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Margaritaville at Sea Ship Alters Course to Avoid Latest Storm

Catie Kovelman
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Margaritaville at Sea Ship Alters Course to Avoid Latest Storm

Key Aspects: 

  • Margaritaville at Sea Islander is among the first cruise ships to be rerouted to avoid Tropical Storm Melissa.
  • The calls to Ocho Rios, Jamaica, and George Town, Grand Cayman, have been replaced with Belize City, Belize, and Roatan, Honduras.
  • The tropical storm is already reaching sustained winds of up to 50 miles per hour, and is expected to strengthen into a category 3 hurricane by early next week.

Tropical Storm Melissa officially formed in the Caribbean Sea on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, and the cruise lines are starting to solidify plans to make sure their ships will stay out of her way.

Margaritaville at Sea is among the first to take action, with current passengers of Margaritaville at Sea Islander notified on Tuesday that there would be storm-related itinerary changes.

The 2,114-guest ship, which homeports year-round in Tampa, Florida, embarked on a 7-night western Caribbean sailing on October 19, 2025.

The itinerary features stops at Cozumel, Mexico; Ocho Rios, Jamaica; and George Town, Grand Cayman, which conflicts with the forecasted path of the storm.

“Captain Theo and our itinerary planning team have been diligently working on a sailing schedule that safely navigates around Tropical Storm Melissa, which is expected to impact parts of the Western Caribbean over the coming days,” reads a letter from the cruise line.

“Following this afternoon’s assessment of the storm’s path and weather conditions, Captain Theo has made the decision to adjust our current sailing schedule,” the update continued.

The visit to Cozumel was already completed on October 21, 2025, but the remaining stops in Jamaica on October 23 and Grand Cayman on October 24 have been canceled.

Instead, the 85,619-gross ton vessel visited Belize City, Belize, on October 22 and will call on Roatan, Honduras, on October 23.

The final two days of the voyage will be spent at sea.

As is standard, any pre-purchased shore excursions for Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman were automatically canceled and refunded to passengers.

More Itinerary Changes Likely Coming

Tropical Storm Melissa, which is the 13th named storm of the 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season, is already a force to be reckoned with.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NOAA), Melissa is slowly churning through the western Caribbean with sustained winds of up to 50 miles per hour.

However, the storm is poised to become a major category 3 hurricane by early next week.  

Tropical Storm Melissa
Tropical Storm Melissa (Credit: NOAA)

The storm will have a particularly big impact on Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic.

“Melissa is forecast to meander over the central Caribbean Sea and could potentially become a major hurricane by early next week. Interests in Jamaica, Haiti, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic are urged to continue monitoring the latest forecasts,” reads NOAA’s 5 p.m. EST advisory on October 22.

“Due to Melissa’s slow motion, the risk of prolonged periods of strong winds, possibly lasting a day or more, is increasing for Jamaica and the Tiburon peninsula of Haiti,” the advisory added.

Heavy rainfall is also expected across portions of the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Jamaica through the weekend, bringing the possibility of dangerous flash flooding and landslides.

Read Also: What to Do Onboard a Cruise Ship in Bad Weather

Though no changes have been announced at this point, some are wondering if Margaritaville at Sea Islander’s next voyage will also need to be rerouted.

The subsequent sailing is another 7-night western Caribbean cruise that embarks on Sunday, October 26, 2025, when Melissa will still be very active.

“Has there been any changes with the itinerary for Oct 26-Nov 2?” one future guest asked in a cruise group.

“I’m wondering the same myself. Since our first day out is a sea day on the 27th, maybe we will miss it altogether,” another soon-to-be passenger responded.

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Other major brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Cunard Line, are also currently active in the Caribbean.

These brands are likely in the process of exploring potential itinerary changes and notifying impacted passengers, if they haven’t done so already.

Royal Caribbean Amps Up Alaskan Adventures for 2027

Melissa Mayntz
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Royal Caribbean Amps Up Alaskan Adventures for 2027

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean will once again have four ships in Alaska for 2027: Anthem, Quantum, Serenade, and Voyager of the Seas.
  • While all four ships will offer 7-night sailings, they have unique itineraries and departures are available from Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward.
  • Pre- and post-cruise tours can be added to both Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas sailings for even more immersion into the Alaskan wilderness, wildlife, and culture.

With cruise travelers planning getaways further and further in advance and the popularity of cruises continuing to surge, cruise lines are looking to offer more diversity in some of the most sought-after destinations.

