Cruise passengers hoping to use Royal Caribbean’s app to manage their next cruise instead found themselves the unwitting participants in a tech testing spree.
Beginning the morning of May 29, 2025, mobile users started receiving a series of repeated push notifications from the Royal Caribbean app, all reading some variation of the “test segment.”
None of the alerts were tied to any cruise news or urgent itinerary updates. They just kept coming – fast and frequent. And users noticed.
Reddit’s Royal Caribbean community quickly lit up with passengers sharing screenshots, tracking how many messages they received.
“I’m up to 26 so far,” one user posted. “Let’s take a bet – how high will the numbers go?” joked another.
By midday, dozens of app users reported receiving between 15 and 40 notifications. No one was sure if it was a tech mishap or something else. But one user put it bluntly: “Someone’s getting fired.”
Royal Caribbean has responded and acknowledged the alerts on X (formerly Twitter). The cruise line posted, “Our IT teams are aware of a series of test notifications inadvertently sent out through the RCI mobile app, and they are working to resolve the issue. We’re sorry for any inconvenience.”
Our IT teams are aware of a series of test notifications inadvertently sent out through the RCI mobile app, and they are working to resolve the issue. We're sorry for any inconvenience.
However, the cruise line’s Royal App did launch a new iOS update, 1.66.3, in the morning the alerts went haywire.
Recent updates have introduced features like the “VacayMarket,” an in-app marketplace, and the “Spend to Save Challenge.” The latest version ironically focuses on bug fixes, as well as app speed and usability.
While many assumed it was a mistake, some users couldn’t resist teasing the company.
“Sir, the 5th notification has hit the server,” wrote one Redditor, channeling an action movie vibe.
Others jokingly asked whether this was some hidden promotion or prelude to a new loyalty tier: “Introducing Royal Caribbean’s Push Club – get 50 notifications and earn free Wi-Fi.”
No Outage Reported
Despite the volume of alerts, Royal Caribbean’s mobile platform appeared to remain fully functional when its 1.66.3 iOS update went live.
According to Downdetector.com, which tracks app outages in real-time, there was no spike in reported issues.
Some users pointed to similar incidents from companies like Delta and Starbucks in the past, noting that internal tools sometimes get pushed live by mistake.
“Feels like someone deployed staging code to production – classic slip,” one user said.
Another added, “This is either a mistake or they’re beta testing a new A/B feature… in public. On accident.”
Although some users were clearly frustrated, most appeared to take the situation in stride.
“Royal Caribbean just sent more push notifications in one hour than my spouse has texts in a week,” joked one.
A few users called for some lighthearted compensation. “I think this deserves at least a drink package discount. Or a free keychain. Something,” shared another.
It’s been more than a decade since the fifth and final ship in Celebrity Cruises’ Solstice class entered service, and now the line is set to invest $250 million to renovate all of the vessels in the series.
First up will be Celebrity Solstice, the first ship in the class that debuted in 2008. Several new public spaces and experiences will roll out on the ship in 2026 along with four more stateroom categories, refreshed lounges and sundecks, and other exciting onboard destinations.
Guests booked to sail on Celebrity Solstice starting in March 2026 will be the first to see the bow-to-stern refit.
“Our Solstice Series ships represent the best of classic cruising, and now we’re elevating this vacation experience even further by adding brand new experiences and enhancements at every turn,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.
“Guests will enjoy more ways to explore and restore, all while staying true to what made our guests fall in love with these ships in the first place,” Hodges Bethge added.
There are five ships in the series; besides Celebrity Solstice the class consists of Celebrity Equinox (2009); Celebrity Eclipse (2010); Celebrity Silhouette (2011); and Celebrity Reflection (2012). All but the final ship accommodate 2,800 guests, as Celebrity Reflection has capacity for slightly more — 3,000.
Celebrity Solstice Class Upgrade
When Celebrity Solstice emerges from her renovation, guests will have four new stateroom categories to choose from, including the Panoramic Infinite Veranda Suite, Deluxe Panoramic Oceanview Suite, Panoramic Ocean View Suite, and Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View. Future guests can start booking these categories beginning in mid-June 2025.
Suites and public spaces in The Retreat, the line’s all-inclusive luxury area, will get upgrades, including a new Retreat Sundeck, a hot tub, and a redesigned Retreat Lounge.
Celebrity Cruises is planning to debut new entertainment venues onboard Celebrity Solstice, including Boulevard Lounge, a cabaret-style venue that will also offer concerts and daytime events such as trivia contests.
The nearby Boulevard Bar will serve cocktails, and guests can enjoy a new sports bar, too, called Celebrity Barcade. Multiple screens will show major sports events, and guests can play games like darts and billiards.
Two new dining venues will be added to Celebrity Solstice. Fine Cut Steakhouse, which first appeared on ships in the line’s Edge class, specializes in 30-day dry-aged steaks, plus seafood choices.
Celebrity Solstice Class Upgrade
Also, guests can indulge in Italian cuisine at Trattoria Rossa, where classic dishes will be prepared table-side and include fresh pasta.
New outdoor spaces will be added to the ship. Sunset Park will be a half-acre recreational area on the ship’s top deck, offering food and drinks, live music, lawn games, and other activities.
The refit will offer new private cabanas that guests can rent and a larger Sunset Bar.
Celebrity Solstice Dry-Dock Appears Set For Early 2026
The specific dates of Celebrity Solstice’s dry dock were not revealed, but the ship currently has no sailings scheduled from January 15, 2026 to March 25, 2026. Her first published cruise shows a departure date of March 26, 2026 on a 14-night Australia voyage from Singapore to Sydney.
In April 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night “Fiji Transpacific” cruise from Sydney to Hawaii, followed by a 9-night Hawaii itinerary that ends in Vancouver, British Columbia, setting up the ship for her summer season in Alaska, starting on May 3, 2026.
A timeline for the renovations of the remaining four ships in the Solstice class has not yet been released, nor has the cruise line announced which shipyard will handle the dry dock refits. All of the Solstice-class ships were built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
Celebrity Cruises’ fleet has four classes of ships. Besides Solstice and Edge, it sails Millennium-class and Expedition-class vessels.
