Blog Page 18

Catamaran Owner Files to Have Scarlet Lady Seized Following Collision

Melissa Mayntz
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Catamaran Owner Files to Have Scarlet Lady Seized Following Collision

Key Aspects:

  • A claim has been filed against Scarlet Lady for €400,000 following the cruise ship snapping her lines and hitting a catamaran in Rhodes on September 30, 2026.
  • The catamaran’s owner has alleged damage and potential loss of revenue as the catamaran now needs inspections and repairs before returning to service.
  • Scarlet Lady was permitted to depart Rhodes on time on October 1 after an insurance company delivered a letter of guarantee against the claim.

The owner of the catamaran “King of Rhodes” that was struck by Scarlet Lady in Rhodes on September 30, 2026, after the cruise ship snapped mooring lines, has filed for the ship to be seized and not permitted to leave the Greek port.

According to local media, the catamaran owner filed a claim for at least €400,000 (roughly $448,000 USD) due to damage to the aft section of the vessel caused when Scarlet Lady broke free and hit the catamaran.

Cruise Hive reported on the incident that happened late on Wednesday evening, September 30, when strong winds and swells caused Scarlet Lady‘s lines to break. The cruise ship drifted briefly and contacted the catamaran and two smaller craft in the harbor, though no damage was reported at the time.

Scarlet Lady had originally been planned to depart Rhodes at 6 p.m. that evening, but instead remained in port overnight because the Port of Mykonos (next on the ship’s 7-night itinerary) had closed due to weather. It was during that extended stay that the incident occurred.

The catamaran’s owner applied to have Scarlet Lady seized and prevented from departing Rhodes on Thursday, October 1, while also calling for a full investigation of the incident.

Multiple types of damage to the catamaran were attributed to Scarlet Lady, including broken mooring caps, detached mooring pins, the loss of the vessel’s boarding and disembarkation ladder, and the destruction of the starboard platform protecting the propulsion system.

The owner is also concerned about potential hidden damage to the catamaran’s hull, stern, mooring points, and propulsion system. To fully determine the extent of any such damage, the catamaran must be lifted and inspected by technicians and other experts.

Because of the damage and the need for inspection, “King of Rhodes” cannot currently perform its daily tourist sailings, which the owner is claiming as loss of revenue. The €400,000 claim is considered an estimate of both repair needs as well as lost revenue, and that number could change as inspections are completed.

It is also possible that the catamaran’s owner may need to charter a different ship to fulfill contract obligations for their business, which would add to the claim cost.

“King of Rhodes” is listed as part of the Sea Dreams fleet and is described on the company’s website as “a modern, closed type vessel” with air conditioning and a snack bar. The catamaran has a passenger capacity of 338 guests and a speed of 33 knots (38 miles per hour). The company offers both one-way and roundtrip tourist routes from Rhodes, Symi, and Marmaris.

In addition to “King of Rhodes,” the company also operates “King Saron” and “Symi II.” “King of Rhodes” is the smallest vessel in the fleet.

Scarlet Lady Still Departed

Though the claim was filed requesting the seizure of Scarlet Lady, the Oslo-based marine insurance company Skuld delivered a “letter of guarantee” that permitted the cruise ship to depart Rhodes at 5 p.m. on October 1 as planned. The company has an office in Piraeus, Greece, as well as multiple other locations across the globe.

The letter ensures the claim will be honored if the ship is determined to be at fault, pending the thorough investigation of the incident.

More From Cruise Hive

It was critical that the complaint against Scarlet Lady be filed quickly, given that the ship is flagged in the Bahamas and moves between ports across the globe. The application for the complaint alleges that if the ship had left Greece without the claim filed, satisfying any claim would become more challenging and may have involved foreign jurisdictions.

The complaint will be discussed by a local court on February 23, 2027.

Cruise Hive has reached out to Virgin Voyages about the incident but had not heard back by press time.

Royal Caribbean Adds 2 New Hero of the Seas Sailings Before Its Debut

Calvin Musquez
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Royal Caribbean Adds 2 New Hero of the Seas Sailings Before Its Debut

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean has added two new Hero of the Seas cruises beginning August 1, 2027, moving the ship’s passenger debut forward by 10 days.
  • The new sailings include a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise on August 1 and a 3-night Perfect Day CocoCay getaway on August 8.
  • Guests booked on the previously scheduled August 11 inaugural sailing can switch to an earlier cruise without change fees until October 14, subject to availability and prevailing rates.

