Less than a year after her debut, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, is already getting some significant upgrades and new venues, creating spaces guests will love for their ultimate weekend getaways.
Utopia of the Seaswelcomed her first guests in July 2024, and already she’s being updated to better meet the needs of guests on her short 3- and 4-night cruises.
Mitch Merucci, formerly a cruise director for Royal Caribbean and now part of the cruise line’s sales team, posted about the updates and what guests can expect onboard while the construction work is underway.
“Utopia of the Seas non-smoking casino is getting BIGGER!”he confirmed on social media.“Crown lounge will move to Deck 16 (Teen Club will be renovated smaller).”
The new “Attic Casino” – originally the ship’s dedicated comedy club on Deck 4 – will be open by the ship’s Friday, May 9, 2025 departure, a 3-night Bahamas sailing.
The new Crown Lounge and the updated casino space will be fully open sometime between May 30 and June 2, depending on how quickly the work proceeds.
In the meantime, the Crown Lounge will not be closed during the renovations, though guests onboard should expect some disruptions and messes at times as the work is completed.
Comedy shows will be moving permanently to the Royal Theater forward on Decks 4 and 5, a much larger venue that will be able to accommodate many more guests for each show.
It is possible this venue could be more challenging for comedians, however, who often rely on “crowd work” and guest interactions as their material evolves through each show. With more guests in the Royal Theater and seating more spread out, interactions may be confined to just the first few rows of seating.
Of course, this is great news for me ahead of my May 2025 sailing aboard Utopia of the Seas (my first on the ship!). I love comedy shows, but prefer to sit a bit back and not be the focus of the razor-sharp wit and wordplay. It is far more fun to watch others fall for the jokes!
View of Utopia of the Seas Cruise Ship
Merucci shared another bit of news, that these same changes are coming soon to another Oasis-class ship.
“Wonder of the Seas – Look for the same changes this summer as she enter the Miami 3/4 day market,”he said.
Wonder of the Seas, which has been in service since March 2022, is currently homeported from Port Canaveral and offering 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean sailings.
Her August 17, 2025 departure will be her last from the Space Coast, however. After that week-long getaway, Wonder of the Seas will head to South Florida to set sail from PortMiami on 3- and 4-night Bahamas cruises.
There is no indication as yet exactly when the construction work will begin on Wonder of the Seas, though no dry dock or other removal from service will be necessary.
Instead, the updates will be managed while guests are onboard, with some spaces closed temporarily and activities relocated while the work is completed.
More Short Cruises on Larger Ships Coming
Short cruises can be very different from weeklong sailings. These differences – and guests’ desire to make the most of every moment on a short getaway – are part of the reason why these changes are now being made.
It isn’t unusual for a new ship to have updates and renovations shortly after beginning service as guests’ preferences become clear, especially on new itinerary lengths or in a new sailing region.
Similarly, cruise lines pay attention to profits, show attendance, and other metrics to let them know what is working – or not – aboard different ships, so they can make appropriate changes.
These updated spaces may soon be coming to more Oasis-class ships as well if they prove successful.
Utopia of the Seas Docked in Port Canaveral (Credit: Port Canaveral)
In August 2026, Harmony of the Seas will begin sailing from Port Canaveral after spending the summer in Europe. From Florida, the ship will begin offering 4- and 5-night Bahamas sailings, with occasional 2-night cruises just to Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Now, I’m quite excited about shorter cruises aboard these larger ships, but two nights might be just a bit TOO short.
Harmony of the Seas will also have 6- and 7-night itineraries as part of her schedule from Port Canaveral, giving guests plenty of options to choose exactly the cruise length that suits their vacation needs best.
Meanwhile, Oasis of the Seas will begin offering 3- and 4-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale in November 2026, after spending the summer and early autumn sailing weeklong (and longer) itineraries from New Jersey.
The only longer sailings Oasis of the Seas will be offering in 2026 and 2027 from Port Everglades are two holiday sailings – her December 21 and December 28, 2026 departures – both of which are 7-night cruises.
Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex is on the cusp of her second seasonal homeporting in Southampton, poised to launch operations from the UK port on April 13, 2025.
Offering a wide range of itinerary lengths from 4 to 14 nights, the ship will sail in multiple regions, including Scandinavia, Norway and the Arctic Circle, the Canary Islands, and destinations in the Western Mediterranean through mid-October.
The cruise line also has revealed that the 2,910-guest ship, second in the line’s popular Edge class, will host its President’s Cruise 2025, an 8-night Norwegian Fjords voyage in May 2025 with the cruise line’s top executive, Laura Hodges Bethge, on board.
“Guests told us how much they loved the amazing itineraries we offered with our Celebrity Apex sailings last year, so we’re excited to homeport this revolutionary ship in Southampton again this summer,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.
“I am excited to join Apex this May for the 2025 President’s Cruise and spend time enjoying the incredible Norwegian Fjords itinerary alongside our guests,” added Bethge.
Celebrity Apex will open the summer season with the 11-night Canaries & Portugal cruise, calling at Porto and Funchal, Portugal; Arrecife and Tenerife, Canary Islands; and Vigo and La Coruna, Spain.
The ship’s shortest itinerary for the season is the 4-night Rotterdam & Bruges sailing, which visits the Holland and Belgium destinations.
