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Cruise Ship Security Jobs – 5 Pros & Cons

Emrys Thakkar
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Cruise Ship Security Jobs – 5 Pros & Cons

There are a multitude of different job options on a cruise ship. While jobs in entertainment and guest services are common and popular, there are other very important jobs onboard, such as security. 

Every cruise ship has a security team that works the ship. This is one of the most critical jobs on the ship, as the security team is responsible for the overall safety of the passengers on the cruise ship. In fact, cruise ships even have jails. However, cruise ship security jobs aren’t for everyone. 

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about working security on a cruise ship to determine if it’s the right job for you.

In This Article…

What Does a Cruise Ship Security Job Involve?

Working security on a cruise ship requires a lot of responsibility and discipline. After all, you’re in charge of the safety of everyone on the ship! Depending on the cruise line, there are several possible positions within a cruise ship’s security team. Some examples include:

  • Security guards: Responsible for the control and entry of the passengers onto the ship and also screening of passengers.
  • Security officer: In charge of daily security operations. 
  • Supervisors: Overlooks all other security personnel to ensure the ship’s safety.

The job description of each of these positions differs between cruise ships. However, being part of a cruise ship’s security team involves a mix of each of these jobs. Here’s what to expect from a cruise ship security job.

Duties and Responsibilities

Cruise ship security personnel are first and foremost responsible for keeping passengers and crew safe. There are several ways that security does this.

Cruise ship security guards continuously monitor and secure areas of the ship as needed. This includes ensuring that people follow the rules in areas such as the pool and that the casinos and nightclubs are safe.

Security Staff on Cruise Ship
Security Staff on Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Michele Rinaldi / Shutterstock)

At a higher level, the security team is trained to respond to emergencies and security incidents. This ranges from controlling unruly guests to preventing and responding to piracy or terrorism threats.

Check out the International Maritime Organization (IMO) security guidelines to learn what responsibilities you may face in a cruise ship security job. 

Skills and Qualifications

Here are some skills that are expected from most cruise ship security jobs:

  • Ability to act fast
  • Work well under pressure
  • Interpersonal skills
  • Critical thinking
  • Attention to detail

While it isn’t usually a requirement, many security persons on cruise ships have experience in law enforcement or the military. This means they are physically fit and have developed an ability to handle stress, a major job requirement.

What’s more, to succeed as part of cruise ship security, you need to be able to collaborate with the other security personnel, as you’ll need to be coordinated and work as a team to cover the most ground on the cruise ship.

Carnival Cruise Line Getting Strict
Carnival Cruise Line Security

Finally, you should have basic knowledge of security protocols and procedures. If you’ve never worked on a cruise ship before, you may need to attend a maritime training program, undergo firearms and safety training, and obtain any other certifications your desired cruise line may require. 

Now let’s check out the pros and cons of a cruise ship security job.

Pros of Working in Cruise Ship Security

There are several benefits to working a cruise ship security job. Here are some of the top advantages. 

Good Pay and Benefits

Working cruise ship security pays relatively well. According to Indeed, the average security officer makes about $57,000 annually. While the rate would differ depending on the cruise line and position, you can potentially make more.

In addition, working on a cruise ship provides additional benefits you wouldn’t get working security on land, including free room and board, insurance, and travel.

Travel and Adventure

Speaking of travel, this is one of the biggest perks of working any position on a cruise ship. Working on a cruise ship lets you visit new and exciting destinations almost daily. You’ll also get to experience different cultures and meet new people. Plus, you get paid to do it!

Challenging and Dynamic Work Environment

What’s great about working on a cruise ship is that you never know what to expect. Guests and destinations are always changing, making working security on a cruise ship a great way to stay on your toes.

Security Crew Members on Carnival Cruise Ship
Security Crew Members on Carnival Cruise Ship

With such an ever-changing environment, there are many opportunities to learn and grow as a security professional. You’ll learn to act quickly, think fast, and respond to any situation. 

Opportunities for Advancement

One of the best parts about cruise ship security jobs is that there are always opportunities for advancement. If you enjoy working security, you can move up the ladder within the security department to obtain a management role.

Better yet, if you feel like you need a bigger change, it’s possible to transfer your skills to a different ship or even find a whole new position that isn’t in security. Cruise ship security jobs open many doors for your career!

Cons of Working in Cruise Ship Security

While there are several advantages to working cruise ship security, there are also several drawbacks that you must consider.

Cruise Security Camera
Cruise Security Camera (Photo Credit: Aleksandrkozak / Shutterstock)

Long Working Hours and Limited Time Off

Cruise ship crew work long hours and often don’t get time off for weeks or months. This is especially true for security, a job that needs coverage 24/7.

You can expect to work in shifts around the clock as a security guard. These shifts may even be as long as 12 hours. You need to remain alert during this time to respond to anything that may happen.

