Royal Caribbean has narrowed the potential names for Hero of the Seas’ future Chief Dog Officer to seven finalists.
Cruisers can cast their vote for their favorite name before CEO Michael Bayley makes the final decision.
The dog will become Royal Caribbean’s fourth Chief Dog Officer, following Rover, Sailor, and Skipper aboard the first three Icon-class ships.
As Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship Hero of the Seasmakes progress towards her summer 2027 debut, the cruise line’s CEO Michael Bayley has a “ruff” decision to make. On August 6, 2026, he took to Facebook, asking fans to suggest names for the Chief Dog Officer aboard the ship.
The cruise line has now narrowed the most popular suggestions down to seven finalists for the yet-to-be-revealed female pup. Now, cruisers are getting another chance to help choose the winner.
Bayley narrowed down the options to Hero, Scout, Marina, Pearl, Coco, Coral, and Sandy. In another post on August 28, Bayley asked fans to vote on which of the names he should choose.
“We have now narrowed down the names to the list below based on likes of all the names. So voting is open for the final round before it goes to the distinguished panel of judges (me) for the final decision,”Bayley wrote.
Opinions are mixed in the comments. Some fans pointed out that Hero or Coco could be confusing because the dog would share a name with either the ship itself or the cruise line’s private island, CocoCay. Others felt that Scout would fit nicely alongside the other Icon-class Chief Dog Officers: Rover, Sailor, and Skipper.
Michael Bayley Dog Naming
A significant number of comments suggested throwing the name Dolly into the mix, in honor of the late country music icon Dolly Parton, who passed away on August 25, 2026. The post received over 1,200 comments within the first 8 hours of posting with votes and opinions. Michael Bayley did not say when voting officially closes, nor when the chosen name would be announced.
Iconic Dogs Have Become An Icon-Class Tradition
Hero of the Seas will be the fourth ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, following Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas. Each of the previous three Icon-class vessels has received a golden retriever to serve as Chief Dog Officer onboard. The breed of the newest dog has not yet been revealed.
Rover serves aboard Icon of the Seas and Sailor aboard Star of the Seas. In February 2026, Cruise Hive reported when Royal Caribbean confirmed the third Chief Dog Officer for Legend of the Seas. A week later, the cruise line revealed the pup’s name would be Skipper.
Beyond simply being adorable, the dogs also serve an important role providing companionship for guests and crew members. In a June 2025 video showcasing Sailor, Michael Bayley explained that both guests and crew members can miss their pets back home while sailing, contributing to homesickness.
Before introducing the program, Royal Caribbean tested the idea by bringing a team member’s golden retriever aboard one of its ships during a turnaround day. According to Bayley, numerous crew members stopped to hug and interact with the dog.
“When we saw that, we thought, ‘Wow, this is amazing. People miss their own family dogs,’”Bayley recalled.
Bayley said the response from crew members helped convince the cruise line that having a dog onboard could be a welcome addition. The cruise line says it partnered with the American Humane Society to create the program and ensure the dogs are well cared for.
Hero of the Seas Prepares For 2027 Debut
The new Chief Dog Officer will begin spreading joy on Hero of the Seas when the ship debuts in summer 2027. Hero is currently under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.
She will debut on August 11, 2027 with an inaugural sailing from Miami, Florida. This 3-night sailing will visit Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. From there, she will begin regular 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Curaçao is a popular cruise destination due to its stunning natural beauty, ideal location, and vibrant culture. With pristine beaches and a unique blend of European and Caribbean cultural influences, it is the perfect place for both relaxation and exploration.
I’ll detail the Curaçao Cruise Port in Willemstad so you can discover why it is one of the main gateways to the island nation’s various attractions. I know arriving first is important, so I’ve included details on getting around and explained all the pier areas.
Curacao is an island nation in the southern Caribbean Sea. This tiny island is considered one of the Dutch Caribbean territories, roughly 40 miles from the coast of Venezuela. The Curacao Cruise Port is located within Willemstad, the island’s capital city, on the southern coast of the island.
Willemstad is built around a harbor called St. Anna Bay, or Sint Annabaai in Dutch, which is where the cruise port is located. This natural harbor splits the city into two distinct areas: Punda and Otrobanda. Both areas are easily accessible from the cruise port’s two terminal locations.
The main cruise terminal for Curaçao Cruise Port is the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal, or Mega Cruise Dock, which extends from the coast of Otrobanda into the Caribbean Sea. The second terminal, the Mathey Wharf Cruise Terminal, is located along the St. Anna Bay inlet on the western edge of Otrobanda near the Koningin Julianabrug Bridge, which connects the city’s two sides.
