As Carnival Cruise Line has begun placing “Have Fun. Be Safe” guideline letters in guest staterooms to remind guests about key points of the expected code of conduct, some guests have noted a confusing restriction.
The letter specifically notes that handheld fans are now prohibited in certain venues.
“For safety reasons, handheld fans are not permitted in the nightclub or on any indoor dance floor,”the restriction reads.
The exact type of handheld fan has not been clarified, which has led to significant confusion. Guests have reached out to John Heald, Carnival’s official brand ambassador, about which fans, precisely, are now restricted.
“I see the new rule about handheld fans… Are we talking little mini electric fans that people walk around with nowadays or like the ones you open and wave in front of your face to cool off?”one guest asked.
Other guests have asked similar questions. To be fair, “handheld” could be interpreted as a very broad term covering battery-operated fans, misting fans, collar fans, solar-powered fans, stroller fans, fans attached to caps or hats, or even waist clip fans. All of these types can be handheld very easily.
While Heald does simply quote the new restriction reminder letter, he later qualifies which type of fans are prohibited more carefully.
“These are the handheld fans, not the electric mini ones,”he noted.
Specifically, the “clack” fans or folded fans that are manually opened and closed are the ones now prohibited in onboard nightclubs or on indoor dance floors.
It is not clear whether or not these fans can still be used on the outdoor Lido Deck dance floor during deck parties. Because the restriction is intended to ensure all guests are safe while enjoying line dances, however, it is unlikely that Carnival would permit the fans for deck parties.
If guests are simply enjoying their own personal cool breeze, however, the fans are not prohibited. They can be a convenient accessory for summer cruises, especially on Caribbean or Mexico itineraries where temperatures may soar in the summer months.
Why the Sudden Fan Ban?
The new ban on handheld folding fans comes due to the popularity of the “Boots on the Ground” line dance that has skyrocketed in recent weeks.
The catchy tune has been featured in a TikTok dance challenge, which includes moves with popping or snapping fans in time with the beat at different points in the dance.
First released in 2024, the song gained much greater acclaim with the TikTok challenge in April 2025. Celebrities, political figures, news anchors, and more have joined in the craze, including former First Lady Michelle Obama, former Vice President Kamala Harris, Beyonce, police departments, graduating classes, work groups, and more.
Dancing With Folding Fan (Photo Credit: Zamrznuti tonovi)
While it can be amazing fun to participate in line dances – especially during Carnival Cruise Line’s epic parties – the close quarters of the crowds can make fan embellishments dangerous.
I’ve been elbowed, kicked, hip checked, and stepped on in various Carnival deck party line dances, even without fans. It’s all in good fun, and the more people who join in the dances, the more fun the parties can be.
A fan, however, could easily strike someone in the face, causing severe injuries with sharp edges or corners. That is not the way anyone wants to spend their cruise vacation.
Will the ban on these foldable fans last? Undoubtedly it will be enforced as long as the dance craze continues, just to be sure everyone onboard can join in parties and dancing without risking injury.
In the meantime, guests will have to enjoy the Cupid Shuffle, Electric Slide, Wobble, Cha-Cha Slide, and other line dances – my favorite? The Macarena! – at the different deck parties, no fans permitted.
As excitement builds for the debut of the Celebrity Xcel in November 2025, Celebrity Cruises is adding more energy to the frenzy by announcing its next President’s Cruise will take place on the new Edge Class ship.
The annual specialty cruise will sail the Mediterranean from September 13 to 21, 2026, aboard the 141,420-gross-ton, 3,260-passenger Celebrity Xcel.
Its 8-night itinerary, sailing from Athens, Greece, to Barcelona, Spain, will call in Mykonos, Rhodes, and Santorini, Greece, as well as Ephesus, Turkey, and Malta.
The President’s cruise is a highlight event for members of Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club loyalty program.
“Our annual President’s Cruise is my favorite sailing of the year as we dedicate a full itinerary to celebrating and spending time with our Captain’s Club members,”said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.
“The entire Celebrity team love hearing guests’ stories and experiences, and the feedback we receive while onboard is instrumental in shaping the future of Celebrity Cruises’ guest experience,” she added.
The cruise line promises to offer an array of curated shore excursions and onboard events unique to the 2026 sailing, much like its recent 2025 President’s Cruise that recently wrapped up on Celebrity Apex.
That cruise from Southampton, England, May 17 to 25, 2025, sailed to the Norwegian Fjords and visited destinations such as Bruges, Belgium, and Flåm and Valldal, Norway.
The voyage began with a first-ever pre-cruise City Stay in London, where attendees toured Kensington Palace and attended a gala dinner at the Natural History Museum. Entertainment included a performance by West End actor Cedric Neal.
On board, passengers were welcomed with an English garden-themed sail away party and live Beatles tribute band performance.
Activities throughout the week included an onboard cooking competition, a fireside chat with Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud, and a Chocolate Wonderland pop-up in the Grand Plaza.
Boulud, who serves as Celebrity’s global culinary ambassador, also prepared a lunch for Zenith-level loyalty members – the highest status in the Captain’s Club – and signed books after his talk.
A preview tasting of Bora, a new brunch venue set to debut on Celebrity Xcel, gave guests an early look at the brand’s evolving dining options.
The 2026 President’s Cruise aboard Celebrity Xcel is expected to feature similar-themed experiences and leadership access. Details on special events and excursions will be released closer to the sailing date.
Almost Ready for Her Debut
The new celebrity Xcel is currently under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, and is the fifth vessel in the cruise line’s Edge Series.
The ship was scheduled to sail its maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on November 18, 2025, on a 5-night roundtrip voyage with stops in Bimini, Bahamas, and Cozumel, Mexico.