Being Away From Home and Family for Extended Periods

One of the downsides for anyone working on a cruise ship is how long they have to be away from home. You may be at sea for weeks or months without seeing your family and friends. This can be challenging for some, so you must ensure you’re ready for this possibility. 

Plus, with different time zones and limited time off, staying connected and finding time to contact your loved ones could be difficult.

Physical Demands of the Job

Cruise ship jobs are physically demanding, and this is especially true for cruise ship security jobs. At the very least, security guards must be used to standing for long periods. At most, they must be fit to respond to physically demanding situations, such as assisting passengers or displacing large items.

Read Also: The Top 6 Best Cruise Lines to Work For

Potentially Dangerous Working Conditions

Security is always dangerous work, whether dealing with dangerous people, handling dangerous situations, or working in dangerous weather conditions. Security on cruise ships may also have to handle hazardous materials if ever found on the ship, which can also be dangerous. 

Conclusion: Is a Cruise Ship Security Job Right for You?

Cruise ship security jobs are extremely important for the maintenance of a cruise. Both passengers and crew alike depend on security to keep them safe.

That said, working cruise ship security can be rewarding and even enjoyable. It’s essential to fully understand the job to know what it entails to decide whether it’s right for you.

Royal Caribbean Considers Rum Cay for Possible Bahamas Expansion

Robert McGillivray
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Royal Caribbean Considers Rum Cay for Possible Bahamas Expansion

Royal Caribbean is exploring the possibility of expanding its presence in the Bahamas by considering Rum Cay as a potential new location. Michael Bayley, the company’s president and chief executive, advised not to draw conclusions but acknowledged that the cruise line constantly seeks opportunities to expand. 

Royal Caribbean currently operates the popular ‘Perfect Day’ destination on Coco Cay in the Bahamas, is underway with the development of its new Royal Beach Club in Nassau, and is also working on expanding its activities in Freeport in the Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean Eyes Rum Cay for New Destination Opportunity

Rum Cay is a small island in the southern region of the Bahamas. It is about 345 miles southeast of Nassau and is known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and pristine natural beauty. It has now come to the attention of cruise giant Royal Caribbean Group as a potential new private island cruise destination.

In response to questions about Royal Caribbean’s interest in Rum Cay, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International’s President and CEO, confirmed that the company was approached about a potential opportunity and sent a team to investigate.

Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas
Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)

He mentioned: “It’s true. Our perspective is that you can never have enough great product. We are constantly looking for any opportunity where we can create a customer experience that we think the customers will love. We were approached about a potential opportunity and sent a team to look at that opportunity.

Read Also: Cruise Line Private Islands You Must Escape To

Bayley did not provide any information on whether the cruise line plans to pursue the Rum Cay opportunity further or if negotiations have begun to secure the necessary land. Nevertheless, visiting the southern Bahamian island signifies that the company may want to expand beyond Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay, and Freeport.

Potential Rum Cay Site

The Bahamas newspaper Tribune Business reports sources informed them that Royal Caribbean’s interest in Rum Cay is focused on a 375-450 acre parcel in the island’s northwest corner.

This site is part of a larger 1,000-acre area previously involved in multiple land disputes. However, all title issues and legal battles are believed to have been resolved.

Rum Cay, Bahamas
Rum Cay, Bahamas (Photo Credit: netsign33 / Shutterstock)

One source even mentioned that negotiations over the land might be in the final stages, suggesting Royal Caribbean could have already accepted a contract. However, this would seem unlikely, given the timeframe. 

The northwest area of Rum Cay is considered ideal for accommodating cruise ships due to the deep water close to the shore, allowing for the construction of a pier for passengers to disembark easily.

Royal Caribbean’s Bahamas Investments

While it would seem unlikely that Royal Caribbean would be looking at another private island destination in the Bahamas, the idea is not entirely without merit. Royal Caribbean has long been looking at redeveloping the Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport, but that project fell through in 2021.

Royal Caribbean's Bahamas Beach Club
Render Courtesy: Royal Caribbean

In Freeport, Royal Caribbean is working on a joint venture with ITM Group to redevelop and expand the Freeport Harbor cruise port. The project aims to bring more capacity to the port, improve its facilities, and attract more visitors by adding more cruise ship berths and developing a water-based adventure theme park for passengers close to the harbor.

Bayley stated, “I would say we are increasingly optimistic about the timing of that. In the coming months, hopefully, we will be in a position to make some positive announcements on Freeport.”

There is also Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club, which will soon be developed in Nassau, and there is the hugely successful Perfect Day at CocoCay. That last one, in particular, is so successful and popular that it’s not unlikely that Royal Caribbean Group would be looking at developing more sites like this, possibly at Rum Cay.

Fun Shop Treats From Carnival Cruise Line Now More Expensive

Melissa Mayntz
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Fun Shop Treats From Carnival Cruise Line Now More Expensive

Carnival Cruise Line has quietly increased prices for several food items guests can purchase prior to setting sail, making these popular treats more expensive but without any corresponding changes to the size or quantity of the items.