Addresses for the Two Cruise Terminals
Mega Pier Cruise Terminal: 4335 V82, A.H. Maduro Wharf, Otrobanda, West Willemstad, Curaçao
Mathey Wharf Cruise Terminal: 4358 H4Q, Otrobanda, West Willemstad, Curacao
Terminal Layouts and Number of Piers
As mentioned, the two terminals make up the Curaçao Cruise Port. They are located in different parts of the city and differ in size. To make things simple, here’s a basic breakdown of the two:
Mega Pier Cruise Terminal (Two Berths)
Curaçao Mega Pier 1 & 2 (Photo Credit: Nicola Pulham)
As you may have guessed, the terminal takes its name from the enormous pier designed to accommodate larger cruise ships and opened in November 2017. It can accommodate two berths at the same time and is just west of the St. Anna Bay entrance.
The pier extends directly into the Caribbean Sea, with the Mega Pier 1 berth at 150m that can hold a maximum 150,000 gross ton cruise ship and then the Mega Pier 2 berth, which is roughly 200m and able to cater for a maximum 225,000 gross ton vessel, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class.
The location of the two piers allows ships to dock more easily and allows visiting passengers to access the city’s attractions quickly.
Mathey Wharf Cruise Port (Two Berths)
Mathey Wharf Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Ievgenii Bakhvalov)
Unlike the Mega Pier, the Mathey Wharf does not extend into the sea. Instead, it is designed to allow cruise ships to dock directly along the channel of St. Anna Bay.
While the terminal is technically smaller than the Mega Pier Terminal, it can still accommodate a full-sized cruise ship because cruise ships can continue north along the St. Anna Bay Channel, then turn around in Schottegat Bay before heading back out to open water.
Terminal Facilities and Services
The Mega Pier Terminal is the larger and more frequently used of the two terminals and is outfitted with better facilities. That said, both terminals offer everything required for a seamless visitor experience.
The Mega Pier’s facilities include a fast-track security and customs desk, several multi-language information booths where passengers can receive complimentary maps and general assistance, a tented area featuring various souvenir stands, and food and drink vendors.
Taxis are available on site from a sheltered taxi stand, and there is also a designated area for tour operator pickups and drop-offs.
Cruise Terminal in Curaçao (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
The Mathey Wharf Terminal also has a streamlined security desk for visitors and a single tourist information booth. There is also a basic convenience store where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and a few basic souvenirs.
Both terminals allow visitors to connect for 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi, after which point credit card details are required for further access.
Once you venture beyond the cruise port, there are also some well-marked free public Wi-Fi spots throughout Willemstad. The two terminals also feature well-maintained and accessible washroom facilities.
Curaçao Cruise Parking
Unfortunately, neither of the terminal facilities offers long-term parking. However, there are drop-off and pickup areas and designated taxi stands.
View of Willemstad, Curacao (Photo Credit: SJ Brown)
If you have decided to rent a vehicle and need somewhere to park while you explore the city, there is a large outdoor parking lot next to the Renaissance Wind Creek Resort and Mall. It is just a 0.2-mile walk from the Mega Pier and a 0.5-mile journey to Mathey Wharf.
Single-day parking is complimentary, but those not staying at the resort must pay overnight rates, which vary depending on demand. You can expect to pay between $10 and $30 per night.
Cruise Lines that Visit Curaçao Cruise Port
Curacao is a busy cruise destination, and its port can handle some of the world’s biggest ships. For these reasons and more, it is visited by some of the most recognizable cruise lines in the world, including the following and more:
Curacao Cruise Port’s two terminals are roughly 7.5 miles away from Curacao’s Hato International Airport (CUR). Driving between the two usually takes about 20 minutes, but this is heavily dependent on traffic conditions when you arrive.
For those arriving in Curacao by air, there are plenty of options for traveling between the airport and the cruise port. Taxis charge approximately $25 to $35 for one-way travel, while complimentary shuttles are available through several cruise lines, hotels, and resorts.
Curacao International Airport (Photo Credit: Z. Jacobs)
If you have rented a vehicle at the airport and plan on driving to the cruise port yourself, directions are fairly simple:
Head east on Franklin D. Rooseveltweg for 7.1 miles
Merge onto Nijlweg and continue until you see the turn for Baden Powellweg
Watch for cruise terminal signs and arrive at your destination on Gouverneur van Slobbeweg
Transportation Available at the Terminals
Visiting cruise passengers have several options for transportation to and from the cruise port.
Shuttle Buses
Private shuttle buses are used as the primary method of transportation for shore excursions, but they can also be booked by groups for pre-arranged transit to various destinations.
Sightseeing tour bus in Willemstad (Photo Credit: Marcel Rommens)
While most excursions include transportation in their booking fee, private shuttle trips tend to run around $20 per person to most destinations in the Willemstad area. These shuttle buses will pick you up directly in front of the terminal where you arrived.
Taxis
A taxi is the most popular way to get around Willemstad and the island. Taxis are also available at both terminals. They operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and they can be obtained simply by waiting in line at either terminal’s taxi stand.
Not only do taxis provide quick and direct travel, but most trips also cost between $10 and $35 to anywhere within the city or to any of the nearby beaches or attractions.
For an idea of routes, it can cost around $34 per taxi from the cruise port to the airport and around $23 per taxi from Willemstad to Mambo Beach.
