Blog Page 41

Carnival Shuts Down Request to Charge for Prime Pool Loungers

Catie Kovelman
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Carnival Shuts Down Request to Charge for Prime Pool Loungers

Key Aspects:

  • A Carnival guest reached out to Brand Ambassador John Heald to ask if passengers could pay to reserve prime loungers.
  • Heald confirmed that Carnival has no plans to introduce a reservation system for pool loungers.
  • Instead, the focus is on mitigating chair hogging so that everyone can enjoy the loungers without stress.

As chair hogs continue to run rampant on Carnival cruise ships, one guest thought that they may have come up with a solution. Unfortunately, Brand Ambassador John Heald and most of the cruise community did not agree.

The unidentified guest suggested that the cruise line should start charging guests who would like to reserve premium lounge chairs on the pool deck. In their mind, this would be a win-win because cruisers can guarantee chair availability and the cruise line rakes in an even bigger profit.

“I would pay $20 a day to have two reserved lounge chairs in prime areas by the main pool on Carnival. I would not be the only one,” the cruiser wrote to Heald on his Facebook page.

“It could be another revenue stream for you guys. Obviously, few would want to prepay far in advance, but let me reserve two chairs one day in advance on the app and charge it to my folio, and I’d be content,” they continued.

The guest’s proposed system for making this work would be to allow guests to reserve a select number of chairs one day in advance on the HUB App, although they did not give any suggestions for how reservations could be enforced.

Carnival Will Not Begin Charging for Loungers

As interesting as this idea may sound, it will not come to pass on any Carnival ships.

“Before the Glitterknickers brigade and Mr. and Mrs. Cruise Influencer bait their clicks with ‘Heald says Carnival thinks about charging for chairs around the swimming pool’ I didn’t and we are not,” Heald replied.

“While I can never say for sure I doubt this would ever happen,” the brand ambassador added.

Carnival Cruise Line Lido Deck
Carnival Cruise Line Lido Deck (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)

For the sake of conversation, Heald asked his followers if they would be interested in a paid reservation system for loungers and received more than 2,000 comments. Many felt that it would be a waste of money or wouldn’t be enforceable, potentially leading to conflicts between passengers.

Others argued that what constitutes a prime lounger is a matter of opinion. What one guest sees as the perfect seat could be subpar to another, leading to disappointment and frustration.

Focusing on Stopping Chair Hogs

In February of 2024, Carnival cracked down on chair hogging with a renewed vigor that still persists today.

A new system was implemented in which crew members watch for unused chairs that have been reserved, and remove items to allow other guests to use the loungers if the original cruiser does not return within 40 minutes.

“Our brilliant crew do a fabulous job in removing articles such as books, bags, clothes, towels and baby yaks from saved seats after a 40-minute period,” Heald noted.

Worth Reading: Man Passes Away in Pool on Marella Cruise in Italy

The idea behind this is that inconsiderate guests can’t simply reserve seats all day without using them. And with more loungers being reopened to other passengers, it shouldn’t be too hard to find somewhere to sit.

That said, guests who do have a strong preference about their lounging situation should try to make it up to the pool deck early to get a wider selection of options.

Do Other Cruise Lines Charge for Loungers?

Most of the other mainstream cruise lines do not allow guests to pay to reserve standard pool-side seating as a normal practice, but may charge for access to certain areas onboard.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line charges for access to the private adults-only “Vibe Beach Club,” which has its own dedicated loungers and hot tubs.

Additionally, Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean sometimes charge for use of private cabanas or day beds, which are typically situated in adult-only areas or quieter sections away from the main pool.

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Carnival even has private cabana rentals on select ships in the Loft 19 retreat area, which is featured on the Excel-class vessels.

Passengers who are interested in a reservation like this can inquire directly with their cruise line to get the specifics of what is actually offered onboard their ship.

MSC Ship Skips Port a Second Time Due to Dangerous Weather

Catie Kovelman
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MSC Ship Skips Port a Second Time Due to Dangerous Weather

Key Aspects:

  • MSC Splendida has cancelled its call to La Goulette, Tunisia, on February 12, 2026, due to strong winds.

