Passengers aboard Princess Cruises’ Crown Princess’ 113-night world cruise have been notified that the ship will not be arriving in Cape Town, South Africa, as scheduled, due to a string of severe weather at sea.
The announcement came directly from the 113,561-gross-ton ship’s Captain Christopher Lye, who detailed a number of changes in direction will be forthcoming.
“The current weather forecast is still showing a series of adverse weather systems… causing strong winds and heavy swells,” the captain said across Crown Princess’ PA system.
“I have determined that it will be advisable to avoid the south coast of Africa until these conditions improve,” he continued.
The change comes as the South African Weather Service issued multiple alerts for the region.
A damaging wave warning is in effect for the entire southern coast beginning on June 23, 2025, with forecasters noting risks of small craft capsizing and dangerous offshore navigation.
— SA Weather Service (@SAWeatherServic) June 23, 2025
Gale-force wind alerts have also been issued for both the west and east Cape coasts, with wind speeds predicted to reach 35 to 45 knots.
While the ship had already diverted south of Madagascar to bypass an earlier storm, worsening conditions have prompted the captain to hold position along South Africa’s east coast rather than rounding the southern tip.
Captain Lye said the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess will now miss its scheduled call in Cape Town on June 25 and 26, 2025.
Additionally, he said the cruise ship is working to include a new call in another South African town before proceeding.
“We are also working with local authorities to include an additional day in another South Africa port, possibly on the east coast,” he said. “These delays will likely have impact on our ongoing itinerary.”
The captain emphasized that the safety of passengers and crew remains the top priority and the reason for the changes, which he is working quickly to update.
“Please be assured we recognize the importance and value of including Cape Town on our itinerary,” Captain Lye said, promising to secure a visit to the port at a later date.
Itinerary Disruptions Continue
Crown Princess only just began its 113-night world cruise on May 31, 2025, from Auckland, New Zealand – its longest world cruise to date.
While the voyage began with smooth sailing to Sydney, Australia, the vessel was forced to turn around briefly after rough swells caused it to lilt 6° to 7°.
She was able to continue to Adelaide and Fremantle, Australia, as well as Port Louis in Mauritius, with minimal damage, and was set to enjoy a two-day port call in Cape Town from June 25 to 26.
For now, the ship remains off South Africa’s east coast, with Durban a likely candidate for a substitute port call. But surf conditions remain dynamic there as well, with head-high waves reported and small craft advisories anticipated through June 25 in nearby Richards Bay.
Crown Princess in Vancouver (Photo Credit: Lenic)
In fact, advisories of damaging waves remain in effect for the southern coast through 11:59:59 p.m. local time June 23, 2025, with damaging wind warnings in effect from June 24 through midnight on June 25.
Captain Lye promises to keep passengers updated as Crown Princess adjusts her course to avoid the storm system and rebuilds its itinerary for this week, as well as the remainder of its duration.
The ship was scheduled to continue to Walvis Bay, Namibia, after Cape Town, followed by multiple destinations across Europe, the Americas, and the Pacific as it makes its way back to New Zealand with a September 22, 2025, end date.
Cruise Hive will update Crown Princess’ itinerary as soon as Captain Lye makes it available.
Carnival Cruise Line certainly shook up the cruise loyalty world with the announcement of their new Carnival Rewards program, set to replace the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty program from June 1, 2026.
While there are many things about the new program that confused, frustrated, and outright angry guests are focusing on, it is also important to note that there are quite a few things that haven’t yet been fully confirmed about the new program.
Who Earns the Points on One Booking?
One of the biggest questions guests have had so far is who earns what points on what cruise booking under Carnival Rewards.
Because the program will be tied to spending, how are those spending points divided among different people staying in the same stateroom?
For example, a married couple who takes a 7-night cruise together under the current VIFP program will both earn the full 7 points toward their existing loyalty status.
Under the new program, it is unclear if that same couple would both earn the full total of points – let’s say, a $3,000 cruise fare so 3,000 points – for that same sailing, or if it would be split as 1,500 points per person.
And what about a third or fourth guest in the same stateroom, such as a group of adult friends traveling together?
Furthermore, will it make a difference whose name is on the credit card for booking the reservation? If the couple does not have a joint Carnival Rewards Mastercard, would just one person earn all the points?
How Will Young Cruisers Earn Points or Status?
Carnival Cruise Ship Passengers on Open Deck (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
Similarly, many loyal Carnival cruisers have expressed confusion about whether or not their children, grandchildren, or other young cruisers will earn any status at all.
Because Carnival Rewards is spending-based, and children aren’t spending the money – the cards all being in adults’ names – will children earn any loyalty for their travels?
Travel can be a lifelong joy, and helping children and teens “earn” status so they can continue to travel with benefits in their adult years is something many parents and grandparents enjoy doing.
Under the current program, the onboard VIFP parties recognize the youngest Diamond level cruisers for a moment of fun. These are often toddlers or pre-teens who have already sailed 200+ days with the cruise line, and therefore would have that elite status for decades to come.