Royal Caribbean’s next ship will now welcome its first passengers earlier than planned. The cruise line has added two additional sailings aboard the upcoming Hero of the Seas ahead of its original inaugural sailing.

The 5,654-guest ship was originally set to embark on its 3-night maiden voyage from PortMiami on August 11, 2027, visiting Perfect Day CocoCay before returning on August 14. Passengers booked on that sailing recently received a notice informing them of the change.

“To celebrate this milestone, we’re excited to share that not only one, but two additional sailings have been added,” the notice said. “As you’re already booked on the Inaugural Sailing (August 11), we wanted you to be the first to know.”

The first new sailing will be a 7-night Perfect Day CocoCay & Western Caribbean Cruise departing August 1, 10 days before the original maiden voyage. This will be followed by a 3-night Perfect Day CocoCay Getaway on August 8, 2027. 

As some guests may have booked the August 11 sailing specifically to be among the first onboard, Royal Caribbean is giving them priority to switch to one of the new sailings. Bookings for staterooms open on the afternoon of October 7, 2026.

Guests can reserve those staterooms, subject to availability, at the prevailing rates, with change fees waived until October 14. All suites will also be held until that date, giving passengers the chance to book them before they are released for new bookings.

Hero of the Seas Letter
Hero of the Seas Letter

Guests are not required to change their plans and can keep their existing August 11 booking if desired. Royal Caribbean confirmed that no action is necessary for passengers who choose to remain on the sailing.

Other Icon Class Ships Also Arrived Early

Hero of the Seas is the fourth ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, following Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas. Its early debut also continues a pattern established by its predecessors.

This marks the third Icon Class ship in a row to add sailings before its originally scheduled debut. Cruise Hive reported in May 2025 that a fourth showcase cruise was added for Star of the Seas from Port Canaveral ahead of its official inaugural voyage.

That 4-night sailing departed on August 16, 2025, four days prior to the official maiden voyage on August 31. In that case, the August 31 cruise was still considered the inaugural sailing, with the earlier itineraries being “showcase cruises”, allowing guests to preview the ship before all features onboard were 100% finalized.

Hero of the Seas Float Out at the Meyer Turku Shipyard
Hero of the Seas Float Out at the Meyer Turku Shipyard

The cruise line also added a sailing aboard Legend of the Seas, a week earlier than previously announced. Legend of the Seas debuted on July 4, 2026, with a 7-night Western Mediterranean Cruise, instead of the original July 11 maiden voyage.

In both cases, the previously announced maiden voyages remained unchanged, and still sailed as scheduled. Similar to the new Hero of the Seas sailings, guests booked on those sailings were given the option to switch to the new, earlier voyages.

Hero of the Seas Reaches Construction Milestones

Royal Caribbean did not specify what made it possible to add the two earlier sailings. However, Hero of the Seas has recently reached several major construction milestones as work continues toward its 2027 debut.

A keel laying ceremony for the 248,663-gross-ton vessel took place in September 2025. Within months, the first cabins had been lifted into place and the massive Pearl structure was installed.

Most recently, Cruise Hive reported on another major construction milestone that occurred on September 4, 2026. After 12 months of construction, the ship floated out at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. 

Construction of the vessel is continuing at the outfitting pier at Meyer Turku. There, interior spaces, systems, and attractions are being completed before sea trials and eventual delivery.

Carnival Spirit Delayed Into Seattle After Repairs, Cruise Cut Short

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Spirit Delayed Into Seattle After Repairs, Cruise Cut Short

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Spirit required repairs while in Hawaii and is delayed in returning to Seattle, which pushes back her October 8 embarkation by a full day to October 9.
  • The next cruise, a 16-night (now 15-night) repositioning sailing from Seattle to Mobile, is shortened by a day and the visit to Cabo San Lucas is cancelled.
  • No change has been made to the ship’s full Panama Canal transit on Monday, October 19, and no other itinerary changes have been confirmed.