However, construction is ahead of schedule and the ship will offer an even earlier preview cruisefor guests.
Following the maiden voyage, Celebrity Xcel will spend her inaugural season in the Caribbean, operating a series of 7-night roundtrip cruises from Port Everglades. Guests will have a choice of visiting the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands or the Dominican Republic, US Virgin Islands, and St. Maarten.
The vessel will reposition to Europe in April 2026, where she will offer 7- to 11-night cruises in the Mediterranean. After the President’s Cruise, Celebrity Xcel will return to the Caribbean for winter 2026-27.
The President’s Cruise is exclusive to members of the free Captain’s Club. Entry-level Preview members join after their first cruise and can then move up to Classic, Select, Elite, Elite Plus, and Zenith membership based on points earned on cruises.
Cruising is generally seen as a pretty affordable way to travel, where you get a lot for what you pay, but if you can still get an even better deal on your next cruise, why wouldn’t you?
There are some simple — and sometimes unexpected — ways you can go about getting a good price on an upcoming cruise, from working with a travel agent to taking advantage of oversold cruises. Here’s what you need to know.
While with the rise of online travel booking aggregators, it looked like travel agents were going to become obsolete for a while, more and more travelers are turning to travel agents for booking upcoming trips.
In fact, it was reported in 2023 that nearly 40% of surveyed millennial and Gen Z travelers said they would opt to use a traditional travel agent — and when a growing number of millennials are choosing to cruise, it’s likely that they’re using their travel agents to book those cruises.
There are many benefits that come with using a travel agent, including enjoying access to their expert insights as well as deals that you might not find otherwise.
Travel Agent Store (Photo Credit: Magda Wygralak)
Travel agents often have partnerships with travel brands, including cruise lines, that allow them to pass on savings to their clients.
Plus, if you make your final payment for your cruise, and then the cruise line lowers the price, a travel agent may be able to get you a reimbursement for the higher cost that you originally paid.
Just how much can you expect to save when you book a cruise with a travel agent? According to Redditors, it can be quite substantial, with some reporting saving $1,500-plus per cruise and others reporting booking cruises at less than $100 a night.
If you do decide to book a cruise through a travel agent, just be sure to choose a travel agent that has direct experience with cruising. You want someone who cruises a fair amount themselves, and that has long-lasting relationships with the lines, for the best deals and service.
2. Look for Booking Incentives That Will Save You Money in the Long Run
Cruise Incentives
Many cruise lines will offer you special perks or incentives that, while might not automatically drop the cost of your cruise fare, will save you money in the long run.
For example, Norwegian Cruise Line might be offering a deal where you get 70% off your second guest, plus free fare for kids, free excursion credits and a free WiFi package.
While those perks won’t save you directly when booking your initial fare for the first cruiser, if you’re traveling with the family, it’ll save you on their fare. Additionally, if you know you’ll be purchasing WiFi and booking excursions directly with the line, you’d save money there, too.
While it might not seem like a lot at first, consider that Norwegian Cruise Line’s WiFi packages start at $30 per day per device. If you’re on a seven-night cruise and traveling as a family of four, all with devices, that’s going to add up to nearly $1,000 for a WiFi package.
The best way to take advantage of incentives like these is to simply keep an eye on what deals and promotions are being offered by your favorite cruise lines at any given time. Sign up for their marketing emails (yes, they can be annoying, but they will keep you informed of upcoming deals).
Additionally, before booking any cruise based on incentives alone, sit down and do the math. You don’t want to end up not saving any money at all, because the incentives aren’t worth it. They should be something you’ll actually use and that provide you with value.
3. Book Your Next Cruise While Onboard the Ship
Cruise Ship’s Guest Services Desk (Photo Credit: steve estvanik)
It’s never too soon to book your next cruise. If you’re having a great time on a certain ship and know you want to book a cruise with the line for some time in the future, consider going ahead and booking that cruise while you’re still onboard the ship.
Many cruise lines offer special deals and promotional rates for those who book a future sailing during a cruise.
Carnival Cruise Line does this (and, in fact, allows you to access the on-board promotional rate for up to a month after you leave the ship, just in case you’re not quite ready to commit), as does Celebrity Cruises, with reduced deposits required if you book on the ship. Disney Cruise Line provides an easy 10% discount if you book on-board.
4. Take Advantage of Over-Sold Cruises
Passengers on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas (Photo Credit: Aleksandr Dyskin)
This is a bit of a risky move, but it can pay off if you don’t mind a little gambling. (I’d also advise you only try this option out if you have a very flexible travel schedule and preferably live in or near a port city, so you’re not out time and money if you do get fully booted from a cruise.)
Basically, many popular cruise itineraries will overbook by around 105%, with the idea that some people will inevitably not show up for their cruises, allowing the cruise line to maximize profits and fill the ship, without the need to bump anyone from the sailing.
While this does happen most of the time and many people aren’t bumped from their staterooms, sometimes it doesn’t work out that way. Everyone shows up on embarkation day and the ship finds itself without enough staterooms in the categories that were booked.
In this case, the cruise line doesn’t really want to completely kick you off the ship (that’ll mean less cruiser spending and potentially bad press). Instead, they might offer you a room in a lower category, at a highly discounted rate or for free.
Or, they might bump you from the ship, reimburse you and give you an additional free cruise later for your trouble, as happened recently when Royal Caribbean overbooked sailings to Bermuda.
So, if you don’t mind a little risk, it’s easy for you to change your travel plans on a whim and you don’t mind sailing on very popular itineraries, then you might just try to take advantage of often over-sold sailings and see if you can get a steep discount or even a free cruise or two out of it.
5. Join a Loyalty Program
Crown and Anchor Society Loyalty Passenger Event (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
If you frequently sail with the same cruise line, time and again, joining a loyalty program can get you discounts on upcoming sailings, as well as extra perks and savings on on-board spending.
