blog - Page 25 of 636

P&O Cruises Toughens Alcohol Policy and Expands Conduct Rules

P&O Cruises News

-

Jun 22, 2026

0

P&O Cruises Toughens Alcohol Policy and Expands Conduct Rules

Key Aspects:

P&O Cruises will now confiscate and discard wine of Champagne exceeding its one-liter allowance.
The allowance remains unchanged for wine and Champagne, and spirits and other alcoholic beverages remain prohibited.
The alcohol policy comes alongside expanded guest conduct rules covering disruptive behavior.

Bringing too much wine onboard a P&O Cruises ship could now come with a costly consequence.

The cruise line has updated its alcohol policy, introducing a stricter rule for guests who exceed the line’s one-liter wine or Champagne allowance at embarkation.

Under the previous policy, passengers who brought more than the permitted one liter had the excess stored and returned at the end of the cruise. Under the revised policy, any wine or Champagne over that limit will be confiscated and discarded, with no compensation provided.

The allowance itself remains unchanged. Guests aged 18 and older (or 21 and older when sailing from US ports) may still bring up to one liter of wine of Champagne onboard when they embark for the first time. Spirits and other alcoholic beverages remain prohibited.

“Each guest aged 18 years (21 years in United States of America ports) and older may bring up to one litre of wine or Champagne on board when they embark the ship for the first time only. Wine or Champagne over the one-litre limit will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided,” said the cruise line.

The revised policy continues P&O Cruises’ focus on responsible drinking. Guests who appear intoxicated can be denied service, and the cruise line warns that offensive, unruly, dangerous, or violent behavior linked to alcohol consumption could result in serious consequences.

Any alcohol purchased ashore during a cruise must still be declared and handed over at the gangway, where it will be stored and returned before the end of the voyage. Alcohol purchased from onboard duty-free shops is also held until the cruise concludes.

While the confiscation rule may seem like a small change, it represents a tougher approach and removes what had effectively been a grace period for passengers breaking the rules.

Expanded Rules on Behavior

The alcohol update is just one part of a broader revision to P&O Cruises’ guest policies, which now contain more detail about passenger behavior and the consequences for breaking the rules.

Under the new guidelines, guests who become excessively intoxicated, harass others, create disturbances, or refuse crew instructions could face disciplinary action during their cruise.

P&O Cruises Ship (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)

Whether it’s a confrontation in a bar, shouting in a hallway after midnight, or behavior that leaves other guests feeling uncomfortable, P&O Cruises is making it clear that disruptive conduct will not be ignored.

Said the cruise line, “At all times while on board and during shore experiences, guests are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner and with due regard to the health, safety and enjoyment of all other guests, crew and shore experience guides.”

P&O Cruises also reminded passengers that failure to comply could result in being sent home at their own cost.

The updated code specifically prohibits abusive, aggressive, threatening, intimidating, or discriminatory behavior. Harassment, bullying, offensive language, and unwanted physical contact are also among the actions that could result in intervention from crew members.

The cruise line has also added new language addressing excessive noise, reminding guests that everyone onboard is entitled to enjoy their vacation without disruption.

The changes don’t stop with adults. Parents and guardians are also being put on notice. The updated rules make clear that adults are responsible for supervising children throughout the voyage and ensuring they follow ship rules and behave appropriately in public spaces.

The code also reinforces the authority of crew members, stating that guests must comply with instructions and cooperate with any onboard safety or security investigations.

Passengers who violate the policy could face consequences ranging from warnings and removal from activities to confinement in their cabin. In more serious cases, guests could be denied boarding, removed from the ship at their own expense, or prevented from sailing with the cruise line in the future.

Without a Pilot, Carnival Splendor Becomes an Unplanned Cruise to Nowhere

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Jun 22, 2026

0

Without a Pilot, Carnival Splendor Becomes an Unplanned Cruise to Nowhere

Key Aspects:

Carnival Splendor will skip Moreton Island on Monday, June 22 because no marine pilot is available.
Guests were given $100 AUD per stateroom as compensation for missing the only port of call on the 4-night cruise.
No alternative ports are available and there are no other changes to the ship’s itinerary.

Guests aboard Carnival Splendor are not able to enjoy their only port of call on their 4-night getaway due to unusual circumstances with a necessary pilot.

The 113,600-gross-ton ship departed Sydney, Australia, as planned on Saturday, June 20, for the short getaway that was to have included a stop at Moreton Island in Queensland on Monday, June 22.

Unfortunately, that visit is no longer possible due to the unavailability of a pilot to help guide the 3,012-passenger ship into Moreton Bay. Guests were informed about the change with announcements over the public address system as well as a letter delivered to their staterooms.