Guests eager to set sail aboard Carnival Spirit on Thursday, October 8, 2026 will now need to wait one more day before boarding the 88,500-gross-ton ship. Carnival Cruise Line has notified guests of the delay and how it will impact their itinerary for the 16-night (now 15-night) repositioning cruise.

“Saturday, October 3, Carnival Spirit had to extend time in Hawaii to address a repair issue that required additional time to complete,” the cruise line explained in a notification email. “As a result, the ship’s return to Seattle will be delayed until Friday, October 9, resulting in a shortening of your cruise by one day.”

Carnival Spirit will now depart Seattle on Friday, October 9, 2026. In addition to the one-day delay, this is also causing an itinerary change so the ship can make her Panama Canal transit as planned.

“Because we will be sailing later than scheduled, and, to keep our time slot for crossing the Panama Canal, we will not be able to visit Cabo San Lucas, Mexico,” the cruise line confirmed.

The ship was to have visited Cabo San Lucas from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13. That day will now be a day at sea as Carnival Spirit makes her way to Costa Rica for the call to Puntarenas on Saturday, October 17, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. That visit remains on schedule, as does the ship’s canal transit on Monday, October 19.

Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, confirmed Carnival Spirit will indeed keep her Panama Canal transit as planned. Multiple guests reached out to Heald concerned about the transit, which is a highlight of the repositioning voyage.

Carnival Spirit Cruise Ship
Carnival Spirit Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Ajith Achuthann)

“People have already written to me about it, will [the delay] affect our Panama Canal transit?” he noted in a video update. “No, we still have our slot booked for that.”

The nature of the “repair issue” that required Carnival Spirit to remain longer in Hawaii has not been disclosed. AIS tracking, however, shows the ship moving at 22 knots (25 miles per hour) on Monday as she returns to Seattle, which is close to her top cruising speed.

UPDATE – Carnival Cruise Line provided the following statement to Cruise Hive:

“Carnival Spirit made an unscheduled stop in Honolulu, Hawaii, on October 3rd for repairs that had to be done while the ship was in port. Those repairs were successfully completed that evening; however, the stop resulted in the cancellation of the ship’s planned visit to Victoria, British Columbia, and will delay her return to Seattle by one day, with the new arrival date of Friday, October 9. This delayed arrival is also impacting the following cruise, which will now be shortened one day and will not visit Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, as planned to ensure the scheduled time slot for crossing the Panama Canal is kept.

We have apologized to guests for the inconvenience, and our team is actively working to help them update their travel plans. All safety systems and hotel services aboard Carnival Spirit have continued to function normally. As always, the safety and wellbeing of guests and crew remain our priority, and we will continue to keep our guests apprised as appropriate.”

Compensation Offered

Because of the loss of a cruise day and a port visit, Carnival Cruise Line is offering compensation to impacted guests.

All guests will receive a one-day, pro-rated refund of the cruise fare that will be returned to the original form of payment. A full refund will also be provided for any pre-paid shore excursions for Cabo San Lucas that were purchased through the cruise line. That excursion refund will be added to guests’ onboard Sail & Sign accounts no later than the end of the day on Saturday, October 10.

If guests bought pre-paid packages for drinks or WiFi access, or if they pre-paid their gratuities, they will receive a one-day, pro-rated refund of those charges that will also be posted to their onboard accounts by the end of the day on October 10.

As a gesture of appreciation for guests’ understanding of the situation, Carnival Cruise Line is also providing a $250 (USD) onboard credit per stateroom.

Carnival Cruise Line will also reimburse any non-refundable airfare change fees or travel-related expenses up to $200 per person. Receipts must be submitted for reimbursement consideration. If guests booked airfare through the cruise line’s FLY2FUN program, any flight adjustments will be made automatically and guests will be contacted individually with details.

More From Cruise Hive

At this time, there are no confirmed changes for embarkation of the repositioning sailing other than the one-day delay, but Carnival Cruise Line has stated that it will reach out to guests by 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, with further details.

Guests should stay in close contact with the cruise line to be alerted to any additional updates as soon as they are available.