Passengers who recently sailed aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas are being notified that a fellow guest has been diagnosed with Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease.
The cruise line issued a letter alerting guests and outlining steps taken in response.
“Your health and safety are always our top priority, and we are reaching out for your awareness,” the letter from Royal Caribbean began.
“The CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] has advised that while they are unsure where exposed, a guest who recently sailed on Symphony of the Seas was later diagnosed with Legionella,” it continued.
Legionnaires’ disease, according to the CDC, is a serious type of pneumonia caused by inhaling droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria.
The CDC says outbreaks are often associated with large or complex water systems like those found in hotels, hospitals, and, yes, cruise ships.
The bacteria grow best in warm water and can be spread through showers, hot tubs, and decorative fountains. It does not, however, spread from person to person, says the CDC.
In response, Royal Caribbean has implemented heightened sanitation measures and is following CDC cleaning guidelines as a precaution.
The cruise line does not specify the date of the voyage the infected passenger had been on, but the 5,518-guest ship is currently sailing a series of 7-night cruises from its homeport in New York to Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; and its private island destination, Perfect Day at CoCo Cay.
People who are exposed to Legionella bacteria can take 14 days or longer to experience symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease. These include cough, fever, headaches, muscles aches, and shortness of breath, according to the CDC.
Other symptoms may include confusion, diarrhea, or nausea, says the CDC.
But the CDC also notes that “most healthy people exposed to Legionella don’t get sick.”
For others, however, the risk increases. This includes people who are or were smokers, 50 years of age of older, or who have or had serious health issues like chronic lung disease, cancer, a weakened immune system, diabetes, or kidney or liver failure.
Anyone who recently sailed on Symphony of the Seas experiencing symptoms should see their doctor.
Outbreaks on the Rise
It is estimated that nearly 6,000 people a year develop Legionnaires’ disease, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
However, that figure is considered low due to the similarities between Legionnaires and pneumonia.
The CDC says 9 of 10 outbreaks of the disease comes from “preventable” water management. This includes proper disinfecting of hot tubs, which are tested and checked regularly on Royal Caribbean vessels.
In fact, just last October and November 2024, Royal Caribbean sent out similar alerts that Legionella had been reported on two separate sailings on the 228,081-gross-ton Symphony of the Seas.
Hot tub (Photo Credit: Kokoulina)
Around the same time, a CDC investigation revealed outbreaks of Legionnaire’s Disease connected to hot tubs aboard two unidentified cruise ships.
Following the review, the authority issued more rigorous standards for hot tub maintenance on cruise ships.
The CDC has been busy in 2025 dealing with a banner year in cruise ship outbreaks.
While in 2024, there were only 18 illness outbreaks on US vessels during the entire year, there have been 17 outbreaks by May 29, 2025, indicating the year may be lining up to be a record year for passenger illnesses.
The majority of the outbreaks have been connected to norovirus, a highly contagious virus that leads to vomiting and diarrhea.
There will be no daily or seasonal limit on the number of cruise passengers visiting Sitka, one of Alaska’s most popular port of calls along the state’s pristine Inside Passage, at least for now, following the rejection of a ballot measure on May 28, 2025.
By a huge margin, voters in Sitka gave a thumbs-down to a citizen petition that called for a 4,500 per person per day cap and a 300,000 annual arrivals cap.
On a typical day during high season, debarkations at the Port of Sitka reach about 8,000, and annual cruise visitors top 600,000, so the measure would have cut the visitor number roughly in half.
Besides the passenger caps, the petition sought to shrink the destination’s official cruise season, allowing ships to call between May and September. Currently, many cruise lines deploy their ships to Alaska starting in April and continuing into mid-October.
If passed the proposed ordinance would also have set aside one day each week when no ship accommodating more than 250 guests would be allowed to call. All caps and limitations were to take effect in 2026.
Unofficial results released by Sitka’s municipal clerk show that 73%, or 2,071 votes, rejected the measure while 27%, or 773 votes, were in favor.
The proposed law included new requirements for cruise lines, too, calling for all cruise ships to obtain an annual Disembarkation Permit from the city, and count and report the number of guests who leave the ship in Sitka. Violations of those rules would result in hefty fines and/or revocation of a ship’s permit.
Among those who opposed the ballot measure was Chris McGraw, owner of the Sitka Sound Cruise Terminal and founder of the local group Safeguard Sitka’s Future, who told local media outlet KCAW that the election outcome shows the local population values the benefits of cruise tourism.
The Sitka organization Small Town Soul had proposed the ordinance and has worked for three years to get the measure placed on the election ballot. The first three attempts failed, for various reasons, but the fourth time succeeded.
Task Force Pointed Up Residents’ Concerns About Cruise Tourism
Sitka local government in 2023 established a tourism task force designed to gather opinion on the benefits and drawbacks of cruise tourism to the destination. In its 2024 report, Tourism Task Force Recommendations, the group identified five areas of concern.
Cruise Passengers in Sitka, Alaska (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
They included the loss of Sitka’s small-town feel during cruise season; fear of losing community character and becoming a seasonal community; and safety issues tied to local transportation and traffic congestion.
Also, residents cited the overcrowding of recreational sites due to cruise shore excursions, and environmental impacts such as noise, litter, and emissions from cruise ships.
The voting outcome in Sitka followed a similar rejection of cruise tourism limits in Juneau just a week earlier.
A citizen petition in Juneau, Alaska’s capital city and a port call on virtually every Alaska cruise itinerary, sought to create a limit of five large ships visiting per day and a daily debarkation cap of 16,000 passengers. The measure would have set an annual arrivals limit of 1.5 million, and like Sitka’s measure, called for a cruise season starting in May and ending at the close of September.
But the petition failed to gather the required number of signatures to move forward.
Disney Cruise Line is — relatively — a newer cruise line, launching in 1998, and, unlike some family-friendly cruise brands that have long since retired their oldest ships, Disney Cruise Line is still sailing its launch ship: Disney Magic.
In recent history, though, the fleet has also welcomed a steady stream of new cruise ships, like the newest Disney Adventure.
Along these lines, your cruising experience will vary heavily depending on the age of the Disney cruise ship you choose to sail on. Here’s what you need to know.
