same port.
For example, a side-to-side trip could have you board a Royal Caribbean ship, then take a second trip on a ship owned by Carnival. This is more complicated than just staying on a single ship.
I know, this all sounds pretty finicky, but it matters a lot when it comes to logistics and how you book your trip. With a B2B cruise, you stay on a single ship, so there is only really one embarkation day and a single debarkation day, even though you’ve technically booked two trips.
Why Take a Back-to-Back Cruise?
Any regular back-to-back cruisers will tell you that there are tons of practical reasons to book these types of vacations. The following are just some of the main advantages I’ve noticed when booking a B2B cruise:
Save on Airfare
For many people, the money you save on flights can be one of the main advantages of a B2B cruise.
Some people may think booking two separate low-cost cruises from completely different departure points will be cheaper than a back-to-back cruise, but then you have to spend money on multiple flights.
Plane Going Over Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky)
Let’s say you’ve booked two separate cruises. The first departs from Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port and the second from PortMiami. You’d have to spend time and money getting to two separate ports, while a B2B cruise has a single departure point, so you only have to fly to one location.
You could also book a back-to-back cruise that departs from a location you’re interested in exploring, such as Europe. Booking a back-to-back cruise with stops in different European cities on its first and second legs allows you to see numerous cities for less than booking flights to visit them separately.
Same Stateroom Convenience
Some cruise lines that offer B2B cruises will even allow guests to stay in the same staterooms for both legs of their vacation. This means you don’t have to pack and move to a new spot, so you keep all of your luggage and belongings in place.
MSC World America Balcony Stateroom (Credit: Calvin Musquez / Cruise HIve)
Beyond avoiding the hassle of re-packing and unpacking, you also get to enjoy the convenience of staying in one familiar place. By day 2 or 3 of a cruise, I usually have a good grasp of the fastest routes from anywhere on the ship to my room, so it’s nice to enjoy that for longer.
You Can See More Destinations
If you combine two different itineraries on the same ship, you have the opportunity to see a greater number of destinations from the convenience of one ship.
Brilliance of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
For example, a single ship may visit ports in the Eastern Caribbean during the first voyage, then switch to the islands of the Western Caribbean for the next. Not having to switch ships but still getting to enjoy this flexibility can be hugely appealing for some cruisers.
More Days at Sea for Less Money
While this isn’t a guarantee, I often find that back-to-back cruises end up costing less per day than booking two separate cruises.
As mentioned above, you save money on travel expenses and airfare, but it’s also possible to get discounts on these types of trips, especially during the shoulder seasons.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Just dance)
You can also build up more onboard credits and loyalty perks by booking two trips with the same cruise line on the same ship. You’ll be able to apply the perks and points you earn with your first cruise to your second, even though you’re staying on the same trip.
The ultimate example of these types of B2B savings is an Australian couple who booked 51 back-to-back cruises because it worked out to be cheaper than living in a retirement home!
How Do Back-to-Back Cruises Work?
Back-to-back cruises may seem more complicated than a standard cruise, but they’re actually pretty straightforward.
Since they’re treated as two separate voyages by the cruise lines, passengers must participate in something called “changeover day”, which is sometimes called debarkation day.
This occurs when the first cruise has concluded, and all passengers, including those who have booked a B2B cruise, must participate in a formal disembarkation before they can re-board the ship.
Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive
During this time, you’ll exit the ship and be guided through the terminal. You must again clear customs, so you’ll want to have your relevant identification and ticket handy. This is required to verify your identity and confirm that you have valid proof of booking for the second cruise.
Once you’re able to re-board the ship, you will be required to complete another muster drill. It may seem odd to repeat a safety drill you completed before setting off on your first cruise, but maritime law requires it for all guests on every voyage.
B2B Cruise Stateroom Arrangements
If you have arranged to keep the same room on your second voyage, you will almost certainly be allowed to keep your luggage and belongings in your room. This is by far the easiest option, but it’s not always available.
If keeping the same cabin or suite was not an option due to availability, you will need to move to a new stateroom. In most cases, the crew will be able to help you with your luggage so you don’t have to worry about lugging it around the ship yourself.
I’d recommend contacting guest services towards the end of your first cruise if you require assistance moving rooms.