The 130,818-gross-ton Celebrity Apex entered service in 2021 and has 29 restaurants and bars.
The ship wows guests with several unique onboard destinations, such as Magic Carpet, the cantilevered platform featuring a lounge and entertainment space; The Retreat, offering luxury accommodations with private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck; and Rooftop Garden, an outdoor recreation space used for picnics, movies, and other entertainment programs.
Onboard entertainment features the popular “Rockumentary” as well as cabaret shows and aerial acrobatics.
Celebrity Apex is one of four existing Edge-class ships, joining Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent. A fifth ship in the class, Celebrity Xcel, is due to enter service in November 2025.
President’s Cruise to Feature Line’s Executive Team
The President’s Cruise onboard Celebrity Apex promises to be a unique experience for all guests, especially members of the line’s Captain’s Club loyalty program. The VIP members will have opportunities to meet and interact with the cruise line’s executive team.
All guests will enjoy culinary events featuring the cruise line’s own chefs, including celebrity chef David Boulud, the line’s global culinary ambassador. Special entertainment is planned for the President’s Cruise, too, along with shore excursions hosted by the cruise line president herself.
Bethge was appointed to the top post at Celebrity Cruises in 2023 after a long career with parent company Royal Caribbean Group, where she most recently served as an executive vice president.
Departing on May 17, 2025, the President’s Cruise will call at Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium; and Olden, Geiranger, Alesund, and Stavanger, Norway.
Celebrity Apex was deployed to Southampton for the first time in 2024 and sailed a series of voyages similar to what is offered in 2025.
On October 19, 2025, Celebrity Apex will sail a 13-night transatlantic repositioning cruise to Port Canaveral, and spend the winter season based at the Central Florida port and operating Caribbean and Bahamas voyages.
In April 2026, the ship is scheduled to return to Southampton for a third summer season.
Every frequent cruiser is always looking for tips, tricks, and hacks to make each voyage as smooth and easy as possible. Many of these hacks can be ways to save money, and one of the most popular of which is also one of the most well known – including to cruise line authorities.
With the high cost of alcohol on cruises, some of the most popular so-called hacks involve finding ways to sneak booze onboard.
Cruise lines have strict regulations on what type of alcohol guests can bring onboard, but clever cruisers think they know better by using hidden bottles or fluid-filled compartments, resealed packages, and other ways to try and smuggle spirits aboard.
What many cruisers don’t realize, however, is that cruise lines are well aware of these tricks and watch closely for them.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, noted the practice – and its hefty consequences – in a recent brief video on his Facebook page.
“This is crazy, right? We have known for years that you can go on Mrs. Amazon and you can get things to smuggle booze in,”Heald said.“We know about it, and we catch people. Don’t do it.”
He explained that at least a dozen people had written to him and shared a social media video with a guest bragging about their success in smuggling alcohol onboard.
Such videos have been around for years, with a variety of “techniques” for circumventing the rules. In the past, guests might receive a letter alerting them to the violation after the smuggled alcohol was confiscated. Now, however, the consequences are more severe.
What is actually surprising and new about this illicit trend is that people who happily post about their shenanigans on social media, bragging that they’ve beaten the rules.
“It makes me laugh, to be very honest,”Heald commented. “When people get on the ship and they go, ‘Oooo, look what we smuggled onboard, a tube full of vodka! Ha ha ha HA! We’re so clever!’ Of course, of course we have people monitoring social media pages. Of course we do.”
John Heald
Heald also noted that other cruisers share such videos, links, and photos with him, and Carnival Cruise Line does act on that information whenever possible.
“We go to their cabin and then we find it, and then we tell them they can’t cruise with us anymore,”he confirmed.“Don’t smuggle. We find it.”
So why do people take the risk of being banned for life from Carnival Cruise Line? Reasons can vary from someone wanting their preferred brands to feeling like a rebel for “beating” the rules to protesting the cost or policies of the Cheers! beverage package.
“I know why people do it, I get that. But don’t do it, don’t do it,”Heald emphasized.“And to put it on social media is absolutely ridiculous. Bonkers.”
Heald noted that it’s a sad situation when someone does have to be banned over what is typically such a small quantity of alcohol, but such strict reactions and consequences are necessary.
What Alcohol Can Guests Bring Onboard?
This does not mean that Carnival cruise guests can’t bring any alcohol onboard their cruise.
Carnival Sensation Atrium Bar (Photo Credit: Rob Bixby)
To be clear, however, bottles must be no more than 750 mL and must be sealed, as well as placed in the guest’s carryon luggage. No fortified wines or other alcoholic beverages are permitted to be brought onboard.
“All liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic … beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided,”the policy states.
Guests can purchase alcohol while in ports of call, but those purchases will likewise be confiscated when they reboard the ship. Those bottles will not be discarded but will be kept by ship’s security and can be picked up by guests on the morning of debarkation to take off the ship.
Of course, every Carnival ship is well-stocked with a wide variety of wine, beer, and liquor, with enthusiastic bartenders ready and willing to serve up any traveler’s favorite spirits – no need for any sneakiness!
MSC World America, MSC Cruises’ ship constructed for the North American market, has welcomed its first guests in Miami on April 9, 2025, for a preview and christening ceremony.
