On December 30, 2024, Carnival Sunshine returned to the Charleston Cruise Port in South Carolina for the second to last time before switching to a new homeport.
While nothing unusual happened as the Captain and his team docked the Sunshine-class vessel, it was a foggy morning that required the use of the ship’s foghorn for safety purposes.
In low visibility conditions, foghorns essentially function as an “acoustic lighthouse” – warning other vessels of the cruise ship’s presence to prevent collisions and guiding ships away from other potential hazards.
But for one passenger who was onboard the sailing – which was a 4-night cruise to Nassau, Bahamas – the noise of the foghorn took away from her beauty sleep. She was angry enough to write to Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald on his Facebook page to demand compensation.
With safety always the top priority, Heald understandably could not provide any of the compensation she was looking for.
Instead, he wrote out how he imagined the rather laughable conversation might go in a fictional world where he called the ship’s captain to ask him to minimize the noise:
“Me: Hello Captain it’s John.
Captain: Who is?
Me: John Heald, Brand Ambassador.
Captain: Ahhh yes, why you call me on the bridge at 5 a.m.?
Me: Sorry to disturb you Captain but a lady has written to me. I know you have some thick fog this morning. You have the foghorn sounding as required by maritime and US Coast Guard law but this lady has asked me to tell you to “turn it off“ because it is disturbing their sleep.
Captain: “TURN IT OFF” ARE YOU STUNARD?!!!!!!!!! We have de bigamist John. We have a to sound de horn to warn other ships. It is for their safety.”
Heald ended the imagined conversation with the captain hanging up on his call.
Guest Receives Backlash for Foghorn Complaints
It should go without saying that the lives of the up to 3,002 passengers and 920 crew members onboard are more important than one guest’s sleep – although she might want to pack ear plugsfor future cruises so she isn’t woken up again.
If Carnival didn’t use the foghorns to accommodate one annoyed guest – which have to be loud in order to be effective – people could be hurt or killed.
In the over 650 replies Heald’s post received, his followers expressed their shock at how unreasonable the complaining passenger was being.
Carnival Sunshine Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Daniel Wright98)
“I am on the Sunshine now and my cabin on Deck 12 is apparently right under the horn. Yes, it has kept me up since 3am ish, but I prefer to be awake instead of living a real life muster drill! Thanks for keeping us safe Captain,”a guest of the same sailing wrote.
“This is outrageous!!! How dare Carnival follow the rules and use the necessary safety protocols to protect ship, passengers, crew, & anyone else that might be in proximity to danger. I mean what were they thinking keeping this poor lady awake just to maintain safety…. The Nerve of this, Captain!!!”, another follower quipped.
But if it’s any consolation, this passenger can rest assured she will likely not have to experience another foggy morning in Charleston on a Carnival cruise ship again – or at least not in the near future – as the cruise line is ceasing operations at the East Coast port.
This change was not a surprise, as the South Carolina Ports Authority confirmed back in 2022 that it would not extend its homeport pact with Carnival beyond 2024 so that it could redevelop Charleston’s Union Pier Terminal.
After the frustrated guest and her fellow passengers disembarked, Carnival Sunshine carried out her final embarkation from the port on the afternoon of December 30, 2024, for a New Year’s voyage to the Bahamas – which will visit Nassau and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, the cruise line’s private destination.
After this voyage, the 2013-launched ship will temporarily leave service to visit dry dock from January 4 to February 15, 2025, before being redeployed in Norfolk, Virginia.
There are some jokes that simply cross the line – and one TikToker learned that the hard way after telling a crew member that she was going to jump overboard as a prank.
Megan Million (@meganmillion100) has 138,000 followers and over 24 million likes on her TikTok page, which is oriented around “pranks” and “good vibes.”
While some of her more harmless jokes may be funny, she took things too far by telling a crew member at dinner onboard an unspecified Norwegian Cruise Line ship that she intended to jump overboard that night.
“I have a secret, I have a secret…don’t tell anyone but I’m jumping off the boat tonight,”she says at the beginning of her TikTok, which has been viewed 1.4 million times in two days.
The crew member visibly became quite worried as he tried to gauge how serious the social media influencer was – telling Million not to do it.
He seemed to realize she was joking once she started to talk about riding whales and dolphins, but still appeared shaken by her comments.
You can watch their interaction in Million’s TikTok Below:
All cruise lines – including Norwegian Cruise Line – take safety extremely seriously. Even jokes need to be investigated to make sure there is no threat to the guest or others onboard.