Alaska is one such destination, and Royal Caribbean is planning a spectacular four-ship season in summer 2027 with Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas.

Together, the four ships can welcome more than 13,600 guests to the Last Frontier each week, with multiple options for homeports, destinations, and onboard experiences.

The smallest of the ships, the 90,090-gross-ton, Radiance-class Serenade of the Seas, will be offering 7-night roundtrip sailings from Vancouver to Sitka, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan. Along the way, spectacular scenic cruising through the Inside Passage will give guests outstanding views of Alaska’s magnificent landscapes and amazing wildlife.

Meanwhile onboard, guests can relax and enjoy the classic vibes of the vessel with live music at the nautically-themed Schooner Bar or enjoy delectable dining at Giovanni’s Table or Chops Grille, both top favorites with Royal Caribbean enthusiasts.

The lead ship of the Voyager class, the 138,194-gross-ton Voyager of the Seas, will offer 7-night roundtrip cruises from Seattle. Visits to Juneau and Skagway will provide wonderful insights into Alaskan culture, while scenic cruising along Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier will be phenomenal backdrops for cruise vacation memories.

If Alaska proves a bit too chilly for passengers, relaxing in the adults-only Solarium is a great way to indulge in the sun’s rays without northern breezes, or guests can go for even more chill with onboard ice skating.

Two 168,700-gross-ton Quantum-class ships, Anthem of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas, will both be sailing in Alaskan waters in 2027. Each will offer unique experiences for guests to enjoy the exact type of northern cruise they’ve always dreamed of.

Quantum of the Seas is also sailing from Seattle, and her roundtrip 7-night cruises will visit Sitka, Juneau, and Skagway, all classic destinations for Alaska cruises but with different onboard options than Voyager of the Seas offers.

Two Cruise Ships Docked in Skagway, Alaska
Two Cruise Ships Docked in Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: Felder Casanova)

For example, Quantum of the Seas offers laser tag, the family-style Jamie’s Italian restaurant, and a challenging escape room to really get guests immersed in the fun.

Anthem of the Seas will offer one-way sailings and guests can choose northbound departures from Vancouver or southbound departures from Seward. In either direction, the 7-night cruises will visit top destinations like Skagway, Sitka, and Ketchikan, as well as outstanding viewing of Hubbard Glacier.

Members of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program can now book all of these great sailings, with bookings opening to the general public on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Adventures on Land

Royal Caribbean isn’t stopping at just a diverse lineup of ships, departure points, and ports of call, however. Guests on both Ovation of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas will also be able to enjoy pre- or post-sailing Cruisetour adventures, truly maximizing their vacation vibes.

These curated experiences are multi-night land expeditions that include such bucket-list options as exploring the famed Denali National Park (one of the largest national parks in the US), touring the wilderness in glass-domed railway cars, and so much more.

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This is a great way for travelers to really make the most of their Alaska adventures, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

With both Vancouver and Seattle showing extraordinary gains in cruise passenger traffic and cruising for all destinations on the rise, interested guests will want to book quickly to secure the very best sailings, dates, cabin selections, and other details for their dream Alaska getaway.

Are Jeans Ever Dining-Room-Ready? Carnival Discusses

Melissa Mayntz
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Are Jeans Ever Dining-Room-Ready? Carnival Discusses

Key Aspects:

  • Would seeing someone else wear jeans during a formal night in the Main Dining Room ruin an entire cruise? One Carnival guest thinks so.
  • The guest not only thinks jeans are inappropriate on formal night, but suggests they ought to be completely banned from Carnival Cruise Line.
  • Carnival’s official dress code stresses a casual but family-friendly atmosphere and elegant dress guidelines are considered optional.

Proper attire debates are a frequent controversy among guests, with one side holding firm that dinner in the Main Dining Room is always a dress up occasion while the other side favors a more casual dress code. Carnival Cruise Line does tend toward more casual options, but some attire continues to be contentious.

What’s the most controversial casual item a guest could wear to the Main Dining Room? Debates have raged over military uniforms, hats, sandals, and more, but for some guests, jeans are the ultimate no-no.

What gets guests riled up, however, is when someone is concerned not about what they ought to wear to dinner, but what others are wearing.

“I have a complaint. If you don’t want to dress up, don’t do [Main Dining Room] on formal night. Don’t ruin it for others,” one guest wrote to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador.