Invited aboard are Cruise Hive journalists getting a first peek at the 215,863-gross-ton vessel and all of her amenities, attractions, and features.
With 2,614 staterooms for up to 6,762 guests at full capacity, MSC World America has 19 different staterooms, 65 percent of them featuring outside cabins.
Passengers will find accommodations for all types of travel, with cabins designed for solo guests to families, as well as MSC Yacht Club Suites for exclusivity.
Studio Interior on MSC World America (Photo Credit: Lissa Poirot / Cruise Hive)
Studio Interior cabins, which measure 118 square feet, can accommodate just one guest in a single French bed, with Studio Ocean View rooms slightly bigger at 129 square feet and providing a porthole view of the ocean.
For couples or those in need of room for two, guests will find Deluxe Interiors and Deluxe Balconies. These feature a double bed that can be converted into two singles, with the Interior options measuring 161 square feet and the balcony versions at 182 square feet.
Deluxe Balcony and Interior on MSC World America (Photo Credit: Lissa Poirot / Cruise Hive)
Balconies can range from 32 to 107 square feet, including accessible room balconies that feature a ramp for wheelchairs.
Another option is an Infinite Ocean View Aurea, which offers 215 square feet of space with a panoramic sliding window that turns into a glass balustrade when open.
Infinite Oceanview Aurea on MSC World America (Photo Credit: Lissa Poirot / Cruise Hive)
For families or groups sailing together, the Premium Suite Aurea is a perfect option. Offering 269 square feet of interior space and a balcony that is approximately 43 square feet, the suite features a double bed that can be converted into two single beds, a sofa that can be converted into a double bed, and two bunk beds.
The suite also features a bathtub in the bathroom that is great for small children.
Ample MSC World America Accommodations
There are a host of other stateroom options available, including the MSC Yacht Club Owner’s Suite. This massive cabin is nearly 1,120 square feet and has a private balcony (over 500 feet) with a whirlpool.
The luxurious suite also provides a separate living and dining area, bathroom with an imperial tub, and floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors for uninterrupted views.
Premium Suite Aurora on MSC World America (Photo Credit: Lissa Poirot / Cruise Hive)
The MSC Yacht Club also has Duplex Suites that stretch across two floors. The main floor with an open living and dining room and a king bed is connected to the second-floor main bedroom, where another king bed awaits.
There are two bathrooms in the suites, including a bathtub on the second story.
Aurea Suites vary in size from the 215-square-foot junior suite to the 269-square-foot Premium Suite and the 377-square-foot Grand Suite, while the rooms with balconies range from 172 to 183 square feet.
MSC World America Arrives at New Cruise Terminal in Miami
These range from Deluxe Balconies with Promenade View or both Ocean and Promenade Views, Partial View, Deluxe and Deluxe Aurea.
All rooms are equipped with a hairdryer, a wardrobe with hangers and drawers, an interactive TV, a telephone, a safe, a mini bar, and air conditioning.
Wi-Fi is available at a fee, and passengers will find phone chargers right at their bedside, as well as two types of tech chargers at the desk beside multiple outlets for bigger devices and no need for adapters.
Keep following Cruise Hive for more first looks at MSC World America, including its christening ceremony.
The debut of the second Sphere class ship, Star Princess, is still nearly six months away, but you don’t have to wait that long for a look!
Princess Cruises has released exclusive behind-the-scenes views of the ship now under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, including up close looks that cruise guests never get to see.
The 178,000-gross ton ship floated out on September 26, 2024, and in the more than six months since that milestone, a great deal of work has been done.
“Star Princess is taking shape beautifully,”the cruise line commented.“As her fall debut approaches, progress continues to unfold in Monfalcone, Italy, bringing us closer to unveiling a new level of elegance and adventure at sea.”
From the classic “sea witch” hull art on her bow to scaffolding covering her stern, every inch of the LNG-poweredStar Princess is undergoing further refinement and detail work every day.
The best view is the stunning look at the sphere-shaped flank that encompasses multiple decks with panoramic views from the Piazza and other spaces at the heart of the ship. Still covered for protection, the shape is nevertheless distinctive and instantly recognizable.
Furthermore, the even more iconic geodesic dome near the ship’s bow appears complete and will soon be home to spacious and transformative entertainment shows.
While the latest look at the ship’s construction update doesn’t provide too many peeks inside the ship, what do we already know about her interior?
Construction Photos of Star Princess (Credit: Princess Cruises)
Inside Star Princess – What Guests Can Expect
As the second ship in the innovative and elegant Sphere class, Star Princess will be a star of the fleet indeed.
“After the overwhelming response to Sun Princess, we are excited to debut her sister ship, Star Princess, with added enhancements to elevate the guest experience,”said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president.
Due to the popularity of delicious dining options, two onboard specialty restaurants – O’Malley’s Irish Pub and Love by Britto – will feature expanded seating. This will give even more guests the chance to enjoy these spectacular venues.
Fitness buffs onboard will enjoy the new pickleball and basketball courts, along with the jogging track and other fitness features.
Guests who want to work out with numbers instead will appreciate the extra smoke-free space in the onboard casino, with 68 top-of-the-line slot machines.