“A marine pilot is required to be on board the ship as we enter and exit Moreton Bay to get to Moreton Island,” the letter explained. “Unfortunately, our pilotage provider has advised us that they will not be able to provide us with a pilot in time tomorrow, due to unexpected circumstances.”

Carnival Splendor was scheduled to visit the island from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The “unexpected circumstances” have not been explained, but could simply be a labor shortage, illness, or other personal situation that prevents the pilot from assisting the cruise ship at that time.

Marine pilots, also called maritime pilots or harbor pilots, are experts in their specific waterways and the unique hazards and challenges individual waterways may present. Moreton Bay, for example, has significant sandbanks and other obstacles that must be navigated very precisely, as well as heavy marine traffic to coordinate.

Carnival Splendor Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: denbaim)

Because no pilot is available to safely guide Carnival Splendor, the ship is unable to make the port visit and will instead enjoy a day at sea. Satellite tracking shows the ship did sail as far north as Moreton Island, but then turned to head south again without entering the bay. No alternative ports are feasible on the sailing.

There is no further change to the ship’s itinerary and she should arrive back to Sydney by 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24 as planned.

Compensation Offered

Missing a port visit can happen for a variety of reasons, such as weather, civil unrest, or mechanical difficulties with the ship.

In general, cruise lines do not offer compensation for itinerary changes that are out of their control, but the change with Carnival Splendor is unique because Moreton Island was the only port visit on the short cruise.

Because of that, guests are receiving a $100 (AUD, approximately $70 USD) credit per stateroom “as a gesture of appreciation” for understanding the unusual situation.

Any shore tours booked through Carnival Cruise Line for Moreton Island will be automatically cancelled and refunded to guests’ onboard accounts.

Those onboard credits can be used for drink purchases, retail therapy, spa treatments, specialty dining, photos, and other onboard purchases.

If guests have booked tours through independent operators, they would need to contact those operators directly for cancellation and refund options, if available.

Not the First Pilot Incident

Cruise Hive has occasionally reported when different issues with harbor pilots may disrupt cruise operations. This can happen occasionally with labor disputes or on very busy days when not enough pilots may be available to handle all the traffic at busier ports.

In February 2026, a harbor pilot fell into the ocean when attempting to board Emerald Princess for a visit to Kauai, Hawaii during exceptionally rough seas. While the pilot did not appear to be injured, the port visit was cancelled.

Cruise lines always consider the safety of crew members, guests, and the communities they visit when making any port cancellation decisions. This includes the safety of marine pilots and everyone who works at the port or harbor facilities.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Enters Seward With Dead Whale on Its Bow

Royal Caribbean News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Jun 22, 2026

0

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Enters Seward With Dead Whale on Its Bow

Key Aspects:

Ovation of the Seas arrived in Seward, Alaska with a dead whale on the bulbous bow on Friday, June 19.
It is unknown whether the ship struck and killed the whale or if the animal was already deceased when it was hit.
The Alaska Sea Life Center and NOAA are investigating the incident and performing a necropsy to determine the cause of death.

Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas sadly arrived in Seward, Alaska on Friday, June 19, 2026 with a 61-foot female fin whale that the ship may have struck and killed en route to its northern homeport.

The Quantum class ship had departed Vancouver, British Columbia for the one-way Alaskan cruise on Friday, June 12. On her way to Seward, the ship visited Sitka, Juneau, and Skagway, as well as enjoyed scenic glacier cruising.

Ovation of the Seas is offering the north-south route for the Alaska season through mid-September, with departures from Vancouver (northbound) and Seward (southbound) every other week.

Upon arriving in Seward this time, however, the whale was draped across the ship’s bulbous bow, the projection of the hull just under the forward waterline that helps with ship stability and reduces drag.

According to SAKtown News, immediately after the ship docked as planned, the whale carcass was draped with a tarp to keep it from view and to preserve the body for examination.

On Friday evening, the carcass was towed to a protected lagoon at Lowell Point, roughly three miles south of the Seward cruise terminal. A marine wildlife expert team from the Alaska Sealife Center and NOAA performed a necropsy (animal autopsy).

Part of the investigation was to determine if the whale was killed by the ship or if the animal may have died of other causes and was snagged by the ship as the vessel entered Resurrection Bay.

Samples from the carcass must be examined for evidence of bacteria or illnesses that may have caused the whale’s death, and other signs of trauma will also be noted.

Cruise Hive has reached out to Royal Caribbean about the incident but has not yet received a response from the cruise line.

Fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) are the second-largest species of baleen whale and can reach up to 90 feet long. Since the killed whale was just 61 feet, it was a smaller member of the species and may have been a juvenile.

Ovation of the Seas With Whale (Photo Credit: pizzaboy420)

These whales are considered at risk and vulnerable on environmental ranking scales, making the loss of a young whale especially devastating to local populations.

As the Dale R. and Carol Ann Lindsey Alaska Railroad Terminal in Seward only opened to welcome guests on June 10, this unfortunate incident is especially troubling.

Cruise Hive has already reported that the 4,180-guest Ovation of the Seas is the first Royal Caribbean ship to use the new terminal. Despite this troubling incident, there was no delay to the ship’s schedule and the vessel departed on its next sailing on time.

Not the First Whale Incident

Startlingly, this is not the first time a fin whale has been dragged into Seward on the bow of a cruise ship.

In 2016, a similar incident occurred with Holland America Line’s Zaandam, which snagged a young male fin whale in nearly the same location. In that incident, the cruise line was determined not to be at fault, as the ship had been proceeding at recommended speeds with lookouts posted.

Comparing the two cruise ships, however, Zaandam is just 61,396 gross tons. The 168,666-gross-ton Ovation of the Seas is more than double the size of the Holland America Line vessel.

It is unknown whether or not the ship’s overall size could play a stronger factor than anticipated as a threat to marine wildlife.

More recently, MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia arrived in New York with a whale on its bow in May 2024. At 171,598 gross tons, MSC Meraviglia is even larger than Ovation of the Seas.

Cruise ships use several different tactics to minimize noise in the water, including hull shape, specialized paint, and reduced speeds. These steps are meant to minimize disruption to marine ecosystems but also can make it more challenging for larger animals, including whales, to notice the ship and get out of its path quickly enough to avoid a collision.

Local opinions are mixed on this incident. In a popular Reddit thread, more than 230 comments are discussing the whale’s death.

Some note that, while unfortunate, such incidents do happen.

“Former maritime worker. This is a not uncommon cruise ship reality,” one commenter explained. “I worked on a vessel in Norway for a while and it happened there, too. I wish it weren’t so.”

One person succinctly compared the incident to hitting a deer with a car. Tragic and unfortunate, but such accidents do happen. Others compared the situation to wildlife killed by planes or trains.

Nevertheless, a full investigation will undoubtedly consider how Ovation of the Seas approached the harbor and the speed the ship was traveling, as well as its exact route.

No official cause of death for the whale has yet been released, and it may be some time before full results are available.

Man Jailed Over 4 Years After Sneaking Onto Alaska Cruise With a Stolen ID

Port News

Lissa Poirot

-

Jun 21, 2026

0

Man Jailed Over 4 Years After Sneaking Onto Alaska Cruise With a Stolen ID

Key Aspects:

A federal judge sentenced a cruise passenger to more than four years in prison for identity theft and falsely claiming to be a US citizen.
Investigators found multiple fraudulent documents, including a counterfeit driver’s license, birth certificate, and tax form.
The man was also ordered to pay more than $25,000 in restitution and faces deportation after serving his sentence.

A man who boarded an Alaska cruise under a stolen identity will spend over four years in federal prison. The man admitted to identity theft and falsely claimed to be a US citizen.

Enrico Ronquillo, 38, was sentenced June 17, 2026, in federal court after pleading guilty to one count of false impersonation of a US citizen and one count of aggravated identity theft, according to court documents.

The case began when Ronquillo boarded a cruise ship in Seattle on May 11, 2025. Prosecutors said he represented himself as a US citizen during the boarding process and used another person’s name, date of birth, and address when completing the cruise line’s online passenger application.

Three days later, when the vessel arrived in Juneau, officers with US Customs and Border Protection conducted a search and discovered documents that raised concerns.

“Mr. Ronquillo knowingly used stolen identities and personal information of innocent US citizens to gain passage on a cruise ship and enrich himself at its casino,” said US Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska.

In addition to the prison sentence, Ronquillo was ordered to serve one year of supervised release after completing his prison term. The court has also ordered him to pay more than $25,000 in restitution.

Because Ronquillo is not a US citizen, authorities said he faces deportation proceedings after serving his sentence. Local media noted that while he is a lawful permanent resident, the convictions could affect his ability to remain in the country.

Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Charles HHuang)

“This fraudster stole the identity of a US citizen and impersonated the victim while on board a cruise said, where he then continued to commit financial fraud crimes on the high seas,” said Charge Zachary Pomerantz, assistant special agent in charge of the FBI Anchorage Field Office.

Pomerantz reminded the public that identity theft and impersonating a US citizen carry real consequences and that his office is committed to protecting US citizens.