Taxi Sign Near Cruise Port in Curacao (Photo Credit: Jerry Sharp)
If you are hoping to book a taxi from outside the cruise port, the two primary providers on the island are Friendly Taxi Curacao and Dushi Taxi. Both offer flat rates for travel within the four main areas of Willemstad, and they charge fares per taxi rather than per person, which is the case in some of the other Caribbean islands.
None of the rideshare services are available in Curacao as of yet, so you cannot take an Uber or Lyft.
Public Buses
Public transit in Curaçao is limited, but the options that exist are based around a system of minibusses called “konvoiis.” These have basic routes around the city and some lines that connect Willemstad to the smaller towns, like Sint Michiel and Tera Kora.
The rate for one-way travel is roughly $2, but you must pay in Curacao’s local currency, the Antillean Guilder (ANG). While there isn’t a bus stop directly outside either terminal, there are well-marked bus stops throughout the city.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Curacao?
Curaçao’s tropical climate makes it a year-round travel destination; however, most visitors agree that the dry season is the best time to explore the island. In Curacao, the dry season runs from early January until early April, which is the busiest stretch for tourism.
Cruise Ships Docked in Curacao (Photo Credit: Gail Johnson)
If you want to travel outside of these months, here is a basic breakdown of seasonal weather conditions on the island:
Winter (December to February): Temperatures between 75° and 84°F with relatively dry conditions.
Spring (March to May): The temperatures rise to 80° to 86°F. Relatively low rainfall makes it a good time to enjoy the outdoors.
Summer (June to August): The temperature averages 83° to 86°F, and high humidity levels can make it uncomfortable to be outside. Increased rainfall and a higher risk of storms can also be an issue.
Fall (September to November): Temperature averages drop slightly to the 80° to 85°F range, while rain showers remain fairly common.
Curaçao is famous for its pristine beaches. Luckily, you won’t have to travel far from the cruise port to enjoy some of the best the island has to offer:
Mambo Beach (3 miles from the port)
Also known as Aquarium Beach due to its proximity to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, Mambo Beach is the closest to the cruise port.
This man-made beach has an entry fee of $3.50 USD, but it is well worth the price of admission. It features public restrooms, volleyball courts, a playground, and other amenities. Covered beach loungers and huts are also available for rental at $4 per day.
Mambo Beach
The turquoise waters are protected by a man-made outcrop of boulders, making it a great family-friendly spot for water sports and swimming. Plus, the beach is lined by the Mambo Beach Boulevard Boardwalk, which features plenty of stores, bars, and restaurants.
Blue Bay Beach (10 miles from the port)
Blue Bay Beach, also known as Blauwbaii, is a popular destination for many shore excursions, as the crystal-clear waters are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The white sand beach is also shaded by palm trees, and the loungers provide beachgoers with a great view of the Caribbean Sea.
Although the beach is quite far and charges a fairly steep $12 entrance fee to those not staying in the nearby resorts, it remains a popular option.
Kokomo Beach (3.5 miles from the port)
Kokomo Beach is one of the most popular options near Willemstad. There is no entrance fee, and daybeds cost $3.50 to rent for the entire afternoon. The beach also features a restaurant, beachside showers, and a dive shop where visitors can rent snorkel equipment and more.
Kokomo Beach (Photo Credit: Norma Coelho)
It can get a little bit crowded because it is nearby and doesn’t charge an entrance fee, but it’s a great spot to spend a few hours. You can also grab a stunning picture on the submerged swing set with a sign that says Kokomo, Curaçao above it.
For those in port for a brief port of call visit, there are plenty of attractions that don’t require booking an excursion or traveling far. Here are just a few of the many highlights:
Queen Emma Bridge
Only half a mile from the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal, this large pontoon bridge connects the Otrobanda and Punda sides of the city by stretching across St. Anna Bay.
Queen Emma Bridge (Photo Credit: JMT Photography and Media)
Do note, though, that the Queen Emma Bridge is out of service after being disconnected on August 2, 2026. The bridge will undergo a two-month refit and will reopen at the end of September to early October 2026.
Rif Fort
Only a 0.3-mile walk from the port, the historic Rif Fort was built in 1828 to protect the Dutch colony from pirates and rival settlers. Today, the fort functions as a museum, where visitors can learn about the various stages of the famous outpost’s past, including when it was used to protect the island during World War II.
Rif Fort (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
If you decide to visit, you can walk directly from the Mega Pier through part of the Renaissance Mall to get there, making it easy to shop before or after your visit to Rif Fort.
There are even several restaurants and food vendors just outside the fort, including the Royal Dutch Cheesery, where you can try various traditional Dutch dishes.
Kura Hulanda Museum
Another historical site less than a mile from the port is the Kura Hulanda Museum, which features interactive exhibits highlighting the island’s ties to Africa and the trans-Atlantic slave trade.