Among the now-more-costly treats are celebration cakes, chocolate-covered strawberries, freshly baked cookies, and assorted party trays.

Online Shopping Price Increases

Carnival Cruise Line offers a variety of decadent sweets and treats available for pre-cruise purchase through the online Fun Shops, but guests are noticing prices that aren’t quite as much fun as several items have become more expensive in recent weeks.

For example, the popular 6-inch cake – available in “Happy Anniversary,” “Bon Voyage,” “Happy Birthday,” and other celebratory sentiments, is now priced at $12.50, compared to a price of $10 as recently as January 2023. The very similar 9-inch cake is now available for $17.50, whereas it used to be priced at just $14.

Carnival Cruise Line Cake
Carnival Cruise Line Cake

Freshly baked cookies, available in chocolate chip, chocolate chunk, honey oatmeal raisin, and macadamia nut are now $10 for four cookies, compared to the previous pricing of $6 for the same cookies.

The fruit and cheese party tray, an assortment of small bites great for snacking or as a delicious appetizer before dinner, now starts at $30 for the small tray, but used to be $26 in February 2023.

Read More: Carnival Cruise Line Addresses Another Recent Price Increase

Orders of chocolate-covered strawberries, popular for formal nights or to celebrate special moments onboard, have also increased in price, from $15 to $18 for a small tray (six decorated berries) and from $27 to $30 for a large tray (12 decorated berries).

Pastry trays and other party trays have also increased along similar lines, as have many other food items. Beverages, including soda and bottles of alcohol, have not increased at this time.

Why Price Increases?

There has been no official announcement or explanation for these increases, but they are likely related to overall economic concerns and the impact of inflation on foodstuffs, including the ingredients necessary to make many of the treats.

Carnival Cruise Line Ships
Photo Credit: Francisco Blanco / Shutterstock

Cruisers and non-cruisers alike are most definitely noticing the rise of grocery and restaurant prices, and continued shortages in different regions may make it difficult to get proper ingredients for some items.

Delivery of ingredients to cruise ports, the labor to create fresh-made gourmet treats, and arranging delivery of the items to individual staterooms also impacts overall costs.

Other Recent Price Increases

These shopping increases come just as Carnival Cruise Line guests are also noticing other cost increases, such as dramatic increases for private beach rentals at Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas as well as at Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic.

Carnival Cruise Line has also recently increased the costs for Wi-Fi access and gratuities for all guests, changes that took effect on April 1, 2023.

The frequency of the price increases and how many items are being increased is of concern to cruise guests who may feel the Carnival is not necessarily offering the best value for their vacation dollars.

Yet, with the cruise line recently reaching the monumental milestone of 100 million guests, it is clear that Carnival continues to dominate the cruise market, and will likely keep that momentum as additional ships join the Fun Ship fleet in the coming months, with Carnival Venezia debuting in May 2023, followed by Carnival Jubilee in December 2023 and Carnival Firenze in May 2024.

More Rental Price Hikes From Carnival Cruise Line

Melissa Mayntz
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More Rental Price Hikes From Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line recently increased the cost for private beachside rentals at Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas, and similar price hikes have now been noted at the cruise line’s other semi-private destination, Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic. The increases at Amber Cove are not quite as drastic, but are significant nonetheless.

Price Increases at Amber Cove

Amber Cove, which opened in 2015, has a gorgeous beach ready and waiting for cruise ship guests, and private beach retreats are a popular rental for visitors. Now, those retreats are coming with a much higher price tag than just a few months ago.

This comes right after significant price increases – roughly 50% more – have been noted at Half Moon Cay in The Bahamas. Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic has similar beach rentals, though the costs are different.

Amber Cove Cabanas
Amber Cove Cabanas (Photo Credit: Camera walk / Shutterstock)

Guests have four choices of private cabana rentals at Amber Cove, each one offering a unique and luxurious experience, but at high prices.

The “Hillside Cabana” is the least expensive, and the only option without direct water access. Tucked high on the hillside with exceptional views, these air-conditioned cabanas include private hot tubs, snacks, lounge chairs, water, soda, and other amenities, including an hour’s rental of two water sports (kayak, stand up paddle board, or aqua cycle). Up to 8 guests can enjoy the cabana for one excursion cost.

Both the “Poolside Cabana” and the “Ocean Cabana” can also accommodate up to 8 guests and offer similar amenities, snacks, and nearby servers for food and drink orders. Neither one has a hot tub, but the Poolside Cabanas are directly alongside Amber Cove’s 300,000-gallon pool, while the Ocean Cabanas are build directly over Maimon Bay.