Guests onboard MSC Splendida are adjusting to a last-minute change of plans due to weather. The MSC ship, which is operating several 7-night Mediterranean sailings simultaneously, was due in La Goulette-Tunis, Tunisia, on February 12, 2026.

But due to strong winds, the 3,900-guest ship has preemptively cancelled its scheduled visit due to safety concerns.

Expected winds of up to 50 knots (around 57 miles per hour) will make docking unsafe and potentially uncomfortable for the guests and crew members currently onboard.

“This situation is due to reasons beyond our control. We thank you for your understanding,” MSC Cruises said in a letter to guests.

And if this situation sounds familiar, it’s probably because this very same cancellation was made just over one month ago. The planned visit to La Goulette on January 8, 2026, was also skipped due to strong winds that created hazardous conditions.

Guests Get an Early Sea Day

While the day won’t be spent as guests expected, they will still be treated to plenty of entertainment options and amenities.

Just to name a few examples, this ship features exciting activities like a Formula 1 simulator, virtual games in the Virtual World area, a 4D cinema, karaoke sessions, and four swimming pools.

MSC Splendida Cruise Ship
MSC Splendida Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Travel Faery)

Read Also: What Happens If The Cruise Ship Is In Bad Weather

Given the change of plans, the 1,370 crew members have revamped the programming to ensure guests still have a great day.

“We are modifying the activities planned for Thursday, offering you numerous entertainments, events, and experiences throughout the day,” the letter noted.

The full schedule of activities will be available in the MSC for Me app or in the MSC Daily Program, which is delivered to staterooms every evening.

Replacement Port Gets Added In

February 13, 2026, was originally supposed to be a sea day, but this date will now be used for a replacement port call. The 137,936-gross ton ship has added a visit to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, for this Friday.

This should be a welcomed change, with the popular destination known for stunning sights like the Cathedral La Seu and the medieval Bellver Castle. Guests will be able to explore the destination from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. local time, which is a later departure time than the average port call.

This is likely possible because the Fantasia-class ship won’t have far to go to make her next stop. She is next due in Barcelona, Spain, on February 14, which is just over 100 nautical miles away.

New Shore Excursions Offered

Guests who prefer to see destinations with the structure of a cruise tour are in luck. MSC Cruises offers a selection of shore excursions that are already available to book.

“We offer a selection of tours to discover Mallorca. For guides on the destination and excursion details, scan the QR code available at the Shore Excursions desk or check MSC For Me,” MSC advised.

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Of course, any MSC shore excursions that were booked for La Goulette will be automatically cancelled and refunded to guests’ onboard accounts. These funds could easily be put toward new tours in Mallorca.

At this time, MSC is not providing additional compensation for the itinerary changes, but has expressed gratitude to guests for their flexibility and understanding.

Rough Seas Disrupt Kauai Cruise Arrival After Harbor Pilot Falls Overboard

Lissa Poirot
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Rough Seas Disrupt Kauai Cruise Arrival After Harbor Pilot Falls Overboard

Key Aspects:

    A routine harbor transfer turned into an emergency on February 10, 2026, when a harbor pilot attempting to board a Princess Cruises ship fell into the ocean off Kauai.

    Passengers aboard the 3,090-guest Emerald Princess said the ship was preparing to enter port when a harbor pilot, climbing a rope ladder from a pilot boat alongside the vessel, slipped and fell into the water on the port side.

    A “man overboard” call was immediately announced, according to eyewitness accounts shared online.

    Witnesses said the pilot had made several attempts to board the ship amid rough seas before losing his footing. One passenger noted the man fell approximately 10 to 20 feet from the ship’s hull rather than directly alongside it.

    Crew aboard the pilot boat quickly maneuvered to retrieve him from the water. Video shows the man pulled back onboard the pilot vessel within minutes. He did not appear to be injured.