Kura Hulanda Museum (Photo Credit: Serge Yatunin)
Learn about the history of Curaçao and its people in one place. Guided tours are available in English, Dutch, French, and several other languages. The museum is located so close to Breedestraat, one of the city’s main dining roads, that you can combine a visit to the museum with a delicious meal.
What Else Can You Do in Curacao?
If you are willing to travel beyond the immediate area surrounding the port’s two cruise terminals, Curacao offers numerous exciting attractions, each providing visitors with an opportunity to see what makes the island’s culture and natural beauty unique. Here are just a few of our recommendations:
Curaçao Sea Aquarium
This fun, educational, and interactive aquarium allows visitors to learn about local marine life, including sharks, seals, stingrays, and more. There is even an area where guests can feed flamingos or put on snorkels and pet stingrays.
Not only are there plenty of exhibits to explore, but it is one of the most unique aquariums in the world because it uses an open-water system, meaning that it is connected directly to the Caribbean Sea.
Since it’s only about 3 miles from the port, it’s easy to get there by taxi.
Hato Caves
Although these unique limestone caves are nearly 7 miles away on the airport side of the island, they are still well worth visiting. In fact, they are one of the most populartourist attractions on the entire island, which is due to their natural beauty and the fact that humans inhabited them as long as 1,500 years ago!
Hato Caves (Photo Credit: Gail Johnson)
Take a guided tour of the cave system and view preserved cave drawings, learn about how runaway slaves hid in them, and see stalactites and other natural features formed millions of years ago.
Christoffel National Park (Photo Credit: Gail Johnson)
You can fully explore Christoffel Park on foot by hiking the trails alone or taking a guided walking tour. You can also opt for a safari-style tour, where a local guide will take you around the park in an open-top Jeep!
Dining Near Curaçao Cruise Port
Willemstad offers plenty of culinary delights. Like the island itself, the food scene blends several different cultures, allowing visitors to sample European, African, and Caribbean dishes all in one place.
For a unique fusion of Dutch and Caribbean cuisine, we recommend dinner at Gouverneur de Rouville. Located just half a mile from the port, this stunning restaurant is popular with locals and visitors alike. It also offers an outdoor dining area with views of St. Anna Bay.
Dining in Willemstad Near the Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
If you want to try some of Curaçao’s famed seafood, The Pen is another great option. The relaxed atmosphere and freshly caught seafood dishes are worth the 0.7-mile walk from the port. Open-air, beachside seating makes it an incredibly memorable place to enjoy a meal.
If you want something a little more casual and even closer to port, The Pancake Sensation offers traditional Dutch pannenkoeken, waffles, American-style pancakes, and much more. It’s a fun place for breakfast, but it also serves food throughout the day. Since it takes less than 10 minutes to walk from either terminal, it’s an easy spot to check off your list.
Shopping Near Curacao Cruise Port
While the terminals do not offer the same level of shopping opportunities as most Caribbean cruise ports, Willemstad offers plenty of options for shopping enthusiasts that don’t require you to travel far.
The Renaissance Mall near Rif Fort is less than half a mile away and offers a range of designer stores, souvenir shops, and dining options. Its uniquely historical setting also creates the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of shopping.
Shopping Near Curacao Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Crossing the Queen Emma Bridge once open again, you’ll find various stores and duty-free shops on the Punda side of St. Anna Bay. The area is considered to be one of the island’s best areas for premium shopping, and it is only a 0.5-mile walk from either port terminal.
With everything from craft and souvenir vendors to international jewelry and designer goods retailers, this area has something for everyone. For duty-free shopping, visit Penha Duty-Free Curacao, which has existed since 1708!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Curaçao walkable from the cruise port?
Yes, both of the port’s cruise terminals are located on the perimeter of Curaçao’s capital city, Willemstad, which is very walkable. There are also plenty of attractions that are easy to walk to from the terminals.
Where do cruise ships stop in Curaçao?
Cruise ships stop at Curaçao Cruise Port in the capital city of Willemstad. Ships dock at one of two cruise terminals: Mega Pier Terminal or Mathey Wharf Terminal.
What is the closest beach to the cruise port in Curaçao?
Mambo Beach is the closest beach to the port, approximately 3 miles away.
Princess Cruises is offering select guests booked on Emerald Princess‘s September 1, 2026 Alaska sailing a full refund plus a future cruise credit to voluntarily change their plans.
The future cruise credit is worth 100% of the base cruise fare paid and is valid for two years, while Princess is also offering up to $800 per person for eligible travel expenses.
Similar offers have been made on other Princess sailings in 2026 when seeking volunteers to give up their cabins.
Princess Cruises is once again asking guests to change their travel plans ahead of a sold-out September 1, 2026 sailing aboard Emerald Princess. In an email sent to select guests less than a week before departure, the cruise line offered a few perks in exchange for changing their voyage.
The affected sailing is a 7-night roundtrip Inside Passage cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, as part of Princess Cruises’ biggest-ever Alaska season. The 3,090-guest ship will call on Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, along with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park, before returning to Vancouver on September 8.