In fact, many cruise lines automatically enroll cruisers into their loyalty programs with their first booking, so you may be eligible for certain discounts and perks currently, and not even know it!
If you join the MSC Cruises MSC Voyagers Club, you can get up to 15% discounts on future sailings. Depending on your loyalty tier, you can also get discounts on spa treatments, fitness classes, the minibar and laundry services.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes loyalty program, meanwhile, gives members early access to new offerings and members-only offers, while giving elite loyalty program members money-saving perks like free cabin upgrades and, if you achieve Ambassador status, an entire cruise for free.
6. Plan Your Booking in Advance
Cruise Ships Docked in St. Maarten, in the Caribbean. Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
Don’t just plan your cruise in advance — instead, plan your actual booking process in advance. Decide, strategically and specifically, when you’re going to sit down and book that cruise.
Like most travel rates, cruise line fares fluctuate depending on demand and other factors. Generally, though, you’ll get lower rates if you book far in advance or barely in advance at all. If you book at least six months before sailing, or at the very last minute, that’s when you’ll see some of the best rates.
The only instance when this is not the case? If you’re waiting last-minute to book a cruise during the height of cruising season or if you’re trying to book on a brand-new ship.
Peak cruising season will differ according to where you’re cruising, but you can expect it to be mid-summer for Alaska cruises, winter and spring for Caribbean cruises and fall for New England cruises, as a few examples.
There’s such a great demand for cruises during these time periods, that if you wait last-minute to book, hoping you’ll get a better deal, you likely won’t
Similarly, brand-new ships are highly popular with avid cruisers as soon as they launch, so you’re unlikely to get a good deal if you wait. In these instances, you’re best booking far in advance for a better deal, rather than closer to sailing.
Think about when you’d like to book your cruise, and how when you choose to book will impact pricing, and plan accordingly.
7. Book as a Group
Cruise Ship Passengers on Bow (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Booking a cruise as a group — whether that’s a group of friends or your entire family — will usually come with some discounts.
Norwegian Cruise Line, for one, will give you an extra up to 15% off if you book at least five cabins for your group. You can also get a free $100 credit per stateroom and other savings on drinks and dining.
The only downside to booking your cruise as a group is that, at least with NCL, you can’t really go through the normal channels of cruise booking. You’ll need to work with a group cruise concierge to plan everything out. This will require someone in your group to act as the group organizer.
However, if you don’t mind being that point person (I personally don’t find that it’s all that much more difficult than the normal cruise-planning process), you could see some great savings.
8. Look Out for Demographic-Specific Discounts
Carnival Heroes Bar
You can find cruise lines that offer discounts to certain individuals, such as those that have served in the military, teachers and seniors. Additionally, some cruise lines will run special discounts for residents in certain states.
This is intended to make cruising more popular with residents who live in states that historically do not have a high percentage of cruisers. It’s a marketing tactic, but one that can work for your wallet!
9. Book a Repositioning Cruise
Cruise Ships Docked at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography / Shutterstock)
A repositioning cruise is when a cruise line is moving one of its ships to another port. For example, if a cruise line uses a ship in Europe in the summer months and then uses it in the Caribbean in the winter, you might find a repositioning cruise that travels between Barcelona and Miami.
Or, if a cruise line uses a ship in Alaska during the summer months, and in the Caribbean during the winter, you might find a ship that goes between Seattle and Florida, via the Panama Canal.
These repositioning cruises are typically much cheaper than the standard cruise for a few reasons. They’re one-way, not round-trip, so you don’t get the convenience of embarking and disembarking in the same port.
They’re also typically longer, as they require sometimes crossing an entire ocean. They also have a lot of sea days and fewer port stops. As such, they’re just not as in demand.
You can find repositioning cruises listed for booking on many cruise lines’ websites, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Viking and more.
10. Book Through Cruise Hive
Cruise Hive Bookings
Last but certainly not least, consider booking through Cruise Hive’s new booking platform. You’ll find both ocean and river cruises, and thousands of itineraries from a huge array of cruise lines, and you can organize them all by price so you get the very best deal possible.
Set your parameters around what you want to pay, see how your price will break down per night and according to the stateroom you prefer, all in the easily navigable search results.
You can even specifically search for cruises that offer specific amenities or perks for free, such as free gratuities, free WiFi, complimentary beverage packages and more, as well as search for cruises offering particular promotions and discounts.
Planning a cruise months or even years in advance is second nature to loyal cruise passengers. But many looking ahead to 2026 cruises with Carnival Cruise Line have been met with a confusing surprise.
When attempting to book reservations at popular specialty dining options like the Chef’s Table, the steakhouse, or the Seuss at Sea character breakfast, they are met with “Sold Out” messages.
The frustration has led many to reach out to the cruise line’s personable Brand Ambassador, John Heald, who took to his weekly video post on June 3, 2025, to address the concerns.
“A lot of you have written trying to book the specialty restaurants and it’s saying sold out on every single ship,”Heald said in his address. “It isn’t sold out.”
Apparently, the confusion stems from Carnival Cruise Line’s website. When a reservation cannot be made, it simply states a restaurant is “sold out.”
This applies across the fleet, including key venues such as Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, JiJi Asian Kitchen, Bonsai Teppanyaki, and the exclusive Chef’s Table Experience.
The Suess at Sea Green Eggs and Ham breakfast, a family favorite, is also affected by the issue. The event is offered on select sea days and usually costs an extra fee.
These options are typically in high demand and often booking quickly. However, in this case, the cruise line’s system isn’t showing availability because the reservations haven’t been activated yet, not because they are already full.
