blog - Page 24 of 604

Carnival Cruise Ships in Alaska: Which One to Choose?

Carnival Cruise Advice

-

Mar 16, 2026

Carnival Cruise Ships in Alaska: Which One to Choose?

When you think of Carnival cruises, you may immediately just imagine fun in the sun during a short, affordable Caribbean getaway — but this mammoth cruise line travels far further than just the Caribbean isles. Take Alaska, for example. While Carnival is not the most popular cruise line in the state, it can be a great fit for those seeking a quiet, low-key and budget-friendly vacation to the Last Frontier.

Currently, Carnival Cruise Line sends four ships to Alaska: Carnival Legend, Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Miracle and Carnival Spirit. All four of these ships are Spirit-class vessels (well, technically Carnival Luminosa is a hybrid-class ship; it was originally built for Costa Cruises, but it’s still mostly associated with the Spirit class).

The line only sends these types of ships to Alaska, as they’re most suited to the climate and they fit through the Panama Canal, so it’s easy to redeploy them, switching them from the Caribbean or elsewhere to Alaska as the seasons change.

But which one should you choose for your upcoming cruise? I’m going to break down everything you need to know about these four ships so you can book your Carnival Cruise Line Alaskan cruise with confidence.

Ship Overview

Ship	Homeport(s)	Glacier Access	Best For
Carnival Legend	Seattle	Tracy Arm Fjord (no Glacier Bay)	Quiet, older‑skewing crowds; small‑ship feel; budget travelers
Carnival Luminosa	San Francisco	Varies; no Glacier Bay	West Coast cruisers; relaxed adults; lowest fares
Carnival Miracle	Seattle	Varies; no Glacier Bay	Families wanting a calmer ship; balcony lovers
Carnival Spirit	Seattle	Varies; no Glacier Bay	First‑time Alaska cruisers; those wanting more itinerary length options

Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend is a relatively older and smaller ship (as is the case with all of the line’s cruise ships that travel to Alaska). It was built in 2002 and measures in at 88,500 GT, with a total guest capacity of just 2,680 people.

The majority of the staterooms on the ship are balcony staterooms (great for taking in those Alaska views!), and the ship features all the line’s classic venues and public spaces, such as Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, RedFrog Rum Bar, and the WaterWorks water park.

Carnival Legend Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: David Buzzard)

Despite the ship’s age, it has been updated in recent history. In 2024, for example, the ship received a major refurbishment that included new staterooms, added the Heroes Tribute Bar to the ship, and updated the casino and spa.

Meanwhile, the ship is getting another revamp in 2026, right before the Alaska cruising season, with a dry dock scheduled for April through mid-May.

What to Expect During an Alaskan Cruise on Carnival Legend

Details have not yet been released as to what the pre-summer 2026 ship updates will entail. Still, we can expect some basic refreshes that will help ensure the ship keeps delivering a modern, fresh experience to discerning cruisers.

However, it’s worth noting — and this will hold true for all of the ships we discuss — that because Carnival Legend is so small and so old, it’s not going to give you the wide range of amenities and options that you would get if you were to sail on an Alaskan cruise with, say, Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean.

Accordingly, if you have a family full of travelers (especially kids and teens) and you want them to stay occupied at all times, this might not be the ship for you.

In contrast, if you’re looking for a more low-key experience and you don’t need a bunch of flashy thrills and amenities, and you prefer the intimacy of a small ship, don’t hesitate to book Carnival Legend.

According to recent cruisers on the ship who’ve sailed to Alaska, the crowds on the ship tend to skew older and things are relatively quiet (unless you have a cabin placed in a poor spot, like near nightlife venues or engines). The casino can get crowded as well. Meanwhile, the enclosed pool is a big plus during an Alaskan cruise wherein the weather trends chilly.

Many enjoy the ship’s size and how easy it is to navigate. That said, the decor is outdated.

Carnival Legend Alaska Deployments

Carnival Cruise Line currently offers a few Alaska deployments on Carnival Legend. All your options will leave Seattle and include a sea day, the Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, before returning to Seattle, after seven days of exploring glaciers, sightseeing, and wildlife watching. Fares start at $118 per night.

Carnival Legend Pros & Cons in Alaska

Pros	Cons
Small, intimate ship	Limited itinerary options
The ship has been recently updated	The ship is more than 20 years old

Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa didn’t, as mentioned, originally start out as a Carnival Cruise Line ship. Instead, it was Costa Luminosa when it first launched in the 2000s (it was built in 2007). Then, the ship was transferred over to sister brand Carnival Cruise Line in 2022.

Today, the ship weighs in at just under 93,000 GT and offers a double occupancy of 2,260 people. The ship has been revamped so that it fits the Carnival Cruise Line vibe. As such, it offers recognizable venues and spaces such as the Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and RedFrog Rum Bar.

Typically, the ship spends its winters in Australia and its summers in Alaska. The ship is slated for another refurbishment in late 2026. Unfortunately, this will take place after the 2026 Alaska cruising season has commenced, so if you want to see this ship at its best, maybe look for 2027 itineraries.

What to Expect During an Alaskan Cruise on Carnival Luminosa

In the vein of Carnival Legend, Carnival Luminosa is on the smaller side. Add on the fact that it wasn’t even built to be a Carnival cruise ship in the first place, and you’ll see why this vessel isn’t going to be suitable for diehard fans of the cruise line.

It’s definitely a unique cruise ship option. While you do get a handful of the brand’s classic venues and restaurants, there’s no waterslide or ropes course, and no huge amount of entertainment-focused attractions.