    Shared one passenger, “A member of the pilot boat slipped off the ladder into the sea. Thanks to God for a quick recovery and a well-trained crew he is healthy and fine… I am amazed how well-trained and efficient the Emerald staff handled everything quickly and professionally. Well-done crew.”

    Following the incident, the port call in Kauai was cancelled. Instead, the ship continued its itinerary toward Maui, where it was scheduled to call on February 11.

    Although there has been no public statement from Princess Cruises at press time regarding the incident, the cruise line typically issues automatic refunds to passengers for prepaid shore excursions when a port call is missed.

    High Surf Advisory Was in Effect

    The 113,561-gross-ton Emerald Princess departed Los Angeles on February 4, 2026, on a 16-night Hawaii itinerary, with Kauai scheduled to be the first port call after several sea days.

    The missed call came days after the National Weather Service had issued a high surf advisory on February 8 for east-facing shores of Kauai, warning of hazardous conditions.

    Princess Cruises Pilot
    Princess Cruises Pilot (Photo Credit: Stories In Light / Shutterstock)

    The Kauai cruise ship port is based in Nawiliwili Harbor, located on the southeast corner of the island.

    According to the advisory, strong trade winds were producing breaking waves of 7 to 10 feet, with surf of 8 to 12 feet expected. The weather advisory was extended through 6 p.m. on February 11.

    Rough seas can make pilot transfers particularly dangerous. Boarding requires the small pilot boat to maintain close proximity to a much larger moving vessel while the pilot climbs a rope ladder attached to the ship’s side.

    High swells and shifting winds can cause sudden movement between the two vessels. Ahead of the incident, guests onboard shared Emerald Princess had been listing “about 5 degrees” due to the rough surf.

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    “The weather has been insane here in Hawaii,” said one guest. “Our ship has been listing about 5 degrees for about 20 minutes.” 

    The vessel has resumed its schedule, calling in Maui on February 11 and continuing to Hilo and Honolulu before making a call in Ensenada, Mexico, ahead of its scheduled return to Los Angeles on February 20.

    Royal Caribbean Moves to Restrict Smart Glasses in Key Onboard Areas

    Melissa Mayntz
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    Royal Caribbean Moves to Restrict Smart Glasses in Key Onboard Areas

    Key Aspects:

    • Royal Caribbean has now banned smart glasses and the wearable tech will be confiscated by security.
    • Both privacy and security concerns are part of the consideration for the glasses to be prohibited.
    • Guests who use the glasses for disability aids may be able to contact the cruise line for support.

    As new technology continues to advance, cruise lines must stay alert to possible security risks and privacy violations. To that end, Royal Caribbean has become the second cruise line to ban “smart” glasses with audio and video recording capability.

    The glasses are now listed as part of Royal Caribbean’s prohibited items list as follows:

    “‘Smart’ glasses from any of several manufacturers that can record video and audio are not allowed to be used in certain areas onboard the ship, including, but not limited to, public restrooms, Youth Program areas, medical areas, as well as the casino.”

    The cruise line also advises that guests who do have these high-tech glasses ought to bring a “backup pair” without the recording capability if a prescription is needed.

    Royal Caribbean does not list the exact manufacturers that make the now-banned glasses. The vagueness of this language ensures that all smart glasses are prohibited, and guests cannot circumvent the policy by using glasses from a non-listed manufacturer.

    The update to the prohibited items list is a recent one, as in late January, there was not yet any mention of smart glasses as not permitted. “Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment” was on the list, but it is debatable how smart glasses might be classified.

    Guests noticed much earlier that the Royal Caribbean app also includes information about smart glasses in the Need to Know section, specifically that they are not permitted onboard. In fact, Cruise Hive did reach out to Royal Caribbean when this was first noticed, but did not hear back.

    “If a guest fails to abide by this policy, the chief security officer and captain are authorized to confiscate the smart glasses,” the app notification reads.

    While the prohibited items list explicitly forbids the glasses only in certain areas, the app notification clearly states that smart glasses are not permitted onboard at all. It would be best if any guest with this equipment were to simply leave it at home rather than risk confiscation.