Meals, Drinks and Onboard Purchases
Even if you can’t keep the same accommodations, the transition from one cruise to the next can feel remarkably seamless when you stay on the same ship. While policies differ, even upgrades like your beverage package can be extended to cover your second trip.
Carnival Cruise Line Lido Buffet (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
Again, ask guest services about carrying over any packages or upgrades you have made. They may even be able to bill you for all onboard purchases at the end of your last cruise, rather than you having to settle your bill beforehand.
Personally, I find it so satisfying already being familiar with all of the dining options and amenities. Unlike most of the other passengers who are boarding the ship for the first time and are unsure what to do, you can book all the onboard activities you haven’t yet had the chance to enjoy.
How Do I Book Back-to-Back Cruises?
Just like any other type of cruise, you have a few options for booking B2B cruises.
One of the easiest and most affordable ways to book the cruise of your dreams is to book directly through Cruise Hive. With tens of thousands of itineraries and easily adjusted preferences for pricing, cruise length, and more, it couldn’t be easier to find a cruise that fits your preferences and budget.
You can also book directly with the cruise line, either online or by calling. Or use a travel agent if you are more comfortable going that route, to ensure you’re booking a true back-to-back cruise.
Bookings Cruise Finder
However you choose to book your trip, make sure to link reservations so the cruise line knows that you are a back-to-back cruiser, rather than two separate guests.
If you book two separate reservations and they aren’t linked, the cruise line will just treat you like a completely new guest when it’s time for the second leg of your cruise.
It’s also important to choose itineraries that actually align. It won’t be a back-to-back cruise if you just book on different ships that depart from the same port.
For added convenience, I always recommend requesting the same stateroom for both legs of your cruise.
Do I Get a Discount for Booking Back-to-Back Cruises?
To be honest, cruise lines rarely offer an automatic discount for back-to-back sailings. Instead of getting reduced rates on your fares, the savings are mostly indirect.
I already mentioned the savings on airfare and other travel expenses, but you can also save money on hotels before and after you cruise.
I regularly book a hotel stay for the night before a cruise to avoid being late, so only having to book one hotel stay, instead of two nights for completely separate cruises, can add to your overall savings.
Cruise Ships Docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
You can also save money once you’re actually on the ship. Nearly every cruise line offers its own loyalty program, complete with various money-saving perks for guests who travel with them.
Booking back-to-back cruises through a single cruise line doubles the points and onboard perks you earn. Since you’re technically booking two separate cruises, you can also apply the points and cruise credits you earned during the first voyage to the second.
While it’s not a guarantee, I’ve found that booking a B2B cruise is often cheaper than booking a single lengthy trip. You’ll have to shop around a bit, but if you book two consecutive 3-day cruises, it could end up being cheaper than a single 6-day cruise.
Tips for Finding B2B Cruise Deals
Just like any other type of cruise, you can also save money on B2B cruises by paying attention to sales and cruising outside of the busy season.
If you can, I always recommend booking during Wave Season. Most cruise lines offer significant discounts from the end of the winter holiday season to the end of March, including B2B cruises.
Repositioning Cruises
You could also try to book a repositioning cruise for the first leg of your trip, as these tend to be a bit cheaper. As always, booking your cruises during a shoulder season can help you reduce your per-day cruise costs.
You also have to remember that certain cruise lines are cheaper than others. Whether it’s a single fare or a back-to-back cruise, you’re almost always going to save money if you go with one of the more budget-friendly cruise lines.
Why B2B Cruises Are Worth It
At the end of the day, back-to-back cruises aren’t for everyone, but they can be a fantastic way to stretch your time at sea while also cutting expenses. They also involve far less stress when it comes to packing and the logistics of getting to and from your cruise ship.
They’re ideal for retirees and long-haul travelers, as well as digital nomads. With that said, they can be an excellent option for anyone seeking a longer cruise experience without the hassle of switching ships.
Aft of Two Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
Whether you’re a solo adult or a family traveling with kids, being able to settle into a daily routine and enjoy the convenience of staying on a single ship can make your cruise even more relaxing.
After taking plenty of back-to-back cruises myself, I can tell you it’s one of the best cruise hacks out there. With the right planning, you get a longer vacation, more lounge time, less stress, and fewer travel days and expenses.