The “Grand Cabana” is the most luxurious option, and can welcome up to 20 guests for a single excursion cost. These 1,000-square-foot bungalows are built over the ocean and include two water sport rentals for two full hours, as well as a personal hot tub and a dedicated server to take food and drink orders.

All four types of cabanas are all-day rentals and guests can come and go at their leisure throughout the day. The Hillside Cabana rents for $479.99, the Poolside and Ocean Cabanas for $499.99, and the Grand Cabanas commanding a grand price tag at $1,999.99.

Amber Cove Cabanas
Amber Cove Cabanas (Photo Credit: Camera walk / Shutterstock)

These prices are significantly higher than the costs in January 2022, when the Hillside Cabana rented for $309.99, the Poolside Cabana for $324.99, the Ocean Cabana for $344.99, and the Grand Cabana for $1,169.99.

The price differences between January 2022 and April 2023 – just 15 months – equate to increases of 35% for both the Hillside and Poolside Cabanas, 31% for the Ocean Cabana, and a whopping 42% for the Grand Cabana.

These increases are similar to the price hikes for beachside rentals at Half Moon Cay. While the destinations are different, the amenities offered at the private retreats are similar in both locations.

More Choices at Amber Cove

Guests who want to enjoy Amber Cove do not need to pay for the exclusive retreats – like all shore excursions, they are entirely optional and there are many other choices to enjoy.

Lounge chairs, hammocks, and beach access are free for all guests, and the crystal clear waters are always amazing for swimming, water sports, snorkeling, and other aquatastic fun. Pool access is also free, along with the waterslides and lazy river.

Read Also: Cruise Line Private Islands You Must Escape To

If guests do want to try out other shore tours, popular options at Amber Cove include swimming with dolphins, exploring local waterfalls, catamaran sailing trips, deep sea fishing, horseback riding, ATV adventures, ziplines, and much more.

How to Find Cruise Volunteer Opportunities

Emrys Thakkar
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How to Find Cruise Volunteer Opportunities

Everyone wants to work in the cruise industry, but there’s another option if you want to make your way on board: volunteering.

Cruises can have volunteers on board for a variety of reasons – whether they volunteer on the ship or at port. It’s a great way to participate in a meaningful experience while traveling the world. There are even cruises that are specifically for charitable purposes.

Interested in embarking on this journey? Keep reading to learn how to find cruise volunteer opportunities so that you can give back at sea.

In This Article…

What Are Cruise Volunteer Opportunities?

Volunteering on a cruise fits the umbrella of voluntourism, which sees volunteers travel to different places and give back to the local communities. Voluntourism has increased in popularity in recent years, and that popularity has extended to cruises.

Cruise volunteer opportunities are twofold – you can volunteer onboard, often for charitable organizations, or you can volunteer at port as part of your shore excursion. Some opportunities even see you doing both. 

Types of Volunteer Opportunities

There are several ways in which you can volunteer on cruises. You typically have three options: volunteering on board, in port, and on charity cruises. Let’s take a closer look at all three options.

Volunteering on Board

There are several causes that make their way to cruise ships for fundraising purposes. Therefore, there may be cruise volunteer opportunities if you volunteer with a particular organization.

Cruise Ship Volunteering
Photo Credit: Maridav / Shutterstock

What’s more, some cruise lines have their own organizations with which you can participate. An example is the Holland America Line Foundation, whose efforts to fight cancer can be found on board their ships with On Deck for a Cause.

This cause involves a 5k fundraising walk on each sailing. On the special day, participants are invited to join in a 5k walk around the ship’s wide teak decks.

Volunteering in Port

Volunteering in port is a great option if you’re looking to volunteer onshore in the local community you’re visiting. Some cruise lines will have volunteer opportunities set up as options for passengers. 

What you’ll do when volunteering in port may vary. You may find yourself helping the community, participating in environmental efforts, and volunteering with wildlife.

In the past, Carnival Cruise Line had a social-impact-themed cruise called Fathom with volunteer opportunities in the Dominican Republic and Cuba. Crystal Cruises also had a volunteer cruise called “You Care, We Care” which allowed passengers to volunteer at certain ports of call.

You don’t necessarily have to choose a cruise with volunteer options in order to give back during your voyage. Alternatively, you can set up your own volunteer opportunities at different ports throughout your cruise as excursions. 

Charity Cruise

Our last option for cruise volunteer opportunities is to participate in a charity cruise. Some organizations charter out cruise ships for charity-themed cruises. The way this works is that portions of the proceeds from your cruise ticket go toward a charitable organization. There are also other opportunities for giving back on board. 

An example of a current charity cruise includes the Buckeye Cruise for Cancer. This cruise features former Ohio State players with whom passengers can interact. Passengers can participate in auctions and donate money towards fighting cancer.

Charity Cruise
Photo Credit: mangostock / Shutterstock

You can try to volunteer for these particular charity cruises as they come up. By simply attending the cruise, however, you will be participating in a worthy cause. Cruises often even have charitable events that you can participate in. 