    MSC Cruises made a similar update to its luggage policy in December 2025, as reported by Cruise Hive, which noted that smart glasses are no longer allowed.

    Why Are Smart Glasses Prohibited?

    There are several reasons why cruise lines are on alert to this type of wearable tech.

    Recording others, whether guests or crew members, without permission, could be considered a privacy violation and may be subject to legal challenges. This is especially true if filming were to occur in areas where privacy is generally expected, such as restrooms, spas, the medical center, or locker rooms.

    Smart Glasses
    Smart Glasses (Photo Credit: Erman Gunes)

    Furthermore, the filming of minors might also be a concern, particularly in children’s areas, pools, or on beaches, where the motives of such filming could be severely questioned.

    Read Also: What Can You Not Bring on a Cruise?

    Security is another concern with filming. Cruise guests who have taken behind-the-scenes tours know that cameras are often prohibited, especially in areas such as control rooms and crew spaces.

    Photos and recordings are also prohibited in most secure areas of cruise ports and terminals as per customs regulations. By banning smart glasses, cruise lines are also protecting themselves against inadvertent violations of those restrictions.

    Guests Support the Ban

    Most guests are understanding of the ban and agree that smart glasses aren’t necessary. A discussion on Reddit shows overwhelming support for the ban, and even hopes that the ban may be extended to other types of recording.

    “Good! We don’t need creeps going around recording on the ship,” one guest commented.

    “I truly hope they ban any streamers or anything like that. You wanna record some parts of lunch or your kids jumping into the pool, no problem. If you want to sit and host a show, get off the ship,” another said.

    Some less-than-reputable livestreamers may deliberately seek to get negative attention in the hopes of driving up their viewership. In November 2025, two such streamers were removed from Harmony of the Seas in Honduras following an altercation onboard.

    Many guests don’t have a problem with phones being used for recordings, because that action is easily visible and others generally know they’re being recorded. This gives other guests the opportunity to step away from the recording.

    With smart glasses, however, not everyone may notice or be aware of the glasses and could therefore be filmed without their knowledge and consent. Some guests, more familiar with the technology, do note that they can be useful for those with certain disabilities.

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    If needed for a medical-related reason, Royal Caribbean travelers should reach out to the cruise line’s customer service special needs department for clarification and to provide any necessary documentation for their glasses.

    All cruise lines update their prohibited items lists periodically. Guests should double-check the lists before setting sail, just in case a recent update impacts their cruise packing list.

    Costa Smeralda Guest Dies While Ship Was Docked in Civitavecchia

    Donna Tunney
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    Costa Smeralda Guest Dies While Ship Was Docked in Civitavecchia

    Key Aspects:

    • A Costa Cruises passenger fell from the Costa Smeralda ship as it was docked at the Port of Civitavecchia.
    • The passenger was identified as a German national.
    • An investigation concluded that the man’s actions were deliberate.

    Tragedies involving cruise guests who accidentally fall from, or intentionally jump off, their ships usually happen at sea, but that was not the case in Civitavecchia, the port for Rome, on February 6, 2026.

    Costa Smeralda Cruise Ship

    In what appears to have been a deliberate act, an unidentified adult man apparently leapt from Costa Cruises’ Costa Smeralda as the ship was docked at the port.

    Local media reports indicate that the incident unfolded around 2 p.m. that day, as the 5,224-guest ship was embarking and disembarking guests. Like other European lines, Costa Cruises’ ships that sail 7-night voyages allow guests to join or leave the ship at each port of call, as the vessels sail a continual rotation of port destinations.

    It is unknown whether the man who jumped and was pronounced dead at the scene had just embarked the ship or was scheduled to continue on the voyage. He was identified only as a German national.

    In an unusual turn of events, first responders were already on the scene at the port’s Pier 12 when the man jumped. They had been called to the port earlier to assist in the medical evacuation of another cruise guest.