Disney entered the cruising market in 1998 and introduced two ships within quick succession: Disney Magic and Disney Wonder.
However, the cruise line would wait a good long while before introducing any new ships, over a decade, at which point the line once again introduced two brand-new ships, one right after the other.
Again, though, after the introduction of Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy in 2011 and 2012, respectively, the cruise line took a decade-long hiatus before introducing any other ships.
Now, though, we’re getting a bevy of new ships from the line, with brand-new vessels joining the fleet in 2022, 2024 and 2025, with others planned for the near future.
Ship
Launch
Gross Tonnage
Disney Adventure
March 2026
208,000
Disney Destiny
November 2025
144,000
Disney Treasure
December 2024
144,000
Disney Wish
June 2022
144,000
Disney Fantasy
March 2012
130,000
Disney Dream
January 2011
130,000
Disney Wonder
August 1999
84,000
Disney Magic
July 1998
84,000
If you’re not sure which ship will be right for you and your family (and don’t just assume that the newest ships are always the best for every cruiser), here are all the ships listed from newest to oldest, with everything you need to know about amenities, vibes and what to expect otherwise.
1. Disney Adventure (2026)
Disney Adventure Cruise Ship Floats Out
Disney Adventure is technically the newest named ship in Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, and was originally scheduled to launch on Dec. 15, 2025. However, the vessel has been delayed, and the new maiden voyage is March 10, 2026.
The ship is a unique one, as it will be in its own class, and will be the only member of that class: the Global class. This decision was made, in part, because the ship wasn’t originally built for Disney Cruise Line at all.
Instead, the ship was originally ordered for Star Cruises and Dream Cruises, but after the ship’s original owners went bankrupt, Disney Cruise Line purchased the half-baked ship at a discounted price and began the work of turning it into a Disney-branded ship.
This ship marks a few firsts for Disney Cruise Line. It’s launching into the Asian market, from Singapore, for example, as the first ship in the fleet to serve a market other than the United States. Additionally, it’s the first Disney cruise ship to use methanol.
All-new attractions on the ship include the longest rollercoaster at sea, dubbed Ironcycle Test Run, situated in a Marvel Universe-inspired adventure zone, as well as a mini-car racer track attraction and a Groot-themed ride, all in that same adventure zone.
Disney Adventure Marvel Landing Zone
Unique themed areas around the ship include Disney Imagination Garden, Toy Story Place, San Fransokyo Street, Town Square, Wayfinder Bay, Disney Discovery Reef and Marvel Landing.
Toy Story Place will be of interest to families with kids; the outdoor space includes family-friendly features like a family pool, splash pads and similar, all geared around the Toy Story franchise.
Families will also enjoy heading to San Fransokyo Street to experience the Hiro Training Zone in the Big Hero Arcade, an immersive, high-tech game for four.
Entertainment also takes center stage, as it does on every Disney ship, with Broadway-style shows in traditional theaters and an open-air amphitheater for even more fun.
Disney’s rotational dining styles allows guests to experience a few main dining rooms, and then guests can also choose from two buffets and a generous handful of additional premium or quick-service restaurants and bars.
Gross Tonnage (GT): 208,000
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft/MV Werften
Maiden Voyage: March. 10, 2026
Length: 1,122 feet
Decks: 19
Guest capacity: 6,000 people
Crew: 2,300 people
2. Disney Destiny (2025)
Disney Destiny Cruise Ship
Premiering just a month before Disney Adventure, Disney Destiny is significantly smaller than Disney Adventure, both in terms of overall gross tonnage/size, as well as in terms of passenger capacity. Disney Destiny firmly sits in line with its sister ships in the Wish class.
Disney Destiny has a heroes-and-villains theme, and the new offerings aboard the ship reflect that. A new piano lounge dubbed De Vil’s takes inspiration from legendary Disney villain Cruella De Vil. The new Cask and Cannon pub takes inspiration from Pirates of the Caribbean, for morally gray, if not outright devilish, fun.
The ship features the AquaMouse water ride that was originally introduced on Disney Wish, but the storyline featured on the ride is new, with a nod to vintage Mickey Mouse shorts.
Disney Destiny also introduces a brand new main dining room to Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining offerings. Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King features savanna themeing, and entertainers will delight cruisers with hit songs from the movie’s soundtrack throughout dinner.
Another new food option on the ship is Edna Á La Mode Sweets, a sweets shop designed around the character Edna Mode from The Incredibles.
Gross Tonnage (GT): 144,000 GT
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft
Maiden Voyage: Nov. 20, 2025
Length: 1,115 feet
Decks: 15
Guest capacity: 4,000 people
Crew: 1,555 people
3. Disney Treasure (2024)
Disney Treasure Docked in Port Canaveral, Florida (Photo Credit: Disney)
Disney Treasure is Disney Cruise Line’s sixth ship and brings with it a new concept that embraces the adventure to be had in far-away lands, with a suitable treasure-hunting motif inspired by the fictional world of Agrabah, from Disney’s classic film Aladdin.
New features that first appeared on Disney Treasure include a main dining room experience themed after the film Coco; Plaza de Coco provides, of course, Mexican eats.
A new sweet shop is Jumbeaux’s Sweets, with a Zootopia theme. New adult spaces include Skipper Society, a bar mimicking the feel of Disney’s Jungle Cruise, and Periscope Pub, a venue inspired by 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. There is also the new Haunted Mansion Parlor.
However, while Disney Treasure is new in some ways, you might notice the similarities if you’ve already traveled on Disney Wish in the past. Disney Wish set sail in 2022, and Disney Treasure is the next in the same class. All these ships offer 1,254 guest rooms and are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Gross Tonnage (GT): 144,000
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft
Maiden Voyage: Dec. 21, 2024
Length: 1,119 feet
Decks: 15
Guest capacity: 4,000 people
Crew: 1,555 people
4. Disney Wish (2022)
Disney Wish Cruise Ship at Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Disney Wish is Disney Cruise Line’s fifth ship and took its inaugural sailing in the summer of 2022. As the first of its class and the lead ship for this new class, Disney Wish set a new standard of Disney Cruise Line sailing, with upgraded experiences, from the staterooms and suites, to the entertainment to the dining.