They have to due to the danger associated with what Million was suggesting doing. While going overboard doesn’t usually happen often, it’s almost always fatal. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), only around 28% of people who fall or jump off their ship are successfully rescued.
The crew member Million approached likely was required to report their conversation. But even if the crew member didn’t, NCL knows about the incident now – as another content creator and cruise fan named Alex Roberson made sure of it.
He sent his own reaction video to the cruise line through direct messaging on social media.
“Thank you for sharing this with us, and we have shared it with the appropriate team members. We take Guest safety seriously,”the cruise line replied to Roberson.
Norwegian Cruise Line Terminal, Miami (Photo Credit: EQRoy)
It’s also not uncommon for cruise lines to detain guests who may be a danger to themselves or others by confining them in their cabins under the supervision of security team members – or in severe cases – locking them in the brig.
Bad Joke Met With Backlash
Million may have found her joke funny, but with the danger going overboard poses, many online and in the cruising community did not.
Some like Roberson, actually called for Million to be banned from cruising. It’s unclear if the Miami-based cruise line will take such a harsh stance, but it wouldn’t be surprising if they did, considering how seriously they take safety concerns.
Roberson posted his own reaction video on Facebook, calling for all cruise lines – not just Norwegian – to ban the social media influencer immediately.
“There was a video earlier this year of someone on a carnival ship who made a comment that she wanted to die. They locked her in an inside cabin for the rest of the cruise. This isn’t funny at all and you are right she should never cruise on any ship ever again,” Roberson wrote in response to one of the comments he received.
Others admonished the TikToker for scaring the crew member and putting him in a sticky situation.
“You scared him, it’s basically death,” one woman wrote in response to the TikTok.
“It’s not a funny joke at all. It’s like prank calling 911. You’re making this dude obligated to report you to security. Any threat or comment of jumping off the ship are taken seriously. For the same reason you wouldn’t tell an airport worker you have a bomb,”another person commented.
Sadly, Norwegian Epic, Sky Princess, and Ruby Princess all had passengers lose their lives in overboard incidents throughout December.
Guests of Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas also reported another man overboard incidenton December 17, but it’s unclear how this situation was resolved.
With bookings into 2025 and beyond selling fast, Carnival Cruise Line does not have significant upgrades available for already booked guests. While some travelers think they may have an insider secret to securing such upgrades, that choice is also not available.
This has been brought to the attention of Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, with more and more people asking him for free upgrades or even just assistance with securing the desired upgrade.
Unfortunately, modifying bookings in this way is not something that Heald can assist with, no matter what the circumstances.
“I cannot help with upgrades,”Heald confirmed on his Facebook page.“I have been asked for this a lot these last few weeks but please, while I can help you with many other things upgrades are not on my menu.”
Heald is highly active on Facebook, responding to hundreds of comments, questions, and requests nearly every day from his more than 593,000 followers.
Typical requests that Heald can assist with are things such as changing a dining time, requesting a table for two in the Main Dining Room, planning to scatter ashes at sea, or recognizing a special occasion.
Unfortunately, social media groups often promote incorrect information, tips, and “hacks” without verifying whether or not they are accurate. One such idea is that Heald can give anyone a free upgrade if they have enough special considerations – a suitable sob story, momentous celebration, or simply righteous indignation.
“There are many cruise bloggers and cruise news people who post tips on how to bag an upgrade,”Heald explained.“They should be ignored, they do not work.”
Some tricks proven to be ineffective are claiming claustrophobia after booking an inside stateroom, trying to plead sympathy due to a personal loss before sailing, or making numerous complaints about an assigned cabin.
“I often think to myself when I see these upgrade requests, why can’t you just be happy with the cabin you chose? Perhaps I am wrong to think that,”Heald mused.
Reputable travel agents and experienced cruisers will always recommend that anyone interested in taking a cruise book a stateroom they will enjoy, no matter what happens with any upgrades or promotions.
Some travelers really enjoy balconies, for example, while others want the extra amenities of a suite or prefer the total darkness of an interior cabin.
Booking a “guaranteed” stateroom in that category can be a way to save some money, but means that guests may be assigned a less desirable location onboard. A guaranteed balcony, for example, will likely be the lowest price for a balcony cabin, but may be in a noisier area or could have an obstructed view.
Of course, booking the stateroom you want right away is the only surefire way to not be disappointed at an assigned room or lack of upgrades.
Strong Bookings Mean No Upgrades Available
It should be noted that the high demand for cruises and strong bookings for Carnival cruises means that even if guests are willing to pay for an upgrade, there may not be any available.