(In fact, some cruisers who’ve been on the ship recently recommend choosing Carnival Spirit instead, specifically if you’re traveling with children.)

All of that said, if you want a smaller, easily navigable ship with few crowds and many opportunities to relax in peace, this ship has you covered. It’s also a great fit for those cruisers who aren’t necessarily wooed by sparkly ship features, and who’d rather spend their time exploring in port.

However, it is worth noting that, while Carnival Cruise Line may have a page on its official website for Glacier Bay cruises — frequently one of travelers’ absolute favorite spots in Alaska — further searching on both the line’s website and among cruiser comments on social media shows that no cruises to Glacier Bay are available.

As such, if this is on your bucket list for things to do in Alaska, hesitate before booking this ship or others.

Carnival Luminosa Alaska Deployments

Alaska cruises on Carnival Luminosa start at just $96 per night. There are a few different itineraries to choose from, but all depart from San Francisco — making this an excellent ship to pick if you don’t want to travel to Seattle or British Columbia to depart for an Alaskan cruise.

Carnival Luminosa Pros & Cons in Alaska

Pros	Cons
Very affordable cruise fares	Doesn’t include all the brand’s staple venues or attractions
Itineraries that leave from California	Planned refurbishments do not take place until after the 2026 Alaska sailing season

Carnival Miracle

Carnival Miracle was built in 2004 and measures in at 88,500 GT, with capacity for 2,680 guests at max. Much like Carnival Legend, it features a lot of the favorite venues like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, Alchemy Bar, and RedFrog Pub.

Carnival Miracle underwent an extensive dry dock and refurbishment in 2025. Updates were made to the children’s clubs and casino, among other spaces, and new venues like the Heroes Tribute Bar were added.

What to Expect During an Alaskan Cruise on Carnival Miracle

If you’ve been on a Carnival ship in the past, then you’ll instantly realize that Carnival Miracle isn’t quite as crowded as the other ships in the fleet. It’s chill, easy to navigate, and, while it’s an older vessel, if you’re not looking for a ton of amenities or the latest and greatest cruising features, you’ll find lots to enjoy.

Grab a balcony or ocean view stateroom (just look out for those obstructed view offerings) and you’ll be able to take in all the Alaska scenery with ease.

Carnival Miracle Alaska Deployments

Carnival Cruise Line offers both seven and nine-night itineraries on Carnival Miracle to Alaska. Both itineraries leave from Seattle, and offer stops at top spots such as Sitka, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Juneau. Fares start at around $110 per night.

Carnival Miracle Pros & Cons in Alaska

Pros	Cons
The ship was recently renovated	No flashy amenities or attractions onboard
Low-key, chill, and quiet ship	Limited itineraries from Seattle only

Carnival Spirit

The lead ship of the Spirit class, Carnival Spirit is very in line with the other ships that the brand sends to Alaska. It’s on the smaller side, at 88,500 GT and a double occupancy of 2,124 people, plus a crew count of 930 members.

The ship entered service in 2001, so it is one of the older ships in the cruise line’s fleet overall, even if it’s not the oldest. The ship was refurbished in 2025, and those renovations included the addition of Heroes Tribute Bar, as well as enhancements for the casino, spa, and fitness center, among other spaces.

What to Expect During an Alaskan Cruise on Carnival Spirit

Cruisers who were on Carnival Spirit for an Alaskan cruise as recently as 2025 noted that the ship is still in great shape. This is the consensus among both long-time cruisers and first-time cruisers. However, some do find the ship to be on the boring side — but that’s probably mostly because it’s older and smaller.

Upgraded Carnival Spirit Mini Golf (Credit: Carnival)

Again, across all of the ships that Carnival Cruise Line deploys to Alaska, the vibe is low-key and relaxed, and that stands true on Carnival Spirit. For some, that is an amazing perk. (Because, in contrast, on large ships like those deployed by Norwegian Cruise Line to Alaska, the crowds can really get out of hand!)

Carnival Spirit Alaska Deployments

You’ll see a handful of Alaska itineraries available on Carnival Spirit. All depart from Seattle, and fares start around $104 per night. Seven, eight, and nine-night cruises are available.

Carnival Spirit Pros & Cons in Alaska

Pros	Cons
Multiple itineraries available	The ship is still one of Carnival Cruise Line’s oldest
The vessel was recently updated	Not a big range of things to do onboard

Holland America Scraps All Tracy Arm Visits Due to Unstable Conditions

Holland America Line News

Lissa Poirot

-

Mar 16, 2026

0

Holland America Scraps All Tracy Arm Visits Due to Unstable Conditions

Key Aspects:

Holland America Line has cancelled Tracy Arm scenic cruising days on its 2026 Alaska voyages.
The change follows a major 2025 landslide and is due to unstable ice and geological conditions in the fjord.
Instead of Tracy Arm, ships will sail into Endicott Arm to view Dawes Glacier.

One of the highlights of an Alaska cruise is sailing into Tracy Arm Fjord, a narrow, glacier-carved passage southeast of Juneau. Known for its steep granite cliffs and floating icebergs, itineraries that include this beautiful area of Alaska offer views of the twin Sawyer Glaciers.

But guests sailing with Holland America Line during its upcoming 2026 Alaska season will not be able to visit the fjord.

The cruise line has begun notifying booked passengers that its popular Tracy Arm scenic cruising days will be cancelled for the season due to safety concerns tied to unstable conditions in the area.

Ships scheduled to visit the fjord will instead sail into nearby Endicott Arm.