There will be unmatched luxury aboard the ship in the exclusive Sanctuary Collection, premium staterooms with high-end amenities and private spaces for guests to enjoy.
The Sanctuary Club retreat offers a spa-like vibe on the top deck, ensuring the most restful and refreshing time onboard with private cabanas and dedicated service. The space will also be home to sail-away receptions as well as sunrise yoga sessions and other exclusive events.
Star Princess Cruise Ship (Render Credit: Princess Cruises)
Guests eager to experience all that Star Princess will offer should book as early as possible, as reservations will fill up quickly for the new ship.
Following two cruises from Barcelona as she figuratively gets her feet wet, Star Princess will set sail for her Sunshine State homeport on October 22, 2025 with a 14-night one-way transatlantic cruise.
Stopping in Palma de Mallorca, Gibraltar, and Ponta Delgada, the ship will then turn her bow to the open ocean for more than a week, arriving in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on November 5.
From Port Everglades, Star Princess will be offering Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries, visiting top destinations like Cozumel, Belize, Grand Turk, and Princess Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Princess Cays.
Of special interest to eager cruisers is the ship’s April 13, 2026 departure – a 20-night repositioning sailing from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle, including the new ship’s first passage through the famed Panama Canal.
MSC Cruises’ newest ship, MSC World America, arrived in Miami on April 7, ready to give industry insiders a first look at the 216,638-gross-ton vessel capable of hosting up to 6,762 guests at full capacity, not to mention its 2,138 crew members.
As Cruise Hive journalists are onboard to capture all of its bells and whistles, we also got to experience the brand-new MSC Terminal, which opened on April 5, 2025, and is located at terminal AA/AAA.
From the moment of arrival in the parking lot – which can hold more than 2,400 cars – it is evident that MSC World America is big.
Greeted by terminal staff from baggage to embarkation, the boarding process took about 15 minutes in total, and that’s mostly because the walk from the parking lot and through the 492,678-square-foot terminal and the winding covered gangway to the ship takes a bit of time.
It is the length of more than 8 American football fields!
Arriving at the MSC Terminal (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)
The space is so large it feels as if navigating an airport, with the standard roped off areas for lines, at which there were none upon our embarkation. It also features an expansive sitting area in case guests have to wait to embark.
Seating Area at MSC Miami Terminal (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)
Still, while the terminal can process up to 36,000 passengers per day, it moves quickly due to the use of facial recognition scanners.
Upon entering the terminal, passengers present their passports that are scanned into the system. Looking at the camera, the system scans faces and takes a photo that will be used anytime a guest disembarks and embarks.
Once through the first facial scanners, guests will move through baggage check, which features large bins and lots of space to keep bags moving.
After walking through metal detectors and collecting bags, passengers then move to the check-in desks. With the space’s vaulted ceilings and glass windows, it is overwhelming, bright, and expansive.
Upon receiving digital keys and completing check-in, passengers will walk between the nearly wall-to-wall digital display that looks like a live aquarium and make their way to a final checkpoint.
Checking In at the MSC Terminal (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)
Presenting boarding passes/keys and undergoing another facial recognition scan, it’s finally time to enter the gangway, which snakes around with three curves and features a number of small “speed humps” to help keep bags and wheelchairs from moving too quickly (but which also trip up carry-on bags).
Boarding the Ship (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman / Cruise Hive)
And then, there she is: MSC World America. Where crew members are ready to greet guests with a warm welcome.
Boarding MSC World America
The MSC Cruise Terminal will be home to MSC Cruises and its Explora Journeys luxury small-ship cruise line, servicing up to three ships simultaneously.
MSC World America is the largest ship outside of Royal Caribbean that will dock in PortMiami, as well as call it home. With 2,631 staterooms across 12 decks and a total of 20 passenger decks, the ship is massive.
But boarding is also streamlined using technology.
Twelve elevators are immediately near the gangway, utilizing new technology meant to minimize wait times. Rather than selecting an up or down button, guests select the floor they want to visit and then are directed to an elevator that will only stop on selected floors.
Inside the elevator, it will display the floors it is traveling to and drop guests. It will not visit any other floor, even if someone attempts to catch an elevator as its traveling – it’s seriously painless, although a bit tricky to understand the first time.
Also tricky, admittedly, are carpeted areas throughout the terminal and when boarding the ship that are so new and thick, it can be cumbersome to pull a bag.
MSC Miami Cruise Terminal Stats
The dark sky-blue carpeting featuring celestial symbols and coordinates is easier to avoid, but the brown carpeting near the elevators blends with the smooth flooring and can trip one up if toting a rolling bag.
However, these will most likely “settle” and are part of the fun of being one of the first to board.
Keep following Cruise Hive for more first looks at MSC World America, including its exciting christening ceremony taking place on April 9, 2025.
Excitement and anticipation are building at PortMiami as the star-studded christening ceremony for MSC Cruises’ MSC World America is set for the evening of April 9, 2025.
The 216,638-gross ton ship that can accommodate a stunning 6,700 guests and 2,000-plus crew will be named by her godmother, American actor Drew Barrymore, before scores of VIP guests, cruise line and port officials, and plenty of onlookers.
Cruise Hive will be on the scene, too, and readers can follow the glittering event as it happens by clicking here.