“I should mention that in 2025 our bookings are so strong with people already finding out many cruises are sold out, it will be nigh on impossible to get an upgrade,”said Heald.
Many travelers are booking their cruise vacations further and further ahead of departure dates in order to secure preferred itineraries, favorite ships, and the most desirable staterooms.
This means, however, that anyone hoping to book a last-minute cruise may have fewer options available. And of course, upgrades are out of the question as ships are sailing a nearly full occupancy each week.
2024 has been an exciting (and sometimes odd) year for cruise news, but which headlines caught the most attention?
Cruise Hive has brought you nearly 2,000 news stories in the past 12 months, from last-second cancellations to out-of-control passengers to travel advisories. Which stories impacted your cruise travels?
#10 – Pirates Causing Traffic Delays for Carnival Cruise Passengers
Carnival Jubilee in Galveston, Texas (Photo Credit: NAN728)
The Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest features one of the largest parades in the US, which caused significant traffic snarls for cruise ship passengers.
The parade showcases roughly 140 floats, bands, and other participants, and the 4.5-mile route is close to Cruise Terminal 3 where Carnival Paradise docks.
Carnival Cruise Line reached out to travelers ahead of the impacted sailing, alerting them to potential delays and reminding them of embarkation and departure times.
#9 – Carnival Ship Won’t Be Able to Return Home as Scheduled
Due to the homeport closure and uncertain reopening after the storm would pass, the Fantasy-class ship remained at sea for an extra day, causing her next cruise to be shortened. Guests were able to cancel their reservations at the last minute if they preferred to skip the cruise instead.
#8 – Carnival Removing Upside Down Pineapple Door Decorations
Carnival Upside Down Pineapple (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Many cruise travelers enjoy decorating their stateroom doors, but one fun tropical fruit is not welcome on Carnival Cruise Line. Because of a potentially risqué and controversial meaning behind pineapple imagery, Carnival is removing the decorations from doors whenever possible.
Not all cruisers may be aware of the hidden meaning of different images and icons, and the cruise line is seeking to avoid inappropriate and potentially inflammatory confrontations. Guests onboard Carnival ships do report that enforcement of the new restriction isn’t always consistent, however.
#7 – Cruise Guest Called a Karen After Complaining About Neighbors
Wonder of the Seas
When a cruise ship can hold more than 7,000 passengers at maximum occupancy, it stands to reason that not everyone onboard may be BFFs with everyone else. But, calling out one’s neighbors on TikTok for poor behavior is not always the best way to deal with the situation.
One woman sailing aboard Wonder of the Seas in January did just that, after reaching out to Guest Services and security due to her neighbors playing loud music at night and smoking.
Her approach did have some elements of entitlement, however, and rubbed other cruisers the wrong way – leading to her being called a Karen.
#6 – Carnival Ship Hits Pier During High Winds, Leaves Guests Behind
Carnival Magic Damage and Pier in Ocho Rios
No cruise traveler wants to be a pier runner and miss their ship in a port of call. Some Carnival guests were left scrambling in early February, however, when Carnival Magic was forced to depart Ocho Rios abruptly after high winds caused the ship to impact the pier.
While passengers were temporarily “left behind” in the port, the cruise line did provide support to everyone involved. Later in the day, Carnival Magic was able to dock at another pier nearby and everyone rejoined the ship successfully, though the vessel remained overnight due to overall poor weather.
Cruise Passenger Confronts Comedian During Show (Credit: k.daniellelifestyle)
It’s no surprise that late-night, R-rated comedy acts onboard cruise ships can touch on sensitive, controversial, or even offensive topics.
What is a surprise is when a guest gets so wrapped up in the material that they climb onto stage to confront the comedian up close – which happened aboard MSC Seashore in August.
The jokes that precipitated the confrontation involved an earlier fight, which made one woman extremely upset at the comedian’s performance.
The woman, who appeared to have been intoxicated, was removed from the show after throwing a drink at the comedian and getting onstage to confront him.
#4 – Cruise Guest Denied Boarding After Not Reading the Small Print
Carnival Luminosa (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography)
All cruise travelers are subject to the terms and conditions of their cruise ticket contracts. One Australian woman, however, missed the fine print and was denied boarding Carnival Luminosa due to being 26 weeks pregnant at the time of her sailing in February.
The traveler and her mother claimed the policy was discriminatory against pregnant woman, but Carnival Cruise Line Australia held firm about the policy’s restrictions.
While cruise ships do have extensive infirmaries onboard, they are not capable of dealing with all possible prenatal or premature birth scenarios.