“Due to unstable ice and geological conditions [sic] currently preclude vessels from entering Tracy Arm Fjord; all 2026 departures will explore Endicott Arm instead,” said the cruise line in a letter to passengers.

The change comes after a major landslide in the fjord occurred in August 2025, raising safety concerns in the area.

The massive landslide collapsed near South Sawyer Glacier, sending millions of cubic feet of rock and debris crashing into the narrow waterway. The impact triggered a localized tsunami within the fjord, according to researchers studying the event.

Tracy Arm landslide — Tracy Arm and South Sawyer Glacier landslide location. (Photo Credit: US Geological Survey)

Scientists from the US Geological Survey say the area remains under observation as the steep slopes continue to shift. As glaciers retreat, rock faces once supported by ice are becoming more unstable, increasing the risk of additional landslides in the fjords.

Because of these ongoing concerns, Holland America Line will not send any ships into Tracy Arm in the 2026 season.

Ships to Sail into Endicott Arm

Holland America Line’s first visit to Tracy Arm in 2026 was meant to take place on May 4, 2026, during a 7-night Alaska Inside Passage voyage from Vancouver aboard Koningsdam. Noordam was scheduled to follow on May 6 during its similar 7-night voyage from Seattle.

A third ship, Zaandam, was scheduled to first arrive on May 15 after departing Vancouver for its 7-night sailing, with Eurodam arriving on May 19, also sailing from Seattle for 7 nights.

Each ship, sailing in the area into September, with Zaandam the last to arrive on September 4, will now spend the scenic cruising day in Endicott Arm, a neighboring fjord located within the same wilderness area of Southeast Alaska.

Guests will have an extended viewing day, with the tour of Endicott Arm expected to last for 8.5 hours.

“Endicott Arm offers a stunning view of Dawes Glacier, an active tidewater glacier that regularly calves large icebergs into the fjord,” said Holland America Line, revealing the itinerary title has been updated to be Tracy Arm Fjord or Endicott Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer.

Both fjords branch off Holkham Bay, southeast of Juneau, and share many of the same characteristics, so passengers shouldn’t be too disappointed by the change.

In fact, most former passengers responding to social media posts about the change say the views and glacier in Endicott Arm are just as spectacular. Holland America Line said safety concerns for passengers and crew drove the decision to adjust 2026 itineraries.

Port Availability Forces Norwegian Breakaway Itinerary Adjustment

Norwegian Cruise Line News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Mar 16, 2026

0

Port Availability Forces Norwegian Breakaway Itinerary Adjustment

Key Aspects:

Norwegian Breakaway is juggling port visit days and times for her August 30, 2026 departure.
No ports are cancelled, but the visit to Portland will be a day earlier than originally scheduled.
Port availability is cited as the reason for the shift and will ensure a better visit experience for everyone.

There are many reasons cruise ships may have itinerary adjustments, from storms to civil unrest to overall port availability. For guests setting sail on Norwegian Breakway at the end of August, the latter is causing an itinerary shakeup.

Norwegian Cruise Line has reached out to booked guests for the ship’s August 30, 2026 departure to let them know of the changes, which impact two of the four ports on the schedule.

“Although we work closely with port authorities to lock in every detail well in advance, circumstances can still shift, and sometimes we’re informed that space is no longer available,” the cruise line said. “These changes are often beyond our control, and as passionate cruisers ourselves, we truly understand how disappointing they can be.”

Guests shouldn’t be too disappointed in the changes for this 7-night Canada and New England sailing, however. Norwegian Breakaway will still be visiting all the originally planned destinations, just with slight tweaks to two ports.

The ship’s departure from Boston, Massachusetts on Sunday, August 30 is not impacted. Instead of spending the first day at sea, however, the ship will arrive in Portland, Maine at 8 a.m. on Monday and will remain there until 5 p.m. This is still the original timing, but a day earlier than initially scheduled.

Tuesday will then be a day at sea, and the Wednesday visit to Bar Harbor from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. is unchanged.

The visit to Saint John on Thursday, September 3 is slightly extended, as Norwegian Getaway will be arriving at 7:15 a.m. instead of 8 a.m. Departure is still planned for 4 p.m.

Friday’s visit to Halifax is unchanged, as is the day at sea on Saturday, while the ship makes her way back to Boston for debarkation on Sunday, September 6.

Cruise Hive regularly reports on itinerary adjustments that often involve changes in port times and cancelled ports. In comparison, the changes for Norwegian Breakaway are relatively mild.

Nevertheless, guests will want to be aware of the shift, particularly the change in day for visiting Portland. If guests have arranged any independent shore tours they will need to contact their tour operators for adjustments or cancellation options.

It is standard procedure for a cruise line to automatically adjust any pre-booked tour reservations made through the cruise line, and it is likely Norwegian Cruise Line will do so as needed.

Why the Change?

Other than “due to newly updated port availability,” Norwegian Cruise Line has not elaborated on why the itinerary has been changed.

On Tuesday, September 1, when Norwegian Breakaway was originally scheduled for Portland, two other ships are also scheduled: Norwegian Escape, along with American Cruise Lines’ American Independence.

On Monday, August 31, however, only American Independence will be alongside as Norwegian Breakaway visits. This can help keep the port less crowded for a more enjoyable experience for all guests.

Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Escape are both sister ships in the Breakaway Class. At double occupancy, Norwegian Breakaway can host 3,903 guests, while Norwegian Escape is slightly larger with 4,218 guests.