Special, never-before-seen features at the ship’s launch included the first Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse (similar to a Disney theme park ride, but situated on the cruise ship); expanded kids clubs that incorporate characters from the Marvel and Star Wars universes; a suite within the ship’s funnel; and all-new dining options that really up the ante for the traveling adults on a cruise.
Disney Wish was the first liquefied natural gas-powered ship for Disney. It was also the largest ship for Disney to date.
If you want to learn more about Disney Wish, you can easily do so without browsing online guides. National Geographic made a documentary on the ship’s construction, which is available on Disney Plus, called “Making the Disney Wish: Disney’s Newest Cruise Ship.”
Gross Tonnage (GT): 144,000
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft
Maiden voyage: July 14, 2022
Length: 1,119 feet
Decks: 14
Guest capacity: 5,555
Crew: 1,555
5. Disney Fantasy (2012)
Disney Fantasy Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Disney Cruise Line’s fourth-ever cruise ship and the second ship within the Dream class, Disney Fantasy, was announced in 2007 and launched in 2012 after a delayed construction.
The ship also underwent a dry docking period in 2017, for extra updates. While the ship isn’t quite as modern as Disney Wish, it’s still hardly anything to turn your nose up at, packing in lots of Disney-typical family fun and unique amenities.
Disney Fantasy is scheduled for another dry dock in the latter part of 2025, which is expected to add a new tower suite to the ship, as well as a cantina, while updating some of the public spaces.
Like past Disney cruise ships, Disney Fantasy features a vintage aesthetic, leaning Art Nouveau in its public spaces and staterooms.
Both Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream are a little bit larger than the Disney cruise ships that came before them. However, even with that extra size, the ships are still relatively intimate and easy to navigate.
Special, fan-favorite features on the ship include the AquaDuck and AquaLab, family-friendly water features, the former of which is a water coaster; multiple Broadway-style shows; adult-exclusive fine-dining restaurants; and royalty-inspired rotational dining for the family.
Gross Tonnage (GT): 130,000
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft
Maiden voyage: March 31, 2012
Length: 1,115 feet
Passenger decks: 14
Guest capacity: 2,500
Crew: 1,458
Cabins: 1,250
6. Disney Dream (2011)
Disney Dream cruise ship docked in Port Canaveral. (Photo Credit: AwayWithYourFairies)
Disney Dream is very similar to the newer Disney Fantasy, with just some slight differences in stylings (for example, there’s that same vintage aesthetic, though Disney Dream leans more toward Art Deco).
The third Disney ship ever, Disney Dream was Disney’s first foray into cruising after a long break following the debut of its first few ships. The prior two Disney ships launched in the 1990s, while Disney Dream didn’t come along until the 2010s.
Much like Disney Fantasy, while Disney Dream debuted in the 2010s, it has received more recent updates. Disney Dream’s most major dry dock occurred in 2015, upgrading children’s areas, restaurants and adults-only areas.
Another dry dock occurred in 2024, which added a new funnel suite, updated the kids clubs and spa, and provided cruisers with a new dining experience: Donald’s Cantina.
The stand-out, specialty features on this ship are nearly identical to those you’ll find on Disney Fantasy. There’s the AquaDuck water coaster and other, similar water features for families.
There are three rotational restaurants with royalty themes (and the staple Animator’s Palate restaurant that you’ll find on most of the older Disney cruise ships). An adults-only area of the ship is dubbed The District and it offers a variety of bars, lounges and nightclubs with various themes and offerings.
Gross Tonnage (GT): 130,000
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft
Maiden voyage: January 26, 2011
Length: 1,115 feet
Passenger decks: 14
Guest capacity: 4,000
Crew: 1,458
Staterooms: 1,250
7. Disney Wonder (1999)
Disney Wonder Cruise Ship in Melbourne (Photo Credit: Graham Drew Photography).
Disney’s second cruise ship, Disney Wonder, launched in 1999 and is sister ship to Disney Magic. Together, the two ships are the smallest of Disney’s cruise ships, at an intimate 83,000 GT, with just under 900 staterooms in total. Disney Wonder is a bit smaller than Disney Magic, but you won’t really notice that, the difference is so minimal.
Like both of the Dream-class ships mentioned above, Disney Wonder and Disney Magic do both feature that vintage ocean liner theme-ing, with decor and elements that hearken back to the 1910s and 1920s.
Since this ship did debut quite a while ago, it’s received some expansive renovations since. In 2016, the ship underwent a massive refurbishment that added a wide array of features.
This dry dock included the addition of an adults-only district for after-hours fun, a teens-only spa, a family lounge, tennis clubs, multiple restaurants and bars, a nursery, Marvel-themed children’s area and new pool and splash areas for the kiddos.
During this 2016 dry dock, one of the ship’s few exclusive features was added: the Tiana’s Place restaurant. The New Orleans-inspired eatery appears only on this single Disney cruise ship.
Another dry dock occurred in 2023, but it was mostly restricted to cosmetic enhancements, such as replacing carpet — not very exciting, but something that’s often much-appreciated on these older ships.
Gross Tonnage (GT): 83,000
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri
Maiden voyage: August 15, 1999
Length: 964 feet
Decks: 11
Guest capacity: 2,400
Crew: 945
Staterooms: 875
8. Disney Magic (1998)
Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia / Shutterstock
As the oldest Disney cruise ship, Disney Magic was the very first Disney Cruise Line ship ever. While launching in the 1990s put Disney Cruise Line behind other family-centric lines that had launched decades earlier (like Carnival), Disney quickly caught up and brought with it lots of Disney magic fun, in the appropriately named Disney Magic.
This ocean liner-inspired ship debuted almost in tandem with its sister ship, Disney Wonder, but the two have very minute differences, in terms of both size and style.
However, on both ships, you’ll find an intimate environment, classic theme-ing, lots of Disney fun and plenty of activities for both kids and adults alike.
Since this ship debuted about three decades ago, it has received some upgrades. The largest overhaul took place in 2013, with the addition of water features and children’s areas, as well as upgrades to cabins, restaurants, public spaces and the spa.