They explained how their fashion choices on what Carnival now calls Cruise Elegant evenings include a dinner jacket or jacket and tie with their wife wearing a ballgown. Both guests enjoy the compliments they receive from dressing up so spiffily.

“The more casual formal night has essentially ruined what used to be a very special part of the cruise for me and my wife and many other people,” the guest continued.

“I counted over 100 people wearing jeans tonight, elegant night, in the dining room. They should be forced to eat on Lido Deck. It ruined the whole meal again for us both, and everyone else who had bothered to dress up.”

The guest is currently aboard Mardi Gras on the ship’s transatlantic cruise that departed Barcelona on October 16 following her recent dry dock refreshment. Typically, longer Carnival Journeys sailings often have a slightly more “traditional” feel to the cruise experience.

This particular guest’s vehemence against jeans goes even further than just dining, apparently, as they continued with a very strict suggestion.

“Jeans! Ban them. They have no place on a Carnival cruise,” he concluded.

Carnival is actually one of the most laid-back cruise lines, and their dress code suggests “Cruise Casual” for evening attire. Jeans are listed as acceptable for both men and women on most nights.

blue jeans
blue jeans (Photo Credit: skywing)

For “Cruise Elegant” evenings, which are just once on sailings 5 nights or shorter and twice on itineraries 6 nights or longer, jeans do happen to be listed as “not permitted.”

It must be noted, however, that Carnival Cruise Line’s dress codes are largely just guidelines and suggestions, and guests are welcome to wear whatever best suits their vacation vibes, provided it remains family-friendly.

Do Jeans Ruin the Cruise Experience?

Heald explains his own personal opinion in response to the frustrated guest.

“I don’t get why what someone else is wearing does, and I quote, ‘it essentially ruined what used to be a very special part of the cruise,'” he said. “You pretty much spent time you should have been enjoying the company of your beautiful wife and others counting the number of people wearing jeans.”

Heald goes on to explain how extreme dress codes are “pretty much unenforceable” because of the number of guests who enjoy the Main Dining Room. Mardi Gras, for example, can welcome as many as 5,282 guests per cruise.

To have someone standing at each entrance turning guests away for dress code would create lengthy lines and bottlenecks, slowing dinner service and making it a less pleasant experience for everyone.

Crew members do send people away if they’re wearing extremely inappropriate attire, such as swimsuits.

“But a nice pair of jeans? How does that hurt somebody?” Heald asked.

To gauge the reactions of other guests, Heald asked his followers whether they have ever worn jeans to the Main Dining Room on either a formal night or a regular casual evening.

The overwhelming answer for casual evenings is that yes, many guests have worn jeans. I certainly have.

Most guests who do not wear jeans on casual evenings also explain that they don’t usually wear jeans at all, even when not on a cruise. For some, they simply don’t pack jeans along, especially for summer sailings or Caribbean itineraries.

Read Also: How to Pack Jewelry for Travel on a Cruise Ship

On formal nights, many guests also wear jeans, though they might consider them “dressy” jeans or choose darker blue or black denim. Overall, however, fewer guests opt for jeans on an elegant evening. Personally, I have worn black jeans on many formal nights.

The fact that jeans can typically be reworn and are less prone to wrinkle when packed in luggage are also factors in what some guests choose to pack along for their cruise vacation.

One guest summed up both sides of the debate with astute observations about everyone cruising.

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“I think elegant nights are great; they give people the chance to be a bit more fancy than many regular lives allow, which is lovely. But equally folks are on vacation and should dress in whichever way is comfortable,” the guest said.

“Both types of people should be allowed to dress as they please without judgment so long as everyone remains smart and decent for MDR.”

This is not the first time Carnival Cruise Line has been a focus of the jeans-or-not debate, and it likely won’t be the last.

Port of Seattle Smashes Record With 1.9M Cruise Arrivals in 2025

Donna Tunney
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Port of Seattle Smashes Record With 1.9M Cruise Arrivals in 2025

Key Aspects:

  • The Port of Seattle closed out its Alaska season with a record 1.9 million revenue passengers transiting the facility in 2025.
  • With 298 ship calls reported, cruise tourism generated $1.2 billion in regional economic benefits.
  • The port also reached an environmental milestone, with 65% of all homeporting ships connecting to shore power.

With its cruise tourism data for 2025 just released, the Port of Seattle is brimming with success stories, starting with a record-setting 1.9 million revenue passengers. 