One of the biggest concerns with the VIFP program has been how top-heavy it is already in its upper tiers, making such lifetime awards for children – who haven’t paid the cruise fare or contributed to the spending-related rewards – unsustainable.
How Will Points Be Redeemed?
Carnival has emphasized that the new rewards program offers guests flexibility to redeem points for what they value most, whether that might be discounts on cruise fares, specialty restaurant reservations, spa treatments, merchandise, shore tours, and more.
There has not yet been any indication of exactly how points are to be redeemed, however. Earning points is fairly straightforward – 1 point for every $1 spent, or 3 points per $1 when using the Carnival Rewards Mastercard (some purchases are excluded).
Status Qualifying Stars
But how many points will be necessary to enjoy a meal at the Chef’s Table, get that 50-minute hot stone massage, or pick up the latest tumbler or t-shirt in Fun Shops?
Those numbers have not yet been released, but can make a tremendous difference depending on their perceived value onboard. Using 500 points for a specialty dinner may not be too bad, but 5,000 could seem excessive.
Similarly, it has not been clarified whether or not any redeemed points are then taken away from the status “stars” that determine a guest’s overall loyalty level.
How Carnival Rewards Differs From the VIFP Program
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
Despite the unanswered questions that may take months to fully clarify, we do know that the new spend-based program is significantly different from the VIFP program.
For now, guests accrue points based on how many days they have sailed aboard Carnival cruises, and that is how their lifetime loyalty and their overall perks and benefits have been determined.
Carnival Rewards, however, is tied to ongoing spending, with status determined by overall financial commitment to the cruise line over a two-year period, with no lifetime status. Instead, guests must re-spend to re-earn their status level every two years.
Gone are certain perks, such as the onboard reunion parties on longer sailings as well as the often controversial VIFP Club gifts. Also gone are first-time-Diamond benefits such as a free specialty dining reservation and an exclusive luggage tag set.
As Carnival Cruise Line prepares to overhaul its loyalty program, Royal Caribbean cruisers are staying anchored in familiar waters, clinging to their Crown & Anchor status like a life vest – and hoping their program doesn’t get swept into the same current.
Carnival’s upcoming switch to a dollar-based rewards system has rattled longtime cruisers who spent years sailing their way up to the VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) ranks.
The new Carnival Rewards program, launching June 1, 2026, will eliminate the cruise-night model and replace it with tiers based on how much money guests spend. Status will also expire after two years unless re-earned.
The change has sparked a backlash from Carnival fans, and triggered concern for Royal Caribbean’s long-running Crown & Anchor Society, which still rewards cruisers based on nights sailed rather than dollars spent.
“Do you think this is something Royal and the other lines will try to adopt? If so, would cruisers stay loyal to Royal, or would this be a reason to try other brands?”asked a cruiser on a Royal Caribbean Reddit page.
One response summed up the sentiment of many: “If there’s no real loyalty program, then why be loyal? That’s the entire reason for it.”
The Redditor continued, “What Carnival did is an insult to everyone who’s been loyal. So no, if Royal went that route, I would not be loyal to them anymore.”
While Carnival Cruise Line says the change is needed to address an overwhelming number of top-tier guests on certain sailings, many cruisers see it as a move that prioritizes spending over loyalty.
Crown & Anchor fans have been circulating a fake advert from Royal Caribbean on social media.
And the broader fear is that once one line shifts its model, others may follow under the guide of streamlining benefits or encouraging higher spend.
“If Carnival sees no drop in business, other lines will fall right in line,” warned one Redditor.
“This is how Delta started,” one guest added. “Now loyalty means how much you spend, not how often you fly. I don’t want that to happen to cruises.”
Crown & Anchor Society Loyalty
For Royal Caribbean fans, Carnival Cruise Line’s announcement is sparking new appreciation for the cruise line’s loyalty program, the Crown & Anchor Society. And currently, the cruise line’s program is built around one thing: Nights sailed.
Members earn one point per cruise night sailed, or two points per night in a suite. Points never expire, and once a tier is earned, it’s yours for life.
“Royal appreciates my cruising days, not just the money I spend on their ships,” said one cruiser in another discussion on Facebook.
Added another, “They reward loyalty in a straightforward way. I don’t have to think about requalifying every two years.”
Royal Caribbean Loyalty Program Across Brands
The Crown & Anchor Society tier structure starts at Gold (3 points) and tops out with Pinnacle Club (700 points), with benefits increasing at each level.
Those benefits include daily drink vouchers, Wi-Fi discounts, milestone gifts, priority boarding, and exclusive lounges – perks that many guests say would be hard to give up.
Royal Caribbean also offers reciprocal perks with Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club and Silversea’s Venetian Society loyalty programs, as the cruise lines are each owned by Royal Caribbean Group.
Carnival Cruise Line, which is owned by Carnival Corporation, does not have reciprocal perks with its sister brands, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, and P&O Cruises.
For now, Royal Caribbean has not signaled any changes to its loyalty program, which passengers say is one of the perks of the cruise line. However, their message to the cruise line is clear: Loyalty should still mean loyalty.