“I don’t think we’ve done a very good job of this – in my opinion,” said Heald. “Apparently it’s very complicated to change the website to come up with a good algorithm.”
Carnival Cruise Line hasn’t shared an exact timeline for when the specialty dining booking window will open for 2026 cruises, but Heald said that once reservations become available, he will inform followers.
In the meantime, he’s pushing internally for the wording on the booking platform to be corrected.
“You’re not going to miss out on the steakhouse or teppanyaki,” Heald said. “As soon as they are open for bookings, I will let you know.”
Dining Demand Remains High
Carnival Cruise Line’s loyal passengers are no strangers to early planning, with many already booking 2026 sailings “Like Krispy Kreme hot donuts,” as Heald put it.
The cruise line’s 2026 cruise calendar is already drawing strong interest, with ships deploying to top destinations from ports across the US, including Florida, Texas, California, and beyond.
Specialty dining venues aboard these sailings are some of the most sought-after experiences onboard, with each ship offering its own mix of restaurants.
Among the most in-demand is the Chef’s Table, an intimate multi-course dinner hosted by the ship’s executive chef. Limited to just a handful of guests, the culinary experience typically includes a galley tour, and plated dishes not served elsewhere on board.
Also popular is Fahrenheit 555, Carnival Cruise Line’s signature steakhouse, which features prime cuts, lamb chops, seafood, and a robust wine list in an upscale setting.
Bonsai Teppanyaki offers a Japanese-style hibachi experience, complete with knife tricks and flame-seared entrees. Spots here are especially limited due to the small group setting, making early reservations crucial once open.
Other favorites include Cucina del Capitano for hearty Italian fare, Rudi’s Seagrill on new ships like Mardi Gras, and Seafood Shack and JiJi Asian Kitchen, depending on ship class.
Until the dining reservations actually open, guests need to sit tight, ignore the error messages, and check back for specialty dining availability.
Confident in the allure of Northern Europe destinations, Holland America Line will expand its presence in the region by deploying three, rather than its usual two, cruise ships for the 2027 summer season.
With a wide array of itinerary options visiting ports in the British Isles, the Baltics, Scandinavia, Iceland, and Greenland, the premium line, a Carnival Corporation brand, hopes to fill all berths onboard Zuiderdam, Rotterdam, and Nieuw Statendam.
Typically the line sends Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam, each accommodating 2,600 guests, to the region, and in 2027 the 1,900-guest Zuiderdam will join them.
It’s a big change for Zuiderdam, which for the last few years has spent her summers sailing Canada/New England itineraries between Boston and Quebec City.
No word from the line yet about which ship, if any, will replace her on that routing during summer 2027, so stay tuned for that.
Zuiderdam will be primarily based in Amsterdam while Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam will be homeported in Rotterdam, Netherlands.
However, some itineraries aboard Zuiderdam and Rotterdam will depart from Reykjavik, Iceland, and Nieuw Statendam will spend part of the season sailing roundtrip from Dover, England, a growing port just over an hour’s train ride from London.
The Dover departures represent an opportunity for the line to continue courting the British market, as Nieuw Statendam will split her time between Rotterdam and Dover in summer 2025 and 2026, as well as in 2027.
The ship’s 14-night Wild British Isles cruise departing April 30, 2027, for instance, calls at Rotterdam, Edinburgh, Invergordon, Kirkwall, Portree, and Glasgow, Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; and Dublin and Cork, Ireland.
“Northern Europe is extremely popular with our guests — for the ports of call and stunning scenery. As a cruise line rooted in European heritage, we’re uniquely positioned to offer them one-of-a-kind explorations with an onboard experience that matches the region,” said Paul Grigsby, vice president of deployment and itinerary planning for Holland America Line.
“The destinations in the region are some of our highest-rated — from standout ports in Norway like Eidfjord and Bergen and scenic cruising in Eyjafjörður, Iceland, to the UK’s Liverpool and Ireland’s Killybegs — this season provides guests more chances to experience everything Northern Europe has to offer,” Grigsby added.
Holland America’s Zuiderdam Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Miro Vrlik Photography)
The cruise line’s decision to boost its capacity with a third ship stems partly from guest feedback derived from surveys. Almost half of those surveyed, which included current and potential guests, indicated that Northern Europe destinations are among the most desirable regions to visit.
The Northern Europe itineraries will feature local entertainment, and given Holland America’s ties to Holland, where it was founded in 1873, Dutch history will play a role in onboard activities, too. For instance, each ship will offer a “Dutch Day,” celebrating the food and culture of the Netherlands.
Oosterdam to Offer Mediterranean Voyages in 2027
Holland America Line will, of course, have a presence in the Mediterranean during summer 2027, with the deployment of the 1,960-guest Oosterdam. The ship will offer departures from Athens, Barcelona, and Rome, offering 7- to 28-day voyages.
A 14-day Rivieras, Malta & Greek Isles from Rome to Athens on July 10, 2027 calls at ports including Barcelona; Gibraltar; Valletta, Malta; Portofino, Italy; and Crete and Santorini, Greece, for instance.
This particular voyage is one created in partnership with The History Channel, a series of cruises where the itineraries and shore tours are focused on historical elements of the region.
The summer 2027 roster of Europe cruises also includes two that will offer total solar eclipse viewings on August 2, 2027.
Nieuw Statendam’s 28-night itinerary sailing roundtrip from Rotterdam on July 27, 2027 will be positioned in the line of totality. Ditto for Oosterdam’s 14-night voyage from Athens departing on July 31, 2027.
Carnival cruisers are very familiar with the Sail & Sign card, the personal card that serves as one’s room key, onboard identification, and personal charge card during the voyage.
Recent rumors have spread the word that Carnival Cruise Line will soon eliminate cash completely from its ships, but the cruise line’s official Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has repeatedly denied this accusation.