Now that you know the possible cruise volunteer opportunities out there, let’s discuss how to find the right opportunity for you.

How to Find Cruise Volunteer Opportunities

Whether you’re volunteering on the ship or in port, there are a variety of opportunities to give back while sailing the world. The key is to find the right opportunity for your interests and capacity. 

When considering cruise volunteer opportunities, there are several factors to consider. Some common factors to keep in mind include: 

  • Length of trip: You should have an idea of how much time you can dedicate to volunteering beforehand. Volunteer opportunities can vary from one week to several weeks, depending on what you’re doing.
  • Location: The location is especially important if you’re looking to volunteer at a port of call. Consider the specific communities and causes that you’d like to volunteer for. 
  • Type of volunteer work: Volunteer work can range from participating in environmental clean up to helping children. Consider the type of work you’re interested in.
  • Cost: While you can’t put a price on what you gain from volunteering, most cruise volunteer opportunities come at a cost. Consider how much you’re willing to spend to volunteer. Alternatively, you may be able to find volunteer opportunities on cruise ships where the majority of costs are covered.

FAQs

Are there age restrictions for cruise volunteer opportunities?

The age restriction for cruise volunteer opportunities depends on what exactly you’re doing on the ship. If you’re volunteering on the ship itself, chances are that you’ll need to be at least 21. If you’re volunteering at port, the age restriction is much more flexible. There may even be family volunteer opportunities so that your kids can join in!

Is experience necessary to participate in a cruise volunteer opportunity?

For many volunteer opportunities, there’s no experience necessary. However, if you’re volunteering for something that needs a particular skill, you may be required to fulfill some qualifications.

Can I earn credit for college by participating in a cruise volunteer opportunity?

As a student, you have the option of participating in the Semester at Sea program, where you spend a semester on a cruise ship traveling and learning. Many volunteer passenger opportunities are part of the program. This is a great opportunity to receive college credit while traveling and volunteering on a cruise. 

Conclusion: Volunteering at Sea

Volunteering on a cruise is a fulfilling experience that can see you making a difference in the lives of different communities. 

Opportunities on volunteer cruises always pop up, whether it’s with specific cruise lines or on shore. So it’s worth keeping an eye out for cruise volunteer opportunities to make the most out of your next cruise.

Carnival Drastically Increases Private Island Rental Prices

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Drastically Increases Private Island Rental Prices

Carnival Cruise Line has quietly increased prices for cabana and beach villa rentals on its private island in The Bahamas, Half Moon Cay. Guests booked on upcoming cruises who are planning their time ashore have noted dramatic increases in recent months for both types of private beachside retreats.

Beach Rental Prices Increase

The rentals in question include both “beach villa” and “cabana” rentals on Half Moon Cay, Carnival Corporation’s private island destination in The Bahamas.

The “beach villa” is a 2-story beachside retreat, with unobstructed ocean views and a private sun deck. The air-conditioned rental has a 5-person hot tub, refrigerator, mist shower, and dining area. Snacks, water, and soda are included in the rental price, as well as water floating mats and snorkel gear. Up to 8 guests can share the villa for one excursion price.

In comparison, the “cabana” rental is a smaller option, able to accommodate only 4 guests for a single excursion fee, and only one story rather than two. Cabanas are still air-conditioned and come with the same amenities – snacks, water, soda, water mats, and snorkel gear. Cabanas do not have any hot tubs.

Half Moon Cay Cabana
Half Moon Cay Cabana (photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)

Currently, the price for a beach villa is listed as beginning at $999.99 (USD), while cabanas rent for $699.99. Both types of rentals are for the whole day, and guests can come and go as they please.

Previously, prices for both the villas and the cabanas were dramatically lower. Villa prices in late November 2022, for example, were just $649.99, while cabana prices were $449.99. Looking even further back, villas were priced at $599.99 in January 2022, while cabanas were $359.99 in January 2022.

By these prices, both villas and cabanas have increased by 50% in just over a year’s time, an incredible rate change that may be startling to many cruisers who enjoyed the rentals last year but may find them too pricey this year.

A third private option, the “Private Oasis” that can accommodate up to 12 guests and includes such luxuries as an 8-person hot tub, personal chef, private butler, and more in a 1,620-square-foot cabana perched partially over the water is even pricier at $1,999,99. In January 2022, the private oasis was priced at $1,595,99 – still a dramatic price increase, but not as substantial as the other increases.

Why Such Increases?

Carnival Cruise Line can increase prices on such private rentals however they choose, and there has been no announcement about why the rates have changed so dramatically.

This follows with other recent price increases, such as upping the price of bottled water in November 2022, and price increases for gratuities and Wi-Fi service jumping as of April 1, 2023.

Many cruise travelers enjoy the private luxury of villa and cabana rentals, and the popularity of the rentals, as well as how limited they are, can easily drive the price up.