The ceremony will be held at the MSC Miami Cruise Terminal, the largest in the world at 492,678 square feet and itself only a few days old.
The naming ceremony will feature live entertainment and several onboard activities designed to showcase the ship’s public spaces and amenities. Invitees will be treated to a gala dinner, capped off with a drone and fireworks display.
“It’s such an honour to be MSC World America’s Godmother, and I can’t wait to cut that ribbon tonight and wish the ship smooth seas and good fortune for years to come,” said Drew Barrymore.
“Millions of people will create their own memories aboard this beautiful ship as time goes by, and I know they’ll have a blast experiencing everything MSC World America has to offer,” added Barrymore.
Celebrating with Barrymore will be British actor Orlando Bloom, both of whom played leading roles in MSC Cruises’ “Let’s Holiday campaign” that introduced the massive ship to American audiences during a Super Bowl commercial earlier this year.
Ship Is First in MSC Cruises’ Fleet With Multiple Districts
MSC World America was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France and delivered to the line on March 27, 2025. Designed specifically for the American market she is the second ship in MSC Cruises’ new World-class, following MSC World Europa, which launched in 2021.
The 22-deck MSC World America is the first in the MSC Cruises’ fleet to have districts, in this case seven — Family Aventura; Aqua Deck; Zen Area; World Galleria; The Terraces; The Promenade; and the MSC Yacht Club.
The 2,614-stateroom ship offers 40,000-plus square feet of public spaces, including 19 dining rooms and specialty restaurants, and 18 bars and lounges.
New MSC Cruise Terminal in Miami
Specialty restaurants include Eataly, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Kaito Sushi Bar, and Paxos. For casual fare, guests can choose from Promenade Bites, The Harbour Bar & Bites, La Boca Grill, and Luna Park Pizza & Burger.
The All-Stars Sports Bar is among the new lounges, and The Loft comedy club is a first for the MSC Cruises’ fleet.
Among the ship’s thrilling adventures is the Cliffhanger, an over-water swing ride in the outdoor family area called The Harbour.
MSC World America also has the cruise line’s largest MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive, luxury area offering guests a range of suite accommodations with butler service and private pool facilities and dining options.
The new flagship will sail 7- and 14-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from PortMiami, starting on April 12, 2025 with a 14-night itinerary that calls at ports in both regions.
The ship’s maiden voyage from Miami will visit the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Honduras, and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private destination in the Bahamas.
A new party is coming for Carnival Cruise Line as the official construction kicks off for Carnival Festivale, the line’s fourth Excel class ship.
The steel cutting was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where the 182,800-gross ton ship is now under construction.
“The steel being cut for our next new ship is music to my ears, which is in tune with many of the themed experiences Carnival Festivale will bring to our guests,”said Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line’s president.
“Each of her three sister ships is a great success and we are excited to once again partner with Meyer Werft as we continue to build upon the revolutionary Excel platform.”
Cruise line and shipyard executives were on hand for the momentous occasion, celebrating the beginning of the process that will gradually bring the new LNG-powered ship to life.
The steel cutting happened just 48 hours after Carnival Cruise Line announced the ship’s name – Carnival Festivale – in honor of the legacy of the third-ever ship to sail for the line, the original Festivale.
While few details have been confirmed for the new ship, the overall theme is going to be celebrating how music connects people together. Two distinct music-themed zones will be located on Decks 6, 7, and 8, including cutting-edge interactive experiences as well as outdoor music performances and their vibrant energy.
Carnival Festivale Steel Cutting
What Else Will Carnival Festivale Have Onboard?
The new ship will feature many of the favorites of the already popular Excel class ships – Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.
Guy’s Burger Joint, the Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, and Shaq’s Big Chicken will all be onboard, as well as exciting venues like the sports court, miniature golf, and a ropes course.
Carnival Festivale will also feature a treehouse-inspired elevated “adventure trail” – which could be part of the ropes course or a separate feature entirely.
What the ship will not feature is the Bolt rollercoaster, a thrilling upper deck ride on the first three Excel ships. While Bolt remains popular with guests, Carnival Festivale will instead introduce an entirely new space – Sunsation Point.
It is not unusual for sister ships to be slightly different than their siblings. While the general layout will remain the same, new spaces and unique features make each ship distinctive and offer new experiences for eager guests.
“From the music-themed zones to expansive new water park we’ve planned for this ship, she will continue the tradition of infusing innovative new features into our fleet,”said Duffy.
Carnival Festivale
The three-story Sunsation Point will offer six water slides – two of which are family raft slides – in the new Waterworks Ultra, which the cruise line is calling “the most family-friendly water park at sea.”
Two splash pads and dedicated “baby splash” areas are also part of the space, along with plenty of lounge space to enjoy the outstanding sunshine and ocean views.
Especially exciting is the news that Sunsation Point will offer evening events, including extended water park hours – the first time Waterworks is open at night on any Carnival ship. Waterslides after dark? Yes please!
While her construction is now underway, Carnival Festivale will not arrive at her homeport – Port Canaveral, Florida – until 2027.
The new ship will likely offer 7-night sailings, though her exact itineraries have not yet been announced. We do know, however, that her sister ship – Mardi Gras – will transition to shorter 3- and 4-night sailings at that time, with Port Canaveral continuing to be home to both vessels.