Multiple Fraudulent Documents

Cruise ships sailing in international waters are required to maintain accurate passenger manifests for inspection by US Customs and Border Protection. Ronquillo’s use of a stolen identity allowed him to appear on the ship’s manifest as a US citizen.

After the unidentified Alaskan cruise ship arrived in Juneau, Customs and Border Protection officers boarded the vessel and searched Ronquillo’s backpack, leading to the discovery of fraudulent documents, including a California driver’s license connected to an identity theft victim who reported losing it in Las Vegas in 2023.

The stolen driver’s license with Ronquillo’s photo was not the only fraudulent document tied to the case. According to court records, investigators found a counterfeit birth certificate and a fraudulent W-9 tax form.

The multiple documents helped investigators piece together the broader identity theft scheme and included numerous federal, state, and local agencies, including Alaska State Troopers, the Coast Guard Investigative Service, Homeland Security Investigations, the TSA’s Office of Law Enforcement, the Federal Air Marshal Service, and the FBI’s Los Angeles Office.

After a federal indictment in June 2025, Ronquillo later pleaded guilty in February 2026 before receiving his sentence this month.

Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Morning Soda Availability Across Ships

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Jun 20, 2026

0

Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Morning Soda Availability Across Ships

Key Aspects:

One guest is frustrated that soda is not widely available first thing in the morning onboard Carnival ships.
John Heald has clarified that the JavaBlue Cafe does offer soda and energy drinks as soon as it opens every morning.
Experienced guests have also offered other solutions so that anyone can enjoy soda at any time they wish.

Many people are fiercely loyal to a specific brand of soda, but are they equally insistent on when they drink that soda? One Carnival Cruise Line passenger has reached out to learn if they can have their drink of choice first thing in the morning.

The guest, who was recently aboard Carnival Sunrise sailing from Miami, noted that soda isn’t widely available early in the day and reached out to the cruise line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, about where and when they can get the fizzy refreshment.

“Does Carnival understand that many of us drink soda with breakfast?” they asked on Heald’s Facebook page. “The problem is John that the first bar to open on the Sunrise was the lobby and not 8 in the morning.”

It’s true that bars onboard do not open until later in the morning when more guests are seeking adult beverages. It can be hard to find soda at other locations.

“I need to have a Coke with breakfast. John you should try it and ditch the coffee. It’s refreshing,” the guest explained. “Please do something to help the many American cruisers who want a soda before or with breakfast.”

While not all cruisers agree that a soda is “refreshing” first thing in the morning, Carnival Cruise Line does try to have a variety of options available for their guests.

Heald noted that the JavaBlue Cafe (or other coffee shops onboard, depending on the ship) does offer both soda and energy drinks even in the early morning.

“We now have soda and energy drinks available from the JavaBlue cafes across the fleet and they open at 7am or thereabout,” he said.

Heald also spoke with “the Beards” to confirm the availability of sodas from the coffee shops on every ship early in the morning.

Cruise Ship Coffee (Photo Credit: Kite_rin)

Carnival Cruise Line does serve Coca-Cola products, a switch the line made in mid-2025 after years of offering Pepsi products. Cruise Hive reported on the change with a complete list of available products.

It is not unusual for cruise lines to periodically switch between major suppliers as provisioning contracts are renegotiated.

Do Cruisers Drink Soda in the Morning?

For many travelers, the morning drink of choice would be coffee or fruit juice. Carnival offers orange juice, apple juice, and a delicious orange-passionfruit-guava blend that is this writer’s favorite.

For those who need a bit more of a kick for waking up, energy drinks or traditional morning cocktails like Bloody Marys, Irish coffee, mimosas, or bellinis are also popular.

While many other commenters noted they do prefer other drinks in the morning, some support the early morning soda idea.

This is especially true for those who don’t care for coffee but may still need a bit of caffeine to start the day.

“My Diet Coke is my coffee,” one quest quipped.

An ice-cold soda might also be preferred on hot Caribbean mornings, particularly if guests aren’t accustomed to tropical temperatures.

Guests Suggest Other Solutions

If the original poster prefers their first soda of the day even earlier than when the JavaBlue Cafe opens, other Carnival guests suggested a variety of options.

It is possible, for example, to get an unopened can of soda from a bar or lounge the night before, then keep it in one’s stateroom for that early morning drink. While stateroom coolers are not as cold as fridges, guests can request ice from their cabin attendant every evening to keep a soda cold or they can get a glass of ice at breakfast.

Another option is to bring a 12-pack of one’s soda of choice at embarkation. The Carnival Cruise Line’s beverage policy permits every guest to bring “a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12-ounces/354-ml each or less, per person” onboard.