Continuing years of yes-no-yes-no debate, environmental studies, approval grants, challenges, and pauses, the much-discussed fourth cruise ship pier in Cozumel, Mexico, is once again on hold.
According to Mexico News Daily, the project is being debated yet again, this time just two months after receiving approval from the Environment Ministry. An injunction against the project was filed on June 13, 2025, and a new environmental impact study must be undertaken.
Cozumel is one of the world’s busiest cruise ship ports and the busiest port in Mexico, welcoming more than 4.5 million passengers in 2024.
There are currently three different docks for cruise ships, but as travel – and ship size! – continues to increase, a fourth dock would certainly be welcome.
That is, a fourth dock could be welcome for some – it would indeed bring more passengers to the island, improving retail profits and continuing to fill up tour company bookings.
Furthermore, a new pier would be able to more easily service the world’s largest cruise ships, including Icon of the Seas and the upcoming Star of the Seas. Both massive ships offer 7-night Western Caribbean itineraries that include regular visits to Cozumel.
Many detractors, however, note that the new pier might do more harm than good for the small island. The coral reef in Villa Blanca could be irreparably damaged by the construction, reducing critical marine habitat and reducing water quality.
The new pier might also disrupt emergency Coast Guard routes and delay response times to parts of the island, and could even hurt some tour businesses that rely on the health and accessibility of the coral reef.
Many local residents are also opposed to the new pier as it may block their recreational beach access.
Instead, locals want to promote overnight stays rather than welcome more cruise ships for day visits. When staying overnight, visitors not only support hotels and restaurants, but are more likely to explore multiple tours and other sites, adding even more benefit to the economy.
Cruise ship day visits, on the other hand, have a more limited impact. While cruise guests do indeed book tours and may enjoy lunch or dinner at a restaurant, they also leave more quickly.
More guests, however, can also mean more reef damage and overall environmental impact.
Cruise Pier in Cozumel, Mexico (Photo Credit: EWY Media)
Furthermore, repeat travelers may be less likely to debark at the cruise port since they have visited previously, especially if they are frequent cruisers and their larger, newer ship offers more distractions.
One local, Toni Cháves, president of the Riviera Maya Hotel Association, noted that it isn’t the tourism that is vital for the area’s economic prosperity.
“We don’t live off of tourism,”he said.“We live off of the natural beauty that attracts tourism.”
Snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, sailing, fishing, birdwatching, and other nature-based activities are always popular in Cozumel. Increased usage, however, could make those activities less enjoyable and less profitable.
Similar Reasoning for Different Actions
Cozumel is not the only popular cruise ship destination that may be reconsidering new projects and increased tourism.
Many different ports of call, from Alaska to Maine to Italy, are taking steps to limit cruise visits in different ways. Some are restricting ship size or implementing overall passenger caps for daily visitors.
Other tactics include moving ship piers away from already congested downtown areas, as is being promoted in Bordeaux, France.
Some ports are increasing taxes on cruise visitors to fund restoration or conservation projects to help mitigate the impact so many visitors may have.
In fact, cruise guests to Cozumel will have a new $5 per passenger tax beginning in just a few days, on July 1, with incremental increases over the next few years.
Is Carnival Cruise Line trying to put a positive spin on what has quickly become a public relations nightmare? A new letter from the line’s president, Christine Duffy, is offering great explanations but little further details for frustrated cruisers.
The letter has been sent to past and present Carnival guests (with millions of travelers, it is taking time to reach everyone), and offers detailed insights into the need for the program to change.
Duffy does, however, acknowledge what Carnival Cruise Line has to thank its loyal guests for over the years.
“With your help, our company has grown in many ways: the number of ships in our fleet, the size of our ships, the number of homeports and the number of guests who sail with us each year,”she said.
It is exactly that success and growth, however, that has made the current Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty program unsustainable.
“It was designed in a simpler time when status was based on the number of days spent on our ships. In a smaller, growing company with a modest customer base, that kind of program works,”Duffy acknowledged.
“But as The World’s Most Popular Cruise Line, the current program does not allow us to deliver the recognition to guests based only on sailing frequency.”
She goes on to note that in the past three years, the number of Platinum-level guests who have sailed with Carnival for at least 75 nights has more than doubled. The number of Diamond-level guests – 200+ nights – has more than tripled.
Put into the context of an individual cruise, Duffy explains that on the Excel-class ships (Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee), more than 1,200 guests are typically at those higher levels on every sailing.
“When so many guests have elite status, it is much more difficult to make everyone feel special. These realities will only continue to erode the recognition and rewards of the current VIFP Club program, and we feel that change is necessary in order to better recognize our guests and give them more choice in how they are rewarded,”she admitted.
Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy
Just days ago, Carnival Cruise Line announced the upcoming Carnival Rewards program, a points-based system where guests will earn different status levels based on spending.
Points are automatically earned through booking a cruise and the resulting onboard spending, including drink packages, spa treatments, shore tours, etc.
The program is also partnered with the Carnival Rewards Mastercard co-branded with Barclays, giving guests the opportunity to earn points for any non-cruise purchases on the card.