Cruise Hive has previously reported on passenger caps and cruise ship limits impacting Bar Harbor, but Portland has not yet implemented any such changes. Nevertheless, two large ships bringing 8,000 guests or more to a port in a single day can be a less pleasant visit for everyone.

While Portland is the most populous city in Maine with a population of roughly 70,000, too many visitors at once could mean fewer tours, overcrowded shopping, and other poor experiences.

It is also possible that the visit change might be related to pier maintenance, construction, dredging, or other port operations that can impact the number of ships that can be easily accommodated.

Whatever the reason, guests aboard Norwegian Breakaway are sure to still enjoy their visit to Portland even if it is on a different day than originally planned.

Norwegian Cruise Line Reminds Spring Break Guests of Key Rules

Norwegian Cruise Line News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Mar 15, 2026

0

Norwegian Cruise Line Reminds Spring Break Guests of Key Rules

Key Aspects:

Norwegian Cruise Line has begun issuing letters to spring break cruisers with conduct reminders.
The letters cover policies on drinking and casino ages, stateroom occupancy, and onboard behavior.
The policies are not new, but serve as reminders during a busy and often rowdy time for cruising.

With the hectic spring break season just getting underway, Norwegian Cruise Line is issuing reminders to embarking guests about stateroom occupancy, drinking ages, and casino participation, as well as general onboard behavior.

Guests boarding Norwegian Joy have received such a letter, and while it’s not dated to a specific sailing, it’s likely that similar letters will be issued throughout the fleet during the next few weeks. The spring break period, generally in March and April, is often seen as both a busier time to sail as well as one that may be rowdier with more outrageous behavior.

“We’re so glad you’ve chosen to spend your spring break with us. This voyage is all about sun soaked days, easy nights, and making the most of every moment at sea,” the letter begins. “To help keep the experience smooth, safe, and enjoyable for everyone on board, here are a few helpful reminders as you settle in.”

Up first is the note that every stateroom must have at least one guest age 21 or older. This means that two teens or even two 20-year-olds cannot room together with an older adult in the same stateroom.

College groups traveling together will want to be aware of the age policy and plan who is in which stateroom accordingly.

The letter also covers the legal drinking age, including how guests 18-20 years old can still get beer and wine with the appropriate parental consent. Parental consent forms can be completed at the Guest Services desk.

Norwegian Joy Departing Miami (Photo Credit: Just dance)

Casino gaming ages and onboard conduct, such as noisy hallways, running in public areas, jumping and diving into pools, and the ever-infamous deck chair saving (aka “chair hogs”) are other policies covered in the letter.

The letter concludes with a gentle reminder to “dress comfortably and appropriately” for the various dining rooms and specialty restaurants onboard. Cruise Hive has recently reported on several updates Norwegian Cruise Line has made to the dress code for different restaurants in an effort to preserve the desired atmosphere.

But what do these reminders really mean for guests onboard Norwegian Joy and other NCL ships? Because the cruise line is highlighting these policies at embarkation, it is likely that crew members and onboard security may be watching more closely for violations to ensure a safe, smooth cruise for everyone aboard.

Interestingly, the letter does not mention prohibited items of any kind. Guests should always review their cruise line’s policies to be sure they aren’t packing something that might be confiscated or even cause bigger problems.

Norwegian Joy is currently homeported from Port Canaveral, offering 7-night Caribbean sailings (the perfect spring break cruise length!). In mid-April, the ship will move to Miami for three short sailings before repositioning to Seattle for the Alaska season.

The 167,725-gross-ton, Breakaway-Plus Class ship can welcome 3,883 guests aboard and is also home to roughly 1,800 international crew members.

Are These Rules New for Spring Break?

It should be noted that none of the guidelines highlighted to guests in these welcome letters are special restrictions for spring break sailings.

In fact, these are all standard policies for Norwegian Cruise Line and can be readily found on the cruise line’s website or in the official guest ticket contract, which all travelers agree to when booking their cruise.

Special attention is simply being drawn to the most commonly asked questions, such as drinking age or casino gambling age, for the spring break season, as well as ensuring that everyone is aware of conduct policies onboard.

Cruise Hive has regularly reported on unpleasant incidents onboard cruise ships or even in cruise terminals, including individual fights and all-out brawls, none of which are tolerated at any time of year.

As spring break season heats up, it is likely that other cruise lines will take similar steps to ensure good behavior and comfortable sailing onboard for all guests, whether by issuing letters, intercom announcements, pre-cruise emails, or other reminders.

Influencers Caught Faking Carnival Cruise Ship Pier Runner Video

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Mar 14, 2026

0

Influencers Caught Faking Carnival Cruise Ship Pier Runner Video

Key Aspects:

A group was caught filming a fake pier runner video in Nassau, Bahamas, on Monday, March 2.
They attempted multiple takes of “missing” Carnival Freedom, but were never sailing on that ship at all.
The group was likely aboard MSC Seashore, which was also in port but stayed later than Carnival Freedom.

With more and more AI-generated videos taking over social media, it can be hard to tell what’s real and what’s not. But what about when “real” videos aren’t real at all?

One content creator has been caught red-handed (red-camera-ed?) faking a video as a pier runner toward a Carnival cruise ship. The original video was posted on March 2, 2026, and shows three women running alongside a Carnival ship as it pulls away from the pier.

One woman shouts “Nooooooo!” as the ship is leaving, while another says “I told you 5:30!”

The video is titled “Missed Our Cruise in the Bahamas.” While the exact ship is not identified and its hull name cannot be seen, it is clearly a Carnival cruise ship, and a brief glimpse at the beginning of the roughly 10-second clip shows the iconic funnel without its signature whale tail wings.