However, since even 2013 was a decade ago, other, smaller dry dock refurbishments have also taken place since 2013.
Most recently, the ship spent three weeks in the Bahamas undergoing refurbishments in 2023. The ship added new concierge-level staterooms; the Promenade Lounge was updated and changed into Soul Cat Lounge; and general cosmetic updates were made.
Gross tonnage: 83,338 GT
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri
Maiden voyage: July 30, 1998
Length: 984 feet
Decks: 11
Guest capacity: 2,713
Crew: 945
Staterooms: 875
Future Disney Cruise Ships
Disney Wish-Class Funnel (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
As alluded above, DCL has a bevy of new ships coming down the pipeline in the very near future.
A fourth and final, unnamed Wish-class ship is planned to debut in 2027. This ship will be much like its sister ships in the Wish class, measuring in at 144,000 GT and capable of holding about 4,000 passengers.
After this ship debuts, Disney Cruise Line will look to three other ships that it has planned. While some cruise lines, though, always aim to go bigger and better with each and every new ship that comes out, the line is doing something totally different by actually going smaller with these future ships.
The next three planned ships, expected to set sail in 2029, 2030 and 2031, will clock in at about 100,000 gross tons and only carry about 3,000 passengers each.
While this makes the ships smaller than the majority of the cruise line’s ships, particularly its newer ships, the ships will still be larger than the oldest in the fleet.
The reason why Disney Cruise Line is going smaller rather than bigger? For one, smaller ships can travel to more destinations, more new and exciting Disney itineraries.
What Disney Cruise Ships Can You Book Right Now?
You can actually book cruises on the newest ship in the fleet right now! Disney Adventure bookings opened up to the public in late 2024.
What is the Newest Class of Disney Cruise Ships?
The newest class of Disney cruise ships is technically the Wish class, unless you want to consider the Global class, in which you’ll find Disney Adventure.
However, since the Global class only has this one ship and will never include any further ships, it’s difficult to really consider it a typical cruise ship class.
What’s the Difference Between the Older and Newer Disney Cruise Ships?
Disney Cruise Ship Dry Dock (Photo Credit: Chris Hyde)
While Disney Cruise Line has really kept even the oldest ships in its fleet updated over time, there are still key differences between new ships like Disney Adventure and Disney Destiny, and old ships like Disney Magic.
For one, there’s just the overall size. The older ships are much smaller and that means fewer crowds and less people, but also fewer amenities and options when it comes to dining and entertainment. The newer ships are much bigger and decked out with lots of bells, whistles and no lack of choice.
The newer ships are also more tech-focused, with immersive, high-tech experiences and that’s reflected in just about every element of your cruise. Newer ships are also more focused on themes that reflect newer Disney films and franchises, such as Marvel and Star Wars.
Which Disney Cruise Ship is Right for You?
Disney Cruise Line Ship (Photo Credit: Carolyne Parent)
It’s all going to depend on what kind of cruiser you are.
If you’re on vacation with a gaggle of kids and you really want them to have as much to do as possible, you might prefer sailing on a newer ship.
Likewise, if you really value traveling on big, new cruise ships with more luxury vibes, Disney Adventure or Disney Destiny is the way to go.
However, if you prefer smaller ships with a more intimate feel and fewer crowds, and you really don’t mind having fewer options and less flashy tech features, then you may feel right at home on one of the cruise line’s older ships.
Whichever way you go, though, one thing’s certain: You’ll experience a cruise that’s jam-packed with Disney magic.
If you’re going to break the rules, be prepared to face the consequences. And if you’re hoping to avoid the consequences, then definitely don’t post about what you did on social media.
Likely thanks to a popular social media post, Carnival has caught and cracked down on a recent guest, named Courtney Murley, who allegedly smuggled alcoholonboard Carnival Conquestduring a sailing at the end of March 2025.
In the TikTok, which has now been viewed more than 308,000 times, Murley and her travel companion can be seen checking their luggage in their cruise cabin to see if they had successfully snuck alcohol onboard in what looks like toiletry containers.
“Def waited until after I got home to post this! Hahahaha but it worked. Forget a drink package lol….okay we ended up drinking probably what we would of paid for a drink package anyways but still was fun to try and see if the rum runners would work,” the cruiser captioned the clip.
But while she may not have been caught during her voyage, the consequences followed her home. Murley has now been banned for life by Carnival Cruise Line.
“This letter is to inform you that you will not be able to sail onboard any Carnival Cruise Line vessel in the future due to the smuggling of alcohol onboard the Carnival Conquest on March 31st, 2025, and subsequently posting about it on social media platforms,” Carnival wrote to its former passenger.
“Your attempt to book a future cruise will result in cancellation and a possible loss of deposit monies,” continues the disciplinary letter.
Guest Banned by Carnival (Credit: Courtney Murley)
At the end of the day, it really isn’t necessary to smuggle alcohol onboard one of the Fun ships – as there is no shortage of bars and lounges to get a drink onboard.
The Cheers! Drink package may sound a bit pricey at $82.54 per person, per day, but it includes up to 15 drinks in a 24-hour period.
The cruise line also already allows guests to have one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne in their carry-on luggage for every legal adult in the travel party on embarkation day.
Did She Really Smuggle Alcohol Onboard?
Now that Murley is feeling the consequences of her alleged actions – and the hate from social media – she has come out with a new video in which she insists that she never actually smuggled alcohol onboard.
Instead, she claims that she faked the smuggling because she knew the video would get engagement, and per her account, it did.
“What I’m mad about is that they are banning me for something that didn’t happen. They said for smuggling alcohol. I did not smuggle alcohol. Not one ounce of alcohol was smuggled onto the ship. Not one. Not a single drop,” Murley said.
“What you see on that video is not alcohol. Is everything on the Internet real?” she continued. “You guys saw an edited video. You saw juice in a tampon flask.”
She goes on to request an apology from the cruise line and clarification of what rules she actually broke since she says the video was faked.
If the video was truly faked, Murley could try to appeal Carnival’s decision to ban her – although it may not make a difference.
Now that the sailing has passed, Carnival cannot see inside the containers to prove that the liquid wasn’t alcohol – and her video promotes breaking a very important rule.