The original Festivale sailed for Carnival Cruise Line from 1975 through 1996 – may her new, larger namesake have an even longer service life, bringing a festival of FUN to thousands of guests every week!
Ensenada Cruise Port is one of Mexico’s most popular maritime gateways, located in the vibrant coastal city of Ensenada in Baja California.
This bustling port welcomes cargo vessels and a steady stream of cruise ships year-round. Despite the industrialized nature of the port itself, visiting offers cruise passengers an exciting blend of cultural, culinary, and natural attractions, all within a charming seaside setting.
Ensenada’s port is strategically situated on the Pacific coast of Baja California, so it’s an exciting and nearby destination for cruise ships traveling along the coast of Mexico from San Diego Cruise Port.
Geographically, the port lies in the heart of Ensenada, a city that boasts a rich maritime history, stunning views of the ocean, and a mild climate by Mexican standards, which makes it an attractive destination for adventure-seeking travelers, as well as those looking to enjoy some rest and relaxation.
Sitting at the northern point of the Baja California peninsula, it is sheltered by the Bahia Todos Santos, or Bay of All Saints. This means the waters surrounding this deep-water port are relatively calm, perfect for visiting cruise ships.
This location isn’t just practical for visiting cruise ships; it is also close to two major highways, making it accessible to those driving from San Diego.
While it’s nearly 70 miles south of Tijuana International Airport (TJI), several cruise lines offer shuttle services to the port, making it possible to fly to your cruise.
Aerial View of Ensenada Cruise Port (Photo Credit: schlyx)
Even though cruise ships visit the Ensenada Cruise Port dock within an industrial harbor, the facilities are actually fairly impressive. Cruise ships dock at one of two berths on the ‘C’ shaped pier in the center of the harbor. The first, simply called Port Ensenada Pier, is the smaller of the two cruise ship berths.
The second, Ensenada Cruise Ship Dock 2, can accommodate the largest cruise ships, so it tends to be busier.
While two cruise ship berths may seem limited, it is the only deep water cruise ship port in Baja California, which means it is an extremely busy port. In fact, in 2023, it was the second most visited port of call in all of Mexico.
Amenities and Facilities
Ensenada Cruise Dock 2 and Dock 1 in the Back (Photo Credit: Kirk Fisher)
I’ll start by saying that the terminal itself is fairly underwhelming. The industrial surroundings and backdrop of cargo ships don’t really scream tropical destination.
With that said, you can still find spacious and indoor waiting areas with ample seating and clear directional signage that makes it easy to know where you’re supposed to go.
There are also numerous restroom facilities, as well as a tourist information booth. When you disembark, you’ll notice a few vendors and booths offering private tours and other shore excursions.
The terminal building is directly in front of Cruise Ship Dock 2, and its dark red color scheme makes it difficult to miss. Inside, you’ll find a few souvenir shops and multiple ATMs that dispense both Mexican Pesos and USD.
The pier and the terminal building are fully accessible, with ramps making it easy for travelers with mobility challenges to navigate.
While the cruise port section of the harbor dates back to 1983, the terminal building has since undergone significant upgrades. You’ll find digital displays with real-time updates on ship arrivals and departures.
Unfortunately, the port does not offer free Wi-Fi, but there are a few cafés a short distance from it that do, including a Starbucks and Xcaanda Coffee Bar. These coffee shops can be found by following the palm tree-lined path that leads passengers from the port to the edge of downtown.
Cruise Lines that Visit Ensenada
Carnival Ship Visiting Ensenada (Photo Credit: Victor Alli)
Again, Ensenada is a popular stop for itineraries headed south along the Mexican Riviera, so it’s no surprise that some of the most major cruise lines in the industry make regular stops there.
Here are just a few of the cruise lines that feature a stop at Ensenada Cruise Port in their itineraries:
Carnival
Royal Caribbean
Princess Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Holland America Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
MSC Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
Seabourn Cruise Line
Silversea Cruises
How to Get to Ensenada Cruise Port
Few ships use the port as a homeport, so it’s not a place many itineraries list as the original embarkation point, but some passengers will still choose to join a larger itinerary by meeting a ship in Ensenada.
For those hoping to travel from California, Los Angeles, or even San Francisco, here is a quick overview of the most hassle-free ways to get to Ensenada Cruise Port.
Getting to Ensenada by Plane
Tijuana International Airport (Photo Credit: Arlette Lopez)
Tijuana International Airport sits adjacent to the Mexico-United States border, making it a main entry point for American tourists into Baja California.
While it takes about 1.5 hours to drive to Ensenada Cruise Port from the airport, the abundance of regular flights in and out of Tijuana make arriving by plane an easy and affordable option.
Once you arrive, you can take a bus or shuttle service from the airport. Most have drop off points at the port and numerous other stops throughout downtown Ensenada. These services are reliable and vary in price, with the most affordable being about $15 per person.
Getting to Ensenada by Car
Cars Parked at the Port (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
Given the relative proximity of the port to the border, plenty of people will choose to drive down from San Diego, California. Whether you are driving your own vehicle, or plan on renting a car, the 71-mile journey will take about two hours to drive.