Rival Cruise Giants Team Up to Build New Terminal in Japan

Calvin Musquez
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Rival Cruise Giants Team Up to Build New Terminal in Japan

Key Aspects:

  • MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group have begun construction on a new cruise terminal at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan.
  • The terminal will be developed and operated by Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture representing the interests of the two cruise companies.
  • Construction is expected to be completed in March 2028, when the new terminal is also targeted to begin operations.

A new cruise terminal is being constructed at Naha Port in Okinawa, Japan, in partnership with two cruise industry giants. On October 5, 2026, representatives from Naha Port Authority and Cruise Port Naha G.K. gathered with cruise line officials to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new terminal. 

Naha was designated an International Cruise Ship Hub Formation Port by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism in 2019. The new terminal project follows that designation. The new facility is being built in partnership with MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean Group.

Representing the interests of both companies, Cruise Port Naha G.K., a joint venture between CTL Maritime and RCL Cruises Ltd, was formed under the Cruise Hub Formation Agreement reached with Naha Port Authority in August 2026. Cruise Port Naha G.K. will develop and operate the terminal.

A traditional Japanese ceremony at the future terminal site marked the occasion. The ceremony was attended by Preston Carnahan for Royal Caribbean Group, Oliviero Morelli for MSC, and Javier Rodriguez Sanchez for CTL Maritime along with Okinawa Governor and President of Naha Port Authority Genta Koja.

“For Royal Caribbean Group, Japan is one of the most important cruise markets in Asia – not only as a destination, but as a long-term partner in our global business,” said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group.

“Okinawa is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of some of Asia’s most exciting cruise destinations, and we see real potential for its future,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group, Cruises Division. “This project forms part of our long-term vision to expand our presence in the region.”

Construction of the terminal is scheduled for completion in March 2028, when operations are also expected to begin. The goal is for the terminal to enhance passenger handling capabilities, improve operational efficiency, and support long-term cruise tourism growth in Okinawa.

Why Cruise Lines Are Investing in Naha Port

Okinawa’s geography makes it a strategically significant location for cruise operators. It sits south of mainland Japan, between Japan’s main islands and Taiwan, making it a natural port for cruises linking Japan with destinations elsewhere in East Asia.  

Interest in the port has expanded in recent years. Cruise Hive reported in 2023 when MSC Cruises, after 15 years of sailing in Japan, began its first-ever winter season in Japan, with the 4,500-guest MSC Bellissima sailing from Naha Port beginning January 2024.

MSC also sees the terminal as supporting its wider ambitions in Asia. Vago said the development could create additional opportunities for both MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys to operate in the region year-round.

Royal Caribbean International has also sailed in Japan for over a decade. The 4,246-passenger Spectrum of the Seas regularly calls at Naha Port during 4- and 5-night Asian itineraries.

With both cruise companies already operating in the region, the new terminal gives them a more permanent stake in Okinawa’s cruise industry. Once completed, the facility will provide additional infrastructure to support their existing operations while creating room for further expansion in Japan and across Asia.

Carnival Radiance Back in Service With New Bow Crest After Dry Dock

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Radiance Back in Service With New Bow Crest After Dry Dock

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Radiance has completed a 15-day dry dock in Victoria, British Columbia and returned to service from Long Beach.
  • Updates include a refreshed Effy jewelry boutique as well as the new “From Sea to Shining Sea” bow crest.
  • The 2,984-guest ship is now offering Hawaii cruises on select dates along with Mexican Riviera and Baja Mexico sailings.

Carnival Radiance is back and looking fine, having just completed a 15-day dry dock refurbishment at the Seaspan shipyard in Victoria, British Columbia.

Even before guests began boarding the 101,509-gross-ton ship in Long Beach on Saturday, October 3, 2026, one of the updates was immediately visible as Carnival Radiance now sports the “From Sea to Shining Sea” bow crest, complete with the iconic Carnival funnel.

Cruise Hive first reported the appearance of the new crest when it was introduced in May 2026 on the hulls of Carnival Legend and Carnival Magic after those ships had dry dock updates in the Bahamas.

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the new bow crest would be rolled out across the fleet as ships underwent dry dock updates.

“With the debut of this new crest, we’re reinforcing what guests have long known: Carnival is proud to be America’s Cruise Line,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line, when the new crest was revealed.