#3 – Travel Advisory Issued for Top Cruise Destination
Cruise Ship in Nassau, Bahamas (Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia)
Travel advisories have been issued for popular cruise destinations throughout the year, but it was the Level 2 Travel Advisory for the Bahamas in late January that raised the most eyebrows.
An increase in crime was cited as part of the reason for the advisory, along with noting water activities as risky and potentially unregulated.
Nassau is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, with many weekend getaways as well as longer cruises stopping at the popular port. As of December 31, the Level 2 Travel Advisory remains in effect – but hasn’t stopped cruise lines from visiting the Bahamas.
#2 – Royal Caribbean Cruise Cancelled After Guests Are Already Onboard
Radiance of the Seas In Vancouver (Photo Credit: meunierd)
Even the most nervous traveler can feel a sense of relief once they’ve successfully boarded their cruise ship. That relieve was short-lived for guests onboard Radiance of the Seas in late April, however, when the cruise was cancelled just hours after embarkation.
The abrupt cancellation was due to ongoing propulsion repairs that were not yet complete, despite guests having been reassured earlier that their sailing would go ahead after a bit longer in port to finish the work. The ship was eventually repaired and able to continue through her Alaska season full speed ahead.
#1 – Cruise Line Shuts Down and Cancels All Sailings
America Queen Voyages Ship (Photo Credit: Ian Dewar Photography)
With the 15-month, industry-wide shutdown during the COVID-19 pandemic still fresh on travelers’ minds, it’s no wonder that a complete cruise line shutdown with all sailings cancelled in February was the top story of 2024. It was the financial struggles of the pandemic that caused the shutdown of American Queen Voyages.
Naturally, such an abrupt shutdown startled booked guests, who had to work through insurance companies for refunds of their now-cancelled sailings.
Which of these cruise headlines was your most memorable in 2024? Did other cruise stories cause you to do a double-take about the latest news? Stay tuned into 2025 as Cruise Hive continues to bring you all the breaking news, headlines, announcements, updates, and other details about the cruise industry!
A dozen passengers claiming to be victims in the Royal Caribbean video voyeurism case filed a lawsuit against the cruise line and the former cabin steward who recorded private activities inside their staterooms.
The suit, filed on December 30, 2024 by Aronfeld Trial Lawyers in the US District Court Southern District of Florida Miami Division, is on behalf of 12 passengers who sailed aboard the 5,500-guest Symphony of the Seas in December 2023 and January 2024.
The case unfolded when a male stateroom attendant, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, 34, was arrested as the ship returned to her Port Everglades homeport on March 3, 2024. The Philippines native was charged with placing hidden cameras inside guest staterooms. At least one case involved a minor child.
Mirasol’s actions were revealed by a guest sailing on an 8-day Southern Caribbean cruise that departed Port Everglades on February 24, 2024. The passenger discovered a camera hidden under her bathroom sink and alerted ship security. The attendant was detained onboard and turned over to law enforcement when the ship returned to her homeport.
In August 2024, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison. The guests’ lawsuit charges Royal Caribbean with negligence.
“The fact that many of the victims we represent still do not know if and how their images have been used or circulated is incredibly disturbing. Some of the plaintiffs are children – and once an image is on the internet it is there forever,” said Spencer Aronfeld, attorney for the plaintiffs.
“We hope that RCCL will take full responsibility for the heinous and reprehensible conduct of its crewmember. And we hope that this lawsuit will motivate RCCL and the other major cruise lines to spend more effort screening their crewmembers so that this type of assault never happens again,” Aronfeld added.
According to court documents, the group of plaintiffs includes 12 guests —six from Arkansas and two each from Texas, Missouri, and Georgia.
The lawsuit charges that Mirasol filmed the guests in their staterooms and bathrooms during cruises that departed from Port Everglades on December 24, 2023; January 13, 2024; and January 21, 2024.
Moreover, the filing states that guests onboard other Symphony of the Seas’ cruises also were potentially subjected to Mirasol’s actions, including sailings that departed on January 7 and 27, 2024; and February 4, 10, and 18, 2024.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock.com
Noting that a cabin attendant can be responsible for up to 20 staterooms per sailing, and with each cabin accommodating up to four guests, Mirasol’s victims could total more than 900.
The lawsuit seeks a trial by jury and a financial judgment for damages and punitive damages.
“The Plaintiffs in this case have suffered physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental and nervous disorders. These injuries are permanent and continuing in nature,” states the court document.
Lawsuit Charges Cruise Line With Breach of Faith
According to court documents, following Mirasol’s arrest, Royal Caribbean failed to notify guests who had stayed in cabins where he was the attendant. Withholding the information, the lawsuit states, was a breach of the cruise line’s “implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing.”