The reason why the Miami-based cruise line is so strict on prohibiting passengers from bringing most alcohol onboard is for the safety of all guests and crew members.
When alcohol is served onboard, bar tenders, servers, and security team members are able to work together to monitor how much is being consumed and if cruisers are starting to display signs of being too intoxicated. Overly intoxicated patrons could pose a danger to themselves or others.
Cruise companies have long been exempted from including commission fees in the taxes on Skagway shore excursions that are sold by the cruise lines.
For context, the commission fees are usually paid to the cruise line on top of the tour price for arranging the excursion – which is how the cruise brand profits.
But in December 2024, a new tax ordinance was passed with the purpose of collecting taxes on the full pricesthat tourists pay fairly and consistently – whether they are visiting via cruise ships or not. This means that the cruise lines’ commissions are now taxable as well.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is now representing the cruise industry in a battle against the new tour tax policy – which theysaid in a statementrisks “double taxation and placing undue financial strain on cruise guests and Alaska businesses alike.”
When asked for a comment, CLIA directed local news outlets to Steven Mahoney, an Anchorage-based tax attorney who is not involved in the lawsuit.
“Under Alaska law, we believe that the Skagway ordinance is illegal. It’s not appropriate, and it should be reversed,” Mahoney said.
The attorney’s interpretation of the law is that Skagway cannot tax the commission fee on tours where neither the transaction nor the service of booking occurred in the small, coastal town.
By taxing the cruise line’s commission fees, Skagway is essentially penalizing tours that were booked from other locations – or even other countries.
The cruise industry leader also echoed that the US and Alaska’s Constitutions state that the port can only tax activities that have a “substantial relationship to that community.”
Mahoney also noted that the US Constitution does not allow Skagway to interfere in interstate commerce, which implies transactions that occur between two different US locations on a cruise ship shouldn’t be taxed locally either.
As the added tax will likelyturn into additional fees for cruise guests, the cruise lines likely do not want to compete against local businesses that don’t need to charge a commission in order to profit as well.
CLIA filed the lawsuit on May 8, 2025, and it’s unclear when litigation may move forward.
Could the New Taxes be a Good Thing?
Emily Deach, Skagway Borough Manager, reaffirmed in an email to local news outlet KTOO that the purpose of the tax is just to promote fairness.
“The bottom line is that Skagway made this change to treat tour sales by the cruise lines the same as other sales of products and services within the municipality,”Deach confirmed.
Cruise Ships Docked in Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: The Hungarian Sailor)
However, the new policy could also be quite profitable. Skagway’s municipal sales tax rate is currently at 5%, and with around one million cruisers sailing to the destination annually, the profits could start rolling in.
Skagway’s local tax also puts it in line with other popular Alaskan ports that do not give the cruise lines an exemption, including Juneau and Sitka.
Juneau, for example, has been charging a 5% tax for onboard purchase and an additional 3% tax on alcoholic beverages since 2022 – and isn’t receiving the same pushback.
On April 1, 2025, Ketchikan also put a new tax policy into effect that aligns with Skagway’s new tour tax – in which formerly exempted cruise ships now have to paythe 2.5% local tax at this southeastern coastal town as well.
But with 1.5 million cruise guests calling on Ketchikan annually, this change could rake in up to $300,000 to benefit the town and the port every year.
Virgin Voyages has just announced the cancellation of three of its Marvelous Voyages set to take place in Europe in June and July of 2026.
The three cancelled itineraries were all scheduled to happen on the 2,770-passenger Valiant Lady, but booked guests should either have already received or expect to receive an email from Virgin Voyages about the cancellations.
“I noticed last week the two 14-night July 2026 Valiant sailings were pulled from the website (I am booked on one of them),”one booked guest posted on Reddit.
The first cruise to get cancelled was a 10-night itinerary departing from Barcelona on June 28, 2026, which was scheduled to make stops around Morocco and the Mediterranean.
The second and third cruises that were removed were both 14-night cruises out of Portsmouth, visiting locations such as Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Estonia — originally departing July 8 and July 22, 2026.
Rather than just leaving passengers with a cancelled sailing, Virgin has provided options for booked guests to choose from, including offering another cruise later in the year.
The first option available is to rebook any sailing at the same price with guaranteed price protection, and in doing so, passengers will receive $100 in onboard credit per cabin. This alternative to the original cruise applies to booking the same type of cabin on an itinerary of equal or shorter length only.
The second option is to transfer the booking to any of the upcoming sailings on Scarlet Lady, but it has to be in 2025, and there are only three itineraries to choose from.
While this alternative does come with a $300 onboard credit per cabin, guests will have to pick from an 11-night sailing departing August 6, a 13-night sailing departing August 17, or a 13-night sailing departing September 12, 2025.
Seeing that these three options are just about three months away, passengers considering rebooking to this option should check on the cost of airfare and transportation prior to confirming the change.
The final option for booked guests is to receive a full refund to the original method of payment or receive it as a Future Voyage Credit.
Those affected by these cancellations have 60 days to make a decision, but should consider responding sooner rather than later, especially if seeking a full refund to the original payment method.
Booked guests who do not respond before the deadline to any options provided by Virgin Voyages will automatically receive a refund in the form of a Future Voyage Credit.
New Shorter Voyages Replacing Longer Ones for Summer 2026
Beyond the cancellation of the three cruises in June and July of 2026, Virgin Voyages has announced that it’s releasing new summer sailings departing from Barcelona that will be available for booking as of June 5, 2025.
There are now five shorter cruises taking place during the time the three cancelled sailings were set to happen, ranging from six nights to 10 nights.
The first of these new sailings is 6 nights, departing on June 28, 2026, and will be making stops in Italy as well as France.
Then, there will be a 7-night cruise embarking on July 4, 2026, that will be visiting destinations such as Ibiza, Rome, and the French Riviera.
Valiant Lady Cruise Ship in Barcelona (Photo Credit: fivetonine)
Following that, there is an 8-night itinerary beginning on July 11, 2026, also making calls in the French Riviera and Rome, but will also be visiting Amalfi and Sicily.