“We sail coast to coast and connect with millions of guests every year, and this crest reflects the reach of our brand across the U.S. – from the communities we visit to the memories we help create at sea.”

Only two ships in the Carnival fleet will not sport the new bow crest. Carnival Jubilee and the upcoming Carnival Tropicale will instead have the Star of Texas bow crest that emphasizes their connection to the Lone Star State.

In early September, Carnival Cruise Line revealed new details on Carnival Tropicale and opened bookings for the ship’s first sailings from Galveston, including her debut on April 15, 2028.

Renewed Effy Jewelry Boutique on Carnival Radiance
Renewed Effy Jewelry Boutique on Carnival Radiance

During Carnival Radiance‘s recent dry dock refresh, the Effy jewelry boutique onboard was renewed with updated lighting and display cases. Other public guest spaces were also updated both on the ship’s interior as well as on the open decks.

New flooring and decking, refreshed lighting, hull painting, and behind-the-scenes technical updates are also common for regular dry dock maintenance to ensure the ship can sail as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Cruising on the Updated Carnival Radiance

The 2,984-guest Carnival Radiance has now resumed her regular schedule of sailings from Long Beach, California, having welcomed guests aboard on Saturday, October 3 for an 8-night roundtrip Mexican Riviera voyage with visits to Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, La Paz, and Cabo San Lucas.

Read Also: When Is the Best Time to Cruise the Mexican Riviera?

Following this first Mexican Riviera itinerary, Carnival Radiance will sail a special Carnival Journeys 14-night sailing to Hawaii departing on Sunday, October 11 and visiting Kahului, Honolulu, Nawiliwili, and Hilo in the Aloha State, as well as Ensenada, Mexico before returning to Long Beach.

Carnival Radiance will continue offering similar Hawaiian itineraries on select sailing dates, including November 8 and 28, 2026. In 2027, the ship will depart on Hawaiian cruises on January 17, February 14, March 14, and April 11.

The remainder of the ship’s itineraries include Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera itineraries ranging from 3-8 nights. From April 25, 2027, only 3- and 4-night sailings are offered, with the 3-night sailings visiting Ensenada and the 4-night cruises visiting both Ensenada and Catalina Island.

This schedule gives guests plenty of variety to choose from for sailing aboard the rejuvenated vessel and enjoying her new enhancements.

Royal Caribbean Delays Legend of the Seas Due to Bad Weather Conditions

Melissa Mayntz
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0
Royal Caribbean Delays Legend of the Seas Due to Bad Weather Conditions

Key Aspects:

  • Guests boarding Legend of the Seas on Sunday, October 4, 2026 in Barcelona have been alerted to a 2-hour embarkation delay.
  • Weather conditions are delaying the ship’s return to Barcelona and the area is under several rainfall and strong wind hazard alerts.
  • There have not yet been any confirmed changes to the 7-night Western Mediterranean cruise other than the delayed embarkation.

Poor weather has been affecting cruise ships all over the globe in recent weeks, and one of the newest, largest ships in the world isn’t exempt from weather-related delays.

Guests booked on the Sunday, October 4, 2026 departure of Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas have now been notified that their embarkation is delayed two hours as the ship is fighting rough weather on her return to Barcelona at the end of the previous sailing.

“Due to weather conditions impacting our ship’s return to Barcelona, we will need to delay tomorrow’s boarding,” the email, sent on Saturday evening, read. “As a result, embarkation will now begin at approximately 1:00 PM.”

Originally, Legend of the Seas was scheduled to begin embarkation at approximately 11 a.m. Now, all arrival times for the 5,610-guest, Icon-class ship are pushed back by two hours, with the latest arrival time at 5:30 p.m. instead of 3:30 p.m. as previously planned.

The email notes that all guests must be checked in at the cruise terminal by 6 p.m. and onboard the ship no later than 6:30 p.m. so the ship can depart.

Early arrivals are not recommended because the terminal will not be open for embarking guests before the new times, and Royal Caribbean will not accommodate early arrivals.

“Arriving ahead of time may result in being turned away as there will be no available seating,” the email explains. “Heavy rains are expected, and it will be uncomfortable waiting outside.”