    The responders, identified as Red Helmets — local firefighters, along with representatives of the ship’s medical team, immediately attempted to aid the man, who had fallen an estimated 98 feet. Their efforts were in vain.

    Published reports from local sources indicate that Port of Civitavecchia police and the Italian Coast Guard investigated the case and found the man’s actions were likely a “voluntary gesture.”

    Costa Cruise Line issued a statement following the tragedy and the investigation, which kept the ship in port until about 8:30 p.m. that day.

    “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the death of a German guest today at the port of Civitavecchia,” said a statement from Costa Cruises. 

    “According to an initial reconstruction, the guest voluntarily jumped onto the quayside while the ship was in port for normal operations. The captain and the company are fully cooperating and offering all possible support to the guest’s family,” the cruise line added.

    Read Also: What Happens During a Cruise Ship Overboard Alarm?

    Costa Smeralda, an Excellence-class ship that entered service in 2019, continued on her way, calling at Savona and Palermo, Italy; Marseille, France; Barcelona; and La Goulette, Tunisia.

    Tragic Action Not The First Deliberate Jump in 2026

    The tragedy onboard Costa Smeralda was at least the third time this year that a guest has gone overboard from a cruise ship in actions that appear to be deliberate.

    On January 1, 2026, a 77-year-old woman was reported missing from Holland America Line’s Nieuw Statendam as the ship sailed north of Cuba. The ship’s crew conducted a search operation, but the guest was not located.

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    A second apparent suicide happened on January 19, 2026, aboard Windstar Cruises’ Star Breeze, which was sailing in the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia.

    In that case, a 66-year-old man reportedly jumped off the ship after a marital dispute. The guest, an American, apparently leapt from the vessel at around 2 a.m. A search by the ship and local authorities was unsuccessful.

    MSC Cruises Unveils Major Lineup of 2026 Spring Break and Easter Voyages

    Donna Tunney
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    MSC Cruises Unveils Major Lineup of 2026 Spring Break and Easter Voyages

    Key Aspects:

      With much of the Northern Hemisphere still shivering in winter’s grip, MSC Cruises is looking ahead, tempting would-be cruisers with a wide selection of spring break and Easter holiday voyages to warm and sunny destinations.

      From late March to mid-April 2026, the cruise line is highlighting a series of at-sea vacation options that explore the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

      With Easter falling on April 5, for instance, guests can experience the line’s newest ship, MSC World America, as she sails a 7-night cruise departing from PortMiami on April 4. Port calls feature Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and the line’s private destination in the Bahamas, the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

      MSC World America launched in April 2025. The 215,863-gross-ton ship can accommodate up to 6,762 guests with all berths occupied, but still offers plenty of places where guests can escape the crowds.

      It has, after all, the fleet’s largest MSC Yacht Club, the exclusive luxury-level accommodations and amenities area. Aside from its size, the yacht club on MSC World America features two Owner’s Suites, each with private terraces offering hot tubs and seating areas.

      The luxury enclave also offers Duplex Suites for families and groups, and a two-level sundeck with food and beverage service, private cabanas, and a dedicated pool.

      Other ships offering Caribbean getaways in early spring include MSC Seaside, also sailing from Miami, plus MSC Grandiosa, based at Port Canaveral, and MSC Seascape, homeported in Galveston.

      MSC Cruise Deck in Miami
      MSC Cruise Deck in Miami (Photo Credit: venuswix)

      MSC Seaside offers a quick getaway Easter cruise — a 3-night escape departing on April 3 and featuring one port call to the marine reserve. The reserve is undergoing some major improvements that will debut in 2027, and is on track to expand its pier to accommodate two ships at a time, rather than the current one ship, in late 2026.

      From Galveston, MSC Seascape will sail a 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary departing on April 5, calling at Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and Isla de Roatan, Honduras.

      Four Ships Offer Easter Voyages in the Mediterranean

      In Europe, MSC Cruises’ spring break and Easter season voyages are plentiful, too. Two ships, MSC Orchestra and MSC Splendida, both offer 7-night Easter cruises roundtrip from Barcelona. Departing on April 5, MSC Orchestra will bring guests to Marseille, France; Genoa, Livorno, and Rome, Italy; and Valencia, Spain.