Cases or cartons of soda must be in carry-on luggage and are subject to inspection.

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which is Better for Motion Sickness?

First Time Cruisers

Emrys Thakkar

-

Jun 20, 2026

0

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which is Better for Motion Sickness?

Key Aspects:

Both original Bonine and Dramamine are over-the-counter antihistamines and forms of motion sickness medication, but their active ingredients differ.
When it comes to Bonine vs. Dramamine, Dramamine is more likely to make you drowsy but typically kicks in faster, while Bonine lasts longer.
Other ways to reduce motion sickness include using acupressure bands, ginger/licorice, and light snacks.

There’s nothing worse than being motion sick on a cruise (okay, maybe there are some worse things that can happen on a cruise, but motion sickness is up there), especially if it’s your first cruise and you’re just slammed with a wave of nausea that you weren’t expecting.

You imagined yourself having fun in the sun, downing all those complimentary drinks, and lounging by the pool, and instead you’re holed up in your cabin with your head between your knees.

I don’t always suffer from it, but when motion sickness hits (like during rough seas), I’ll do anything to relieve the symptoms, and there are two primary OTC medications that cruisers reach for, to combat motion sickness symptoms: Bonine and Dramamine. While similar, they do differ in dosing, effectiveness and more. Here’s how to compare Bonine vs. Dramamine (original formulas) and how to choose which option is best for you.

What is Bonine?

Bonine’s active ingredient is meclizine. Taken before symptoms start, Bonine can prevent motion sickness symptoms for more than 12 hours, including nausea, dizziness and vomiting. Bonine typically does not cause drowsiness, but there’s no guarantee, unfortunately. You can take Bonine either on an empty stomach or with food, and take it every 24 hours for motion sickness.

Bonine is also sometimes used to treat symptoms of vertigo. You should not drink alcohol when taking Bonine.

Possible Bonine Side Effects

Side effects that you might experience after taking Bonine include:

Drowsiness or tiredness
Dry mouth
Headache
Vomiting

Who Should Not Use Bonine

Bonine is not intended for those under the age of 12. It’s advised that you check with a doctor before taking Bonine if you have or have had glaucoma, breathing problems, urination problems (including enlarged prostate), and liver or kidney disease.

It’s also not a great idea to use Bonine after recent use of alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers. Additionally, ask a doctor if you take any opioids, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, or anxiety or seizure-related medications.

What is Dramamine?

Original-formula Dramamine’s active ingredient is dimenhydrinate. It’s used to treat motion sickness symptoms including nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Dramamine is a chewable tablet and it works best if taken 30–60 minutes before your cruise begins.

You cannot drink alcohol while taking Dramamine. Dramamine can be taken every four to six hours, as needed.

Possible Dramamine Side Effects

Drowsiness
Headache
Blurred vision
Tinnitus
Dryness of mouth
Lack of coordination
Palpitation
Dizziness
Hypotension
Trouble breathing or coughing
Painful or difficult urination

Who Should Not Use Dramamine

You should not use Dramamine if you have urination problems (including an enlarged prostate), breathing problems, or glaucoma. Avoid taking Dramamine if you also recently used alcohol, sedatives, or tranquilizers.

Just as is the case with Bonine, ask a doctor before using Dramamine if you take any opioids, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, sedatives, tranquilizers or anxiety or seizure-related medications. Those over the age of 65 may also want to ask their doctor before using Dramamine.

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which is Better?

Effectiveness

It’s generally the case that Dramamine works faster than Bonine, but Bonine offers longer-lasting symptom relief, and you won’t have to take it as often throughout the day. Both medications need to be taken before your cruise begins, for best results.

Chewable vs. Pill

Bonine is only available as a chewable table, while you can purchase Dramamine as a chewable tablet or as a pill.

Safety for Children

Another big difference between Bonine and Dramamine is who can actually take it. Bonine is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Dramamine, meanwhile, can be given to children aged 2 or older.

Side Effects

In terms of side effects and potential risks, both Bonine and Dramamine are pretty comparable, except when it comes to one specific side effect. Dramamine is notorious for making you drowsy. I can take Dramamine and be out like a light in half an hour.

As Dr. Natascha Tuznik, infectious disease specialist and associate clinical professor of medicine at UC Davis Medical Center, told NBC in a 2025 interview, regarding Dramamine, “Unfortunately, not much can be done to mitigate the side effects. If you’ve taken it before, you should expect similar side effects each time.” Tuznik confirmed with the publication, though, that Bonine was indeed “less likely to cause drowsiness.”