Guests are urged to have their luggage tags firmly attached to their bags and have their online check-in forms ready for inspection as they arrive to help boarding move more efficiently.

Legend of the Seas Letter
Legend of the Seas Letter

Legend of the Seas‘ October 4 sailing is a 7-night Western Mediterranean itinerary with visits planned for Palma de Mallorca on Monday, October 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Marseille on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; La Spezia on Wednesday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Civitavecchia on Thursday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Naples on Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday, October 10 is planned as a day at sea as the ship returns to Barcelona for debarkation on Sunday, October 11.

As of press time there are no confirmed changes to the planned port visits or other adjustments to the sailing after the delayed embarkation.

Weather Update in Barcelona

According to the State Meteorological Agency of Spain, Barcelona is under an “extreme risk” warning for heavy rainfall from 9 p.m. on Saturday, October 3 through 11:59 a.m. on Sunday, October 4, exactly when Legend of the Seas is returning to the port.

During that time frame, precipitation of up to 3-4 inches of rain per hour may be expected, and a total accumulation of 7-8 inches over six hours may be possible.

Coastal areas, including the cruise port, may be especially impacted by swells and strong winds. A storm hazard for Barcelona during the same time frame notes that wind gusts of up to 90-120 kilometers per hour (55-75 mph) may be expected, along with the potential for hail.

Cruise lines always take weather alerts seriously, as sudden changes can lead to ships breaking mooring lines and drifting dangerously. Cruise Hive reported recently that Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady broke her lines in Rhodes on September 30, 2026, hitting three boats as she drifted.

Fortunately, there were no injuries or damage reported in that incident.

Holland America Makes Multiple Changes to 35-Day Zaandam Voyage

Melissa Mayntz
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Holland America Makes Multiple Changes to 35-Day Zaandam Voyage

Key Aspects:

  • Zaandam‘s 35-day Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary leaving San Diego on October 15, 2026 is shifting ports and changing port visit times.
  • Holland America Line has not explained the last-minute changes, but Zaandam did have confirmed propulsion difficulties in June 2026.
  • Guests are concerned about the strong El Niño in the Pacific Ocean and how that might impact the cruise, especially if there are technical difficulties.

The upcoming 35-day “Legendary Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas” sailing aboard Holland America Line’s Zaandam has seen significant port changes in recent days. The ship departs on Thursday, October 15, 2026 and ports are still being moved and times adjusted, raising concerns among booked guests about possible propulsion difficulties and other challenges.

Guests recently received notification of several changes, some of which provide unique opportunities but others that are disappointing to eager travelers.

For example, a swap in the order of calls to Raiatea and Bora Bora in French Polynesia does give guests more exclusivity during their visits to both destinations.

Originally, Zaandam was to have called on Bora Bora on Tuesday, November 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., followed by Raiatea on Wednesday, November 4 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. On those dates, Silversea’s Silver Whisper is also planned for each port.

Now, Zaandam will visit Raiatea on November 3 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Bora Bora on November 4 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

“These revised dates mean Zaandam will be the only ship in port during both visits, providing greater access to local transportation, shore excursions, and experiences ashore. An earlier departure time from Bora Bora will also offer the opportunity to enjoy a memorable sunset sailaway,” the cruise line explained.

While Silver Whisper only has a guest capacity of 388 travelers compared to the 1,432-guest Zaandam, the extra guests could have caused crowding at such unique destinations.

Holland America Zaandam
Holland America Zaandam Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Wayleebird)

Could There Be Propulsion Problems?

Not all the itinerary changes are welcome ones, however, and some changes are causing concern to booked guests.

“Adjustments to the ship’s planned operating speed will be required during portions of the voyage,” the email noted. “As a result, we will no longer call at Tabuaeran (Fanning Island), Kiribati, on Thursday, October 29, and have adjusted the time spent in certain ports.”

To compensate for the loss of Tabuaeran, two extra hours have been added to two different ports, Kahului on October 24 and Moorea on November 6.

Holland America Line has not disclosed why Zaandam must have adjustments to her planned operating speed. In many cases, such operational changes may indicate propulsion difficulties.

Cruise Hive reported in June 2026 that Zaandam had to drop both Skagway and Ketchikan from her June 3 Alaska sailing, as well as skip scenic Glacier Bay cruising, due to propulsion difficulties.