“Due to the popularity of your upcoming September 1st cruise on Emerald Princess, you are eligible for exceptional savings should you choose to change your travel arrangements,” the email reads.
Guests willing to change sailings will receive a 100% refund on the current cruise. Additionally, they are being offered future cruise credit equal to 100% of the base cruise fare paid, excluding taxes and fees.
That future cruise credit is valid for two years and can be applied to any Princess cruise departing in that period, as well as any vacation protection, hotels, or flights booked through Princess Cruises. Those who opt into the offer will also be reimbursed up to $800 per person for documented travel expenses.
Passengers are not required to accept the offer if they wish to remain on the current sailing. Princess Cruises also specified that the offer is first come, first served and can be withdrawn at any time.
Emerald Princess Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Andre Schmitt)
The cruise line urged guests not to cancel any hotels or flights until Princess has confirmed their acceptance into the offer. It stated that space is limited and responding to the offer does not guarantee guests will be accepted.
One key point for guests’ consideration is that this is the final Alaska sailing for Emerald Princess in 2026. She will then reposition to Los Angeles for Hawaii and California coast cruises and will not return to Alaska and Vancouver until spring 2027.
Princess Has Made Similar Offers Before
This sort of offer is not uncommon in the industry. Referred to as “moveover” offers, they are often used when a sailing is oversold and the cruise line needs volunteers to give up their cabins.
In April 2026, Cruise Hive reported that guests booked on Discovery Princess‘s April 7 transpacific sailing received a similar voluntary offer after that sailing was oversold. That one included a full refund, 100% future cruise credit, and up to $1,500 for travel expenses.
A few days later, guests booked on an overbooked April 15 Mediterranean cruise aboard Enchanted Princessalso received an offer email. Those guests were given an identical offer of a full refund, 100% future cruise credit, and up to $1,500 in travel expense reimbursement.
The September 1 sailing is currently listed as sold out on Princess Cruises’ website, and the cruise line is now offering select booked guests incentives to voluntarily change their travel plans. That being said, the email sent to guests did not explicitly state that this sailing was oversold.
John Heald has clarified that the new Carnival Rewards program still includes free laundry for Diamond and Platinum guests.
The overall amount of complimentary laundry bags depends on sailing length and has been reduced from the VIFP program.
Heald also reminds guests that they must opt in to the new program no later than August 31, 2026.
Carnival Cruise Line’s new rewards program begins on September 1, 2026, and at that time, one of the most popular perks for Platinum and Diamond level guests is being slashed: complimentary laundry services.
What is not happening, however, is the benefit being discontinued altogether. John Heald, the cruise line’s brand ambassador, was firm with that clarification in a Facebook post he made on Friday, August 28, responding to unfounded reports that the benefit was disappearing.
“I would like to respectfully correct one of the big cruise influenzers and let you know that from September 1st when Carnival Rewards starts that Diamond and Platinum guests will indeed still have laundry perks and that they have not, as said by Mr Influenzer, ‘been canceled,'”he explained.
Both Platinum and Diamond level guests will receive free laundry under the new Carnival Rewards program, but exactly how much depends on the length of the cruise.
For sailings from 3-6 days, Platinum guests will get one free bag, while Diamond guests will get two free bags. For cruises of 7-13 days, the amounts are two bags for Platinum guests and three for Diamond guests. On longer sailings of 14 days or more, Platinum guests get four complimentary bags of laundry, while Diamond guests get five.
Cruise Ship Laundry Room
While this is certainly not cancelling the perk, it is dramatically reduced. Under the “Very Important Fun Person” loyalty program (which is ending after August 31, 2026), Platinum guests received 2, 3, and 5 bags on cruises of 2-6, 7-13, and 14+ days, respectively. This is exactly the amount that Diamond guests will receive under the Carnival Rewards program beginning September 1, 2026.
As VIFPs, Diamond guests received unlimited complimentary wash-and-fold laundry service, regardless of cruise length. As Heald has clarified, this is no longer the case and the overall number of bags will be limited under Carnival Rewards, but not eliminated altogether.
Another Reminder to Opt In to Carnival Rewards
Heald also reminds guests that they only have until Monday, August 31, 2026 to opt in to the new Carnival Rewards program. There is an “OPT IN NOW” button on the upper right corner on the rewards program’s official website, and guests can also check to see if they’ve already successfully opted in, just in case they are unsure or may have had technical problems.
A notice has also been posted on Carnival Cruise Line’s website for several months reminding guests to opt in.
“You must enroll and accept the Terms & Conditions to participate in the new Carnival Rewards™ program launching September 1, 2026, to ensure your status and benefits transition from the VIFP Club® program. You’re just two clicks away!”the notice reads.
Carnival Cruise Line has taken other steps to encourage guests to opt in before the deadline. VIFP guests have been sent emails and Heald has issued numerous reminders.
Heald and Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy even put out a video discussing the new program and explaining why guests can’t be automatically enrolled, even if they have been members of the VIFP program for many years.