Cost

If you’re worried about cost, you can get both Bonine and Dramamine for $5–$10 at your typical grocery store. You can purchase these medications after you’re already on the ship, but remember that any necessities such as these are marked up considerably in the ship’s stores. Even if you just think you might need an anti-seasickness medication, go ahead and buy it before your cruise, rather than waiting.

Cruiser Reviews

As you’re deciding between Bonine vs. Dramamine, though, what do the actual people say?

An informal poll of cruisers on Reddit finds that many cruisers prefer Bonine, in part because it doesn’t make them as drowsy as Dramamine. Many use Bonine and take further measures as well, including wearing pressure point bands, eating ginger chews, taking Zofran (a prescription-only nausea medication), etc.

Alternatives to Taking Bonine or Dramamine on a Cruise

Cruise Passenger With Motion Sickness (Photo Credit: GBALLGIGGSPHOTO)

If you’re not ready to take Bonine or Dramamine just yet (maybe you’re worried about the side effects ruining your cruise or you don’t want to abstain from drinking during your vacation), you do have other options.

However, I’d advise that, if it’s side effects you’re worried about, just take a dose in advance of your cruise, to see how the medication affects you.

Otherwise, here are some of your other alternatives.

Choosing the Right Ship and Cabin

Simply booking the right ship and the right cabin on that ship can reduce your chances of experience motion sickness significantly. The motion sickness is caused by, obviously, the motion of the ship. You feel that motion more when you’re on a smaller ship, as well as when you’re closer to the ship’s sides and top.

As such, aim to book a bigger ship that provides more stability, as well as a cabin that’s toward the middle of the ship. Some also find that having a cabin with a balcony or ocean view can also be helpful, as looking at the horizon can alleviate some mild symptoms.

Natural Alternatives

There are a range of natural remedies for motion sickness that are worth trying out. While they may not work for everyone, they could very well work for you.

Try using an acupressure point bracelet; some cruisers report that they help relieve nausea. Eating candy or lozenges made out of ginger or licorice root is also reportedly a good option.

Simple Changes

If your symptoms are mild, you may be able to make very small changes to what you’re doing, to relieve a bit of the nausea.

For example, get out onto your balcony or onto an outside deck where you can see the horizon, as well as get some deep breaths of fresh air.

You may find that you feel better standing up vs. laying down, or vice versa. You may want a stomach-settling drink or snack, such as something very light (crackers!) or cold water or soda. Using your phone can also make you feel worse, so try a distraction that’s not screen-based.

Just maybe don’t go to the infirmary unless you’re truly desperate. One Alaska cruise passenger racked up a $2,000-plus bill at their ship’s infirmary when visiting for sea sickness!

The above is not intended as health advice and you should always check with a pharmacist, doctor or similar professional before taking any new medicine.

One of Carnival’s Hardest-to-Book Cruises Just Opened to Everyone

Carnival Cruise News

Lissa Poirot

-

Jun 19, 2026

0

One of Carnival’s Hardest-to-Book Cruises Just Opened to Everyone

Key Aspects:

Carnival Cruise Line has reopened four SEA Cruises to anyone 21+.
The previously by-invitation-only cruises must be booked by June 30, 2026.
Brand Ambassador John Heald is joining the October 12 voyage.

One of Carnival Cruise Line’s hardest-to-book cruise experiences is once again open to the general public to sail, with a very special guest joining the fun.

The cruise line has reopened bookings for four upcoming adults-only SEA Cruises aboard Carnival Firenze, allowing anyone 21 and older to book the kids-free sailings in 2026.

Previously, the cruises were available primarily by invitation-only to casino players, making them largely inaccessible to the average Carnival Cruise Line guest. Now, passengers can reserve cabins on a series of fall 2026 departures from Long Beach, California.

The announcement was made by Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald, who shared the news with followers on Facebook on June 17, 2026.

“SEA adults-only cruises now open for everyone,” Heald wrote. “Please come and join me on a sailing from Looooooooong Beach on 10/12/26 aboard the Carnival Firenze.”

Heald said he plans to sail on first departure in October himself, hosting events throughout the voyage.

“I will be there to enjoy with you the enhanced dining room menu (available on all SEA cruises), special entertainment, and of course a big dollop of Fun in the casino too,” Heald added. “I will host some events and shows and join you for a massive dollop of FUN.”

The adults-only sailings are designed to offer a different atmosphere than a traditional Carnival cruise. Every guest must be at least 21 years old, and bookings must be made by June 30, 2026.

Four Adults-Only Sailings

The SEA cruises will operate on four departures aboard Carnival Firenze, one of the newest ships in the fleet, during October and November 2026.