What Is Making Guests Mad
It isn’t the fact that the overall program needs to change that is upsetting thousands of those formerly very loyal Carnival guests, however.
In fact, a spend-based rewards system makes good sense. It will indeed offer multiple ways for travelers to not only increase their rewards, but customize how they redeem those rewards – though the exact details of that redemption have not yet been released.
Even some of the things being taken away aren’t so upsetting to many guests. For example, the VIFP logo gifts are being phased out, but let’s be honest – many of them, such as the drink koozies and the baseball cap – have been less-than-well received in the past anyway.
What is frustrating to many travelers is the apparent loss of loyalty after the initial transition period. While a guest’s status will be preserved for two years (six years in the case of Diamond level) once the new program begins from June 1, 2026, guests must then continue to spend in order to maintain that status level.
Duffy’s letter does have one new interesting twist, but no explanation about what it may mean:
“As long as there is activity within a three-year period, points will not expire, so guests can also choose to accumulate their points over time and save them for more valuable rewards,”the letter reads.
The cruise line has, however, already noted that “points” and “stars” are different. Points are what guests will earn through their spending and can apparently be redeemed for rewards at their discretion. “Stars” are also earned through spending and determine one’s status level.
While points may not expire, will stars expire? That is the question as yet unanswered. A guest’s status appears to be determined by stars and comes with a variety of benefits, but the spend-based system seems to be a “re-buy your loyalty status every two years” arrangement.
Duffy emphasizes that the recent announcement of the upcoming changes is not yet set in stone, but rather is “the start of a conversation about the changes ahead.” It is possible that with feedback and examination of guests’ reactions, further changes may be made before the new Carnival Rewards program begins.
There are certainly a lot of harsh feelings, reactionary feedback, and choice words being leveled at Carnival Cruise Line over the past few days. Just what impact this new announcement or any subsequent changes may have will undoubtedly take quite some time to unfold.
Carnival Cruise Line’s new loyalty program, which is coming in 2026, has been making waves since it was announced, but not in a good way.
The new program, which takes effect in June of 2026 if nothing changes, has left many cruisers outraged because the “lifetime” loyalty status has been eliminated.
Instead, guests will earn “stars” based on how much they cruise and spend onboard and will maintain their loyalty tier for two years.
Current and long-time members of the VIFP program have been left feeling hurt and abandoned by the change and are now considering aligning their loyalties elsewhere.
In various online forums, now-former Carnival fans have been encouraging others to switch to MSC Cruises, which will match Carnival cruisers’ existing loyalty status in the MSC Voyager’s Club through the Status Match program.
“Our Status Match program allows you to join the MSC Voyagers Club by bringing your benefits from another cruise line with you and instantly enjoying comparable – or even better – privileges on your next MSC Cruises sailing,”reads the MSC website.
“Once approved, you’ll immediately qualify for a 5% discount on any future MSC Cruises sailing, where you’ll receive onboard discounts for photos, Wi-Fi, spa services, complimentary gifts, and other valuable savings,” continues the information.
While it’s not a new program, it’s quickly become very popular because it allows Carnival guests to maintain many of the perks they spent their time and money earning with the other brand.
However, the loyalty status at MSC Cruises can also expire, but only if guests go more than three years between cruises.
In order to apply for a status match, all guests need to do is submit a quick online form on the MSC website with their name, address, contact information, and information about the loyalty status they are trying to match.
The approval time seems to be quick, with many cruisers saying that they learned of their new loyalty status at MSC in 24 hours or less.
Other Status Match Programs
Although MSC Cruises is the program that has been popping up most in the forums, MSC isn’t the only brand to offer status match programs.
Virgin Voyages, which is an adults-only cruise line, is offering its own status matching option for its loyalty program, called the Sailing Club.
However, this will only be available through October 31, 2025, and the cruise line is accepting applications online.
Once accepted, guests will be put into the Blue Extras level, which is the middle tier that Virgin Voyages’ guests reach at three to four sailings.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
This will make them eligible for perks like an exclusive cocktail event, complimentary laundry service, and a dedicated Sailor Services (guest services) support system.
Ponant Cruises, which offers expedition cruises on yachts, also has a status matching program that comes with immediate discounts on future bookings, free laundry services, and onboard credits based on the tier.
Meanwhile, Carnival has been working to lessen the backlash and alleviate concerns about the changes to the VIFP fun club.
Lee Mason, a popular Fleet Cruise Director, responded to the feedback on Facebook: “Maybe I was living in a dream world, but I truly believed the bond between our crew and our guests came from those shared moments. The laughs, the conversations, the connections. That’s what makes cruising special.”
Heald has been reassuring his more than 600,000 followers that the cruise line does care about them and that the new program was announced well in advance to give it time to settle (and to possibly even make some more desirable tweaks).
Looking for the top cruise news stories of the week? We have them right here in Cruise Hive’s new edition of its weekly recap. Highlights include Carnival Cruise Line’s new rewards program getting panned by guests, and Royal Caribbean planning renovations to three mega-ships.
