blog - Page 17 of 628

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

Royal Caribbean News

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Jun 22, 2026

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

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not the First Whale Incident

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Port News

Lissa Poirot

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Jun 21, 2026

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

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Charles HHuang)

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

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

Multiple Fraudulent Documents

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

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

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

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

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

Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Morning Soda Availability Across Ships

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jun 20, 2026

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Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Morning Soda Availability Across Ships

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Ship Coffee (Photo Credit: Kite_rin)

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

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

Do Cruisers Drink Soda in the Morning?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Guests Suggest Other Solutions

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

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

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

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

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

First Time Cruisers

Emrys Thakkar

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Jun 20, 2026

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

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

What is Bonine?

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

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

Possible Bonine Side Effects

Side effects that you might experience after taking Bonine include:

Drowsiness or tiredness
Dry mouth
Headache
Vomiting

Who Should Not Use Bonine

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

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

What is Dramamine?

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

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

Possible Dramamine Side Effects

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

Who Should Not Use Dramamine

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

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

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which is Better?

Effectiveness

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

Chewable vs. Pill

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

Safety for Children

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

Side Effects

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

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

Cost

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

Cruiser Reviews

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

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

Alternatives to Taking Bonine or Dramamine on a Cruise

Cruise Passenger With Motion Sickness (Photo Credit: GBALLGIGGSPHOTO)

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

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

Otherwise, here are some of your other alternatives.

Choosing the Right Ship and Cabin

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

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

Natural Alternatives

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

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

Simple Changes

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

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

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

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

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

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

Carnival Cruise News

Lissa Poirot

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Jun 19, 2026

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

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Four Adults-Only Sailings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fog Halts Tender Operations While Holland America Line Guests Still Ashore

Holland America Line News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jun 19, 2026

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Fog Halts Tender Operations While Holland America Line Guests Still Ashore

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety is the First Consideration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Onboard Schedule Adjusted

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

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

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

Cunard Postpones Southampton Boarding for Unexpected Deep Cleaning

Cunard News

Lissa Poirot

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Jun 18, 2026

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Cunard Postpones Southampton Boarding for Unexpected Deep Cleaning

Key Aspects:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cunard Cites Elevated Illness Levels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Carnival Splendor’s 2027 Cruise Has Suddenly Been Cancelled

Carnival Cruise News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jun 18, 2026

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Why Carnival Splendor’s 2027 Cruise Has Suddenly Been Cancelled

Key Aspects:

The September 1, 2027 sailing of Carnival Splendor from Singapore to Sydney has now been cancelled.
Following initial confusion and concern, the cancellation was confirmed to be due to a change in dry dock scheduling.
Guests have some small incentives to rebook on comparable sailings or will receive full refunds if they do not rebook.

Repositioning cruises, when a ship moves from one homeport to another or moves from dry dock operations back to its full-time homeport, can be unique and exciting voyages.

Guests won’t have that opportunity for one Carnival Splendor sailing after all, however, as a scheduling change has cancelled a post-dry-dock cruise that was to have departed Singapore on September 1, 2027 to head back to Sydney, Australia.

Booked guests have been notified of the change and offered compensation if they reschedule the sailing.

“Due to a change in the dry dock schedule for Carnival Splendor in August 2027, we are sorry to inform you that your voyage from Singapore to Sydney, departing 1st September 2027, has been cancelled,” the email notification confirmed.

The 16-night sailing was to have visited unique ports such as Bali, Lombok, Darwin, and Cairns, as well as having the experience of crossing the equator, a once-in-a-lifetime cruise experience for many travelers.

Changes in shipyard schedules impacting dry dock renovations and maintenance are not uncommon. Labor shortages or disputes, emergency repairs, or other shipyard operations can all change these schedules. Cruise Hive regularly reports on such changes as cruise schedules shift and guests face cancellations or other changes.

Because this particular cancellation is more than a year away, booked guests do have plenty of time to adjust their vacation plans and choose another sailing.

Carnival Cruise Line is hoping guests may do just that and is offering a protected cruise fare rate on comparable sailings in similar accommodations for rebooking, as well as a bonus of $50 onboard credit per person (no more than $100 per stateroom) for that alternative cruise.

If guests choose not to rebook, they will receive full refunds of their cruise fare and any pre-purchased items. Non-refundable deposits will also be fully refunded for this now-cancelled cruise.

What Is Really Happening With Carnival Splendor?

Many guests booked on the unique sailing are confused about why the voyage is now cancelled and have reached out to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, for clarification.

“I believe this is because the ship has been [chartered] and I absolutely understand why you are so disappointed,” he reassured guests in one comment, but in another he mentioned “the reason for the [cancellation] is due to a change in the ship’s dry dock schedule.”