The first sailing, with Heald onboard, departs October 12, 2026, for a 7-day Mexican Riviera itinerary visiting Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.

A longer 14-day cruise follows on October 19, 2026. The itinerary includes Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Acapulco, Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta, and Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to Long Beach.

In November, an 11-day voyage leaves on November 2, 2026, calling at Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.

The final sailing departs November 13, 2026, on a 7-day itinerary featuring La Paz, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.

In addition to the adults-only requirement, the cruises will feature special programming, including an enhanced dining room menu, dedicated entertainment, and casino-focused activities.

The adults-only format eliminates the need for youth programming and family activities, and Carnival Firenze will expand its casino offerings with additional slot machines, table games, and tournaments.

Heald also revealed that he plans on sailing on several Carnival Cruise Line ships in the coming months, including Carnival Vista sailing from Port Canaveral on July 25, 2026. That kid-friendly voyage will sail to the Caribbean and visit the US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Carnival Cruise Line’s new private destination, Celebration Key in the Bahamas.

In August, the beloved brand ambassador will visit ships in Galveston, Texas, and hint that he may be enjoying Carnival Legend’s special eclipse sailing from Dover, England, on August 9, 2026. The 11-day voyage will be positioned at sea during the total solar eclipse on August 12.

Heald says he’ll be sharing his full sailing schedule soon so passengers can join him, with a special Live event streaming on Facebook from Trieste, Italy, in July.

Fog Halts Tender Operations While Holland America Line Guests Still Ashore

Holland America Line News

Melissa Mayntz

-

Jun 19, 2026

0

Fog Halts Tender Operations While Holland America Line Guests Still Ashore

Key Aspects:

Thick fog halted Noordam‘s tender operations in Nome, Alaska on Thursday, June 18 before the visit was effectively cancelled.
The ship is currently sailing a 28-day itinerary from Seattle, visiting a number of ports and crossing the Arctic Circle.
While in Nome, one tender boat struck an underwater object and was pulled from service and assessed for damage.

A visit to Nome, Alaska, got a little trickier than anticipated for guests aboard Holland America Line’s Noordam on Thursday, June 18, 2026. While the tender port is charming to visit, heavy fog in the area temporarily halted water shuttle service while guests were still ashore, and ultimately, the tenders were recalled and the visit was effectively cancelled.

Noordam had departed from Seattle, Washington on Sunday, June 7, for a 28-day “Legendary Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise with visits not only to the most popular ports such as Ketchikan, Sitka, and Juneau, but also less-visited destinations like Valdez, Nome, and Kodiak Island.

Upon reaching Nome, a port where smaller water shuttles are necessary to bring guests to shore, the 82,318-gross-ton ship began tender operations as normal, but fog quickly rolled in.

Guests onboard described the situation on Facebook as “absolute whiteout conditions” with worsening weather expected throughout the day.

According to ship’s security as reported to KNOM Radio Mission, only 229 guests and 14 crew members were able to reach shore before tender service was halted.

Cruise Hive reached out to Holland America Line for clarification on the situation. The cruise line confirmed that tender service had to be temporarily halted to ensure safety.

“While anchored in Nome, Alaska, operations for Noordam were impacted by reduced visibility due to fog, prompting the suspension of tender service as a precautionary measure,” the cruise line explained.

“A number of guests from earlier tenders remained ashore in Nome during this pause. They were accompanied by shipboard team members who helped keep guests informed and comfortable. Noordam resumed tender operations as soon as weather conditions allowed.”

A guest who was one of those unable to return to the ship shared their personal insights of the situation.

“Being one of the people in Nome and stuck in town because of fog, we are all fine. My sincere thanks for the wonderful care, entertainment, [and] crew with us,” they said. “Under the circumstances, we could not ask for better treatment. Thank you Nome, Alaska.”

The temporarily stranded guests were accommodated in an old church to wait for tender service to resume, and snacks were provided. A local Native tribe even performed some songs and dances for impromptu entertainment, ensuring everyone was at ease and comfortable.

Unfortunately, Noordam is the only ship scheduled to visit Nome in June and the largest ship scheduled for the port during the 2026 season. The visit was hoped to be profitable for local businesses and artisans. With so few guests able to make it to shore, the situation will definitely have an economic impact on the community.

Several smaller expedition ships will visit in August and September. Noordam will not return to the isolated port until June 2027.

Safety is the First Consideration

The decision to halt tender service was made to ensure the safety of the guests, crew members, and the Nome community. Before the pause in tender service as the fog was thickening, an incident did occur that could have been scary for those onboard that particular water shuttle.