Make sure you stay well informed by signing up for Cruise Hive’s Daily Update, so the big cruise stories are delivered right to your inbox.
Mystery Jumper Makes A Splash in Juneau
Woman Jumps in Near Cruise Ship in Juneau (Credit: baileyy.bs)
A cruise passenger visiting Juneau, Alaska, witnessed a most unusual sight as she stood on the cruise pier on or around June 12, 2025 — a woman making a flying leap from the pier into the water.
Make that very chilly water, since the temperature in Juneau harbor at this time of year averages about 46 degrees Fahrenheit, according to data from Tideschart. The jumper wasn’t dressed for such an act, since she was wearing just shorts and a T-shirt.
It is unknown whether the woman was a local person or a cruise guest. The passenger who watched the jumper, Bailey Shelton, was a guest on a Royal Caribbean ship and filmed the puzzling event on her phone.
She posted the video on TikTok on June 12, 2025 and it has been seen roughly 470,000 times since then. There were no injuries reported in the vicinity of Juneau Harbor that day, so it seems the jumper completed her water jump safely.
If she was a cruise guest, she risked being banned from future cruises, since jumping into the water at harbors is frowned upon; it’s dangerous, and fraught with liability for the cruise lines.
When Politics and Travel Just Don’t Mix
Victoria Cruises’ Accommodations
In an unfortunate example of how politics can negatively impact tourism, a residential cruise ship cancelled its first world voyage because a number of booked guests from Canada refused to travel to the US embarkation port.
Victoria Cruises Line had planned to operate its 1,350-guest Victoria Majestic on a 29-month world cruise starting on July 26, 2025, departing from Florida’s Port Everglades. But in a notice on its website on June 16, 2025, the line revealed the sailing was indefinitely postponed.
The reason: Political and economic tensions between Canada and the US had prompted a number of Canadian guests to cancel their bookings, apparently because they decided not to travel to Florida.
The cruise line called it an “unexpected wave of cancellations,” which lowered the final occupancy count to an unsustainable level. The line indicated that a new departure date would be announced soon.
An undisclosed monetary compensation will be offered to booked guests, along with refunds. Victoria Majestic rents its staterooms to guests on a monthly fee basis, with a minimum booking of six months. The world cruise was to last 2.5 years and call at 703 global ports.
Cruise Guest Arrested on Embezzlement Charge
Police Vehicles Parked Next to Cruise Ship in Ketchikan (Photo Credit: Just dance)
The long arm of the law reached all the way to Ketchikan, Alaska, on June 12, 2025, when a cruise guest on an undisclosed ship was arrested on a charge of embezzlement in Laramie County, Wyoming.
Based on an arrest warrant issued by the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office, Karen Bryan, 64, was arrested by Alaska authorities as she was boarding her ship and was set to be extradited to Wyoming. The woman allegedly embezzled money from a local church in Laramie County.
Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak posted details of the arrest on Facebook, explaining how his office worked in coordination with Alaska law enforcement.
The ship that the suspect was sailing on has not been named. There were five cruise ships calling to Ketchikan that day: Holland America Line’s Koningsdam and Eurodam; Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess and Sapphire Princess; and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bliss.
In Laramie County, deputies in the sheriff’s office were said to be fighting over who gets to travel to Alaska to bring the suspect back to Wyoming.
Should Carnival Cruise Line Rethink Its New Rewards Plan?
Carnival Rewards Launching June 2026
Carnival Cruise Line’s new Carnival Rewards program is going over like a lead balloon, as some loyalty club members are giving it a major thumbs-down for several reasons.
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of the new program, which replaces the existing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program and takes effect in 2026, is that loyalty levels are to be reset every two years, rather than accrue over a lifetime.
It means that Carnival guests must re-earn their benefits in a two-year time frame.
Another element of the new rewards plan requires guests to earn loyalty points based on spending, including the base cruise fare plus shore excursions and all onboard purchases, like spa treatments, for example.
This replaces the existing plan that bases loyalty club levels on the number of days a guest has sailed with the line. Currently, the days continue to accrue, enabling guests to attain higher and higher levels over many years.
The cruise line also is urging guests to use the Carnival Cruise Line branded credit card as a way to earn points faster. One guest likened the new plan to a rebate program rather than a loyalty club.
Big Renovations On Tap For Three Big Ships
Ovation of the Seas (Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean)
Royal Caribbean announced that Ovation of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas will be renovated in 2026 and emerge with new and improved public spaces and accommodations.
The upgrades are part of the Royal Amplified program, implemented in 2018 to re-energize the line’s older ships. Liberty of the Seas entered service in 2007, and Ovation of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas were launched in 2016.
Some of the planned enhancements include a refreshed pool deck with private casitas and new dining venues on Ovation of the Seas; the addition of the Ultimate Family Suite and an adults-only Solarium on Harmony of the Seas; and a new Royal Escape Room and redesigned pool deck on Liberty of the Seas.