From cruise guest arrivals to cruise ship calls and shore power usage, it’s all good news that translates to $1.2 billion in economic benefits across the region.

The Port of Seattle’s claim to fame is its proximity to Alaska. During the summer season in 2025, 14 ships were based at the West Coast port, offering voyages of varying lengths to the Last Frontier.

Let’s dig into the numbers.

In 2025, the port surpassed all previous passenger arrival numbers, reaching the 1.9 million total. This represents a respectable hike compared to 2023 and 2024, when 1.7 million revenue passengers transited the port during its May-to-October seasons each of those years.

In 2024, 275 ship calls were recorded versus 298 in 2025. Virtually every major cruise line was represented in Seattle this year, including a Cunard ship that was based at the port for the first time. Queen Elizabeth operated 11 cruises roundtrip from Seattle starting in June 2025 and is expected back in May 2026.

Other lines that based ships in Seattle in 2025 included Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The robust activity at the Port of Seattle that accounted for $1.2 billion in economic benefit included more than 5,000 jobs directly and indirectly related to port operations and related tourism components, such as local tour operators, restaurants, and hotels.

Queen Elizabeth Ship in Seattle
Queen Elizabeth Ship in Seattle

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) commended the port for its vibrant season.

“Seattle is a premier home port for unforgettable Alaska cruise experiences, and the cruise industry is proud to bring significant economic impact to the region while showcasing the Pacific Northwest’s beauty, attractions, local businesses, and stunning new Waterfront Park,” said Sally Andrews, Vice President of Communications for CLIA.

The 2025 numbers put Seattle well ahead of its main competitor in the Alaska market, Vancouver, British Columbia, which recorded just 1.2 million cruise passengers.

While Alaska is the port’s main cruise market, 23 voyages were operated from Seattle to other destinations in 2025, including Mexico, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Asia. Some also operated coastal cruises in the Pacific Northwest.

Major Environmental Strides Recorded in 2025

The year 2025 also set an important environmental protection record, as 65% of the ships docking at the Port of Seattle utilized the shore power technology now available at all three of the port’s cruise ship berths.

Read Also: Seattle Cruise Port: Terminals, Transportation and What’s Nearby

The number is up from 42% in 2024. Using shore power rather than continuing to run cruise ship engines while in port drastically reduces carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions.

It was good practice, since the port is set to mandate that 100% of all cruise ships homeporting at Seattle starting in 2027 have technology to hook into its shore power grid.

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“Seattle set new standards this season on environmental sustainability and economic development by focusing on a shared vision across the Port and our cruise partners,” said Steve Metruck, executive director of the Port of Seattle.

“Through our Pacific Northwest to Alaska Green Corridor and partnership work we are advancing market development for alternative maritime fuels such as green methanol and renewable biodiesel.”

In fact, the port worked with Carnival Corporation to test biofuel bunkering on three Holland America Line sailings.

Carnival Valor to Bring More Capacity to Mobile for 2027-28

Lissa Poirot
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Carnival Valor to Bring More Capacity to Mobile for 2027-28

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Valor will become the first Conquest-class ship to homeport in Mobile, Alabama, beginning year-round cruises in May 2027.
  • The ship’s itineraries will range from 6 to 8 days, visiting RelaxAway (formerly Half Moon Cay) and Celebration Key in the Bahamas.
  • Carnival Glory and Carnival Conquest will homeport in Port Canaveral and Miami, respectively.

Cruise passengers along the Gulf Coast will soon have a larger ship to sail from Mobile, Alabama, as Carnival Cruise Line will homeport Carnival Valor there beginning in 2027.

The cruise line announced today the 110,000-gross-ton ship will offer year-round sailings from the port on May 15, 2027, marking the first time a Conquest-class ship has been deployed to Mobile.

The redeployment is part of Carnival’s 2027-28 itinerary rollout, expanding the cruise line’s capacity in the region and restoring Mobile’s year-round service.

“Mobile has been an important part of the Carnival family, and we’re thrilled to mark the return of year-round deployment with our first-ever Conquest-class ship serving the market,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Carnival Valor will sail 6- to 8-day itineraries visiting the Bahamas and the redeveloped private island destination currently known as Half Moon Cay as it transitions into the new RelaxAway beach club with new lunch venues and bars, and a two-ship pier in summer of 2026.

The ship’s itineraries will also include calls at the new Celebration Key destination on Grand Bahama Island, which debuted in July 2025.