The lawsuit also notes that the cruise line provides a “contractually-shortened notice period of six months and statute of limitations of one year” for civil suits.
“RCCL’s motive for failing to notify its passengers affected by MIRASOL’S acts was financial in nature. RCCL was concealing the information from its passengers in order to prevent them from filing a civil suit against RCCL for damages related to MIRASOL’S acts,” the suit charges.
Royal Caribbean has not issued any statement tied to the just-filed lawsuit. Typically, cruise lines do not comment on pending legal cases.
Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class ship, is the Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship of 2025 in the Cruise Hive Awards, garnering nearly 30% of reader votes.
The outcome is not surprising, considering that the line’s first Icon-class vessel, Icon of the Seas, which debuted in January 2024, was the most anticipated new cruise ship of that year. Indeed, Icon of the Seas was voted the Best Cruise Ship of 2024.
Star of the Seas is under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, and due to enter service in late August 2025. Like Icon of the Seas, now the largest cruise ship sailing, Star of the Seas will be 248,663 gross tons with a guest capacity of 5,610 at double occupancy.
When she debuts, Royal Caribbean will have the distinction of operating the world’s two largest cruise ships.
Star of the Seas will offer eight neighborhoods, each offering distinctive amenities, venues, and services, such as the exciting AquaDome entertainment and dining area; Chill Island, for those seeking a laid-back vibe; Thrill Island, where adventure rides await; the family-friendly Surfside; and longtime Royal Caribbean favorites like Royal Promenade and Central Park.
Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship For 2025
The new ship will homeport at Port Canaveral, Florida, and offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. Undoubtedly, most itineraries will include a call at Royal Caribbean’s popular Perfect Day at CocoCay private destination.
In fact, Perfect Day at CocoCay was named Best Cruise Line Private Island in the 2024 Cruise Hive Awards.
Cruises aboard Star of the Seas opened for sale in December 2023, with a launch date of August 24, 2025. However, two months later the line announced a delay in construction would push the ship’s launch back to August 31, 2025.
No specific reason for the delay was offered, but the line was forced to cancel the ship’s inaugural 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise scheduled to depart Port Canaveral on August 17, 2025.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
The Cruise Hive Awards were launched in 2014. Voting for this year’s winners opened in mid-October 2024, with seven award categories. All voting is by Cruise Hive readers, who had a choice of 13 ships in the Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship category.
Here Are Runners-Up in ‘Most Anticipated’ Category
While Star of the Seas was the runaway winner in the Most Anticipated New Cruise Ship ranking, with 29.7% of the total vote count, a dozen other ships also were recognized by Cruise Hive readers.
In second place, with 14.7% of the vote, is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aqua, a 3,500-guest ship slated to enter service in April 2025. A Prima-class ship, the 156,300-gross ton vessel is being built at the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, and will be based at Port Canaveral.
Norwegian Aqua Cruise Ship
Princess Cruises’ Star Princess came in at the No. 3 spot, with 12.8% of the vote. Under construction at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone, Italy, shipyard, Star Princess will accommodate 4,300 guests and is scheduled to launch from Barcelona on October 4, 2025.
Two ships were close on the heels of Star Princess: Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Xcel garnered 11.6% of the vote and MSC Cruises’ MSC World America received 10%.
After that, the percentage of total votes drops considerably, with the next-closest ship, Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Adventure receiving 5%; Disney Destiny 4.2%; and Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady 3.6%.
Garnering less than 3% of Cruise Hive readers’ votes were Oceania Cruises’ Allura, with 2.7%; Viking Cruises’ Viking Vesta, 1.1%; Ritz-Carlton Collection’s Luminara, 0.97%, and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff Relax, 0.58%.
The Antigua Cruise Port only opened fairly recently at the end of 2019, but the up-and-coming port has already proven it has what it takes to be one of the top ports in the Caribbean – and is now ending its record-breaking year with a bang.
While St. John, Antigua, is already expected to break more records during the peak 2024/2025 Caribbean season – which typically runs from December to April annually – the young port is also celebrating a big milestone to close out 2024.
On December 28, 2024, the Eastern Caribbean destination welcomed four vessels in one day – Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Breakaway,Emerald Azzurra, and Arvia – and their 13,312 passengers.
While up to five cruise ships can dock in Antigua at once, the port isn’t always at or close to capacity – making this an important day to celebrate for local tourism authorities.