The cruise line also revealed the ships’ deployments in 2026. The 4,200-guest Ovation of the Seas will sail her summer season in Alaska, while the 6,600-guest Harmony of the Seas will shift from Europe to Florida for a series of Caribbean voyages.
The 3,800-guest Liberty of the Seas will deploy to Southampton, UK, during summer 2026, then reposition to Galveston, Texas, for winter.
A Rude Awakening For a Couple on a Marella Cruises’ Ship
This story gives new meaning to the phrase “ick factor.”
Imagine sleeping soundly aboard the Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship and then, suddenly, you are doused with kitchen-waste sludge that literally came through the ceiling of your stateroom.
That’s what happened to passengers Pam and Ken Jackson, who hail from the UK and told their story to a local news outlet.
The two were covered in the foul muck and it ruined many of their belongings. Turned out that a waste pipe located right above their cabin had burst and the waste slid down the walls.
The Jacksons were moved to a new stateroom, but that came with other problems, including a broken bed and a malfunctioning air conditioner. Crew members did their best to help, but even after washing the guests’ clothes, the horrible smell remained.
The cruise ship entered service in 1995 and was last dry-docked for maintenance in 2023. TUI Cruises refunded part of the couple’s cruise fare and paid an additional £470 ($631 USD) for the damaged clothing.
More Cruise Headlines
Looking for even more cruise news? You’ll find it on Cruise Hive, where we have additional stories about MSC Cruises revealing new spaces aboard MSC World Asia; a new report showing how cruise ship anchors damage the Antarctica seabed; and Norwegian Cruise Line rolling out a big summer sale.
Also, Disney Cruise Line lowering its deposit to 10% of the cruise fare, and a Virgin Voyages ship experiencing ongoing engine issues.
At 10:00 a.m. on June 20, 2025, the 1,964-passenger Westerdam officially crossed into the Arctic Circle.
Guests onboard are currently enjoying a 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice cruise, which arrived at the Arctic Circle on the Summer Solstice in the northern hemisphere.
During the longest day of the year in this particular location, the sun does not set, giving passengers the coveted opportunity to experience the midnight sun.
To commemorate the occasion, passengers were invited to gather and celebrate at the bow of the ship as it entered the Arctic Circle.
During this celebration, the vessel’s horn was sounded, and all of the guests were allowed to take a photo while on the bow.
Beyond that, passengers also got a chance to mingle with both the crew and the ship’s officers — and even received a commemorative certificate to remember the occasion.
“As we crossed into the Arctic Circle beneath the endless summer sky, it wasn’t just a line on a map—we hope it will be a memory for our Holland America Line guests that shines as brightly as the midnight sun,”shared Westerdam‘s Captain, Eric van der Wal.
Navigating the sea safely to enter the Arctic Circle comes with its fair share of challenges, mostly due to the extreme weather that can significantly impact ocean conditions.
Captain Eric van der Wal worked closely with his staff, making constant real-time decisions through the interpretation of shifting ice patterns and cloudy satellite images in order to make the passage possible.
While things were looking shaky for a while, the ice conditions improved enough at the best time possible to allow Westerdam to continue heading towards the Arctic Circle.
Having departed from Seattle back on June 8, 2025, this voyage is offering guests an opportunity to witness the beauty of Alaska’s wilderness while also giving passengers the chance to see a full day of sunlight on the longest day of the year.
This scenic cruise also includes viewing opportunities of the Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay and calls on several ports in Alaska, such as Nome, Dutch Harbor, Kodiak, Haines, and Sitka.
Guests will disembark when the vessel returns to the Pacific Northwest on July 6, 2025.
Where is Westerdam Deployed This Summer?
Currently, the 82,348 gross-ton Westerdam ishomeporting in Seattle, frequently doing 7-night itineraries around Alaska.
These voyages primarily call on Juneau, Tracy Arm Fjord, Sitka, and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, Canada.
When Westerdam arrives in Seattle on July 6 to disembark guests from the current 28-night solstice sailing, it will resume its shorter 7-night voyages later that same day.
There is only one more 28-night cruise available on Westerdam departing from Seattle, which is scheduled to depart on August 31, 2025.
Unlike the solstice sailing, this voyage is focused on glaciers and volcanoes, first calling on ports in Alaska and then Hawaii, all before heading back to Seattle one last time.
Westerdam at Hubbard Glacier (Photo Credit: Effy Jewelry)
After that voyage concludes, Westerdam is set to depart on September 28, 2025, for a 29-night repositioning cruise which will arrive in Tokyo on October 27.
Westerdam will then spend the rest of 2025 into early 2026 homeporting in Yokohama and Tokyo in Japan, as well as in Hong Kong and Singapore.
While the ship will return for more Alaskan sailings out of Whittier in 2026, there are no plans for the vessel to homeport in Seattle anytime soon.
For those cruisers interested in going on one of Holland America Line’s summer solstice cruises in 2026, Nieuw Statendam will be offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the solstice while in North Cape in Norway.
Noordam will also be doing a 2026 summer solstice voyage departing from Seattle, where it will cross over the Arctic Circle on the day of the solstice, just as Westerdam has done this week.