Half Moon Cay Villa
Photo Credit: Eric Glenn / Shutterstock

Carnival may be seeing the price increases as an opportunity to capitalize on exclusivity and appeal to travelers with bigger budgets who are willing to pay for even more privacy on the private island.

Improved amenities may also be part of the pricing strategy, if the cruise line opts to upgrade the services and benefits provided to those who rent the retreats. There is no evidence that this has been done, however, but it may be a possibility for justifying the price.

Guests noting the dramatic price increase are also speculating that the company’s debt burden as it recovers from the pandemic-related industry shutdown could be a cause behind the high prices. So long as guests are willing to pay the higher prices and the villas and cabanas are still selling out, prices will undoubtedly remain high and provide a nice profit margin for the cruise line.

Other Options on Half Moon Cay

Ships from both Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line visit Half Moon Cay, which is located 100 miles (161 kilometers) east-southeast of Nassau, the capital city of The Bahamas and another popular port of call.

The destination is widely popular among cruise guests because the private island is not as crowded as other tourist ports that may have multiple ships from different lines visiting at once.

At Half Moon Cay, both Carnival Cruise Line and Holland America Line plan their visits carefully so only one ship is docked at once, ensuring a true private island experience.

Guests can enjoy many of the island’s amenities, including beach lounge chairs, island games and activities, beachside lunches, and more without any extra fees. Snorkeling and watersport equipment is available for rental, and a variety of shore tours are offered, such as kayaking, horseback riding, tram tours, and bike tours.

Carnival Cruise Line Hints at Loyalty Program Overhaul

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Line Hints at Loyalty Program Overhaul

Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador John Heald has acknowledged the need for an overhaul of the line’s loyalty program, and asked for guest feedback about options.

While no immediate changes are forthcoming, there are a variety of choices the cruise line might make to reward returning guests.

Loyalty Program Changes Coming?

Loyalty programs are a great attraction for frequent cruisers as they build up points, days, or other means of tracking their specific level of loyalty to earn exclusive benefits. Carnival Cruise Line’s “Very Important Fun Person” (VIFP) loyalty program is based on days, with every day aboard earning guests more credit to advance to higher loyalty levels more quickly.

The line’s official ambassador, John Heald, recently acknowledged the possibility of changes coming to how loyalty credit may be accrued, after being asked why only days – and not type of stateroom or onboard spending – earns loyalty.

Carnival Cruise Line VIFP
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz

“The whole loyalty program is being looked at by very smart people and while I have zero news to share on what will or will not happen I know that the program needs a massive refresh so we can do a better job in thanking people for their loyalty and to keep that loyalty alive,” Heald said.

Heald went on to ask whether or not the guests feel the money spent onboard should help advance loyalty levels.

Guest response was mixed, with many guests believing Carnival Cruise Line should stick with just the number of days cruised to determine loyalty, while others agree that onboard spending should have some influence on VIFP levels.

Days of Loyalty

Right now, Carnival’s VIFP program operates on a days cruised basis, with each day equal to one point in the program. All guests are automatically enrolled in the “Blue” level from their very first cruise, receiving members-only offers and an emailed newsletter.

From a guest’s second sailing and through 24 points earned, guests are “Red” level, while 25-75 points is “Gold,” 75-199 points is “Platinum” and 200+ points qualify the most loyal guests as “Diamond” status.

At each successive tier, benefits increase and ultimately include such premium perks as priority embarkation and debarkation, free logo gifts, priority spa and restaurant reservations, complimentary laundry service, and more.

Carnival VIFP Pins
Carnival VIFP Pins (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)

While this method of loyalty – counting days cruised – is a fair method that rewards guests for the more time they spend onboard Carnival cruise ships, it does not account for other factors, such as their spending patterns onboard.

It should be noted, however, that counting days is a distinct improvement over Carnival’s former policy, which counted cruises only. For example, guests would not reach “Gold” status until they had sailed five times, no matter what the length of cruise – a guest who had sailed only four week-long cruises (28 days total) would have a lower loyalty status than a guest who had sailed five weekend cruises (15 days total).

The change from individual cruises to total days counted for loyalty was implemented in 2012. After more than a decade, is another change overdue?

Spending Influencing Loyalty

To add an onboard spending component to guest loyalty status would permit guests to advance through Carnival’s VIFP tiers more quickly based on certain purchases.

For example, the stateroom category may factor into loyalty points earned. Guests booking more expensive cabins, such as suites, might earn extra points on top of the days of the cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line Ship
Photo Credit: 4kclips / Shutterstock

Money spent in the ship’s casino could also influence loyalty, with high rollers earning more loyalty points and benefits more quickly than casual casino guests or passengers who do not gamble at all.