“It is a brand new program,”Duffy reminded viewers.“It has new terms and conditions, and guests should review and accept them. Privacy rules prevent us from automatically enrolling guests, even our longtime cruisers.”
The Carnival Rewards program was initially supposed to begin on June 1, 2026, but Cruise Hive reported in November 2025 that the changeover was delayed to September 1, 2026. At that time there was not yet any notice that guests had to individually enroll, but the program was still being tweaked.
A Cuban woman who previously worked aboard a cruise ship says she was barred from returning to Cuba for five years after remaining abroad.
The woman says Cuban immigration authorities linked the penalty to rules governing citizens working aboard international vessels, though the specific regulation has not been identified.
She says she had been abroad for roughly 18 months when she attempted to return in 2019, shorter than Cuba’s then-standard 24-month limit for citizens living overseas.
A former cruise ship worker from Cuba says she was prevented from returning to her home country for five years after remaining overseas following the end of her initial work contract. The woman, who goes by Una Cubana en Malta (A Cuban Woman in Malta) online, shared her full story in a video posted to Facebook.
She was working onboard a cruise ship and living in Malta when she says she unknowingly violated Cuban rules for citizens working aboard international vessels. In October 2019, she attempted to return to Cuba after a year-and-a-half abroad.
Attempting to board a connecting flight from Paris to Havana, she was stopped and told she would not be allowed to board the flight. Her mother then contacted Cuban immigration to try and figure out what was happening.
It was then that she learned that she had been barred from re-entering the country for five years. She was stunned to have the ban imposed upon her.
“It wasn’t new to me. I’d heard of it happening to other people, but I never thought it would happen to me,” she said (translated from Spanish). “I didn’t leave with the intention of staying. I never wanted to leave Cuba that way.”
She remained living in Malta after being unable to return. She did not say whether she has been back to Cuba since the five-year restriction elapsed.
Recent photos and videos shared on her social media pages appear to have been taken aboard MSC Splendida. However, the Fantasia-class ship was redeployed to the Chinese market at the time the ban was imposed. The woman did not specify which cruise line or specific ship she was contracted on prior to the ban.
Reason For The Five-Year Ban Remains Unclear
At first glance, the length of her stay abroad does not appear to explain the penalty. At the time, Cuban citizens generally risked losing domestic resident rights after remaining outside the country for more than 24 months.
The woman says she had been abroad for approximately 18 months when she attempted to return in October 2019. Instead, she says immigration officials attributed the restriction specifically to rules governing workers aboard ships.
“What Immigration is saying is it’s because I supposedly didn’t comply with a law regarding ship workers,” she said (translated from Spanish).
She further claimed that, while she had finished her initial work contract, she was not required to immediately return to Cuba. Immigration authorities in Cuba have not publicly commented on her case. A complete copy of the document detailing the five-year restriction has also not been made public.
Cuba has since overhauled its immigration laws. The new Migration Law, published in the Official Gazette in May 2026 and due to take effect in late 2026, scraps the 24-month limit and replaces it with an “effective migratory residency” test. Those changes came years after her attempted return.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, PhilaPort, and local officials held a ribbon-cutting for Philadelphia’s new cruise terminal on August 27, 2026.
The new terminal is now where Norwegian Jewel docks and will support Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Gem in future deployments.
NCLH donated $20,000 to the local fire department and $30,000 to local Boys & Girls Clubs to support the community where they now homeport.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), PhilaPort, and the city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania celebrated the official opening of the city’s new cruise terminal on Thursday, August 27, 2026 with a ribbon-cutting and other festivities.
State and local leaders, cruise line executives, community partners, and business stakeholders were all present for the historic moment, strengthening the commitment Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings made to the City of Brotherly Love when it returned to homeport from Philadelphia.
Norwegian Jewel was the first cruise ship to depart from the city in more than 15 years. Cruise Hive reported on her first voyage from the city, which set sail on April 16, 2026. However, the terminal was not yet complete, so guests had to check in at a local hotel.
Now, the new permanent cruise terminal at 4 Atlantic Avenue will make it easier for cruise guests to use the homeport and strengthens the long-term relationship between NCLH, PhilaPort, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
The new cruise terminal is designed for a seamless guest experience. Ground was first broken on the 16-acre project on December 1, 2025 and is expected to support 2,185 jobs and generate roughly $300 million annually for the state’s overall economy.
“PhilaPort’s new cruise terminal is a critical component of our broader economic development strategy—creating good jobs, generating new economic activity, and strengthening the economies of Philadelphia and the entire region,”said Rich Lazer, executive director and CEO at PhilaPort.
It is hoped that the new terminal and cruise vacation options will bring more tourists to the city for longer stays, creating even more economic impact that will benefit the area.
NCLH has a 7-year agreement with the port that will run through March 31, 2033. The 2,368-guest Norwegian Jewel is homeported from Philadelphia through September 26, 2026, offering 6-, 8-, and 9-night sailings.