While Westerdam will be departing from Seattle in September, it is clear that Holland America Line has no intention of stopping its Alaskan voyages or summer solstice offerings anytime soon.
The second-largest city in the Bahamas and just a short distance from Florida, Freeport is a popular stop on cruising itineraries. While, yes, it’s not as popular as Nassau Cruise Port, some cruisers think this is a benefit.
You get fewer crowds and a more low-key vibe while still enjoying all the amenities you expect from a port visited by the major cruise lines. So, what can you expect if your cruise is stopping in Freeport, Bahamas? Here’s what you need to know.
Freeport is situated on Grand Bahama Island. It’s the island’s main city. The Freeport cruise port, though, is not located within Freeport Harbour.
Instead, it’s in Lucayan Harbour. The Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility can be found by searching for “Freeport Cruise Port, Wild Goose Town, Bahamas” in any navigation app.
Photo Credit: YES Market Media / Shutterstock.com
Both harbors are on the southwest portion of the island, about six miles from Freeport city center and 20 miles from Carnival’s new Celebration Key. They’re also about a 10-minute drive from the nearest beaches.
As it stands now, with no further development (more on that below!), the area that the cruise port is in is rather industrial and you’ll need to leave this immediate area in order to find something to do.
However, most visitors plan to visit a beach or book an excursion in Freeport, rather than simply wander around the city, as they might do in some other ports.
Freeport Cruise Terminal and Piers
View of Freeport Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Anya Douglas)
The Lucayan Harbour Cruise Facility is rather basic, with some colorful buildings, outdoor space and room for up to three cruise ships to visit.
At the terminal, you’ll find a range of services and amenities, including restrooms, a tourist information kiosk, places to get food, drinks and souvenirs, as well as tour and car rental providers. There’s also an outpost of popular chain Senor Frog’s.
Keep in mind that you will need some sort of taxi or car rental in order to see much of Freeport and Grand Bahama in general, and rideshare services are not available.
Cruise Lines that Visit Freeport and Where They Dock
Carnival Cruise Ship Docked in Freeport (Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas)
You can visit Freeport with a large number of different cruise lines, including:
Carnival Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean
Norwegian Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Crystal Cruises
Princess Cruises
Windstar Cruises
Margaritaville at Sea
Of course, some cruise lines visit the port more often than others. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Margaritaville at Sea stop in Freeport fairly regularly.
While the cruise port can accommodate multiple ships, it’s rare that you’ll see multiple ships visiting on the same day. Additionally, it’s fairly predictable that fewer Carnival Cruise Line ships will visit the Freeport cruise port once the nearby Celebration Key opens up.
Parking at Freeport Cruise Port
The Freeport cruise port is very rarely an embarkation or debarkation point. As such, you’ll not find an abundance of parking options near the port. The closest, most readily available public parking lots are a short drive away, at the Grand Bahama International Airport.
Traveling From Nearby Airports
Bahamasair Flight Approaching Grand Bahama Airport (Photo Credit: TAH Media)
Speaking of airports, the Grand Bahama International Airport is just a 15-minute drive from the Freeport cruise port. If you fly into the airport, you can take a rental car or a taxi service from the airport to the port. Unfortunately, ride-sharing services are not an option on Grand Bahama.
Passenger airlines that fly into Grand Bahama International Airport include American Eagle, BahamasAir, Flamingo Air, Silver Airways, WestJet and Western Air. Private aircraft also fly into the airport.
How to Get to Freeport Cruise Port
Bus Station in Freeport (Photo Credit: Karshfilm)
You can get to the Freeport cruise port from elsewhere on the island by taking a rental car, public transportation or taxi.
If you’re driving a private or rental car, take the Queen’s Highway or Grand Bahama Highway until you reach Freeport and then follow the signage for the cruise port.
Again, you can find the port’s location on Google Maps and similar navigation apps by searching for “Freeport Cruise Port, Wild Goose Town, Bahamas.” Rental providers include Avis, Hertz, and Dollar Rent-a-Car.
If you’d prefer to take a taxi, you won’t have much trouble finding one throughout most of the island. A taxi will cost you around $20–$30, depending on where you’re coming from.
Overall, the government-set rates are $3 for the first fourth-a-mile, plus $0.40 for each additional mile. You’ll also pay $3 per each additional passenger after the first passenger (excluding infants). The port features convenient drop-off, pick-up areas, so your taxi can get you as close to your ship as possible.
Taxi companies include Freeport Taxi Company and Grand Bahama Taxi Union.
Lastly, local bus service is available to the port from Lucaya and Freeport. Public buses will not take you directly to the port’s drop-off, pick-up areas, but it’ll get you pretty close. Bus fare is $1.50 for adults and $0.50 for children.
Previously, shuttle service was available from the port, but that is no longer the case.
Best Beaches Near Freeport Cruise Port
Xanadu Beach
Xanadu Beach, Freeport, Grand Bahama (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
The closest beach to the cruise port is Xanadu Beach, about a 10-minute drive away. It’s a perfectly nice beach for spending a day off the cruise ship, with few crowds, calm waves and the opportunity for water sports.