@weirdgirlgrwms
Missed are cruise in the Bahamas! 😭#cruisetok #missedthecruise #superfunny #familymissesthecruise #cruiseleaving
♬ original sound – SHAYLAA

Cruise Hive reported extensively on how the Conquest-Class Carnival Freedom experienced one fire in May 2022 that damaged her funnel, then how a second fire in March 2024 again damaged the funnel just five months after it had been replaced during dry dock.

No other ships in the Carnival fleet have the same tapered funnel base without the whale tail wings. Furthermore, Carnival Freedom was the only Carnival ship visiting Nassau, Bahamas on Monday, March 2.

The video, which has amassed more than 27 million views, 51,500 shares, and 10,900 comments, has a variety of hashtags such as #cruiseleaving, #missedthecruise, and #familymissesthecruise. Not one hashtag, however, notes that the video is fake.

The brief video does have one clue to its lack of authenticity. The three women running to “catch” the ship are not carrying any large bags or beach towels. Of course, such items could have been dropped in the mad dash or might not have been needed, depending on how they spent the day ashore.

Caught by a Guest Onboard

What really sinks the video as fake, however, is the fact that these women (and one man not seen in the original) were filmed by another guest, this one onboard Carnival Freedom, showing them making multiple takes of missing “their” ship.

It’s a popular (though occasionally controversial) activity to stake out a good view of the pier close to sailaway time and watch for pier runners, guests who are late returning to the ship.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by the laugh spot (@the_laughspott)

In this case, it allowed someone to capture this attempt to craft a “missing the ship” video when they weren’t even guests aboard Carnival Freedom at all.

In the first take, three women are running after the ship. After filming the clip, they quickly review the video, but then do another take with two women and the man running after the ship.

It is not confirmed which cruise ship the group was actually sailing with at the time. Because they were alongside Carnival Freedom, they had to have been cruise guests because the pier is inside the secure area and other tourists and visitors are not permitted.

However, another video the creator posted the day before, on March 1, 2026, shows them embarking a cruise ship and is tagged for MSC Cruises. MSC Seashore departed Port Canaveral on March 1 for a 4-night sailing to the Bahamas, with a visit to Nassau from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. the next day.

As Carnival Freedom was docked from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., the group would have had ample time to film their “missing the ship” video while still returning to MSC Seashore for the all-aboard time.

Too bad. Wouldn’t missing their own ship after these shenanigans have been beautifully ironic? Pier runners indeed.

Cruise News Roundup: Princess Cruises Hikes, Fast Dining, Carnival Cancellations, and More

Cruise News

Donna Tunney

-

Mar 14, 2026

0

Cruise News Roundup: Princess Cruises Hikes, Fast Dining, Carnival Cancellations, and More

Get the inside scoop on cruise news with Cruise Hive’s weekly recap, your go-to source for industry developments across the globe. In our latest edition, top stories include Virgin Voyages deciding to relocate its New York homeport from Manhattan to Brooklyn; P&O Cruises increasing its final payment requirement to 120 days before departure; and Carnival Cruise Line unveiling an Express Dining option fleetwide.

Get your daily cruise news fix by signing up for Cruise Hive’s Daily Update, delivered to your inbox each morning.

Cost to Ship Princess Medallions Rises Sharply

Shipping costs have risen everywhere, even at Princess Cruises, which has quietly raised the cost of shipping its Medallions to booked guests before embarkation day.

Medallions have been used by the line since 2017 as an alternative to the traditional plastic guest ID card. Like those cards, Medallions are presented by guests to buy goods onboard the ship, like drinks, and are used as identification when leaving and returning to the ship.

Guests hailing from the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada have the option of receiving their Medallions before leaving home, but now that convenience will cost more. For passengers in the US and Puerto Rico, the shipping cost has doubled, from $10 to $20. In Canada, the cost jumped from $15 to $25.

Princess Cruises Medallions (Photo Credit: EWY Media)

More than one Medallion can be included in an order, and guests are charged just once for a shipment of up to 4 Medallions. However, if guests on the same booking have different home addresses, each shipment incurs the charge.

Previously, guests who bought the line’s Plus or Premier inclusive packages did not pay for shipping, but under the new policy, which began on February 27, 2026, they are subject to the cost.

The option exists, of course, to simply pick up Medallions at the time of embarkation, and that alternative is free.

Entry Fee to Adult Show Revealed on Norwegian Luna

A risqué adult-only show aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Luna has an admission cost of $45 per person, a fee that has taken some booked guests by surprise.

Norwegian Luna, a 3,571-guest new-build currently sailing her inaugural transatlantic cruise, will arrive at her new homeport, PortMiami, on March 23, 2026.

Some guests booked to sail on the ship have discovered the $44.99 fee to attend “LunaTique: Pop Circus,” which is limited to guests 21 and older and is described as having mature themes.

However, there are some perks to paying the fee: Each guest receives four specialty cocktails (or mocktails) and a souvenir glass to take home. A $10 fee will be charged if guests cancel their reservations within two hours of showtime.

Other, free, entertainment options are featured aboard Norwegian Luna, including “ELTON: A Celebration of Elton John.” It’s a musical review of his greatest hits. And then there’s “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder,” a high-tech dance and acrobatic show — also included in passengers’ cruise fares.

Norwegian Luna is the line’s second Prima Plus-class ship, following Norwegian Aqua, which launched in March 2025.