On top of all of that, you get to double down on the loyalty rewards, which can help you save on your next vacation!
A recent cruise guest has shared how scammers are becoming increasingly common at the Port of Long Beach, and hopes Carnival Cruise Line will offer assistance.
While traffic in and out of the port area is not in the cruise line’s control, Carnival is going to try and work with port authorities to see if the problem can be addressed.
Transportation scams such as fake drivers and dramatically inflated pricing are not uncommon at many popular cruise homeports.
Debarkation day can be confusing and nerve-wracking as thousands of guests try to find their luggage, keep their party together, and make their way onward after leaving the cruise ship. When this involves getting a taxi or ride share, it can be even more confusing, especially when scams get involved.
This is exactly the situation happening more and more at the Port of Long Beach, Carnival Cruise Line’s most popular California homeport. One guest has reached out to John Heald, the cruise line’s brand ambassador, to see if Carnival can offer any assistance.
“I am writing to express my uncomfortable displeasure with the debarkation process at the Long Beach Cruise Terminal due to the overwhelming number of individuals attempting to scam guests under the guise of offering Uber or transportation services,”the guest explained.
“The situation was unnerving, to the point that a security guard intervened and cautioned us not to engage with these individuals, warning that their intent was fraudulent. This type of activity left a negative impression at the very end of what was otherwise an enjoyable cruise.”
The guest did not disclose which Carnival ship they sailed on or when. At the moment, three ships are offering sailings from the southern California homeport: Carnival Firenze, Carnival Panorama, and Carnival Radiance.
All three ships offer Baja and Mexican Riviera itineraries ranging from 3-8 nights, depending on ship and sailing date. Carnival Radiance also offers 14-night Hawaii sailings on select departure dates.
Regardless of the ship, destinations, or cruise length, however, the original poster notes that encountering fraud and scams minutes after debarking the ship can be unsettling.
“Incidents like this do not reflect the safe, welcoming environment we have come to expect from Carnival,”they said.“Whether by partnering with port authorities, increasing official guidance for passengers, or strengthening security presence, I believe steps can and should be taken to protect your guests from being targeted.”
Heald is not unsympathetic to the guest’s concerns. The cruise line does not actually have anything to do with traffic in and out of the port, however, whether drivers are offering legitimate transportation options or hoping to scam passengers.
Carnival Firenze Cruise Ship Docked in Long Beach
“I absolutely understand. I just want to mention it we do not control the traffic into the port, although that is port security and the port authority,”he noted.“I will share this now with my colleagues and ask them to speak with our friends at the port authority.”
There may not be much Carnival Cruise Line could do to crack down on scams. At least drawing attention to the practice with signage at the cruise terminal or notices in the Fun Times newsletter or debarkation information onboard could be helpful.
Parking Problems at Long Beach
The ongoing parking issues and lack of on-site parking at Long Beach may be contributing to the rise of transportation scams.
This opens up opportunities for scammers to seemingly offer faster, cheaper deals for guests, especially if they aren’t familiar with ride share services but are just wanting to head home after their cruise vacation.
Transportation scams aren’t limited to Long Beach, either. Cruise guests at Port Canaveral, more than 2,200 miles away, have also been targeted by scammers.
Frequent cruisers have shared similar scams in Seattle and other cruise homeports and ports of call as well.
Savvy guests should always confirm their travel arrangements. Being familiar with how different transportation options work, including ride shares, taxi services, and cruise line shuttles, can help guests avoid becoming victims of potentially dangerous and expensive scams.
One Carnival guest is so upset at the idea that the cruise line is banning power strips and chargers that they would consider cancelling their cruise just days before departure.
Fortunately, this is only a rumor and there has been no change to Carnival Cruise Line’s prohibited items policy. Power strips and chargers without surge protectors are permitted.
Carnival regularly deals with a wide variety of ridiculous rumors circulating through social media via unconfirmed sources.
It is no surprise that social media is filled with misinformation, false claims, rumors, and downright lies. Carnival Cruise Line has dealt with more than its share of such troublesome details, but the brand ambassador, John Heald, is quick to debunk ridiculous claims.