“No more cash!!! Why have you not informed anyone about this big shift John?”one commenter recently asked.“We prefer to pay the workers with cash if they provide top service. How are we supposed to do that now? What if we need to get change? Cashless is a game changer and not in a good way.”
It is true that some popular vacation and entertainment options, such as sporting events and amusement parks, have moved to a cashless operation. Depending on the venue, visitors might be able to use cash to pre-load a card for use, otherwise they must rely on a credit or debit card.
This is not the case aboard Carnival cruise ships, however. While guests are not permitted to use cash for individual transactions onboard, they can still set up their Sail & Sign card with cash on embarkation day.
“We have not made any changes,”Heald confirmed.“You can still use cash as a deposit for your Sail & Sign card. You can still use cash to tip our brilliant crew.”
While it might seem inconvenient to some guests to need to use cash for their onboard account, other travelers prefer it as a way to ensure a firm budget and avoid expensive surprises after they get home.
But how did Sail & Sign cards first begin, and why? Heald has offered some interesting insights from his decades of experience with Carnival Cruise Line.
Before Carnival Had Sail & Sign Cards
When Carnival Cruise Line first set sail in 1972 with the original Mardi Gras, cash was certainly king onboard. This system continued for many years, even into the early 1990s.
Heald noted that cash was required for every onboard purchase.
“I am old enough to remember working on board as a bar waiter and wine steward before the invention of the Sail and Sign card when everything was cash, I mean everything,”he said.
From cocktails and shore tours to bingo cards, souvenirs, bottles of wine, casino chips, and more, guests had to pay cash.
This created a lot of work for crew members from various departments, as all the cash had to be properly tallied and secured every day.
“Every night all the department heads would count the cash, bag it, and take it to the highly top-secret cash counting office (Deck 2 starboard side crew area with a sign on the door that said ‘accounting’),”Heald explained.
While the system did operate as efficiently as possible, Heald noted that it wasn’t perfect.
“Some people make ask why we stopped using cash on board. And I am here to admit that it was probably my fault,”he said.
Cash in Wallet (Photo Credit: brajianni)
“This comes from when I was a wine steward and when I was brought before the Carnival Head of Security – who we will call Joe Field because that was his name. This was before the days of CCTV, photos taken at embarkation etc.”
Of course, today’s Carnival guests are very familiar with so many photos and security precautions onboard, but decades ago, it was a bit easier to slip something past a younger, less experienced wine steward.
“The conversation went like this: Joe – Head of Security: ‘John Heald, you have taken $200 from passengers for bottles of wine and champagne, and it is all in fake $50 dollar bills. What did they look like?'”Heald reminisced.
Unfortunately, his answer might not have been what the security manager was hoping for, but it does explain why cash isn’t so widely circulated onboard today.
“John –Wine Steward ‘Ummm………..$50 bills,'”Heald recalled.“And that is why we have Sail & Sign today.”
Okay, so this may be another of Heald’s fun (FFS) stories, there is no doubt that counterfeit bills may have been a concern when cash was used so extensively onboard.
Making correct change, securing payments properly, the time to count each day’s intake, and other factors were undoubtedly additional considerations and potential problems with a cash-based cruise ship.
The Sail & Sign card is certainly a more secure option, as well as more convenient for guests who no longer need to tote along fistfuls of cash for their onboard spending.
Yet to be clear once more – and hopefully put “PAID” on these rumors – Carnival cruise guests can still set up their onboard accounts with cash, no problems at all. Just make sure the bills are legitimate!
Here we go again! Another Royal Caribbean sailing – this time for the 3,807-guest Adventure of the Seas – has been overbooked.
The sailing in question is a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise to Labadee, Haiti; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas. It will embark from Port Canaveral, Florida, on June 7, 2025.
As with previous overbooked sailings that have come to light earlier in 2025, Royal Caribbean is once again making some irresistible offers to tempt guests to change their travel plans.
The first option is to transfer to a different pre-selected sailing in exchange for a partial refund and an onboard credit.
“Option 1: Transfer to one of our below 2025 sailings and receive a 50% refund of the cruise fare, PLUS a $300 USD non-refundable Onboard Credit,” reads the letter from the cruise line.
The cruises that guests can switch to will set sail later in June or in July, and three of the four options are actually longer than the oversold voyage – so guests will get more bang for their buck.
Indeed, passengers can pivot to one of two 8-night Western Caribbean sailings that will also be operated by Adventure of the Seas or switch to a 7-nightEastern Caribbean itinerarythat will be hosted onboard Wonder of the Seas in July 2025.
The final option is an identical 6-night Western Caribbean cruise onboard Adventure of the Seas that will depart from Port Canaveral on July 19, 2025.
Alternatively, guests can cancel their booking entirely to receive a full refund and a future cruise credit.
“Option 2: Cancel your booking and receive a 100% refund, PLUS a 100% Future Cruise Credit to book an alternative Royal Caribbean sailing,” the notice continued.
This option is good for guests looking for flexibility, as they aren’t limited to choosing between four specific sailings. However, they must book a new cruise that embarks on or before June 7, 2026, to take advantage of the future cruise credit.
And if guests’ travel plans are set in stone, they do not need to worry or respond to the letter. Enough passengers usually volunteer when the offers are this good that overcrowding is no longer an issue.
How and Why Do Overbookings Happen?
Even just in the past few months, there have been quite a few Royal Caribbean sailings that have been accidentally oversold – leading to growing curiosity about how this keeps happening.
Additionally, similar attempts to tempt guests away from overbooked cruises have popped up for sailings operated by Navigator of the Seas and Liberty of the Seasin May and early June.
Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas (Photo Credit: Microfile)
But while many are happy to reap the benefits of these last-minute deals, others are worried about changes to their travel plans and don’t think overbooking should even be possible.