Virgin Voyages Opts for Brooklyn Terminal Over Manhattan

Virgin Voyages is shifting Valiant Lady’s homeport from the Manhattan Cruise Terminal to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal due to infrastructure issues that have affected Manhattan’s Pier 90.

The change is effective on April 6, 2026, and impacts all of the ship’s cruises in April, and then again in September and October. Valiant Lady, a 2,770-guest ship, is scheduled to operate Bermuda cruises in April before heading to Europe for the summer season.

Valiant Lady Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Just dance)

Following her Europe deployment, Valiant Lady will return to the US — to the Brooklyn terminal, in September and October, for New England and Bermuda voyages. In late October, the ship will reposition to Puerto Rico for winter cruising in the Caribbean.

All told, 10 cruises from New York are affected, ranging from a 5-night Bermuda sailing in April to an 8-night fall foliage sailing in September, and the 12-night voyage to Puerto Rico in October.

Valiant Lady typically has been based at Pier 90, however, that facility is in disrepair, and a major redevelopment is planned. Currently, Pier 88 is the Manhattan terminal’s only operating berth for cruise ships.

P&O Cruises Tells Guests to Pay Up Sooner

P&O Cruises, the Carnival Corporation brand that caters to the UK market, changed its final payment requirement to 120 days before embarkation day.

The new policy is effective on new bookings made on and after March 10, 2026, for voyages departing on and after December 1, 2026.

Its previous policy required payment 90 days prior to departure, meaning that guests sailing after December 1 will have to fork over their final balance payment roughly a month earlier.

P&O Cruises Ship (Photo Credit: TTL Deez)

Existing bookings are not affected, nor are bookings made after March 10 if the cruise departure date is prior to December 1. P&O Cruises offered no reason for the change, but it is likely that the line is looking to lower the number of last-minute cancellations while posting more revenue on its books sooner.

The 120-day rule is not uncommon among the Carnival brands, although it has been mostly applied to luxury brands such as Cunard and Seabourn, which both require final payment at that time. Some of their longer voyages demand full payment even earlier, at 150 days prior to departure.

But other premium lines, including Princess Cruises and Holland America Line, implement the 90-day rule, with the exception of world cruise segments and lengthy itineraries, which follow the 120-day requirement.

Princess Cruises Hikes Service Fee Charge to 20%

The service charge applied to food-and-beverage purchases onboard Princess Cruises’ ships is on the rise, from 18% to 20%, and is taking effect almost immediately fleetwide.

Princess Cruises will implement the higher fee as each ship begins a new voyage in March 2026, meaning that guests sailing mid-cruise are not subject to the increase.

Sky Princess Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)

The new 20% charge applies to purchases of drinks, cover charges for specialty dining, and other services and amenities. As is the case currently, the fee is automatically added to such purchases and is nonrefundable.

Guests who have pre-paid for an all-inclusive package will not be impacted by the new fee. Also, the charge does not affect crew gratuities at all.

Sister brand Carnival Cruise Line implemented the same service fee hike from 18% to 20% in December 2025. Both lines are Carnival Corporation brands.

However, other Carnival-owned lines have lower service charges. Holland America Line maintains an 18% fee, at the moment, and Cunard, a luxury brand, charges just 15%. Rates are subject to change at any time.

Carnival Cruise Line Rolls Out Express Dining

Some cruisers embrace an unhurried and leisurely dinner, while others prefer to order, eat, and move onto the next activity. It’s for those folks that Carnival Cruise Line has introduced Express Dining.

Designed to provide a complete, multi-course experience within an hour, Express Dining offers guests a less comprehensive menu, but one that still features high-quality choices.

According to cruise line president Christine Duffy, a recent pilot program was a hit with guests, so the brand is rolling out the option fleetwide by the end of May 2026.

It enables guests to enjoy their dinner and not have to rush to evening performances and other events. Express Dining is already offered on 15 ships, including Mardi Gras, Carnival Jubilee, Carnival Firenze, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Breeze, among others.

Passengers who wish to participate in Express Dining can simply tell their servers in the dining room or, if they have signed up for Your Time Dining, guests can select the option through Carnival’s Hub App.

A Slew of Carnival Firenze Voyages Are Cancelled

Guests booked to sail aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Firenze on 11 getaway voyages from Long Beach, California, in the fall of 2026 got some bad news: Their cruise is cancelled.

Without offering a reason for the change, the cruise line has nixed the sailings — five 3-night and six 4-night Baja Mexico cruises departing between October 12 and November 16.

Carnival Firenze, accommodating 4,126 guests, sails to Ensenada on the shorter itinerary and adds Catalina Island on the longer cruises.

Carnival Firenze Docked in Long Beach (Photo Credit: blestkater)

Passengers are invited to rebook another sailing, and those who wish to do so must contact Carnival Cruise Line no later than March 25, 2026. They can apply their cruise fare to a new reservation and receive a $50 onboard credit per person.

Guests who do not rebook will have their reservations automatically cancelled after March 25, and receive a refund of their cruise fare and any pre-paid packages.

Carnival Firenze began sailing from Long Beach in April 2024. The ship is one of the line’s two Carnival Fun Italian Style ships transferred from sister brand Costa Cruises. The other vessel is Carnival Venezia, based in Port Canaveral.

More Cruise Headlines

Let’s keep going with even more news from Cruise Hive, including Princess Cruises rolling out its 2028 world cruise aboard Coral Princess; Florida lawmakers taking action to prevent development of a larger cruise port in Tampa; and an overboard scare on an MSC Cruises’ ship turning out to be a false alarm.