“This is a big win for our guests who love the convenience of cruising close to home, and for the community that has supported us for many years,” Duffy said. “Carnival Valor will bring even more opportunity for fun, and we can’t wait to welcome our guests aboard.”

Before repositioning to Alabama, the 2,980-passenger vessel will complete her New Orleans season with a 5-day sailing on May 1, 2027, followed by two 4-day Mexico cruises on May 6 and May 10.

Carnival Cruise Line will also maintain a seasonal presence in Mobile with Carnival Spirit operating between October 2026 and April 2027 until Carnival Valor arrives.

Dancing of the Ships

Carnival Valor’s Mobile-based itineraries will include two 14-day Journeys sailings featuring extended calls at Southern Caribbean and Panama Canal ports.

The first Journey departs September 26, 2027, calling at Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Cartagena, Colombia; Colón, Panama; Limón, Costa Rica; Cozumel, Mexico; and in the ABC’s at Aruba and Curaçao.

The second departs January 16, 2028, with stops at San Juan, Puerto Rico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; Aruba and Curaçao, and Celebration Key.

Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal
Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal (Photo Credit: Mobile Alabama Cruise Terminal)

Read Also: Things to Know About the Mobile Cruise Terminal in Alabama

A special Thanksgiving cruise is also planned for November 20, 2027, with a 7-day itinerary that includes Key West, Nassau, and Celebration Key.

Meanwhile, sister ship Carnival Glory will continue operating from Port Canaveral in 2027, sailing 3- and 4-day trips to the Bahamas.

The cruise line’s first Conquest-class vessel, Carnival Conquest, will remain based in Miami in 2027, offering 3- to 5-day voyages.

Both ships will feature stops at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay and Celebration Key.

In addition, Carnival Conquest will also operate two longer Journeys sailings. The first departs November 1, 2027, for an 11-day voyage to Antigua, Barbados, Dominica, Celebration Key, and St. Thomas.

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The second, visiting St. Lucia, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Celebration Key, will depart on November 19, 2027.

Carnival Cruise Line’s 2027-2028 reshuffling aims to meet growing demand and introduce new routes for loyal guests, offering enticing options for both new and frequent cruisers.

British Passenger Dies Suddenly During Mediterranean Sailing

Catie Kovelman
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British Passenger Dies Suddenly During Mediterranean Sailing

Key Aspects:

  • During a celebratory cruise to the Mediterranean, a 61-year-old British woman sadly died in her cruise cabin.
  • She was discovered unresponsive in her stateroom on the night of October 18, when the ship was anchored in Cannes, France.
  • There is no suspicion of foul play, with a heart attack suspected as her cause of death.

One family’s celebratory Mediterranean voyage has sadly ended in tragedy.

A 61-year-old British cruiser was found lifeless in her cruise cabin at approximately 12:30 a.m. during the night of Saturday, October 18, 2025.

At the time, the cruise ship was anchored off Cannes, France, not far from the Lérins Islands.

The onboard doctor tried to resuscitate the unidentified passenger for at least thirty minutes.

Sadly, the medical team’s efforts were unsuccessful and the woman was pronounced dead in her cabin.

Thus, what was supposed to be a birthday celebration for the deceased’s husband turned into what was likely the worst day of the man’s life.

It’s unclear which cruise ship they were sailing on, but French outlet Var-Martin wrote that it was a Mediterranean sailing that featured Livorno, Italy; Cannes, and disembarked in Barcelona, Spain.

With this in mind, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway seems like the most likely host.

The Breakaway Class-flagship was operating a 10-day one-way sailing from Trieste, Italy, to Barcelona, Spain, that embarked on October 9, 2025, and included calls to Livorno and Cannes.

In fact, the 3,903-guest ship had just visted Cannes on Friday, October 17, and very well could have still been anchored at the tender port that night.

Norwegian Sky also visited Cannes on October 17, with MSC Cruises’ MSC Seaview and Marella Cruises’ Marella Discovery calling two days later on October 19.

While these ships presumably could have been in the area, their itineraries make it less likely that the deceased woman was onboard.

What Happens When a Death Occurs?

As is standard protocol, crew members alerted local authorities once the passenger’s death was confirmed. This included reaching out to the maritime gendarmerie and Cannes police.

As the vessel was still close to the shore, authorities were able to rendezvous with the ship via an inflatable boat to begin the standard investigation process and bring the body to shore.

If a ship is not able to return to a port or meet with authorities quickly, there are morgues onboard to preserve the body until it can be disembarked.