“Today is a shining example of what teamwork, vision, and dedication can achieve. The significant growth we have experienced this year reflects the success of our strategic efforts to position Antigua as a leading cruise destination,”Antigua Cruise Port General Manager Gasper George said.
“It is an honor to welcome these magnificent vessels and the thousands of passengers who bring energy and vibrancy to our shores. This is just the beginning of what we can accomplish together,”continued George.
As of December 28, the cruise port – which provides access to Antigua and Barbuda – had received 570 cruise ship calls and 825,526 passengers during 2024.
This is a significant improvement upon the 446 ship calls and 670,234 passengers that visited Antigua in 2023. To really get into the numbers, it marks a 27% increase in cruise ship calls and a 23% increase in cruise guest arrivals year-over-year.
These numbers will also increase at least slightly before the year officially ends – with another round of four ships visiting the port on New Year’s Eve. The vessels in question include Norwegian Viva, Marella Voyager, Costa Fortuna, and AIDAperla.
Antigua Cruise Port Eyes Continued Growth
While 2024 has been a proud year for the Antigua Cruise Port, tourism and port authorities have been working to enhance the cruise infrastructure and to promote growth – and they fully intend to keep shattering records.
For example, a $30 million fifth berth was completed in 2020 in partnership with Royal Caribbean – making sure the port could accommodate the cruise line’s massive Oasis-class ships.
As seen through the uptick in ship calls, Antigua is already seeing its efforts pay off – and the cruise projects the island has in store aren’t even all completed.
Cruise Ships Docked in Antigua (Photo Credit: Antigua Cruise Port)
“I am proud of how our collective investments in infrastructure and service excellence are paying off. Antigua Cruise Port’s innovative approach and tireless dedication have helped solidify our standing as a sought-after destination. This achievement is not only a win for our tourism sector but also for the economic prosperity of our communities,”said The Hon. Charles Fernandez, Minister for Tourism and Investment.
Looking ahead, broad plans are in the works to beautify and enhance the utility of St. John, which is the capital city of Antigua, but specifics have not yet been announced.
More concretely, in March of 2024, the Antiguan government announced its decision to expand the existing cruise port to Rat Island – with the new development taking over a small spit of land on the north side of St. John’s cruise terminal.
The idea behind the initiative is to allow yachts and small cruise ships to dock at the new development, while bigger ships will continue to dock at the main Antigua Cruise Port and Heritage Quay.
The Caribbean destination is also working with Royal Caribbean to develop a new beach club at Fort James, which is located on the western side of St. John’s Harbour. That said, the $100 million project was delayed during the Covid-19 pandemic and it’s unclear when or if it will get back on track.
For the fifth time, Port Canaveral has wowed cruise passengers and taken the honors as the top-voted US cruise homeport in the Cruise Hive Awards!
The central Florida homeport more than doubled the score of the second-place homeport, firmly securing its victory as the top US cruise homeport that travelers prefer.
In total, Port Canaveral amassed 35% of the votes cast in the 2024 Cruise Hive Awards, slightly higher than its 2023 total of 34% and far above the 2022 total of 24% – showing the port’s ever-increasing popularity.
Port Canaveral also won the honor in 2021 and 2019. It should be noted that the category of Best US Cruise Homeport is not offered every year, as the awards change annually based on cruise traveler trends and other factors. Every year that US cruise homeports have been voted on, however, Port Canaveral has been the clear winner.
Located just an hour east of Orlando on the Atlantic coast, Port Canaveral is a prime spot for a diverse array of cruises and is easily accessible by all travelers, from local cruise enthusiasts (this writer included!) to passengers who prefer to drive or fly to their homeports.
Weekend Bahamas getaways and week-long Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries are some of the most popular options, but they are far from the only choices. Longer journeys and explorations to the Southern Caribbean, South America, and even the Panama Canal all depart from Port Canaveral.
Best US Cruise Homeport
Furthermore, Port Canaveral is home to an ever-increasing diversity of cruise ships and cruise lines.
Not only do the largest and most familiar cruise lines homeport from the central Florida port – Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line – but Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Princess Cruises all homeport from Port Canaveral as well.
This gives travelers many amazing options to set sail from their favorite US homeport, and Port Canaveral is committed to that growth and diversity.
“Cruise continues to be a significant segment of our business portfolio with some of the newest and largest ships in the world based at Port Canaveral. This speaks volumes to the confidence our cruise partners have in our ability to consistently deliver exceptional results for their guests,”said Canaveral Port Authority CEO Captain John Murray during the 2024 State of the Port address on November 20, 2024.