However, overbooking is a very common practice in the travel industry because it allows the cruise lines to protect their profits – even when booked guests cancel at the last minute or “no show” on embarkation day.
In the cruise industry, this happens through the sale of guaranteed cabins – in which guests select a stateroom category but not specific accommodations.
These cabins are often sold at a lower price because it allows the cruise line the flexibility to assign staterooms based on availability closer to the sailing – and also enables the brand to sell more cabins than they have onboard based on expected cancellations.
If you select a specific cabin during the booking process, rest assured that your stateroom is assigned to you and cannot be snagged by another passenger.
If Disney cruises are about bringing magic to the high seas, Castaway Cay is all about bringing magic to the Bahamas.
Castaway Cay is Disney Cruise Line’s original private island in the Bahamas, and for many DCL guests – myself included – this shipwreck-themed destination is the highlight of every sailing it’s a part of.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit the island three times now during my adventures at sea, and this is what you really need to know to make the most of your visit.
Castaway Cay is an island in the Bahamas that used to be known as Gorda Cay. But in 1997 – just two years after Disney Cruise Line was founded in 1995 – Disney signed a 99-year lease with the Bahamian government and renamed the destination accordingly.
Once a safe haven for bootleggers and drug runners, the company invested $25 million to transform the island into the ultimate family-friendly oasis.
The cruise brand also dredged 50,000 truckloads of sand to build a new channel and deep-water dock to accommodate its fleet. The first official ship call took place on July 30, 1998,when Disney Magic docked at the new pier for the first time.
Photo Courtesy: Disney Cruise Line
As part of the island’s transformation, the destination was also given its own story – just like the rides and lands in Disney’s amusement parks around the world. In this case, the island is supposed to tell a fictional story about three explorers who were shipwrecked on its shores.
If you look closely, you’ll notice that the buildings and decorations are meant to look like they were improvised by the castaways following their maritime mishap – as well as plenty of nods to the “Pirates of the Caribbean” franchise and Captain Jack Sparrow himself.
Speaking of which, parts of “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)” were filmed on the island – as was “Splash (1984).”
Where is Castaway Cay Located?
The Bahamian island is part of the South Abaco district, near Great Abaco Island. For context, this is about 73 miles north of Nassau – the capital of the Bahamas.
This is also 167 miles east of Miami, Florida – “the Cruise Capital of the World”– and 120 miles north of Disney’s second private island, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point (on Eleuthera), which opened in the summer of 2024.
How Do You Get Ashore?
Thanks to Disney’s foresight of building a deep water dock when it first acquired the island, the brand’s fleet is able to dock alongside the pier – with no tendering required.
But even though the island is owned and operated by Disney, cruise passengers should be prepared to still go through standard security protocols as if this were any other port of call.
“Key to the World” cards will be scanned upon disembarkation and embarkation for safety reasons, and bags will be screened during the re-boarding process.
Navigating the Island Destination
Castaway Cay Map
Castaway Cay is about 1,000 acres in size, which translates to approximately three miles long and two miles wide. However, only about 55 acres have been developed and are in use today – making it very walkable and easy to navigate.
It only takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from the cruise ship to the beaches, but there are also courtesy trams that run continuously for guests with limited mobility, families traveling with small children, or passengers who would simply prefer to take a seat and enjoy the ride.
Tram stops are easy to spot thanks to clear signage, but when I visited there was always a tram that ran from the end of the pier to Scuttle’s Cove (where you get off to access the family beaches) and Pelican Point that worked on a first come, first served basis.
Adults traveling solo or parents looking for a break from the kids can also transfer to a new tram at the Pelican Point Tram Stop that will take them the rest of the way to Serenity Bay, which is a beach that is exclusively for adult cruisers.
Last but not least, many guests enjoy renting bicycles as a means of exploring and getting around the beach-front destination. Currently, bike rentals start at $22 a person and are available for all visitors above the age of three.
Dining Ashore
Dining at Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Zahit Sozen)
Just like there are buffets on the cruise ship, there are buffets on the island as well – which are already included in the price of your vacation.
A BBQ buffet with American favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, steak, rotisserie chicken, fish, and shockingly good ribs (my favorite!) can be found at Cookie’s BBQ and Cookie’s Too BBQ – both of which are family friendly.
There is also a third BBQ buffet location near Serenity Bay – which is only for guests above the age of 18.
Soft drinks and water are free at the dining locations – though you will need to charge your “Key to the World” card to indulge in alcoholic refreshments, which can be found at various bars around the island.
If you’re craving a sweet dessert during a warm Bahamian day, keep an eye out for the thatched pavilions with tables and umbrellas – as we’ve encountered some nice crew members handing out free ice cream here.
And of course, you have to check out Olaf’s Summertime Freeze, which is named after the beloved Snowman from the “Frozen” movies. This venue is located near the Pelican Point Tram Stop and sells refreshing frozen drinks that will keep you from melting in the heat.
What is the Best Beach for You?
Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay
Grab your beach towel (which will be provided for free) and get ready for the ultimate beach day – with the different beaches truly featuring something for every type of cruiser.
Right by the ship, there is already a Spring-a-Leak Splash Pad for playing in the water, which is a great way to cool offfor younger kids and toddlers.
The family beaches can all be found on the southwest side of the island. They have the calmest waters because of an offshore reef and a rocky breakwater at Pelican Point, making conditions safer for young swimmers and offering the perfect opportunity to snorkel.
In fact, there is actually a snorkeling lagoon near the family area – where snorkelers can get up close to marine life and potentially even spot a secret hidden Mickey or a former submarine from the now-closed “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea: Submarine Voyage” ride at Walt Disney World.