Morgue
Morgue

Sometimes, there are also repatriation issues at play where the body cannot be taken off at the next port or must stay onboard for the remainder of the sailing, which was not the case here.

After French authorities completed their investigation and the body was examined by a coroner, the woman’s death was ruled as not suspicious. The most likely culprit was a heart attack.

Heart attacks are unfortunately quite common, and can be unpredictable. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), someone in the US has a heart attack every 40 seconds.

The woman was temporarily transferred to the Cannes burial ground by fire fighters before being returned to her family for end of life services.

Throughout this trying time, the crew members onboard would have been supporting the woman’s husband and any other travel companions through their shock and decision making.

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There are special crisis teams onboard that are trained for this exact situation, and they are able to help the mourning loved ones navigate repatriation, deal with authorities, handle travel arrangements and insurance, and contact funeral homes.

The extra care often continues once families have returned home, with representatives from the cruise line often assigned to check on them in the coming weeks to months.

Vancouver Celebrates Billion Dollar Boost as Alaska Season Ends

Calvin Musquez
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Vancouver Celebrates Billion Dollar Boost as Alaska Season Ends

Key Aspects:

  • With the departure of Coral Princess, the 2025 Vancouver cruise season officially came to an end on October 21, 2025.
  • Cruising has provided the region with a much needed financial boost amidst global economic conflict.
  • Looking ahead, the port anticipates another successful season in 2026.

It was a cool, cloudy afternoon on the Canadian coast, but officials at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority saw only sunshine as Coral Princess departed at 4 p.m. on October 21, 2025.

The 2,390-passenger vessel’s 7-night journey to Los Angeles marked the end of a highly successful 2025 cruise season in Vancouver.

Since the season launched with the arrival of Disney Wonder on March 5, the award-winning Canada Place Terminal has processed approximately 1.2 million passengers coming from 301 cruise ships, contributing over $1 billion to the local economy.

Throughout the year, the port welcomed ships from 16 cruise lines, including Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Villa Vie Residences.

Amidst an active trade war with the United States, this economic boom seems to offer a financial sigh of relief for the Canadian port.

Shri Madiwal, Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, shared his gratitude as the successful season came to a close.

“This year’s success underscores the cruise sector’s power as an economic engine,” said Madiwal.

“Each sailing brings millions of dollars in passenger spending that circulates through hotels, restaurants, attractions, and suppliers, helping to strengthen our regional economy.” 

This comes following a record-breaking year for the port in 2024, when Vancouver welcomed 1.32 million passengers.

The port’s success is a well-deserved return on investment, having invested heavily in the cruise industry in recent years by implementing shore power technology, and LNG refueling support.

The cruise terminal is also equipped with facial biometric scanning for faster passenger security processing.

Vancouver Expects Another Successful Year in 2026

Looking to the future, Vancouver’s cruise operations show no signs of slowing down.

Preliminary bookings for 2026 show an increase in expected ships and passengers, indicating another strong season to come.

This is largely because Vancouver is one of the top homeports for itineraries to Alaska, a destination that is already generating buzz with exciting itineraries for the coming year.

Crown Princess in Vancouver
Crown Princess in Vancouver (Photo Credit: Lenic)

Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer, remarked on Vancouver’s importance to Alaska itineraries, as well as its value as a destination in its own right.

“As a gateway to Alaska, Vancouver offers our guests not only seamless embarkation but also the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and national beauty of this remarkable city,” said Berra.

“We are committed to strengthening this partnership and delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests.”

Princess Cruises will have seven ships sailing to Alaska from Vancouver in 2026, and will also be expanding its popular Cruisetours in the next season.

Holland America Line, meanwhile, is set to operate 18 Alaska itineraries in 2026, including itineraries to the remote Denali region, departing from Vancouver.

Disney Cruise Line is doubling down on ships sailing to Alaska from Vancouver next year, offering itineraries on both Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.

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While not homeporting in Vancouver, MSC Cruises is also making waves by jumping into Alaska cruises for the very first time, signaling an ever-growing interest in the region that is sure to be felt across the industry.

As the Coral Princess dipped below the horizon, it may have signaled the end of the 2025 cruise season in Vancouver, but it is clearly only the beginning of a very bright future for the port.