The latest rumor sailing further than a world cruise concerns power strips and charging cables. Frequent cruisers are well aware that plugs and outlets are at a premium in cruise ship cabins.
With so many people dependent on cell phones, tablets, e-readers, and laptops, having enough space to charge those devices can be a challenge.
One anxiously angry cruise guest has reached out to Heald about the latest rumor and is adamant about their opinion on the issue.
“Very infrequently do I get as angry as I am today,”the guest began.“Carnival Cruise Line have banned us from bringing on power strips and chargers. Really?!! There has been no warning. I would not have known this if I had not seen an Instagram video.”
The guest is so infuriated that, despite being just days from setting sail on Carnival Sunshine from Norfolk, Virginia, they claim to be “angry enough to cancel this cruise and take the hit.”
Over a power strip? Seriously? Even the most expensive power strips cost far less than a cruise vacation, particularly a 6-8 night getaway like Carnival Sunshine is offering. No number of devices or outlets for charging them would be worth that reaction.
“Why doesn’t Carnival do like [another cruise line] are doing and provide a standardized power strip in each stateroom that is acceptable to the cruise line with 4 charge units and USB outlets. We have 4 devices that needed charging each night. This is farcical,”the guest concludes.
It should be noted that all cruise ships offer a “standardized power strip” in each stateroom. They’re called outlets, and they’re next to the vanity/desk mirror, on the nightstands, or on table-mounted or low sconce light fixtures.
Older, less updated ships may have fewer outlets, that’s true, but USB ports and additional outlets are often added while ships are in dry dock for maintenance and refreshment.
Heald does respond to the guest, noting the Carnival Cruise Line has not changed its power strip policy.
“Please calm down as this lady has provided you with the wrong information, no shock there,”he said.“You can bring a power strip. We have not changed our rules and providing it does not have a surge protector and is in excellent working condition then pop it into your carry on and bring it on board.”
Cabin on Carnival Cruise Line Ship (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
Carnival’s policy on power strips and extension cords is clearly noted on the Prohibited Items List. In fact, they are listed under the “Exemptions and other considerations” subheading as follows:
“Power strips, multi plug box outlets/adaptors, and extension cords (without surge protectors) are allowed when used with proper caution. However, if such devices are determined to pose a hazard, they will be removed and returned on debarkation morning.”
If a cord were to be frayed, cracked, or obviously damaged, it would be confiscated, but otherwise, guests can bring power strips and extension cords with them.
More Rumors Carnival Has Debunked
The “banning” of power strips is a recurrent rumor Carnival Cruise Line has to deal with, but it is far from the only one. One of the most persistent rumors the cruise line has debunked in recent months is the idea that all guests on all departures and itineraries will be required to have valid passports.
Fortunately, guests can always reach out to John Heald for clarification of what is or isn’t just a rumor, if they are unable to find confirmation on Carnival’s website.
Two years ago, a cruise guest decided to bring a lounger from the Lido deck all the way down to their cruise cabin on Deck 1 – and the stunt is making waves on social media once again.
Their motive is unclear, but many in the cruise community have assumed that this person was going to great lengths to hog their favorite seat.
This stunt is obviously not allowed, but it’s unclear what consequences, if any, the cruise guest may have faced for their actions.
Just when I think I’ve seen it all during my time covering the cruise industry, I am only one Facebook post away from being shocked once again.
While it’s no secret that Carnival Cruise Line has been plagued by a chair hogging problem, I never would have expected to see a guest go so far as to drag a lounge chair from the Lido deck all the way down to their stateroom.
However, this is exactly what somebody did back in 2023 and the unusual stunt is going viral for a second time in the present.
At the time, Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald posted on his public Facebook page to encourage others to not follow this example, along with a picture showing the lounger on the floor of the corridor with a man reaching down to grab it.
This could either be the cruise guest dragging the chair to his cabin, or judging by the blue shirt, a crew member trying to return it to its rightful place on the Lido deck.
“Please don’t bring one of the sunbeds down from the Lido to your own cabin. And this one was for an inside cabin on deck 1. Oh FFS,” Heald wrote.
This is still an outrageous stunt, but I could maybe understand if the cruise guest was looking to enhance the set up on their private balcony.