Also, Port Canaveral makes headway on the construction of a huge parking garage for cruise guests, and the first passenger reviews of Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Adventure indicate a few frustrations with the ship.

Royal Caribbean Shares Cozumel Beach Access Update

Royal Caribbean News

Catie Kovelman

-

Mar 13, 2026

0

Royal Caribbean Shares Cozumel Beach Access Update

Key Aspects:

Royal Caribbean is creating a new public beach as part of the development of Royal Beach Club Cozumel.
The site of the new beach will be in the Zona Hotelera Sur area, with the new location promoting safety and accessibility.
The construction of a new beach aligns with Royal Caribbean’s commitment to bettering the local community and the environment.

Royal Beach Club Cozumel, which is a private resort for Royal Caribbean guests, is expected to open later in 2026 – but not everyone has been excited about it.

The resort, which will be located around 6.5 miles from the cruise terminal, will span 42 acres and will feature roughly a third of a mile of coveted white-sand beach.

Some locals and cruise guests who prioritize other brands have expressed concerns that the paid resort will take over the beach, but Cruise Hive has confirmed that this won’t be the case.

In a March 12 press release, the cruise line confirmed that a new public beach will be created in the Zona Hotelera Sur area as part of Royal Caribbean’s development. The new location of the public beach should also provide greater accessibility, improved safety, and enhanced facilities.

“We are excited to bring the Royal Beach Club experience to Cozumel while ensuring that beach access, a right guaranteed under Mexican law, is available to all,” said Ari Adler Brotman, president, Royal Caribbean Mexico.

This area will be enjoyed, free of charge, and is available to all cruise passengers and locals – not just Royal Caribbean guests.

Construction will begin shortly and is just pending the completion of all necessary regulatory and environmental permits. But while the new beach is completed, the current public beach will remain open so that access is never interrupted.

Promoting Sustainability & Community Wellbeing

Even though beach access is required by law, Royal Caribbean’s willingness to create a new and better public beach access speaks to the company’s commitment to the community’s well-being within Cozumel and cultivating sustainable tourism.

“This initiative reflects our dedication to creating shared value by improving safety, accessibility and infrastructure for the community,” Adler Brotman continued.

This is in line with other community-forward steps that Royal Caribbean has taken with the development of its third beach club, and aligns with Royal Caribbean’s SEA the Future Initiative, which is all about bettering the brand’s portfolio while reducing environmental harm.

For example, Royal Caribbean has set four economic pillars to guide its new resort, which include creating more than 180 jobs and $30 million in salaries for locals during the construction of the beach club, and adding 700 jobs for locals to work in the finished beach club.

There is also a goal to bring an additional 1 million guests to Cozumel by 2031, which would be a major boost to the important tourism sector on the island, and for the resort to contribute over $350 million to the MX GDP over the next five years.

Meanwhile, six environmental pillars were put in place to confirm the new resort is as environmentally friendly as possible. These include a wastewater treatment plan, habitat protection and restoration, and working to only use products that will not end up in a landfill.

Royal Caribbean will also partner with local organizations for regular beach cleanups, and for accountability, the environmental progress will be publicly monitored by an independent Mexican firm.

What Can Guests Expect at Royal Beach Club Cozumel?

Royal Beach Club Cozumel will be a premium experience that is expected to cost around $150-$200+ per person, including drinks, food, and amenities.

It will feature luxury experiences and relaxation opportunities, including two main pools, private beach access, unlimited food and drinks, and six bars (including two swim-up bars). There will also be water activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a splash pad for kids.

For those looking for more of an authentic Mexican experience, cooking classes, tequila tastings, and even a Cacao Museum dedicated to the history of chocolate in Mexico will be available.

Guests who would like to visit the new resort when it opens later this year will be able to secure their spot by booking access in Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions.

Virgin Voyages Introduces New Indian Restaurant Coming to Valiant Lady

Virgin Voyages News

Catie Kovelman

-

Mar 13, 2026

0

Virgin Voyages Introduces New Indian Restaurant Coming to Valiant Lady

Key Aspects:

Valiant Lady is getting a brand new Indian dining experience, called Ariya, in May.
The restaurant will be hosted inside Razzle Dazzle every evening, which will remain a breakfast and brunch spot during the day.
The menu for the kitchen and bar has been designed in partnership with Indian Celebrity Chef, Maneet Chauhan.

Future guests of Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady have something new to look forward to. Ariya, a bold new Indian dining experience, is coming to the 2,770-guest ship this summer.

The popular Razzle Dazzle restaurant, which will remain a breakfast and brunch spot by day, will transform into a 220-seat Indian culinary sanctuary by night. It’s meant to cultivate a shared connection among guests and offer a break from the hustle and bustle of reality.

Soft lighting, cozy, cuddlore-inspired booths, deliberate pacing, and an electric soundtrack of Indian classics will whisk guests away to another world, using smell, taste, and ambiance to signal that the next few hours will be an experience that demands attention.

Ariya Private Dining Room, Valliant Lady

At the center of the restaurant, guests will enjoy a semi-private dining space that is framed by decorative screens to make them feel like they are inside a traditional Indian jewelry box.

“Ariya is the next chapter in our food and beverage collection that we’ve been building with real intention since day one. Every restaurant we open is a statement about what we believe dining at sea can be, and Ariya says something we haven’t said before,” Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages, said in a press release.

“Indian cuisine, done with this level of craft and this much heart, belongs on Valiant Lady. Sailors who’ve sailed with us before will understand immediately why this belongs here. For those who haven’t, Ariya might be the reason they book,” Saverimuttu continued.