Carnival Cruise Loyalty Hoax Making Multiple Appearances

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Loyalty Hoax Making Multiple Appearances

Key Aspects:

  • A Carnival Cruise Line loyalty hoax is growing more popular through social media, offering a “lifetime tier” with highly coveted benefits.
  • The way to get this lifetime Carnival status? Guests have to donate “just one” kidney to a non-existent research initiative.
  • This is not the first hoax Carnival has had to deal with recently, as scams and pranks can seem very realistic with AI generation and official logos.

A not-so-new hoax about Carnival Cruise Line’s loyalty program updates is gaining strength and showing up in more and more social media groups and pages. With a legitimate (albeit copyright-infringing) look, it might easily fool those hoping for more updates on loyalty levels and lifetime status.

The hoax is circulating as a graphic promising “Big News From Carnival Cruise Lines!” and is topped by the cruise line’s official whale tail logo and name in the appropriate font, even with the registered trademark symbol.

Let’s first ignore the “Lines” as Carnival Cruise Line is singular, not plural, but it could easily be confused with Carnival Corporation & plc, the parent company that owns Carnival Cruise Line and multiple other lines.

The text of the hoax notes “We’ve Heard You… And We’re Ready to Make Waves!” It would be easy to think this is a reference to Carnival Cruise Line reviewing guest feedback about the new Carnival Rewards program.

John Heald, the cruise line’s brand ambassador, has repeatedly assured guests that the program is not yet fully refined or revealed, and that more details will be forthcoming over the next few months.

“It’s not even close to being completed yet so we will be sharing much much more information with you about this and how the rewards program will enable you to unlock more benefits and will share that as soon as we can,” he said recently.

In fact, the cruise line has already listened to frustrated guests and will now be honoring lifetime Diamond level status if guests have achieved it by the May 31, 2026 deadline. This makes the ongoing hoax seem even more legitimate, as it is “announcing” another status update.

The words “LIFETIME CARNIVAL STATUS” are prominently displayed in the middle of the hoax, sure to catch the eyes of eager guests who don’t want to lose the benefits they may have spent years achieving.

“To celebrate the launch of our updated Rewards Program, we’re thriiled to unveil the ULTIMATE UPGRADE OPPORTUNITY for our most loyal cruisers,” the announcement states.

That simple sentence, however, has two clues that this is actually a hoax. First, read it again – did you noticed that “thrilled” is misspelled? Misspellings are often an indication of fraud, spam, or hoaxes.

Second, the statement refers to “our updated Rewards Program” but the actual name is Carnival Rewards. It’s unlikely that official communication from the cruise line would fail to use that name, especially since it isn’t listed anywhere on the hoax at all.

Nevertheless, those small issues would be easy to overlook, especially for a loyal VIFP member interested in maintaining their high status. The next line is certainly eye-catching:

“INTRODUCING: The “One for the Ocean” Lifetime Tier!”

That is exciting indeed, as lifetime status has been a sticking point for Carnival’s Platinum and Diamond level guests. Reading onward, however, is where the hoax quickly falls apart.

Carnival Loyalty Hoax
Carnival Loyalty Hoax

“If you’re currently a Platinum or Diamond guest, you now have the exclusive option to donate one (just one!) kidney to the Carnival Medical Research Initiative,” the hoax reads.

Okay, now that’s obviously fake. While Carnival Cruise Line is an official charitable partner for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, there is no such thing as the “Carnival Medical Research Initiative” nor would any charitable organization ever solicit organ donations.

The hoax goes on quickly to offer benefits any cruiser would love, including:

  • Unlimited cruises
  • Permanent priority boarding
  • Private stateroom lounges
  • Sparkling water on demand

And my favorite perk for this offer: “A branded kidney-shaped lapel pin to show off your elite generosity.” This is a quite obvious dig at the VIFP pins that some loyal cruisers do enjoy wearing on cruises.

As a matter of interest, those pins will continue as gifts in the Carnival Rewards program for Platinum and Diamond guests, though other VIFP gifts will not.

How Could Anyone Be Fooled?

It may seem so obvious that this is a hoax, how can it be trending on social media? Despite one misspelling, the lack of other misspellings lends legitimacy to the joke.

The graphic is clear and not blurred, a product of either good design or AI generation. In fact, AI technology is often making it more and more difficult to tell what is real versus what isn’t exactly on the up-and-up.

This is not the first hoax that Carnival Cruise Line has been impacted with recently. John Heald confirmed that hoax ducks have been showing up on Carnival ships promising free drinks when found, but despite having “prizewinning” tags, there are no such free drink ducks endorsed by the cruise line.