Once you arrive, ample overnight parking is available at the port itself and through the many hotels and resorts just a short distance from the pier.
Almost the entire drive is along the Mexico-1D Highway, a scenic journey that hugs the coastline. Not only will having your vehicle with you make it easy to explore Ensenada at your own pace, the drive down through Baja California can be another memorable part of your vacation.
Getting to Ensenada Cruise Port from Downtown Ensenada
Ensenada Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Luke De Guzman)
If you’re already in Ensenada, you’ll find getting around is relatively easy. Unlike some of the larger Mexican cities I’ve visited, I found Ensenada to have a compact layout that makes the area surrounding the port very walkable.
However, for longer journeys or if you prefer not to walk at all, XMB is the name of the city’s public transportation network, and it operates numerous micro-buses. With routes all over the city and fares less than $1.50, it’s the cheapest way to get around.
With that said, taxis are everywhere and easy to flag. Just make sure you never get in an unmarked cab, as all taxis in the city need to be registered. There are three main taxi companies you should look for: Metro Ensenada, Radio Taxi, and Taxi Pioneros.
All three accept Mexican Pesos or American Dollars. You can get to the port from pretty much anywhere in the city for under $15, so taxis aren’t just convenient, they’re very affordable.
Uber recently started operating in Ensenada, so you can request a ride if you would prefer to go that route.
What You Can Do Near the Port
Photo Opportunity at the Port (Photo Credit: Sherry V Smith)
You don’t have to go far from the port to enjoy yourself. If you’re up for a short stroll, the Centro Social Cultural Center is just 0.8 miles from the port. Initially built in 1930 as a luxury hotel and casino, numerous Mexican and American celebrities visited it in its heyday.
Today, it acts as a cultural museum as well as a fully functional arts school. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the historic building and its gardens.
No trip to Ensenada is complete without visiting the original Hussong’s Cantina, the oldest bar and most well-known cantina in Baja California. Initially opened in 1892, it claims to be the place where the margarita was invented back in 1941.
As if that weren’t reason alone to make your way there, it’s only a 1.2-mile walk from the pier. Whether you’re hungry, just want a cold beer, or want to take in the atmosphere, it’s almost like a museum and a bar in one.
Right at the pier, you’ll also find plenty of excursion operators offering walking tours, wine tastings, fishing trips, and more. However, you don’t have to spend big to enjoy the area. Even just taking a stroll around the port offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Right at the end of the pier you’ll also find Avenida López Mateos, one of the main shopping strips in downtown Ensenada. Here you’ll easily be able to shop for souvenirs, like unique handicrafts, handmade silver jewelry, artisanal liquors, hot sauces, coffee, and so much more.
Beaches Near Ensenada Cruise Port
If exploring the city isn’t your thing, you’ll be happy to learn that Ensenada is also home to some picturesque beaches, making it the perfect place to enjoy some fun in the sun. Here are just a few of the beaches that are accessible from the cruise port:
Malecon de Playa Hermosa
Malecon de Playa Hermosa (Photo Credit: David J. Mitchell)
Located approximately 2.5 miles south of the port, Playa Hermosa isn’t just accessible, it’s also one of the most popular beaches in the area. Known for its gentle waves and long sandy shores, it’s the ideal spot for families traveling with kids.
If you don’t feel like walking to the beach, a short taxi ride from the port is always an option. It’s also fun to rent a bicycle near the port, then take the bike path to the beach.
The beach itself stretches nearly three miles and has public restrooms and outdoor showers. With lifeguards on duty, volleyball nets, umbrella and beach lounger rentals, and a wide variety of beachside vendors and restaurants, there’s plenty to do. The calm waters also make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Playa Guarnición Militar
A bit further afield, Playa Guarnición Militar is about 5.5 miles south of the port. It’s clean, quiet, and has a small boardwalk lined with local musicians and street food vendors serving tacos and seafood.
While it’s not as immediately close as Playa Hermosa, it’s a good option if you want more of an authentic experience and a lively coastal atmosphere, as it isn’t quite as touristy.
Keep in mind that the currents and countercurrents are pretty strong if you swim out too far from the shoreline, so it can be pretty dangerous if you’re not a strong swimmer.
While the currents are fairly strong, the waves make it a good spot for surfing. In fact, some of the surfing and jet ski excursions you can book near the port will take you to Playa Guarnición Militar.
Estero Beach
Estero Island Beach Club
If you really want to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, Estero Beach is one of the quietest and calmest beaches in the area. Like Playa Guarnicion Militar, it’s not as popular with tourists, so it has a more secluded feel.
The beach itself features soft sands and the waves are usually calm. There’s also a nearby estuary where you can take a nature walk and spot tropical birds.
It is about 8.3 miles from the pier, so it’s a bit of a journey, but it’s worth it if you want to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Plus, Estero Island Beach Club is nearby, allowing non-overnight guests to book day passes to access their pools, restaurants, and swim-up bar.
Dining in Ensenada
One of the main things that keeps me coming back to Mexico is the incredible food. As you’ll quickly learn if you visit, Ensenada’s culinary scene is just as vibrant and diverse as its cultural heritage.
I already mentioned Hussong’s Cantina, which is a must-visit for cold drinks and small plates, but there are many other options for those hoping to treat their taste buds.