“Prior to the pause in operations, one tender made contact with an underwater object but safely continued to shore. There were no injuries reported, no signs of water entering the tender, and it remained fully operational. The tender returned to the ship and is undergoing assessment for damage,” the cruise line noted.

The tender was stuck for nearly an hour before another tender was able to tow it loose.

Holland America Line ms Noordam (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)

There were no reports of injuries and at no time did any water enter the small boat, which remained fully operational. The boat was taken from service as a precautionary measure and assessed for any sign of damage.

What type of “underwater object” was struck has not been confirmed, but it may have been some sort of pipe or other fitting.

The technical extent of any damage is unknown, though photos shared by guests show some cosmetic damage to the underside of the tender boat. The small craft will be thoroughly assessed to ensure it is sound and can continue to operate, and the location of the incident will be noted to ensure there is no risk to other boats in the harbor.

Onboard Schedule Adjusted

Meanwhile, onboard the 1,916-passenger ship, entertainment and activity schedules were adjusted due to the end of tender service. Extra options were made available to guests and a new daily schedule was provided so those who were unable to get off the ship still had plenty to enjoy.

Many guests onboard were also able to reach out via text to friends and loved ones stuck on shore to remain in contact during the uncertain situation.

Essentially, the visit to Nome was effectively cancelled due to fog, even though some guests had already made it to shore. Noordam was to have remained at the port from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cunard Postpones Southampton Boarding for Unexpected Deep Cleaning

Cunard News

Lissa Poirot

-

Jun 18, 2026

0

Cunard Postpones Southampton Boarding for Unexpected Deep Cleaning

Key Aspects:

Cunard has delayed embarkation for Queen Anne’s June 21, 2026, sailing by 90 minutes.
The cruise line cited changing health conditions and current elevated levels in the UK.
The delay will allow crew members to provide enhanced cleaning and sanitation procedures.

A voyage around Norway’s fjords will begin a little later than planned for passengers sailing aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne this weekend.

The UK-based cruise line has notified guests booked on the ship’s June 21, 2026, departure from Southampton, England, that embarkation will begin 90 minutes later than originally scheduled. The reason? Crew are doing some extra cleaning onboard.

In a message sent to booked passengers, Cunard said the additional time would allow crew members to complete enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures before guests board the ship for its next sailing.

Passengers have been asked to arrive an hour and a half later than the embarkation time listed on their boarding passes. The cruise line also warned that staterooms may not be immediately available upon boarding while the hotel team works to prepare accommodations following the ship’s arrival.

The notice comes ahead Queen Anne’s 14-night Norway and North Cape voyage, which is scheduled to depart Southampton on June 21 to visit Olden, Trondheim, Tromsø, Honningsvåg, Åndalsnes, and Ålesund, Norway, before returning on July 5, 2026.

The 3,000-passenger ship, one of four in Cunard’s fleet, is wrapping up a 12-night British Isles voyage that departed Southampton on June 9, 2026. That journey has already called in Edinburgh, Invergordon, Stornoway, and Oban, Scotland; Belfast in Northern Ireland; and Liverpool, England.

The ship is currently enjoying a sea day and will arrive in Cork, Ireland, on June 19 ahead of her Southampton return.

Cunard Cites Elevated Illness Levels

While Cunard did not specifically mention a reason for the enhanced cleaning procedures, the cruise line said its hygiene and sanitation protocols are designed to adapt to changing health conditions, including “current elevated levels in the UK.”

The notice also encouraged guests to wash their hands regularly, particularly before eating and after using the restroom, and to use hand sanitizer when handwashing facilities are unavailable.

Said Cunard, “Throughout the voyage, we will continue to maintain robust hygiene and sanitation measures. These protocols have been developed in conjunction with leading regional and global health authorities and are designed to adapt to changing health conditions, including current elevated levels in the UK.”

The additional cleaning measures come at a time when health protocols remain top of mind across the cruise industry and aboard Cunard ships.

Earlier this year, passengers aboard Cunard’s flagship, Queen Mary 2, reported a widespread respiratory illness outbreak during a transatlantic voyage. The illness, informally dubbed the “Cunard Cough” by some passengers, was described as persistent coughing and flu-like symptoms spreading through the ship.

More recently, the cruise industry faced heightened scrutiny after a deadly hantavirus outbreak in May was linked to an expedition voyage.

According to the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, several passengers became seriously ill and multiple deaths were reported after exposure to the rare virus.

Although the illnesses involved very different causes, it’s a reminder of how quickly health concerns can emerge where large numbers of people share dining venues, entertainment spaces, elevators, and other common areas.

Cunard has not indicated that any illness outbreak is occurring on Queen Anne and that the measures are a cautious approach.