At that time, Holland America Line confirmed the technical problems and scheduled overnight time in Juneau for repairs.

“We’re dealing with a technical issue affecting one of our propulsion systems, which means we’re unable to sail at our normal speed,” the ship’s captain announced to guests on the June 3 sailing.

The ship’s next voyage, scheduled to depart on June 10, was also delayed more than a full day and had to operate a revised itinerary with just two port visits, Wrangell and Ketchikan.

In addition to the extended time for Kahului and Moorea, Holland America Line is providing all guests on the October 15 departure with a $100 (USD) non-refundable credit to their shipboard accounts. That credit can be used at any time during the sailing for retail purchases, spa treatments, specialty dining, shore tours, and other spending.

Some guests are concerned about the voyage, however, as the sailing is covering more than 9,400 miles in destinations far from advanced shipyards.

“We are going to cross the pacific and no guarantee that the problem with the propulsion system is not going to get worse,” one guest commented on Facebook.

“I am very concerned about having mechanical [issues] in middle of Pacific with hurricanes going through lately due to El Niño,” another guest mentioned. “One by Cabo right now, three earlier this past week.”

Other guests are acknowledging that no ports are ever guaranteed on an itinerary and may be cancelled at the last minute for a variety of factors. The uniqueness of the sailing and the exotic destinations continue to make the itinerary worthwhile for many booked guests, despite the last-minute shuffling.

Brilliant Lady Drops Port as Hurricane Rachel Swells Linger

Calvin Musquez
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Brilliant Lady Drops Port as Hurricane Rachel Swells Linger

Key Aspects:

  • Virgin Voyages has dropped Brilliant Lady’s October 5 call to Cabo San Lucas due to residual swell left behind by Hurricane Rachel.
  • The cruise line says conditions would make tendering in Cabo unsafe, even though the hurricane has moved away from the ship’s route.
  • Ensenada will replace Cabo on the 7-night October 3 sailing from Los Angeles, while the remainder of the Mexican Riviera itinerary remains unchanged.

Virgin Voyages has confirmed an itinerary change for Brilliant Lady’s October 3 departure from Los Angeles. A scheduled port call in Cabo San Lucas has been dropped due to lingering ocean conditions from Hurricane Rachel.

The 7-night Mexican Riviera itinerary from the California port was originally scheduled to visit Cabo San Lucas on October 5, Mazatlan on October 6, and Puerto Vallarta on October 7. The 2,770-guest ship is set to return to Los Angeles on October 10.

The port of Cabo San Lucas has been closed since September 30 due to rough sea conditions, with no reopening date specified. Virgin Voyages subsequently cancelled the scheduled call in the Mexican port, citing unsafe residual swell.

Unlike many cruise ports, Cabo San Lucas does not have a cruise terminal where ships can dock directly. Cruise ships instead anchor offshore and use smaller tender boats to transport guests between the vessel and shore, making rough sea conditions particularly important for safety.

The cruise line confirmed the cancellation in an email to guests and in an update on its website. After receiving the email, a booked guest shared it on Reddit.

“Hurricane Rachel has safely moved away from our route, but it’s left behind residual swell strong enough that tendering into Cabo San Lucas wouldn’t be safe or comfortable,” the email reads.

Brilliant Lady’s call in Cabo will be replaced by a sea day with a visit to Ensenada added on October 4, meaning guests will still get three days ashore in Mexico. The remainder of the itinerary remains unchanged.

Brilliant Lady Cruise Ship
Brilliant Lady Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Primestock Photography)

This is the second consecutive sailing aboard Brilliant Lady to be affected by a hurricane. The September 26 sailing from Los Angeles was substantially rerouted because of Hurricane Polo.

Cabo, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta were all cancelled, with Brilliant Lady instead visiting San Francisco, San Diego, and Ensenada. That cruise returns to Los Angeles on October 3, the same day this newly affected sailing departs. 

Guests Were Warned of Potential Itinerary Changes

The reroute to Ensenada came as a disappointment to some guests, with one passenger commenting on Reddit that it is a “major downgrade from Cabo”. Nonetheless, the change did not come as a surprise.