The autumn itineraries are one-way Canada and New England voyages between Philadelphia and Quebec City that will showcase stunning foliage as well as outstanding ports of call.
In November 2026, the 2,344-guest Norwegian Pearl will arrive in Philadelphia to begin sailings from 5-14 days that include itineraries to Bermuda, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Canada and New England through April 2028. In Summer 2028, Norwegian Gem will arrive for 7-day Bermuda and Atlantic Coast voyages for even more variety from the homeport.
Cruise Port Creating Community Bonds
The new cruise terminal is more than just a facility, it’s part of the local community and NCLH takes great pride in connecting to the communities where its ships are homeported.
“Today we celebrate being part of this community,”said Daniel Farkas, EVP, Chief Development Officer and General Counsel at NCLH.
“Through our global Sail & Sustain program, we believe in investing in and strengthening the communities we serve. As we establish a long-term presence in Greater Philadelphia, we’re proud to support the first responders, young people and families who call this region home while creating new opportunities for tourism and economic growth.”
Farkas’ comments coincide with a $50,000 donation from NCLH to support the local community. Of that donation, $20,000 will support Tinicum Township’s local fire department, while $30,000 is earmarked for three local Boys & Girls Clubs to serve families and children in the region.
Carnival Cruise Line has opened new West Coast sailings from Long Beach for its 2028-2029 season.
Baja Mexico cruises ranging from 4 to 4 nights will be offered aboard Carnival Radiance, plus a special 5-night Christmas sailing in December 2028.
Meanwhile, Carnival Panorama will operate longer 6- to 8-night Mexican Riviera itineraries.
Carnival Cruise Line is looking ahead to 2028 and 2029. The cruise line has opened a new slate of West Coast cruises aboard Carnival Radiance and Carnival Panorama from California.
The new cruises run from May 2028 to April 2029. They will sail from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal, continuing the cruise line’s short Baja Mexico getaways and longer Mexican Riviera voyages.
Carnival Radiance offers 3-night getaways, visiting Ensenada, Mexico, along with 4-night Ensenada voyages also visiting Catalina Island. The ship will also sail a special 5-night holiday cruise departing from Long Beach on December 21, 2028. This sailing will visit Catalina Island, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada.
The 101,509 gross-ton Carnival Radiance is one of the oldest ships in Carnival’s fleet. The Sunshine-class vessel first entered service as Carnival Victory in 2000, before an extensive transformation in 2021, when she also adopted her new name.
Meanwhile, the larger Vista-class Carnival Panorama will sail 6-night cruises featuring two days in Cabo San Lucas along with visits to Ensenada. Longer 8-night sailings aboard the 133,500 gross-ton ship will extend the Mexican Riviera experience with visits to Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta.
Carnival Radiance Docked in Long Beach (Photo Credit: Mariusz Lopusiewicz)
These cruises are now available for booking. Cruise Hive counted 144 available sailings across the newly opened schedule aboard Radiance and Panorama. Together, the two ships will offer West Coast cruisers a mix of options from quick getaways to week-long vacations.
Carnival Maintains A Strong Presence In Long Beach
Carnival describes Long Beach as a key homeport for the brand, carrying more guests from the California port than any other cruise line.
The cruise line has offered sailings from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal since it first opened in 2003. The first ship to sail from the port was the former Carnival Ecstasy, which retired in 2022.
Carnival Radiance and Carnival Panorama are already familiar sights in Southern California, with both vessels currently sailing from the Port of Long Beach. However, Carnival’s lineup at the port is undergoing some changes before the newly announced 2028-2029 season begins.
Notably absent from this lineup is Carnival Firenze, which joined the Long Beach fleet in 2024. The 4,126-passenger vessel is scheduled to leave California in early 2027. She will reposition to the East Coast by way of a series of South America cruises before beginning a spring season from Miami and a Summer 2027 debut in New York.
Long Beach will also temporarily welcome another Carnival ship before the newly announced season begins. The 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend is scheduled to sail from the port from October 2027 through April 2028, offering 6- to 14-night itineraries to Hawaii and Mexico.
Once Legend’s seasonal deployment concludes, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Radiance will continue Carnival’s year-round Long Beach program. The newly released schedule confirms both ships will remain in Southern California through at least April 2029.
Carnival Conquest responded to a distress call relayed from rescue authorities regarding a sailboat on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.
The cruise ship was having a sea day on the way to Grenada at the time and was able to bring the one stranded individual aboard.
There was no delay for Carnival Conquest to arrive in Grenada on Thursday as planned.
Carnival Conquest took a slight detour on her current sailing to assist a sailboat in distress on the afternoon of Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The 2,980-guest ship was enjoying a day at sea when the cruise ship received the request for assistance.
Guests onboard posted about the incident on Facebook, noting that the ship’s captain made announcements over the public address system to keep guests informed of the search and rescue mission.
“When we arrived on scene, we found a sailboat with a single passenger that appeared to be very happy to see us,”the original poster noted.