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Like this organ donation hoax, however, the duck tags also use Carnival’s official logo, making them seem legitimate.

Scams from illicit rideshare drivers, sales of used Havana wristbands, and other hoaxes often impact cruise travelers. The best defense is to be alert and aware of ongoing jokes and pranks and learn how to quickly recognize when something just seems too good to be true.

Norwegian Cruise Line Criticized for Last-Minute Itinerary Changes

Catie Kovelman
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Norwegian Cruise Line Criticized for Last-Minute Itinerary Changes

Key Aspects:

  • Norwegian Cruise Line has altered several itineraries through the end of the year for Norwegian Getaway and at least one cruise for Norwegian Pearl.
  • The new itineraries replace ports like Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay to prioritize calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
  • Impacted guests have expressed outrage at the late adjustments to their cruise vacations.

Norwegian Cruise Line is in the hot seat after making some last-minute itinerary changes to multiple sailings before the end of 2025 that will be operated by Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Pearl.

These are all Bahamas or Caribbean-bound sailings that have been adjusted to revolve around a port call to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, allegedly to improve the cruise line’s relationship with the Caribbean destination.

“To enhance the guest experience, diversify our Caribbean offerings, and strengthen partnerships with key destinations, we’ve modified select itineraries to include additional calls to the Dominican Republic through the end of the year,” NCL wrote in emails to future guests of Norwegian Getaway.

The new sailings replace popular ports of call in the Bahamas, such as Bimini, Nassau, and Great Stirrup Cay – which is the cruise line’s private island in the Berry Islands – with a day in Puerto Plata.

On Norwegian Getaway sailings, an extra sea day has also been added after the newly inserted port.

The cruise line has confirmed that Norwegian Getaway’s November 3, November 10, and December 15 embarkations have been reworked.

Worth Reading: Norwegian Cruise Line Makes Another Itinerary Change

Impacted passengers of the Breakaway Plus-class ship also report receiving itinerary changes for the Miami-based sailings embarking on October 29 and December 11.

Only one sailing for the Norwegian Pearl has been affected thus far, which is an 11-night Caribbean voyage that will set sail in Miami on December 8.

It’s also possible that more sailings could be impacted, so guests embarking before the end of the year should keep an eye out for potential updates.

The change also comes after NCL canceled dozens of sailings for 2026 and 2027 onboard Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Joy at the end of September due to redeployments.

NCL Hit With Significant Backlash

Guests who were booked on these sailings are not happy and don’t see strengthening partnerships as a valid reason for altering their itineraries at the last minute.

Many saw this as a shady way to do business, as it’s too late for impacted guests to cancel or reschedule their sailings without penalty.

Norwegian Pearl Departing PortMiami, Florida
Norwegian Pearl Departing PortMiami, Florida (Photo Credit: Just dance)

NCL cruises that are canceled within 30 day get no refunds, cruises canceled within 31-60 days have a 75% cancellation fee, and cruises canceled within 61-90 days have a 50% penalty.

All of the impacted sailings will embark before the new year, which is only 72 days away as of the time of publication.

“THIS IS NOT AN ITINERARY CHANGE!! It is a totally different cruise. They should be offering free cancellation or a massive FCC,” one passenger reacted.

“To do so after final payment and for a non weather or emergency reason is so messed up,” another said.

“NCL is gaining a well-deserved reputation as an unreliable, if not shady, cruise line. No other cruise line comes close to the amount of last-minute itinerary changes NCL springs on their customers,” a third chimed in.

Others wondered if the cause behind the changes was actually related to partnerships with the cruise port, or if the cruise line is hiding the real reason.

While this has not been confirmed by Norwegian Cruise Line, some have theorized that the cruise line needs to reroute some ships away from Great Stirrup Cay due to construction needs for the new pier that is currently being built.

The new multi-ship pier is supposed to be open and operational at some point before the end of the year.

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“If I’m putting my conspiracy hat on for a second, I’m thinking this has a lot more to do with the pier at GSC and the drink package bleeding money at GSC than it does with strengthening partnerships,” one cruiser weighed in.

“It seems pretty obvious that they need to finish up GSC and aren’t taking passengers there. I’ll be happy when they have a dock,” someone else agreed.

But as frustrating as these changes may be, it is in the terms and conditions that guests agree to upon booking their sailings that the cruise line can cancel and change itineraries – without penalty or issuing compensation – for a multitude of reasons.

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