      MSC Splendida departs the previous day, on April 4, and calls at Marseille, Genoa, Naples, and Palermo, Italy; and La Goulette, Tunisia.

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      Other Mediterranean offerings include MSC Lirica and MSC Sinfonia sailing Easter week voyages roundtrip from Venice (Marghera) and Bari, Italy, respectively. Both ships’ itineraries focus on Eastern Mediterranean destinations.

      MSC Lirica sails her Easter cruise on April 5, 2026, calling at Kotor, Montenegro; Mykonos and Syros, Greece; and Ancona, Italy. From Bari, MSC Sinfonia departs on April 4 and visits five Greek destinations — Santorini, Piraeus, Katakolon, Cefalonia, and Corfu.

      Carnival President Apologizes for Tech Glitches, Offers WiFi Refunds

      Melissa Mayntz
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      Carnival President Apologizes for Tech Glitches, Offers WiFi Refunds

      Key Aspects:

      • Carnival Cruise Line has issued an apology for the widespread technology disruptions in recent days.
      • Guests will be refunded for WiFi packages if they were without service onboard due to the glitches.
      • The onboard issues are now resolved and all ships should be operating as normal.

      Following multiple days of fleetwide tech glitches that delayed debarkation and embarkation for multiple ships, disrupted onboard retail and casino operations, caused internet loss, and impacted the Carnival Hub app, Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests and apologized for the difficulties.

      A letter signed by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy has been delivered to guests onboard Carnival ships. The letter explains the situation and notes that some compensation will be provided for the inconvenience for guests who had purchased internet packages.

      “I want to express our appreciation for your patience and understanding as we worked through the technology disruption that took many systems offline for the last couple days,” the letter said.

      “Our shoreside and shipboard IT teams have spent the last couple days dedicated to getting things back online and I’m pleased to say they are.”

      Duffy said that at no time were any navigation or safety systems affected. While ships may have slowed or stopped temporarily during the outages, this was likely a precautionary measure until the extent of the glitches was confirmed.

      Christine Duffy Tech Issues Letter
      Christine Duffy Tech Issues Letter

      Guests on different Carnival ships have reported a wide range of issues due to the outages. For example, in the casino, guests had to play with cash and were unable to add charges to their Sail and Sign accounts until the computer connections were restored.

      Retail and bar operations were slowed with the need to handwrite receipts, guests could not review their onboard accounts, and security had to collect Sail and Sign cards as a manual count for debarkation.

      Nevertheless, onboard activities and fun continued just as well as the crew could manage, and many guests noted how well the crew was working to ensure a fun vacation, despite the glitches.

      In fact, many guests turned the unexpected situation into a positive experience to truly disconnect and even save a bit.

      “It’s like cruising back in the good ol days….. actually OFF THE GRID while at sea. Im only able to post this, on Mexican cellular network.” one guest noted on Cruise Hive’s Facebook post.

      “Casino being down just saved us more money to book another cruise!!” another joked.

      Guests who don’t purchase internet packages or spend time in the casino were much less impacted by the outages, though some guests who work remotely while onboard did get frustrated at the loss of internet service.

      WiFi to Be Refunded

      Duffy did note that any guests who had purchased an internet package would be getting some compensation for the outages.

      “We will be refunding the daily charge for the days you have been on board without connectivity,” the letter confirmed.

      Those refunds should appear in guest accounts by Wednesday morning, February 11, though guests should still continue to be patient with any delays.

      The amount of the refund will depend on exactly how long the internet was unavailable on individual ships, as well as what package guests had purchased.

      Carnival Cruise Line offers four different internet plans that vary in speed, how much guests can access, and the number of devices connected.

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      The Social plan starts at $20.40 per person per day for access to just social media and major airline sites. The highest price is the Premium Multi-Device package at $90 per day for up to four devices, which can connect to video and music streaming, email, and more with internet speeds up to three times faster than other packages.