Snorkel gear can be rented for $38 per person, as of the time of this writing.
The furthest part of the family beach, which can be accessed from the Pelican Point Tram Stop, also has a very unique water feature: a 2,400 square feet water park that you can swim to, called Pelican Plunge.
Pelican Plunge is known for its two big, twisting water slides and a floating play area that is fun for cruisers of all ages. The minimum height to experience this attraction is 38 inches and those under 48 inches must wear a life vest (provided).
Adults looking for a more mature, relaxing experience can head over to Serenity Bay, which is only for patrons over 18-years-old.
The water can get more choppy here, as it is not protected by a breakwater like the Family Beach, but my husband and I have swam here many times and found conditions to be calm and peaceful.
All the beaches also provide convenient locations from where you can rent floats and lifejackets – which come in sizes for both children and adults. Lifeguards are also always present, including in the adults-only areas.
Character Meet & Greets
Disney Characters at Castaway Cay
While all the cruise line-owned private islands offer something special, there is nothing quite like meeting your favorite Disney characters on the island.
As a Disney fan, it’s always particularly exciting to run into Mickey and the gang because they wear beach daycostumes on the island that you won’t see anywhere else.
One story my mom loves to tell is that when I was a kid, I once spotted Jack Sparrow on Castaway Cay and screamed that it was Johnny Depp, because the character on the island looked identical to the actor.
Our Captain Jack was quickly swarmed after I drew attention to him – making for a funny story and a laughter-filled photo opportunity.
While the characters make their way around the island, I tend to see them the most around the family centric areas, during a dance party that takes place at Cookie’s BBQ, and near photogenic backgrounds like Mount Rustmore (a playful twist on the real Mount Rushmore).
I also usually find my favorite pirate characters near the post office – from where you can also mail postcards to loved ones (or a message in a bottle), which are sent with special stamps and a postmark that is unique to the island.
Staying Active on the Island
On Castaway Cay, (Kent Phillips, photographer)
While renting bikes is one way guests like to stay active on Castaway Cay, there are other ways to explore the destination that do not come with an additional fee.
For example, the last time my husband and I visited the islandwe completed the Castaway Cay 5K – which is a three mile run (or walk) that goes deep into the island and up to the Castaway Cay Airport before taking participants back to the beaches.
The starting line for the 5K can be found next to the Bike Rental stand (near the Buy the Seashore Shop) – with clear signage guiding you along the way.
We walked the entire path in less than an hour and left with a special medal for completing the challenge – which makes for a very unique souvenir.
Disney’s Castaway Cay Island (Photo Credits: Eric Glenn * Catie Kovelman)
The race is run on your own time and functions on the honor system, so you can stop and start as you like, and the medal can be picked up from the Bike Rental stand when you’re done.
Avid hikers will also likely appreciate the trails on the island, such as the Serenity Beach Forest loop, that are stunning with the natural foliage and offer some peace and quite from the excitement on the beaches.
Meanwhile, athletes onboard may want to check out the Sports Beach – which is a section of the family beaches that is meant for games in the sand, such as volleyball and tetherball.
Add-ons and Shore Excursions
Photo Credit: T. Chaudhury Production / SHutterstock
While most of what we’ve explored so far has been free, there are additional add-ons and shore excursions you can invest in if you’re willing to pay the additional fees.
For example, adventurous guests might want to swim with Stingrays; or rent a kayak, stand up paddle board, or an aqua trike (which from experience, is really fun but requires more endurance than you would expect).
Thrill seekers, meanwhile, might want to pre-book a banana boat ride, a jet ski tour, or a parasailing adventure – where they can get a bird’s eye view of the fun below.
On the other end of the spectrum, guests looking for a more relaxing experience might want to book a fishing expedition or a scenic glass bottom boat voyage.
While there is a lot to choose from, it’s often possible to book more than one excursion during your visit if you time it right. The Disney Cruise Line website is very helpful because it shows the duration of the excursion and the recommended minimum age for the activity.
For example, the centrally located In Da Shade Game Pavilion offers a shaded area to play games like table tennis, foosball, and basketball.
However, there are also designated, supervised hang out spots for kids and teens – allowing younger cruisers to have fun independently while their parents perhaps enjoy a more romantic beach dayas a couple.
I’ve been sailing to Castaway Cay for so many years that I actually remember playing in Scuttle’s Cove as a child – which is a supervised play area that is meant for kids between the ages of 3 and 12.
This club offers the same type of fun as in the Oceaneer Club and Lab onboard – and is supervised by the same qualified counselors.
One of my fondest memories from visiting the island as a kid was going on a daring archeological mission in the dig site (known as Monstro Point) with my favorite counselor.
Teenagers, meanwhile, also get to enjoy their own slice of paradise at the Teen Hideout, which is a club that can be found near the Sports Beach and is meant just for cruisers between the ages of 14 and 17.
Shop Until You Drop
Walking Around Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)
As my husband and pretty much all my friends will tell you, I can’t go anywhere without going on a side quest into at least one shop. I often don’t feel like my vacation is complete until I’ve found the perfect souvenir.
I’m somewhat ashamed to admit that I spent around $100 in about 15 minutes of looking in the stores during my last visit to the island paradise – but I am an unashamed Disney fan who loved the opportunity to buy merchandise I can’t find at home or in the theme parks.
If you’re looking to spend some dough, the main stores are She Sells Sea Shells…and Everything Else! and Buy the Sea Shore – where you can find beachwear, exclusive Disney merchandise, and limited edition collectible Castaway Cay pins.
More authentic Bahamian souvenirs and handmade crafts can be found at Bahamian Retail near the Pelican Point Tram Stop.
Note that the island is currently cashless, so you’ll need your “Key to the World Card” handy if you’d like to make any purchases.