It is not typically possible to use all onboard spending to influence cruise line loyalty status, however. Retail purchases, spa treatments, and shore tours will not usually be applicable, for example, as that spending is for retail partners and not directly to the cruise line.

Other Loyalty Options

There are other options Carnival Cruise Line might consider to help determine guest loyalty status. It could be possible, for example, to offer guests additional loyalty points for more frequent cruises, such as bonus points for cruising multiple times in one year.

Specific destinations might also be used for extra loyalty points, such as rewarding guests for booking a cruise to Alaska or for sailing a longer Journeys cruise.

Carnival might also use even more creative options for encouraging loyalty, such as bonus points for sailing on a brand new ship, or special sailings – such as the popular “FFS” cruises with John Heald – qualifying for extra points.

How do you think Carnival could revamp the VIFP program? Share your thoughts on the Cruise Hive boards!

Carnival Cruise Line Planning Busiest Alaska Season Ever

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Line Planning Busiest Alaska Season Ever

Carnival Cruise Line is getting ready for its busiest season ever in Alaska, with three ships deployed to the Last Frontier for a total of 49 different sailings.

Along the way, guests will get to enjoy new and unique shore excursions, carefully curated children’s programs, and all the signature fun of an amazing Carnival cruise.

Three Carnival Ships in Alaska for 2023

Three Fun Ships will be sailing Alaska itineraries this summer, and all three ships are the popular Spirit-class vessels: Carnival Miracle, Carnival Spirit, and for the first time in North American waters since joining the fleet, Carnival Luminosa.

Carnival Miracle will be the first to set sail for Alaska when she leaves Long Beach on April 23 for a 14-night roundtrip sailing up the California coast to visit Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Tracy Arm Fjord, Ketchikan, and Prince Rupert, before returning to Long Beach on May 7.

The ship will then reposition to San Francisco for alternating 10-night Alaskan sailings and 4-night Baja Mexico cruises, a unique blend of opportunities for sailing from the Golden State. In September, Carnival Miracle will again return to Long Beach after another 14-night Alaska cruise.

Carnival Cruise Line in Alaska
Photo Credit: Jim Lambert / Shutterstock

Carnival Spirit will return to Alaska beginning on May 2, after a 16-night repositioning cruise from Miami to Seattle. From Seattle, the ship will offer 7-night roundtrip Alaska cruises for the season, with stunning visits to Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, until her last Alaska sailing departs on September 12.

After the Alaska season, Carnival Spirit will reposition to Mobile via a 16-night one-way cruise from Seattle to New Orleans, and from Mobile she will offer a selection of sailings to The Bahamas and the Western Caribbean.

Carnival Luminosa will join her sister ships in Alaska for the first time, bringing Italian flair and Carnival fun to the Last Frontier. Currently homeported in Brisbane, the restyled ship will depart on April 13 for a 21-day sailing between Brisbane and Seattle, calling at ports in New Caledonia, Fiji, French Polynesia, and Hawaii along the way.

“I can’t wait to welcome our guests on board our stunning Carnival Luminosa, as she joins her beautiful sisters, Carnival Spirit and Carnival Miracle, for this year’s Alaska season,” said Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

“There’s no better way to see the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Alaska than by cruise ship, and we anticipate making that happen for more than 100,000 guests this year.”

Carnival Luminosa in Australia
Photo Courtesy: Carnival Cruise Line

From Seattle, Carnival Luminosa will offer primarily 7-night roundtrip sailings, though the June 15 departure is a 6-night cruise and the June 28 departure is an 8-night voyage. Carnival Luminosa‘s cruises will visit Tracy Arm Fjord, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan, and Victoria, though itineraries on the two special departures do vary slightly.

After the Alaska season ends, Carnival Luminosa will return to Brisbane via an epic 31-night cruise, visiting ports in Alaska, Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia as she heads down under.

New Immersive Shore Excursions

No matter which ship guests choose for their fun Alaska sailings, Carnival Cruise Line has prepared unique and authentic tours.

In Prince Rupert, guests will have the opportunity for a full-day wildlife viewing adventure through Canada’s only grizzly bear sanctuary, or taking a jet boat through the temperate rainforest to enjoy a meal of fresh wild salmon cooked over a campfire at the base of 4,000-foot cliffs.

In Juneau, guests can enjoy up close wildlife viewing via high-speed expedition vessels and guided tours of Mendenhall Glacier, while in Skagway, the Ultimate Yukon and White Pass Railroad Adventure offers a picturesque tour of the Yukon River with tales of the Klondike Gold Rush.

Carnival Cruise Line in Alaska
Photo Credit: Jim Lambert / Shutterstock

In Ketchikan, a top tour is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, a fun event for all ages that showcases real lumberjack skills and gets the audience involved in rooting for their favorite competitors.

In every port, guests will have additional tour options for wildlife adventures, hiking, historical sightseeing, shopping for authentic Alaskan crafts and artwork, and much more.