      Pricing also varies whether guests pre-pay for internet access before their cruise or choose to purchase an internet package onboard. Occasionally, the packages are offered on limited-time sales or booking bonuses as well.

      Cruise Guest Sues Royal Caribbean Over Serious FlowRider Surf Simulator Injury

      Catie Kovelman
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      Cruise Guest Sues Royal Caribbean Over Serious FlowRider Surf Simulator Injury

      Key Aspects:

      • A former guest of Adventure of the Seas fell headfirst while using the FlowRider Surf Simulator.
      • The guest fractured his neck, and claims that he was misdiagnosed by the onboard medical team.
      • He is now suing Royal Caribbean on grounds of negligence.

      Royal Caribbean is back in the hot seat after a former passenger was injured while using the FlowRider Surf Simulator while sailing onboard Adventure of the Seas on February 3, 2025.

      The guest, Jason Keller, fell head first while using the attraction. In the fall, he sustained a fractured neck, as well as additional injuries.

      He filed a lawsuit on February 9, 2026, against Royal Caribbean on accusations that the cruise line was negligent and failed to properly address dangerous issues with the surf simulator.

      This latest legal action comes just months after the cruise line was sued by the passenger who was injured when the Frightening Bolt waterslide shattered onboard Icon of the Seas in August of 2025.

      Royal Caribbean was also slapped with two wrongful death suits toward the end of 2025.

      What Happened?

      Per the claim, Keller“violently fell, headfirst, and thereby fractured his neck and sustained other injuries,” while attempting to surf.

      The lawsuit then goes on to explain that the former guest “suffered multiple strokes as a result of his broken neck and suffers from left side weakness.”

      Royal Caribbean did provide immediate medical care onboard, but Keller alleges that the doctors misdiagnosed his neck injury as less severe than it really was. Without proper treatment, the injury worsened.

      As a result of the injury, the Pennsylvania resident says that he has endured physical and mental suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, and lost income, for which he is now seeking compensation.

      Was the Attraction Extra Dangerous?

      According to Royal Caribbean’s website, the FlowRider Surf Simulator is a 40-foot-long attraction that lets guests try their hand at boogie boarding and surfing while 30,000 gallons of water rush at them.

      The attraction is found across the fleet as a fixture of the Icon-class, Voyager-class, Quantum-class, Freedom-class, and Oasis-class. Select ships – Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Symphony of the Seas – even have two FlowRiders.

      Oasis Class Symphony of the Seas
      Oasis Class Symphony of the Seas

      But according to Keller’s claim, the version of this attraction onboard the 3,807-guest Adventure of the Seas is extra dangerous because the attraction was shortened to better fit the ship. The details of the case that have been released publicly do not list the alleged length of the ride onboard the 138,193-gross ton ship.

      Additionally, the lawsuit states that the FlowRider brand has begun using “pillow padding” in the recovery zones to try to prevent injuries, but that Royal Caribbean has not yet adopted this update.

      Assumption of Risk

      As a potential defense for the cruise line, there is an assumption of risk when guests choose to participate in these thrilling experiences.

      “Riding on the FlowRider® is an extreme sport and high-risk recreational activity,” Royal Caribbean cautions on its website.

      “Sheet wave surfing on the FlowRider may result in physical or mental injury, including but not limited to serious injury to the head, neck, back, hips, arms, and legs, as well as the possibility of illness, disease, paralysis or death.”

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      Additionally, passengers are required to fill out a waiver prior to enjoying the FlowRider that shows they understand the risks of participating.

      Crew members also reinforce height guidelines for safest use, which means only guests between 52 inches and 58 inches tall may participate in the attraction. Neither Royal Caribbean, nor Keller’s attorney, Luis Alexander Perez, have publicly commented on the lawsuit as of the time of publication.