Finally, there will be a 7-night voyage departing on July 19, stopping in Italy and Spain, followed by the last of the newly added cruises, which embarks on July 26, 2026, sailing a 10-night itinerary around Morocco and the Mediterranean.
Virgin Voyages has also shared that three of the Marvelous Voyages scheduled for Europe remain unaffected by the new changes.
This includes the June 24 sailing on Scarlet Lady, the August 5 sailing on Valiant Lady, and the August 10 sailing on Scarlet Lady, all of which will go on as planned.
The full reasoning for the cancellations of the longer voyages has not been confirmed, but it is speculated that it is a result of low demand, as the price per night was relatively more expensive than most Virgin Voyages options.
While some booked passengers may be disappointed about their cruise being cancelled, the cruise line made the decision a year prior to the sailings, giving guests plenty of time to change their plans.
Hurricanes can be devastating, catastrophic storms, not just for people living in coastal areas, but also for hotels, resorts, theme parks, and yes, cruise ships. I’ve been on over 40 cruises, including ones impacted by hurricanes, and I live in Florida, which can often be impacted.
So, how can a hurricane affect your cruise vacation, and what can you do to protect yourself and your getaway?
A tropical storm or hurricane can potentially form at any time of year if oceanic conditions are right. The typical “hurricane season” in the North Atlantic Ocean basin and Caribbean, however, runs from June 1 through November 30. The peak season for storm formations and the highest intensities is from mid-August through the end of September.
In the eastern Pacific basin and along the Mexican Riviera, hurricane season stretches from May 15 through November 30. The busiest period is in August and September, similar to the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season.
This is why some cruise lines offer spectacular deals and special offers on late summer and fall sailings. Because of the storm risk, not all travelers are comfortable with setting sail during the popular storm months.
Hurricane Season Outlook (Credit: NOAA)
If you are willing to take your chances, however, you can score a fantastic deal on a departure date during peak hurricane season.
Even during peak season, the risk of storm impacts is relatively low. Dozens of cruises safely set sail every week through the summer and fall on all types of Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries.
It is critical to note, however, that strong storms can and do occur outside the typical peak seasons. In 2024, for example, Hurricane Milton didn’t form until October 5, and in five days, became one of the most powerful and destructive storms ever recorded in the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf of America).
I have personally sailed during most months of hurricane season and have never experienced significant bad weather due to tropical storms or hurricanes. It only takes one sailing and one storm, however, for a traveler to be impacted.
How Hurricanes Impact Cruises
Carnival Ship in Bad Weather
Is it dangerous to cruise during hurricane season? While storms can affect sailings, the first priority of every cruise line is the safety and comfort of guests, crew members, and vessels, as well as the port communities the cruise line visits.
All cruise lines work closely with expert meteorologists and storm forecasters for the latest updates and predictions based on the most accurate data. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Chief Meteorologist is Craig Setzer (formerly James Van Fleet), while Amy Sweezey works with Carnival Cruise Line.
In the case of a hurricane, data is updated continuously by the National OceanicAtmospheric Administration (NOAA), with major reports every few hours depending on the strength and position of a storm. At times, cruise lines must make adjustments quickly as the hurricane data can change rapidly.
While the goal of the cruise line is to disrupt operations as little as possible, there is typically no hesitation to alter or adjust cruises as needed to ensure adequate safety and keep passengers, crew, and ships out of a hurricane’s path.
This is especially true for homeport operations. Any ships scheduled to be in port when a hurricane threatens may need to shorten, delay, or cancel visits, as well as provide adequate time to move out of the harbor and safely away from an approaching storm.
Any sailing region can be impacted by hurricanes. The Bahamas is one of the most frequently impacted regions, including private destinations like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, and Holland America Line’s Half Moon Cay.
Any other Caribbean region is also at risk of hurricanes, such as Jamaica, the Turks and Caicos, the Cayman Islands, Aruba, Curacao, Bonaire, Honduras, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.
Of course, Florida is frequently impacted by storms. This means homeports can be affected even if individual Caribbean cruises may be sailing well away from hurricane tracks.
Similarly, the Gulf of Texas (Galveston) and the Gulf Coast (New Orleans and Mobile) are also at risk from hurricane impacts and landfalls.
The exact changes a cruise line may make to any cruise will depend on a wide range of factors and every storm is different. Typical impacts that a hurricane may have on a cruise can include any or all of the following.
Itinerary Changes
Photo Credit: Dee Browning / Shutterstock
Depending on the ship’s exact itinerary and how ports of call and travel paths may be affected by a hurricane, a cruise line could change a planned itinerary in several ways.
The cruise may choose to alter just one port of call or could shift an entire itinerary. This might involve just dropping a single port visit or could be as extreme as changing from an eastern Caribbean voyage to a western Caribbean voyage.
When possible, substitution ports are arranged to give guests safer options to enjoy. This may not always be practical depending on distance or berth availability, however, especially for the world’s largest cruise ships that may be more limited in their options.
Cruise lines may continue to alter itineraries after a storm has passed, if the scheduled ports of call are not considered safe for passengers to visit or if repairs are necessary before ships can safely dock.
Passengers will typically be refunded for any cruise line shore excursions they have already booked for ports that will no longer be visited. Any applicable port taxes or fees may also be refunded.
If a port is completely canceled, passengers may be offered some onboard credit, but such compensation is not required. Passengers may be able to cancel their cruise before an altered sailing and request a refund, but such refunds may not be guaranteed.
Voyages Shortened or Lengthened
Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships in Developing Storm (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
It is possible for a cruise line to either shorten or lengthen cruises as needed while waiting for a storm to pass so a ship can navigate a port safely.
This would typically happen if the embarkation and debarkation port is affected, not a port of call. The change may be just a few hours or could be several days, depending on the severity of the storm, where it is tracking, and what the damage may or may not be to port facilities.
Activities and entertainment will continue to be offered on board the ship for lengthened cruises. Typically, passengers will not be charged additional fares for the longer cruise, though tips, bar charges, and other extra costs may continue to be in effect.
And don’t worry, cruise ships are well stocked with plenty of food and other supplies, though favorite beverages might start to run scarce.
For a shortened cruise, passengers are usually offered a pro-rated refund of the time they will no longer have on the ship. They may also be offered credit toward a future cruise, but this is not guaranteed.