Family-Friendly Fun

While the ports of call are don’t-miss destinations in Alaska, Carnival guests don’t have to leave their ships to explore Alaska during their sailing. New Alaska-specific programming has been carefully designed for children and families, including the Great Alaskan Deck Party.

Local naturalists will be visiting Camp Ocean, Club O2, and Circle C on all Alaskan sailings, offering fun programs such as overviews of Alaskan wildlife, photography lessons to capture every view, square dancing with an Alaskan vibe, and Alaska-themed crafts.

Read Also: Icy Strait Point Cruise Port – Terminals, Piers and What’s Nearby

Fun family competitions will also be part of the activity schedule, including an ice fishing challenge and a lumberjack challenge sure to get every family member involved in making once-in-a-lifetime memories on their once-in-a-lifetime Alaska cruise.

With so much to offer, the Last Frontier is sure to be the Fun Frontier with Carnival Cruise Line this summer.

Holland America Line Prepares for Biggest Event in Its History

Robert McGillivray
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Holland America Line Prepares for Biggest Event in Its History

Holland America Line is all set to celebrate its 150th anniversary with several historical events in its founding city of Rotterdam on April 18, 2023. 

The cruise line’s newest cruise ship, Rotterdam, will arrive on April 18 in its namesake city Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and join local dignitaries, port officials, and guests in marking the milestone.

Meanwhile, another Holland America Line cruise ship, Zuiderdam, will be stationed in Amsterdam to host an evening gala party for Grand World Voyage guests.

A Celebration of Heritage and History

After many months of preparations, and many different events and happenings, Holland America Line will officially celebrate its 150th birthday in the cruise line’s official home, Rotterdam in the Netherlands. The company’s newest cruise ship, Rotterdam, will be front and center of the celebrations on April 18.

Holland America Line President Gus Antorcha will lead the celebrations, which will also be attended by Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, Rotterdam’s godmother; Ahmed Aboutaleb, mayor of Rotterdam; and descendants of two founding families of Holland America Line.

Rotterdam Sea Trials
Photo Courtesy: Holland America Line

Gus Antorcha, Holland America Line President: “Holland America Line is a company that takes deep pride in our heritage and respects the role we played in history, so our 150th-anniversary events honor our tradition while recognizing the brand we are today.” 

“All of the festivities we have planned carry special meaning, and we’re excited to celebrate with so many individuals who have been a part of our story throughout the years, alongside our guests, team members, and the people of the Netherlands.”

The 150th-anniversary celebrations will begin at the famous Hotel New York, which once was Holland America Line’s headquarters. A ship bell will be gifted to the hotel, symbolizing the company’s maritime history. Following Holland America Line’s custom, Princess Margriet will bless the bell before it is presented to the hotel.

A unique Holland America Line share will also be donated to a collection housed in Rotterdam’s city archives. The Dutch postal service, PostNL, will reveal a limited edition 24-carat gold-foil collectible stamp in honor of the 150th anniversary, with only 1,000 copies available for purchase across the Netherlands.

In Amsterdam, the Holland America Line cruise ship Zuiderdam will host an evening gala party on board for Grand World Voyage guests.

Following a Gala Dinner on board Rotterdam and Zuiderdam, the celebrations will move to the Lido pool area with live music and a toast to the special day. Anniversary-themed parties will also be held on the nine other ships in Holland America Line’s fleet.

Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing Pays Tribute to Dutch Heritage

To honor its 150th anniversary and Dutch roots, Holland America Line has curated a unique experience for guests on the special Anniversary Transatlantic Crossing aboard the Rotterdam.

Departing from New York City on April 7 and arriving in Rotterdam on April 18, the cruise pays tribute to the company’s rich history and heritage.

Guests will be treated to a selection of cuisines from previous Holland America Line voyages dating back to the 1920s, enjoy a “Throwback Happy Hour” with drink prices as low as 75 cents, and a traditional Dutch High Tea will be served.

Classic Rotterdam
Photo Courtesy: Holland America Line

Guests will also be treated to a unique gastronomic experience; a Rijsttafel pop-up will be hosted in the Tamarind restaurant. Rijsttafel, meaning “rice table” in Dutch, is a traditional Indonesian meal with an elaborate spread of Indonesian dishes.

Besides the celebrations in Rotterdam and Amsterdam, and onboard Rotterdam, Holland America Line is celebrating in many more ways, including a unique look back into its history.

The cruise line has digitized passenger list archives detailing guests who sailed with the company between 1900 and 1969. The digitized archives include each guest’s name, port of departure, and departure date. The archives reveal a wealth of information about early Holland America Line guests, including Albert Einstein and Winston Churchill. 

An Anniversary Sale will also be available on select sailings from summer 2023 to spring 2024. Guests who book eligible sailings can receive up to 45% off cruise fares, up to $150 onboard spending money per person, reduced deposits, and much more.

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