Cruise Hive reported on September 30 that Virgin had already warned guests on this sailing that Rachel could force changes. At that point, Virgin said the planned path would bring Brilliant Lady near Baja California Sunday night into Monday morning and that an alternate itinerary was being prepared.

Virgin Voyages was considering alternatives such as Astoria, Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria, and San Francisco, depending on how the storm progressed. One guest commenting on Reddit was relieved to see how minimal the reroute ended up being.

“I was a bit disappointed to see this, but compared to the possibility of re-routing to San Francisco, I’ll take it!” the guest said.

With no clear reopening date for the port of Cabo San Lucas, it is not yet known whether the disruption could affect the next sailing as well. The October 10 departure of Brilliant Lady from Los Angeles is currently scheduled to visit the Mexican port on October 12.

Virgin Voyages Ship Breaks Free in Rhodes and Hits Three Boats

Melissa Mayntz
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Virgin Voyages Ship Breaks Free in Rhodes and Hits Three Boats

Key Aspects:

  • Scarlet Lady broke free of her mooring lines while visiting Rhodes on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, briefly contacting three smaller boats.
  • The ship was in port later than anticipated due to poor weather that caused an itinerary adjustment for the 7-night sailing.
  • No guest or crew member injuries were reported and Scarlet Lady was able to move back into position under her own power.

It was a night for seeing red aboard Scarlet Lady on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, but not because of Virgin Voyages’ signature Scarlet Night. Wednesday evening, strong waves and heavy swells caused the 110,000-gross-ton ship to break free of her mooring lines at the Port of Rhodes.

According to Pontos News, several lines broke and Scarlet Lady moved away from the dock and toward the edge of the harbor. At that point, the cruise ship came into contact with a catamaran and two smaller boats.

The exact timing of the incident is unclear, as some local reports note the lines breaking just after 8:15 p.m. while others state 9:15 p.m.

Local reports noted that no damage was immediately reported to either the smaller craft or the cruise ship. The port’s tugboats were put on immediate standby in case their assistance was needed, but Scarlet Lady was able to move back into her mooring position under her own power.

There were no reports of injuries to either guests or crew members related to the incident.

Itinerary Change Kept Ship in Port

Scarlet Lady had departed Piraeus (Athens) on Sunday, September 27, 2026 for a 7-night Greek Isles itinerary. The 2,770-guest ship was originally scheduled to visit Bodrum, Turkey on Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Rhodes on Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Mykonos for an overnight from 9 a.m. on Thursday, October 1 until 2 p.m. on Friday, October 2; and Santorini from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, October 3.

Guests were notified about a weather-related update, however, that required an itinerary change.

“Due to high winds, the Port of Mykonos has closed so we’ve had to adjust our itinerary,” the notification confirmed on Tuesday, September 29. “Instead of calling in Mykonos on Thursday and Friday, we’re extending our stay in Rhodes with an overnight.”

The updated schedule estimated that Scarlet Lady would arrive in Rhodes at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, and would remain until Thursday, October 1 at 5 p.m. A new visit to Chania was added to the ship’s itinerary for Friday, October 2.

The itinerary change explains why Scarlet Lady was still in Rhodes that evening. Under the original schedule, she would have departed at 6 p.m.

AIS tracking confirms that Scarlet Lady completed the impromptu visit to Chania on Friday and has already departed that port destination on her way to Santorini.

Broken Lines Not Rare in Rough Weather

While not a normal occurrence on every cruise, broken mooring lines are not entirely rare. Cruise Hive has reported on broken rope and drifting incidents from many different cruise lines, including when a sudden burst of strong winds broke the lines on Norwegian Prima in Port Canaveral on January 18, 2026.

Similarly, MSC Seaside broke free from the pier at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas on February 5, 2026.

While most such incidents do not cause significant damage, other occasions do have more severe consequences. On September 8, 2026, AIDAperla broke free in Le Havre, France due to strong winds, and the ship made contact with the nearby quay.

The incident caused a temporary closure of the port and a two-hour delay to another cruise ship in port as well as the cancellation of the next port (Zeebrugge) for AIDAperla while the ship was inspected. Fortunately, there were no guest or crew member injuries reported.

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