Even the name of the restaurant has a special meaning that helps to tell its story. Ariya was the name of founder Sir Richard Branson’s grandmother, who was a traveler from the coastal town of Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu.

An Exciting New Menu

The menu and bar for this exciting new addition has been carefully curated through a partnership with acclaimed celebrity chef, television personality, and cookbook author, Maneet Chauhan.

“Ariya presents Indian cuisine with range and precision, pairing saffron-kissed classics with coconut-rich coastal flavors and vibrant regional specialties,” Virgin Voyages stated in an email to Cruise Hive.

Guests who dine at Ariya can look forward to expertly crafted dishes like Lamb Shank Biryani, Goan Curried Mussels, Malabar Coconut Crab Cake, Puffed Rice & Avocado Chaat, and Tandoori Pistachio-Crusted Snapper.

Chaat, which is a popular street food in India, will be at the heart of the carefully curated menu. It is known for being crispy, tangy, and deeply satisfying in a way that leaves diners wanting more.

The drinks at the bar have also been designed to complement the menu and draw upon the same regional influences as the kitchen.

Every experience will begin with a complimentary welcome sip of jaljeera, a chilled blend of zesty tamarind and cumin that serves as an excellent palate cleanser.

Afterwards, guests can order from an exciting array of exquisitely crafted cocktails and spirits, such as Saffron & Silk with scotch and toasted coconut smoke, Maharani Morning with rose, cardamom, and sparkling wine, and Bangalore Old Fashioned with jaggery and cardamom.

For those who don’t drink alcohol, the Seventh Leaf, a botanical zero-proof creation, is a standout option.

How to Experience Ariya

Ariya will debut exclusively onboard Valiant Lady at the end of May, after the 2022-launched ship completes its upcoming dry dock. The ship will undergo a month-long “glow up” from May 9-25, 2026.

When the 110,000-gross ton ship reenters service on May 25, she will begin her European season with the new dining experience open for business.

She will first homeport in Barcelona, Spain, from where she will offer 6- to 8-night sailings to destinations through Italy, Spain, and France.

The adults-only ship will then briefly homeport in Portsmouth, UK, operating 7- to 15-night sailings to destinations throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, and the Netherlands.

Guests who would like to be among the first to experience Ariya can still secure bookings on these sailings directly through the cruise line or by booking through a reputable travel professional, including Cruise Hive.

Tampa’s Cruise Terminals Brace for Record Spring Break Rush

Port News

Lissa Poirot

-

Mar 13, 2026

0

Tampa’s Cruise Terminals Brace for Record Spring Break Rush

Key Aspects:

Spring break crowds are about to turn one Florida port into one of the busiest cruise hubs in the US this month.

Port Tampa Bay says March 2026 will be its busiest cruise month on record, with 51 cruise ships scheduled to call during the spring break travel rush.

The surge is being driven by seasonal travel and comes on the heels of a harsh winter, with cruise lines scheduling additional departures to keep up with the demand.

“March is one of the busiest travel months of the year, and we’re thrilled to welcome more cruise ships and passengers than ever before,” said Port Tampa Bay Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Raul Alfonso.

Alfonso says the record shows the popularity of Tampa as a cruise destination.

He added, “We look forward to providing an exceptional experience for travelers while responsibly planning for future growth.”

In March 2026, there are only seven days when a ship is not in port and 10 which will see three ships at port simultaneously, including March 28, when three different Royal Caribbean Vision-class vessels share the port together.

Grandeur of the Seas, with up to 1,992 passengers, will occupy Terminal 2; Enchantment of the Seas, carrying up to 2,252 guests, will occupy Terminal 3; and the 2,040-passenger Rhapsody of the Seas will take Terminal 6.

The busy month is part of a much larger year for the Gulf Coast port. Port Tampa Bay expects 394 cruise ship calls in 2026, with activity spread across its cruise terminals along the Channel District waterfront.

Officials say the port will see 53 three-ship days this year. That figure is more than double the roughly 20 such days recorded in previous years. The increase follows a record year for the port. In 2025, Port Tampa Bay handled 1.66 million cruise passengers, the highest annual total in its history.

That number is already climbing again. The port is currently tracking toward about 1.8 million passengers in 2026 as cruise lines continue expanding their deployments in Tampa.

Cruise operations have also become a major economic driver for the Tampa Bay area. According to the port, cruise activity generates more than $648 million annually in economic impact.

Region Looks to the Future

Port Tampa Bay is currently home to five major cruise lines – Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Margaritaville at Sea – offering a mix of short and week-long itineraries across the Caribbean.

Ships departing Tampa typically operate 4- to 7-night itineraries to the Western Caribbean, with frequent stops in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras, and Belize City, Belize.

The port has also recently welcomed a luxury vessel to its lineup. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ Oceania Cruises is making three calls this month to add a higher-end cruise option from the port.

Despite the growth, Tampa faces a limitation that many other Florida cruise ports do not. Cruise ships sailing from Tampa must sail beneath the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which provides roughly 180 feet of vertical clearance at zero tide.

The restriction actually prevents many of today’s largest cruise ships from reaching the port, including Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class and Icon-class fleets.

Developers are exploring plans for a new cruise port south of the bridge in Manatee County, which would allow much larger ships to sail from the Tampa Bay region.

However, as Cruise Hive reported earlier this week, the proposed port faces a number of hurdles. Until then, Port Tampa Bay will continue to shatter its own records in 2026 and beyond.