Carnival Splendor Docked in Sydney, Australia (Photo Credit: Stepan Skorobogadko)

Other guests have become concerned that Carnival Splendor may be relocated and not return to its Sydney, Australia homeport, though no such redeployment plans have been announced.

“I don’t have any information on this,” Heald noted when asked directly about changes to the ship’s deployment.

The 113,573-gross-ton Carnival Splendor is scheduled to remain sailing from Sydney at least through June 2028. Deployment plans for the ship have not yet been announced past that date, but the cruise line should be releasing future itineraries for most of the fleet in the coming weeks.

Heald later explained that he hadn’t opened his emails before responding to the first guests but has now seen the communication about the cancellation. It is, in fact, an update to the dry dock schedule.

While Heald is very helpful to guests on many issues and does his best to assist with questions and problems, he doesn’t always have the most updated information on these types of changes.

There is no confirmation yet on the exact changes to Carnival Splendor‘s dry dock schedule. It is possible more sailings could be impacted, the dry dock might be moved earlier or later than planned, or the dry dock could be on the same general dates but perhaps extended or contracted slightly depending on the amount of work to be completed.

World’s Newest Icon Class Ship Departs Shipyard Ahead of Inaugural Sailing

Royal Caribbean News

Melissa Mayntz

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Jun 18, 2026

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World’s Newest Icon Class Ship Departs Shipyard Ahead of Inaugural Sailing

Key Aspects:

Legend of the Seas has departed the Meyer Turku shipyard where she was built and is on her way to Cadiz, Spain.
There, the ship will take on final provisions and crew members to be ready to begin welcoming guests onboard.
The ship’s maiden voyage is a 7-night Mediterranean cruise from Rome departing on July 4, 2026.

Royal Caribbean’s third Icon class ship, Legend of the Seas, has officially left the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and is now en route to Cadiz, Spain for outfitting and crew arrivals ahead of her first cruise.

The ship left Finland on Thursday, June 18, 2026, a week after her delivery to the cruise line. Cruise Hive has already reported on that handover ceremony, when Legend of the Seas officially became part of the Royal Caribbean fleet.

It is not unusual for a new cruise ship to remain at her construction shipyard for several days after delivery as crew members begin to arrive so the ship can be properly operated. As she sails away, construction crews and shipyard employees have nothing but good wishes for her to have a long service life.

“Once again we wish Legend fair winds following seas!” Meyer Turku said in a Facebook post acknowledging the ship’s departure.

Royal Caribbean is also keeping an eye on its newest fleetmate as Legend of the Seas gets closer to welcoming guests.

“And she’s off! Legend of the Seas has officially departed from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and is now heading to Cadiz, Spain to get her finishing touches,” the cruise line posted with a “feeling happy” emoji.

Satellite tracking shows the brand new ship on course with no delays, traveling at a speed of 20 knots through the Baltic Sea. She is estimated to arrive in Cadiz, roughly 2,700 miles away, late on Wednesday, June 24, though that time may be adjusted as the ship’s route and speed vary through her journey.

What Will Happen in Spain?

Isn’t the new ship finished and ready for guests? Not quite.

Guests booked on Legend of the Seas‘ maiden voyage on July 4, 2026 are naturally wondering if the vessel is ready to show off all her bells and whistles.

While the ship is fully operational, there may yet be some minor finishing work that has to be attended to. This could include artwork installation, assembling fixtures in staterooms (such as arranging beds and linens), or similar work that Royal Caribbean is managing.

Legend of the Seas Departing Meyer Turku (Photo Credit: Meyer Turku)

The ship also needs to take on her full load of supplies to be ready to serve the up to 7,600 guests who will board the 248,663-gross-ton ship for every voyage. This includes food and beverages, retail merchandise, entertainment supplies (where do all those trivia pencils come from?), and more.

The final crew members must also join the ship, ensuring a full complement of nearly 2,350 international crew members ready to offer outstanding service on every voyage. One of those crew members will be her Chief Dog Officer, Skipper.

Setting Sail on Legend of the Seas

The ship’s first sailing with guests onboard will set sail from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy on Saturday, July 4. That 7-night Western Mediterranean sailing will visit Marseille, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, and La Spezia before returning to Civitavecchia.

Legend of the Seas will remain homeported from Rome for a total of four departures, then will offer sailings from both Barcelona and Civitavecchia through mid-October.

At the end of her first Mediterranean season, the massive ship will depart on October 25 on her first transatlantic cruise, a 13-night voyage to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

From the Sunshine State, Legend of the Seas will be offering 6- and 8-night Western and Southern Caribbean itineraries, with every sailing stopping at Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The new ship will return to Europe in April 2027 for another summer of Mediterranean sailings and will be back to her Florida homeport in November 2027.