But in a tiny interior cabin, which is typically only around 185 square feet on Carnival’s ships, I don’t know that a full lounger could even fit inside.
I would also love to know how they managed to get the lounge chair from the Lido deck all the way to the ship’s bottom deck. It would be a tight squeeze in the often crowded elevators!
“The fact that they were even able to make it off the outside decks is beyond me! I mean, NOBODY saw them drag it off the decks, into an elevator and down the hall? NOBODY,”one person agreed with me.
It’s unclear if the cruise guest faced any consequences for their actions, but Carnival can levy fines of up to $500 for violating the cruise line’s code of conduct.
Carnival Continues to Crack Down on Saving Seats
Although the cruiser’s motive has never been confirmed, others in the cruise community have assumed that they wanted to guarantee that they had a reserved lounger for relaxing by the pool.
“That’s one way to make sure you get a lounger in the morning,” one cruise fan joked.
“This takes to a whole new level of hoarding the loungers,”another wrote, along with several laughing face emojis.
Another guessed:“I know there’s a chair hog problem, but taking the chair back to your cabin so you have it when you’re ready to get up?”
Over the years, Carnival has had to consistently reinforce that seat saving is not allowed, both at the pools and in other venues onboard, such as the theaters and Punchliner Comedy Clubs.
Carnival Towel Hut (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz / Cruise Hive)
But the biggest issue has been for the seating around the pools, where loungers are in high demand and the best spots go quickly.
Some inconsiderate guests ruin the fun for everyone by rushing up to the Lido deck early in the morning to reserve loungers for their travel party potentially several hours before they actually intend to use them.
Of course, this seat saving method is nowhere near as unique as bringing your preferred lounger to your cruise cabin.
Last year, Carnival really cracked down on chair hogging by rolling out the “chairing is caring” policy.
These crew members then leave stickers on unattended loungers notifying guests that their spot will be unreserved on their behalf if they don’t return in 40 minutes.
MSC Cruises advised guests onboard MSC Fantasia that they may experience some rough seas as she sails from Trieste, Italy, to Katakolon, Greece.
Wind gusts of over 45 knots per hour and swells up to 4 meters tall are expected for this portion of the voyage.
While MSC’s advisory worried some current guests, passengers can rest assured that they are not in danger and that the ship is well equipped to handle these conditions.
Current guests onboard MSC Fantasia received a letter from the cruise line that was more nerve-racking than comforting.
The MSC cruise ship, which is currently operating multiple 9-night Mediterranean itineraries simultaneously, is preparing to weather some rough seas on her journey from Trieste, Italy, to Katakolon, Greece.
During this portion of the voyage, which will last from October 2 to October 4, 2025, the 3,274-guest ship may encounter wind gusts that reach speeds of over 45 knots (or 51 miles per hour).
“We are writing to inform you that rough seas are expected across the East Mediterranean Sea this weekend, with wind gusts forecasted to exceed 45 knots and up to four-metre swells,” MSC Cruises wrote to current passengers.
“We expected challenging navigational conditions during our navigation from Trieste to Katakolon,” the cruise line warned.
The strong winds may cause ocean swellsto reach up to four meters, or approximately 13 feet, in height.
When conditions are calm, ocean swells in the Eastern Mediterranean tend to range between 1 to 3 feet tall.
However, swells exceeding 5 meters (or 16 feet) have been reached by past October storms.
But while this may sound scary, keep in mind that the ship would have been rerouted to calmer seas if conditions were too dangerous.
No Danger to Current Guests
MSC Cruises most likely issued the letter so that guests would know to be extra cautious while navigating the Fantasia-class ship and to avoid panic if the seas do get especially rough.
However, it’s easy to see how a letter like this could be anxiety-inducing, especially for a novice cruiser.
One first-time cruiser took to Reddit to ask: “Very scared. My first cruise and I got this in the door. How horrible is this going to be?”
But this guest and others can rest assured that safety is always the top priority. While the 137,936-gross-ton ship may move or lurch unpredictably during this leg of the sailing, guests will not be in any danger.
Modern cruise ships are equipped with sophisticated stabilization systems and reinforced steel hulls that help to keep them balanced, even in severe wind and storms.