Relaxing in Paradise
Beach on Castaway Cay
A day of swimming, exploring, watersports, and shopping certainly sounds like a blast, but it can also be exhausting.
While Disney offers plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas for free, you might want to take your relaxation a step further by reserving a cabana – though they can be pricey. As of the time of writing, Serenity Bay cabanas can cost over $500 for up to four guests, while family cabanas can cost over $1,000.
But as there are only 25 cabanas on Castaway Cay, make sure to book early if you want to invest in your relaxation in this way.
Adults may also want to take advantage of the open-air cabana massages in Serenity Bay – which have a much more reasonable price tag – or the free yoga classes (also in Serenity Bay).
Make sure to download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app in advance to see the schedule of daily events and class times.
Many people are surprised to learn that they can get married on a Disney cruise ship – but did you know you can also say “I Do” on Castaway Cay?
My husband and I got married at the Disneyland Resort in California, but before we chose our venue, we considered eloping at Castaway Cay.
Disney offers private ceremonies on the island set against a stunning backdrop that features the ship and the beautiful blue waves – which is perfect for romance and leads to some amazing photos.
The wedding package starts at $6,000 for 16 guests, and includes a keyboardist and a Cake & Champagne celebration. That said, the Castaway Cay location can accommodate up to 75 guests.
How to Visit Castaway Cay
Disney’s Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)
The only way to visit Castaway Cay is by embarking on a Disney Cruise that includes Castaway Cay on the itinerary – which can be booked directly through the cruise line or a reputable travel agent.
As of 2025, Disney Magic, Disney Dream, Disney Wish, Disney Fantasy, and the newly launched Disney Treasure all operate cruises that sail to the Bahamian island.
Notably, some sailings feature calls on both of Disney’s private islands – Castaway Cay and the newly opened Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point – which may be particularly exciting for big DCL fans.
Final Thoughts: Pro-Tips
Disney Wish Cruise Ship at Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
While there is so much to know about Castaway Cay, the best advice I can give you is to relax and have fun in the popular cruise port. Do some research in advance to make the most out of your visit, and then don’t get too bogged down in the details.
There is simply too much to do to cram everything into one day, so pick your favorite must-do activities and save the rest for when you can hopefully sail back another time.
Pre-book any essential excursions and check the schedule in advance so you know when and where to find your favorite characters or events that caught your eye. But at the same time, don’t be afraid to be spontaneous and allow your plans to shift as you explore.
Stay hydrated, take lots of pictures and videos, and as Disney cast members say, “have a magical day.”
One of the best perks of luxury cruising is having free room service, any time of day. Slept in and missed breakfast? Just call room service. Hungry after a long afternoon excursion? Pick up the phone. Need a late-night snack? It’s a cinch.
But that has changed for cruisers staying in a Britannia stateroom on Cunard’s fleet of four ships.
In a notice sent to passengers and confirmed by Cunard’s customer service, the cruise line is rolling out charges for room service delivered after 10 a.m. aboard its ships.
While breakfast ordered before 10 a.m. will remain free of charge, all other room service requests will now be priced individually, according to Cunard’s signature supplement pricing structure.
That means guests ordering from the Day Menu or Late-Night Menu can expect charges ranging between $2.50 and $6.50 per item.
In addition, there will be a new cover charge for brunch and afternoon tea items ordered through room service.
“Yes, that is correct for Britannia stateroom guests,” a Cunard representative confirmed in a direct message shared on social media. “We’ll be extending the signature supplement pricing structure for all room service dishes available after 10 a.m.”
The change applies to Britannia-class staterooms, which include the cruise line’s standard cabins category and the slightly elevated Britannia Club. These encompass inside cabins, oceanview cabins, and balcony cabins.
Passengers booked in higher-tier accommodations, such as Princess Grill or Queens Grill, will continue to receive complimentary 24-hour room service, including the newly refreshed Queen Elizabeth.
However, the new service policy has created confusion for some passengers.
As of June 2, 2025, Cunard’s website still states that 24-hour room service is included for all stateroom categories: Britannia, Britannia Club, Princess Grill, and Queens Grill.
Despite that, some guests have received notices directly from Cunard detailing the change.
“We are writing to inform you of a change in our room service on board,” the letter begins. “Across the fleet, we are introducing new charges that will apply to room service dishes after 10.00am in Britannia grade staterooms.”
The letter reminds passengers booked in Britannia that “breakfast, lunch, and dinner in your main dining room” are included.
“And of course, you’re welcome to dine at the buffet where you’ll find a selection of dishes through the day and into the night, all included in your fare.”
The buffet is also included in the cruise fare, so passengers aren’t losing out dining. They’ll just have to pay more if they want it delivered to their cabin.
By contrast, guests in Princess Grill and Queens Grill suites receive additional in-suite dining services and access to exclusive Grills venues on board.
Amenity Levels by Cabin Tier
The change isn’t a surprise, especially as more and more travel benefits are being stripped from standard services across the industry, such as the case on flights.
All Cunard guests, no matter the stateroom category, receive in-room refrigerators, tea and coffee making, Satellite TV, and embarkation welcome, and dining.
However, Britannia guests do not get additional perks like a pillow menu, or priority embarkation and disembarkation.
For a slightly higher price, passengers can book a Britannia Club stateroom, which provides an elevated version of amenities, including open-seat dining versus the set table and time Britannia guests receive.
It’s the Grill staterooms that get even more. The top-tier, Queens Grill cabins, for example, gives its guests a complimentary mini bar, Champagne, and priority tender services.
In early 2024, Cunard informed guests it would be raising gratuities automatically included for dining and hotel services, including room service.
While free room service aboard ships is becoming more difficult to find, Viking, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, and Oceania Cruises are still offering 100-percent complimentary room service included in fares.