The cruise line may offer assistance to travelers who need to change pre- or post-cruise travel plans to accommodate the new embarkation and debarkation dates and times.
Such assistance is not guaranteed, however, particularly for very small changes. If the change is significant, more assistance is typically available.
Embarkation or Debarkation Ports Changed
PortMiami Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock)
An embarkation or debarkation port could be severely damaged, unsafe, and unable to service cruise ships for several days following a hurricane.
If the homeport is directly in the storm’s path at the time a ship was to be turning around between voyages, it is possible that the ship may return to a port other than the initial port it set sail from. Onboard passengers would then be debarking at a new location.
Depending on where the cruise ports are located and how the next itinerary may or may not be affected, incoming passengers may need to reach the new embarkation port to board the ship. If time permits, the ship may be relocated back to its original port for the next embarkation.
Cruise lines will typically offer assistance for debarking passengers to either return to the original port or to adjust their post-cruise travel plans to the new location so they can return home safely after the cruise.
Incoming passengers may also be able to seek assistance to reach the cruise ship if necessary, such as shuttle buses or adjusted flights.
Sailings Cancelled
Carnival Cruise Ship and Storm (Photo Credit: NadyaRa)
If necessary, cruise lines will cancel entire voyages to ensure passengers and crew members are safe during a hurricane. While no one wants to miss their vacation, it is more important to remain safe for the duration of a storm rather than risk catastrophic consequences.
Cruise lines will notify passengers as far in advance as possible about the cancelation and a full refund will be given to all guests.
Passengers might also receive additional compensation for the disappointment, such as credit toward a future booking, though extra compensation is not a sure thing.
The terms and details of any extra compensation can vary, and any credits offered are usually based on the fare of the canceled booking.
Rough Waters
Photo Credit: Toni Arsovski / Shutterstock
Of course, any cruise ship that may be sailing during hurricane season can experience rough waters even hundreds of miles away from the storm. While the ship is still perfectly safe, it may have more motion and rocking than guests might expect.
There are many steps the ship’s captain an engineering team will use to ensure the vessel stays safe and as comfortable as possible. Deploying the ship’s stabilizers is often a first step and will help minimize any motion.
Reorienting the ship or changing course can minimize winds, and onboard activities might be adjusted to more indoor or sheltered options rather than deck parties and pool games.
Of course, if guests are feeling the effects of a storm, taking seasickness medication such as Bonine or Dramamine can help, as well as cutting back on greasy foods or alcohol intake.
The best remedy for larger waves and stronger winds can be simply getting out and enjoying more activities onboard to take your mind off any storm conditions!
How Will I Know What Happens to My Cruise During a Hurricane?
Royal Caribbean Weather
No matter what actions a cruise line may have to take to safeguard its passengers and crew during a hurricane, the line will contact passengers and update them as quickly as possible.
Onboard, this will mean public address announcements, notification letters delivered to guests’ staterooms, and announcements before major events such as evening shows or even during evening mealtimes.
Guests waiting anxiously on land for news of their upcoming cruise should stay tuned to official social media channels for the cruise line for immediate updates.
To be clear, guests should NOT rely on fan-run groups, chats, or individual sailing pages where information may not be accurate!
Booked guests may also receive email notifications of changes. Some cruise lines may also open dedicated alert phone or texting numbers to share updates quickly.
It is important that passengers always provide the most convenient, accurate contact information to the cruise line so they can receive notifications right away.
Passengers who have booked their cruise through a travel agent should still provide contact information directly to the cruise line as well as to their travel agent.
Every line uses their cruise contracts to outline provisions related to weather and storms, including their right to make changes due to hurricanes. No travelers should expect compensation if their sailing is affected, but cruise lines do try to keep everyone happy if changes are necessary.
It can be frightening when a hurricane threatens your cruise, but there are ways to minimize the risk of hurricane disruptions to your travel plans. First, consider booking cruise travel well outside the more active months of hurricane season.
If you can only plan a cruise during the summer when hurricane risks are naturally higher, opt for dates earlier in the season when storms are typically fewer and weaker.
You can also consider cruise destinations less likely to be impacted, such as an Alaskan cruise, sailing in the Mediterranean, or visiting the Mexican Riviera on the Pacific coast, where the risks of strong storms are typically lower.
Also, investigate options for cruise travel insurance policies. Different policies may or may not cover hurricanes as well as helping with other travel costs, such as changing flight plans or hotel reservations if the cruise is impacted by a storm.
It is important to plan pre- and post-cruise travel with extra time just in case of flight delays or evacuation-crowded highways. This could mean the difference between making your ship on time or returning home before a storm approaches, or being stuck due to cancelled flights and traffic jams.
Staying Safe in a Storm at Sea
Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas / Shutterstock
Finally, if a storm does develop, stay updated with the cruise line as well as any airlines or hotels, and be flexible with your plans and expectations for the safety of your vacation.
If you are onboard a cruise ship sailing near tropical disturbances – being mindful that rough water and strong sustained winds can be felt hundreds of miles from a hurricane’s eye – there are easy steps to take to stay safe.
First, listen to all announcements made by the ship’s captain and cruise director, as they will share the most updated information with guests as soon as possible. If there are letters or notices delivered to your stateroom, read them carefully and follow all instructions.
For example, guests with balcony cabins might be asked to move any small chairs or tables into their cabin in case of rough weather, and balcony doors may be secured so they cannot be opened.
Pay attention to any closed areas. When winds are high and waves might be crashing against the ship, crew members will often close off outer decks to ensure everyone is safe.
This may mean you have to take alternate routes to reach different areas of the ship through interior promenades and corridors. Use the chance to explore more hidden parts of the ship!
Use handrails and be mindful of your surroundings when moving about the ship. In extreme cases, guests might be asked to remain in their staterooms until the worst of the weather has abated.
Inside your stateroom, consider securing any loose objects – clicking hangers can be very annoying! – and make sure there are no trip hazards in case you get thrown off balance when moving about.
No cruise, no matter how amazing it may be, is worth unsafe risks, and understanding how hurricanes could impact your cruise can help you prepare if a storm does become a concern.