Photo Credit: Martchan / Shutterstock.com
And of course, the captain and his expert bridge team will be monitoring the weather closely to chart the smoothest and safest course possible.
“Our crew will be on hand to assist and ensure that everyone stays safe throughout the journey…Our priority is to always ensure your comfort, safety, and wellbeing,”MSC Cruises reassured guests.
Out of an abundance of caution, the onboard pools will likely be drained to prevent flooding and to enhance the vessel’s stability.
Additionally, guests have been advised to avoid the outer decks and to use handrails while moving around the cruise ship to avoid tripping or falling should the 2008-launched vessel lurch suddenly.
“For your safety, all pools on board may be emptied, and we strongly advise guests to avoid the outer decks. Please exercise caution when moving around the ship and always use handrails,” the cruise line advised.
This standard safety protocol is also currently being followed onboard MSC Euribia, which is similarly navigating strong wind gusts while sailing from Flåm, Norway, to Kiel, Germany, from October 2 to October 4.
MSC Magnifica’s 2027 World Cruise will be the first to feature the MSC Yacht Club, the line’s “ship-within-a-ship” concept.
For passengers looking to set sail on a global adventure, MSC Cruises’ is sweetening the deal but offering something it has never offered before: The MSC Yacht Club experience on a world cruise.
The cruise line revealed that MSC Magnifica, already slated to sail on an around the world voyage in 2026, will be adding the “ship-within-a-ship concept” ahead of its 2027 version after undergoing an extensive refurbishment.
Along with an expanded spa, a new fitness center, and specialty restaurants, the ship will feature the Yacht Club with its own suites, lounge, restaurant, and sundeck for the 121-night sailing launching in January 2027.
“The 121-night journey across 25 countries on MSC Magnifica will be the first MSC Cruises’ World Cruise to feature the line’s luxury ‘ship within a ship’ experience,” the cruise line said in a statement.
The Yacht Club aboard the 95,128-gross-ton MSC Magnifica, originally built in 2010, will span five decks and include 63 suites across five categories, offering 24-hour butler and concierge service. Guests will find family-friendly connected balconies as well as the Royal Suite with its 840-square-foot terrace and private hot tub.
Only passengers booked within the Yacht Club will have access to the exclusive sundeck that offers a private pool, hot tub, cabanas, and outdoor dining at the Grill & Bar, as well as the premium Top Sail Lounge and MSC Yacht Club restaurant.
The ship is not the only one in the fleet getting the Yacht Club experience. The cruise line recently revealed MSC Poesiawill also be heading to dry dock to debut its Yacht Club ahead of its inaugural 2026 Alaska season.
MSC Magnifica, MSC Yacht Club Grand Suite
However, the refurbished MSC Magnifica will carry more than just the Yacht Club when it sets sail in 2027. The ship’s enhancements will include a new MSC Aurea Spa spanning nearly 3,000 square feet and equipped with panoramic sea-view saunas, steam rooms, a salt room, Kneipp path, and 10 treatment rooms.
Dining is also getting an upgrade with the addition of the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse and Kaito Sushi Bar joining the ship’s existing main dining venues.
Fitness will also be reimagined with an upgraded Technogym facility, dedicated yoga and spinning studios, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the sea.
MSC Cruises did not reveal when the drydock will take place but the cruise line primarily dry docks its vessels in Valletta, Malta’s Palumbo Malta Shipyard.
First World Cruise with Yacht Club
Guests who book into the exclusive MSC Yacht Club will be able to combine personalized service that spans six continents. But all passengers, of which the ship currently accommodates up to 3,223, will enjoy calls in 45 destinations across Europe, Africa, South America, Oceania, and North America.
Passengers can embark from four Mediterranean ports between January 4 and 7, 2027, including Civitavecchia and Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; and Barcelona.
The cruise is slated to include a Panama Canal transit, overnight stays in major cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, and extended visits to destinations as far afield as Papeete, French Polynesia; Hobart, Tasmania; Sydney, Australia; and Honolulu, Hawaii.
Like its 2026 world sailing, the 2027 itinerary diverts the vessel away from the Red Sea. It will offer multiple disembarkation points in the Mediterranean, as well.