Video of the incident that was posted separately shows the small sailboat bobbing significantly as the cruise ship approached. All sails were stowed on the small craft, and while not confirmed, it is possible the sailboat had lost steering capability and the sails were stowed for safety.
The cruise ship came alongside the smaller boat and the single occupant was brought onboard Carnival Conquest. As per standard procedure for such rescues, the cruise ship would have recorded the location of the now-abandoned sailboat so other vessels in the area are aware of its presence and that it has been abandoned.
Onboard Carnival Conquest, the rescued individual would be provided with food and medical care as needed. They will not have free access to the public spaces on the ship and most likely would be debarked at the next port of call.
Carnival Cruise Line confirmed the incident in the following statement sent to Cruise Hive:
“Carnival Conquest rescued a mariner from a disabled sailing vessel on August 26 while sailing to Grenada. After receiving a distress relay from rescue authorities, the Conquest diverted to the vessel’s location and safely brought the sole occupant aboard. The individual remains in the care of the ship’s team as Carnival Conquest proceeds to St. George’s, Grenada, as scheduled.”
This is all typical procedure for such at-sea rescues, regardless of the circumstances or why an individual finds themselves in distress at sea, whether their vessel has become disabled, they may have run out of supplies, or they are adrift in a less-than-seaworthy craft.
Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, John Heald, acknowledged the rescue and commended the actions of the crew.
“The Fun was paused for many yesterday as they watched the Captain and crew who came to the rescue of a boat in difficulty. Another shining example of how our ships will always do their best to help those in peril on the sea,”he said on Facebook.
Where Was the Sailboat Found?
The encounter happened while Carnival Conquest was en route to Grenada. The ship departed Miami, Florida on Friday, August 21, 2026 for the 14-day sailing, with visits to St. Thomas, St. Croix, Dominica, Antigua, and other ports on the itinerary before she will return to the Sunshine State on Friday, September 4.
Of special note is that this is one of the cruise line’s SEA voyages: Sailings Exclusively for Adults. These are invitation-only cruises not available for the general public to book, but eligible guests ages 21 and up receive email invitations when such sailings are available.
Despite the slight diversion, Carnival Conquest‘s visit to Grenada has not been impacted and satellite tracking confirms the ship is in port on Thursday, August 27 as planned.
A critically ill passenger was transferred from Carnival Firenze to first responders near Long Beach, California, on August 25, 2026.
Long Beach Fire Department safety crews brought the passenger ashore before transporting them to a local hospital.
The medical emergency altered the ship’s 4-night itinerary, with visits to Catalina Island and Ensenada rescheduled for the following two days.
A 4-night Baja Mexico cruise aboard Carnival Firenze was disrupted by an urgent medical crisis early on the morning of August 25, 2026. The 135,156 gross-ton ship had departed the previous evening from the Port of Long Beach in California.
The vessel was heading towards her first scheduled stop at Catalina Island off the California coast when an unidentified passenger became seriously ill. The crew called for assistance, and Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) responded at approximately 7:00 am.
“While sailing to Catalina Island, California, Carnival Firenze’s medical team immediately responded and provided care to a guest experiencing a medical emergency,” Carnival said in a statement toKTLA News.
Fire Department Marine Safety crews met the ship near the Long Beach Sea Buoy. They then coordinated with the ship’s crew to transfer the passenger to a lifeguard rescue boat.
Photos and video shared on Instagram by the Long Beach Fire Department show the response vessel alongside Carnival Firenze as the transfer took place. From there, the passenger was brought to shore, where the Long Beach Fire Department transported them to a local hospital.
LBFD described the passenger as “critically ill,” though the exact nature of the illness has not been released. There has also been no word on the passenger’s current condition. We at Cruise Hive wish them a speedy recovery.
Medical Emergency Forces Itinerary Adjustment
The ship was originally set to visit Catalina Island on August 25 and Ensenada on August 26, followed by a sea day before returning to Long Beach on August 28. However, Carnival Cruise Line confirmed that, due to the emergency, the itinerary had to be adjusted.
Carnival Firenze Evacuation (Photo Credit: LBFD)
Neither of the cruise’s scheduled ports was cancelled, however. Instead, Carnival shifted both calls by one day, allowing the voyage to retain its planned destinations while accommodating the emergency.
The visit to Catalina took place on August 26, while the visit to Ensenada took the place of the previously scheduled sea day on August 27. The scheduled return to Long Beach on August 28 does not appear to have been impacted.
Carnival Firenze’s Long Beach Run Ends In 2027
Originally Costa Firenze before entering Carnival’s service in 2024, Carnival Firenze offers 3- to 7-night cruises to Mexico from the Port of Long Beach. The ship has been based in Southern California since joining the Carnival fleet.
She has sailed year-round from the Long Beach Cruise Terminal alongside other Carnival vessels, such as Carnival Panorama and Carnival Radiance. Carnival Firenze will remain based in Long Beach through early 2027 before relocating to the East Coast with a series of South America voyages.