      Marvel and Pixar Sea Days Returning to Disney Cruises in 2027

      Melissa Mayntz
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      Marvel and Pixar Sea Days Returning to Disney Cruises in 2027

      Key Aspects:

      • Disney Cruise Line is offering Marvel Day at Sea aboard Disney Magic on select 2027 dates sailing from Galveston.
      • The popular Pixar Day at Sea is aboard Disney Fantasy sailing from Port Canaveral on nine different 2027 cruises.
      • Both days include exclusive shows and activities, character meetings, and much more for their respective themes.

      Disney Cruise Line is continuing the wildly popular theme days “Marvel Day at Sea” and “Pixar Day at Sea” in 2027. Two ships from two different homeports will offer the immersive themed days highlighting guests’ favorite characters from the two creative universes.

      Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Magic

      Disney Magic will offer select sailings with Marvel Day at Sea from Galveston, Texas. The popular event is returning to 4- and 5-night sailings on the following departure dates in 2027:

      • 4-Night Itineraries: January 20, February 17, March 3
      • 5-Night Itineraries: February 7, 12, 21, 26 and March 7

      The 4-night cruises will visit Progreso, while the 5-night sailings visit both Progreso and Cozumel.

      For the first time ever, the special themed day will also be held on two 7-night Bahamas cruises with departure dates of January 24 and January 31, 2027. These weeklong cruises will be visiting Nassau and Castaway Cay, a unique option when sailing from the Lone Star State.

      Guests booked on any of the themed sailings will enjoy special meet-and-greets with their favorite Marvel characters, including Spider-Man, Captain Marvel, Captain America, Black Panther, Iron Man, and Thor. Several villains may also make an appearance!

      Themed activities, drawing classes, trivia contests, Marvel movie screenings, training games, and more will be part of each special sailing, along with the exclusive Warriors of Wakanda show, the Star-Spangled Musical Revue, and other unique entertainment.

      Disney Cruise Line Marvel Day at Sea
      Photo Copyright: Disney / Matt Stroshane

      In the evening, the Marvel Heroes Unite deck party will light up the night with stunts, special effects, and Disney Cruise Line’s iconic fireworks. Guests are invited to dress up to join in the fun!

      Read Also: Disney Cruise Ships by Size – Largest to Smallest

      Booked guests are being notified, however, that the hero-themed sailing will be missing one classic Disney Cruise Line theme.

      “With our focus on bringing you these specially themed experiences during your sailing, please note that Marvel Day at Sea sailings will not include a pirate night or the “Pirates in the Caribbean” deck party,” the email confirmed.

      The oldest Disney Cruise Line ship, the 83,969-gross-ton Disney Magic, can welcome 2,700 guests onboard.

      Pixar Day at Sea Aboard Disney Fantasy

      Fans of Mike Wazowski, James P. Sullivan, Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Joy, Remy, Dug, Russell, and other top Pixar friends will want to join in the exclusive Pixar Day at Sea voyages setting sail aboard Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral in early 2027.

      Departure dates featuring the exclusive themed days include:

      • January 24, 29
      • February 7, 12, 21
      • April 4, 9, 18, 23

      All Pixar Day at Sea sailings are 5-night itineraries. Ports of call vary based on departure date, with the ship visiting Castaway Cay, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, and Nassau on different sailings.

      The January 29 departure is unique as a Western Caribbean itinerary that will visit Castaway Cay and Cozumel, giving eager fans yet one more option to consider.

      These themed sailings offer celebrations of family and friends with signature Pixar fun, including character encounters and photo opportunities, along with special dining events such as the Hey Howdy Breakfast and the Anyone Can Cook demonstration and tasting.

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      Special parties are also part of the Pixar fun, with Crush’s Totally Awesome Pool Party with games and dancing, along with the Pixar Pals Celebration deck party. Guests are also invited to dress with Pixar inspiration for Edna Mode’s Style on Parade to show off their fashionable flair!

      The 129,690-gross-ton, Dream-class Disney Fantasy can welcome 4,000 guests board for each sailing.

      Would you choose a Disney cruise with either theme day on the schedule? Share your preferred Disney cruises on the Cruise Hive boards!

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