Taino Beach
Another, similarly close beach is Taino Beach, which has amenities such as beach bars and picnic areas. You can likewise enjoy water sports here and it’s a popular pick for families.
Silver Point Beach and Lucayan Beach
Lucayan beach (Photo Credit: Izodron)
If you’re willing to travel a bit further away from the port, though, you can find even more great beaches on Grand Bahama.
Silver Point Beach and Lucayan Beach are both just a little further away than Xanadu Beach. Popular with tourists, these beaches may be a bit more crowded, but with more visitors come more amenities and activities.
Gold Rock Beach
Gold Rock Beach (Photo Credit: Lisa5189)
For something more secluded, try Gold Rock Beach, which is more of a locals spot (though you might recognize it as a setting from “Pirates of the Caribbean”!).
It’s also right next to Lucayan National Park, so if you want to visit this landmark during your day on Grand Bahama, you can combine both into one excursion.
The national park, which is 30 miles from the port, is one of the top things to do and see while you’re on the island. With 40 acres, it’s small by national park standards, but it packs a lot into that small space.
There are three different ecosystems and, the park’s main attraction, one of the longest underwater cave systems in the world.
Paradise Cove
Lastly, Paradise Cove is a good pick for those specifically wanting to snorkel during their port day. Many cruise ships offer snorkeling excursions here, but other water sports are also on tap, such as paddle boarding, kayaking and fishing.
Dining Options Near Freeport Cruise Port
Dining at the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Anya Douglas)
If you’re a traveling foodie, you can’t miss out on the chance to explore authentic Bahamian cuisine. Bahamian staples include conch fritters and conch salad, fried fish, fried plantains, johnnycake, peas and rice, and rum cake.
So where can you go to try foods like these?
Robinson’s Seafood Delight
You don’t have to walk far at all. Robinson’s Seafood Delight is right inside the cruise ship pier and it offers homemade bites from a walk-up window.
Place your order from the small menu — expect plenty of shellfish and conch, plus some tacos, wraps and sandwiches — and then sit down at one of the outdoor tables to chow down.
Senor Frog’s
Senor Frog’s Freeport (Photo Credit: Eric Glenn)
As mentioned, you’ll also see a Senor Frog’s location at the terminal. If you’re not familiar with Senor Frog’s, this is a popular Mexican food chain that can be found in many cruise destinations around the Caribbean.
The restaurant is known for its large cocktails, party-centric atmosphere and accessible menu filled with items like nachos, wings and quesadillas.
Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience
If you’re already making plans to visit Taino Beach, be sure to stop by Tony Macaroni’s Conch Experience, where you can try a variety of conch-based dishes, plus other fresh seafood.
Billy Joe’s Restaurant
Another beachside spot is Billy Joe’s Restaurant on Lucaya Beach. This is a good option for those with a pickier eater in their midst, as the restaurant serves the classic conch dishes that the island is known for, but also classic American fare like burgers, fries, hot dogs and wings.
Flying Fish GastroBar
If you’re seeking something a little more upscale than a casual restaurant at the cruise port or a beach-side eatery, head over to Flying Fish GastroBar, an award-winning restaurant on the water that offers appetizers like the signature grilled calamari; lots of tapas options; wings; burgers; and the signature 72-hour beef short rib. Save room for dessert, such as the creamsicle bread pudding.
Bahamian Brewery
Want to enjoy both a drink and an experience? Visit Freeport’s Bahamian Brewery, where you can take a brewery tour and taste some of the local beer. The brewery is just a short drive away from the cruise port.
Shopping Near Freeport Cruise Port
Port Lucaya Marketplace, Freeport (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
There are some shopping options right within the cruise terminal (namely, the port’s straw market), but those who like to more thoroughly explore the local wares during their cruises often travel a bit further afield, to the Port Lucaya Marketplace.
Here, you’ll not only find lots of shopping options, with souvenirs and locally produced items galore, but also dining, drinks and entertainment such as live music.
The marketplace stretches out over nearly 10 acres next to the water. The open-air market features more than 40 specialty stores, more than 120 vendors, 11 restaurants and seven bars. In short, no matter what it is that you’re hoping to find while you’re shopping, you can probably find it at Port Lucaya Marketplace.
Lucaya Beach is also nearby, so you can pair visits to both in one afternoon.
Best Time to Visit Freeport
Carnival Ship Docked in Freeport (Photo Credit: YES Market Media)
The best time to visit Freeport is all about what you’re looking for! Peak visitor season is in the winter and early spring, December to April, just as it is all over the Caribbean. This is when you’ll find the best weather. Lots of cruise ships will take you to Grand Bahama during this period.
However, if you’d rather avoid the crowds, and maybe even get a great deal on your cruise fare, consider looking for a cruise that visits Freeport in the late spring or late fall. Think May or November.
It’s usually best not to visit Freeport during mid-summer or early fall, June through October, as this is hurricane season and the weather just in general is a little less agreeable, with extra-high temperatures and high humidity.