During the 2024 fiscal year, Port Canaveral welcomed 7.6 million passengers across a total of 911 cruise ship calls, including both homeported vessels as well as the occasional day port-of-call visitor.
Cruise Ship at Port Canaveral (Photo Credit: Nate Hovee)
Furthermore, the ships based from Port Canaveral continue to grow in size and welcome more and more guests.
One of Carnival Cruise Line’s largest vessels, the Excel-class Mardi Gras, along with Disney Cruise Line’s two largest ships – Disney Wish and the brand new Disney Treasure – call Port Canaveral home.
Royal Caribbean currently homeports its two newest Oasis-class ships, Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, from Port Canaveral, and they will be joined in August 2025 by the second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas.
Other Top US Homeports
While Port Canaveral is the undeniable favorite for US cruise travelers, all three top spots in this year’s awards were popular Sunshine State homeports – Port Canaveral followed by PortMiami (16%) and Port Everglades (10%).
Next, the rapidly-growing Port of Galveston took the fourth place honor, followed by the colorful Port of New Orleans.
All US homeports were open for voting in the 2024 Cruise Hive Awards, which began accepting votes in mid-October. The final votes were cast on Sunday, December 22. All awards are reader-driven from both new and experienced cruisers.
There are many reasons why you might want to purchase a car rental when taking acruise out of Port Everglades. Serving millions of cruise ship passengers per year, the Fort Lauderdale cruise hub is conveniently situated near the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and several popular South Florida travel destinations.
So, it wouldn’t be surprising if you wanted to stick around and explore the region before or after your cruise — and a car rental makes it possible. Here’s everything you need to know.
Where to Find the Best Port Everglades Car Rentals
The best car rental options for those sailing out of Port Everglades are undoubtedly going to be those found with the handful of car rental providers that offer a free shuttle pick-up service to and from the pier.
This shuttle service will negate the need to grab an Uber or similar rideshare to get between the port and your rental car, making your trip all the more convenient.
The below car rental companies all offer shuttle services to and from Port Everglades, as well as agreeable prices. Of course, pricing can vary depending on a range of factors, such as the type of vehicle you rent, length of rental period, seasonal demand and more.
Likewise, prices may change at any time. Prices quoted are in USD and for comparison purposes only and are for the cheapest available reservation for one day in peak Caribbean cruise season, which is late winter through spring. For the most accurate pricing, contact the rental company with your precise needs and any further queries.
Avis – from $52.19
Avis Port Everglades offers a free shuttle to Port Everglades with car rentals from the provider’s 2520 Miami Rd location in Fort Lauderdale.
Open daily from 8 am to 6 pm with shorter hours on weekends and holidays, Avis has all sizes of cars available, from economy to full size, plus SUVs, minivans, convertibles, pickup trucks, premium cars and passenger vans for up to approx 15 passengers.
Budget – from $36.44
Located 1.2 miles from Port Everglades at 2520 Miami Rd., Fort Lauderdale, and just five minutes from the cruise terminals, Budget offers full car rental services near Port Everglades.
Complimentary shuttle buses transfer renters to and from the cruise terminal, making it easy to drop off and/or pick-up your Port Everglades car rental.
Budget rents all sizes of cars, including compact, standard, full size, luxury, SUV, hybrid, premium, coupes, pickups, recreational vehicles and passenger vans for groups.
Payless – from $36.55
Open daily from 8 am, the Payless car rentals’ office is 1.2 miles from Port Everglades, at 2520 Miami Rd., Fort Lauderdale. The office offers low-price car rentals and your rental includes free cruise shuttle service to the port.
Available vehicles include economy, compact, midsize, full size, SUV, pickup, luxury, minivan and 12-seater passenger vans for cruise groups.
Gold Coast Car Rentals – from $58.30
A local provider, Gold Coast Car Rentals is based at the 3000 SE 6th Ave light, one mile from the airport and two miles from Port Everglades cruise terminals. The rental company offers shuttle transportation to both the airport and Port Everglades, from the rental agency location.
Fort Lauderdale Airport Car Rentals
Terminal at Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
Note that the below Fort Lauderdale Airport car rental companies do not have shuttle services to Port Everglades. As such, you’ll need to plan certain aspects of your trip accordingly.
For example, if you want to explore the area in your rental car before your cruise, plan to pick up your rental car immediately after your flight lands.
Then, return the rental car the day of your cruise embarkation, and get an Uber or Lyft to Port Everglades. When your cruise returns, you’ll need to get a rideshare back to the airport to catch your flight.
In contrast, if you want to explore the area in your rental car after your cruise, plan to take an Uber or Lyft from the airport to Port Everglades to catch your cruise.