Whether you’re looking to try some of the local flavors or you just want a simple meal near the port, here are a few of the top spots I would recommend:
La Ensenada Restaurante
La Ensenada Restaurante
Located just half a mile from the pier, La Ensenada Restaurante offers upscale dining in a welcoming environment. With a strong focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes, it’s an excellent option if you hope to get a taste of the local cuisine. For wine lovers, they import wine from throughout Baja California and beyond.
While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, the grilled seafood dishes are the real highlight. If you want something a little different, try the octopus tacos.
Mercado Negro Seafood Market
Mercado Negro Seafood Market (Photo Credit: Mary at T-Comms)
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, Mercado Negro is located just half a mile from the port. Vendors at this iconic food market sell fresh fish and other raw ingredients, but you’ll also find a huge variety of prepared seafood dishes, grilled meats, fresh fruit, and more.
The market is a must-see for food lovers seeking out those authentic Mexican flavors. Even if you’re not overly hungry, it is incredibly colorful and has a lively atmosphere, enhanced if you’re lucky enough to visit while live musicians are performing.
La Bufadora Tequila Grill and Restaurant
La Bufadora (Photo Credit: Domingo Saez)
Nearly 20 miles from the port near Pai Pai Ecotourism Park, you can find La Bufadora Restaurant.
While this may seem like a far way to go just for a meal, the restaurant gets its name from its proximity to the famous La Bufadora Blowhole, one of the area’s most iconic tourist sites. This means you can combine visiting the site with a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant specializes in regional seafood, but offers a full menu of traditional dishes. Not to be confused with the American chain La Bufadora Baja Grill, this family-owned restaurant is always worth visiting.
La Guerrerense Carreta
La Guerrerense Carreta (Photo Credit: schlyx)
If you really want to treat yourself to some truly delicious food, La Guerrerense Carreta has some of the freshest and tastiest seafood you’ll find anywhere in Mexico. Those aren’t just my words, this claim was originally made by Anthony Bourdain, who visited while filming one of his travel shows.
This incredible spot has blossomed from humble food truck to one of the most frequented spots in the entire city. Best of all, it’s located less than a mile from the port.
Shopping in Ensenada
Local Store in Ensenada (Photo Credit: Sherry V Smith)
The city of Ensenada offers an incredible range of delightful shopping experiences, and you don’t have to travel far to find them. In fact, the area around the port is dotted with markets, boutiques, and artisan shops that cater to every taste.
If you walk from the port into downtown Ensenada, you’ll see countless stores carrying all sorts of souvenirs. If shopping is your thing, make sure you walk along Avenida López Mateos, the city’s main shopping strip.
I already mentioned Mercado Negro, which is a good option if you’re looking to purchase items the area is known for, like its locally-made wine. If you want to bring back some wine, the market is excellent, as most vendors will offer you a sample glass of wine before you buy.
The city is also known for its silver jewelry, which can be found pretty much everywhere in the city. If you are looking for silver items and other souvenirs, Plaza Comerical Artesanal is just steps away from the pier.
Here you’ll find vendor stalls, cafés, wine bars, and plenty of restaurants and food stands. Remember that most vendors only accept cash, so you’ll need to pull out American or Mexican currency.
Is Ensenada, Mexico, Safe?
Disney Ship Docked in Ensenada (Photo Credit: Arlette Lopez)
Safety should always be a top priority, no matter where you travel. This is particularly important when you visit Mexico, which does have some dangerous regions that are best avoided by tourists.
Fortunately, Ensenada is one of the safer areas of Mexico, especially near the port. You’ll notice a prominent police presence there that helps keep tourists safe. The U.S. State Departmentdoes not have any travel warnings for the city or the surrounding area.
Still, it’s always a good idea to check on this before you visit, as travel advisories constantly change.
With that said, the Canadian Government does recommend that its citizens practice a high degree of caution in Ensenada, with petty crimes, like pickpocketing and fake tour scams being the primary concerns.
To ensure you remain safe during your visit, it’s a good idea to avoid wandering off alone. If you’re concerned, I’d recommend keeping your valuables secure or leaving them on the ship. As mentioned, using reputable transportation options is also a good idea, rather than risking getting in unmarked taxis.
Best Time to Visit Ensenada
Mexican Flag Over Ensenada Port (Photo Credit: Felipe Sanchez)
The climate in Ensenada is pleasant year-round, but most people agree that the best time to visit is during early fall months. From September through November, the weather is warm, sunny, and dry, without being overly hot or humid, making it a much nicer time to explore the city.
The spring and winter months are also pleasant, but visiting during the summer can be very hot. Another good thing about visiting during the fall is that crowds are not as intense as during the winter, especially near the holidays.
If you really want to enjoy the local culture, the biggest festival of the year is Carnaval Ensenada, which runs from the last week of February to early March. This festival has been going on for over 100 years and is celebrated with parades, colorful costumes, beach parties, and much more.
If you have rented a car or have chosen to drive your own vehicle down to Ensenada, it is worth keeping in mind that the traffic can be pretty heavy during rush hour, which tends to run between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the mornings, and 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the evenings.
Parking is pretty easy to find, but it can be a bit tricky near the main tourist sites. This is why so many people will opt for taxis rather than driving their own vehicles.