Then, when your ship returns to Fort Lauderdale, take another rideshare back to the airport, pick up your rental car and start exploring. When you’re ready to depart, simply return the rental car to the airport ahead of your flight home.
Alamo from $46.66
Alamo car rentals are available at the brand’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport location. The office is open daily from 5 a.m. to midnight, and is located at 600 Terminal Dr. STE 202, Fort Lauderdale.
Hertz – from $38
Hertz car rentals are available at the brand’s Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport location, at 600 Terminal Dr. This Hertz office is open daily from 5 a.m. to 2 a.m.
Book ahead and choose the best car for your needs, whether that’s a compact, standard, intermediate, SUV, Jeep, passenger van or luxury car.
Dollar Car Rental – from $44.05
Open from 5 a.m. to midnight every day, the Dollar Car Rental office at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers a range of vehicles, including electric compact vehicles, SUVS, mid-size ATVs, economy cars and more.
ACE Rent A Car – from $53.51
ACE Rent A Car’s Fort Lauderdale airport office offers sedans, SUVs, vans and economy cars.
Budget – from $40.49
Budget’s Fort Lauderdale Airport office is at 600 Terminal Drive, on the 4th floor Car Rental Center. Budget provides a shuttle between the rental counter and the rental car lot, but not to and from the port.
The office operates 24/7 and offers all sizes of car including compact, standard, full size, luxury, SUV, hybrid, premium, coupes, pickups, recreational vehicles and passenger vans for up to 15 passengers.
Fox Rent a Car from $29.75
Fox Rent A Car is located in the Fort Lauderdale airport rental car office at 600 Terminal Dr. The office operates 5 a.m. to midnight and offers a full range of compact and family-size cars, SUVs, minivans and luxury vehicles at low prices.
Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals
Driving to Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Khairil Azhar Junos)
Beyond choosing one of the more affordable car rental options listed above, and opting for a rental service that provides a shuttle to and from Port Everglades, there are a few other things you can do to save yourself a little cash on rental rates.
Pay Up Front
Book your Port Everglades car rental ahead of time and save money by paying up-front and taking a “no cancellation” option. If you do this, just be 100% positive that you won’t need to cancel or make any modifications to your booking (if you do, you’ll lose the money, as you won’t be eligible for a full or partial refund).
Avoid One-Way Car Rentals
Most car rental companies charge a surcharge for one-way car rentals. That means if you are picking up a car rental near Port Everglades cruise terminal and dropping it off at Orlando Airport, for example, the rental company will add a one-way charge to your invoice to cover the relocation of the car, if necessary. If you can return the car to the same rental location, you can avoid that fee.
Only List one Driver on Your Rental
When you choose a rental policy that allows for multiple drivers, some car rentals companies will charge more for each added drivers license or passport on the policy. By choosing just one designated driver that meets the minimum age requirements, you could save money.
Stay Away from Airport Rentals
Many car rental companies charge an airport concession fee. If you want a car rental in Fort Lauderdale, choose a rental car office that is near the port and not at the airport, for potentially lower rates.
Bring the Car Back With a Full Tank of Gas
Car Rental offices (photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)
If you opt to bring the car back without filling up the gas tank, you usually pay more per gallon for the gas, via the rental car company’s charges, and they may also add a service fee.
You can gamble with the “pick-up full – return low” fixed price offered by some companies, but you run the risk of running out of gas on that all-important journey to Port Everglades if you run the tank too low.
The cheapest and least stressful option is to simply return the car with a full gas tank. There are plenty of gas stations close to Port Everglades car rental drop-off points, so plan to fill up with gas just before returning the vehicle.
Choose Your Rental Insurance Carefully
Paying a voluntary deductible for damage and declining personal accident insurance can significantly lower the price of your Port Everglades cruise port car rental. Check the small print and terms of service, and opt for the right insurance option for your needs.
Look for Coupons
Many online car rental providers run specials and sales. Take advantage of these deals by looking for a coupon code ahead of your booking.
In some cases, you can simply sign up for a rental provider’s marketing emails and get a best rate guarantee and special savings delivered right to your inbox (make sure to check your junk e-mail folder!).
Save Money on Your Car Rental — And Have More to Spend During Your Cruise!
If you plan on exploring Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding region (Miami is only a short drive away!), either before or after your cruise, you’ll need a rental car.
Luckily, there are plenty of options, and even some incredibly budget-friendly options that include shuttle service to and from Port Everglades. With a few savvy booking decisions, you can save yourself a ton of cash, and have more to spend on having fun during your cruise.
