Guests interested in Caribbean getaways for Holland America Line’s 2026-2027 season will find more relaxation than ever with pampering upgrades at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.
The cruise line’s award-winning private destination in the Bahamas – renamed in December 2024 to highlight its relaxation vibes – will feature even more enhanced experiences and luxury for everyone to enjoy.
A wide range of upgrades are planned for RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay. Cabanas, villas, and 2-person canopy loungers will all be updated, and all beach facilities will likewise be upgraded.
The island’s dining options are also being refreshed and will include food trucks with island-only treats and bites, as well as refurbishments to the Lobster Shack and food court. For visitors who prefer some liquid refreshment, Aperol Spritz tricycles and Bacardi Beach Buggies will be delivering beverages throughout the island.
“The Caribbean, with its crystal-clear blue waters and sandy beaches, is the perfect destination to unwind — and we’re enhancing the guest experience to ensure the most relaxing vacation possible,”said Michael Smith, senior vice president, guest experience and product development.
“Whether on board or at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, guests will feel immersed in the Caribbean’s charm and the award-winning, personalized service Holland America is known for.”
For an even more exclusive day, guests can opt for the beach club experience. This will include priority tendering to make the most of every moment on the island, as well as waiter service, private beach access, upgraded furniture, and outstanding ship views for that picture-perfect vacation selfie.
While everyone has a different definition of relaxation, guests who want to be a bit more active will enjoy the new pickleball courts on the island, while shoppers enjoy fantastic local shopping venues.
Of course, some cruisers might prefer to stay onboard their ship even when visiting the island. In this case, the new adults-only Signature Pool Experience will be available on Caribbean sailings.
This premium venture will focus on the Sea View Pool with spa-like amenities (bring me a glass of the cucumber water!) such as cold towels and sunglass cleaning. On sea days, live music will create a relaxing ambient atmosphere.
Visiting RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay on New Caribbean Itineraries
The new enhancements at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay will be prominently featured in Holland America Line’s Caribbean itineraries from October 2026 through April 2027. During that popular sailing season, six of the cruise line’s 11 ships will be offering sailings from 7-14 nights.
Especially geared to provide the ultimate relaxing getaway, Holland America Line is offering more than 70 sailings of 9+ days – more than any other cruise line sailing in the Caribbean. Eleven unique expanded itineraries give guests plenty of options.
Ships will be homeported at both Fort Lauderdale and Miami, offering guests convenient options for various itineraries.
Zuiderdam at Half Moon Cay (Photo Credit: Holland America Line)
Of special note is a themed voyage in partnership with The History Channel to the Southern Caribbean and the coveted “ABC” islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Offered aboard Nieuw Amsterdam, the 9-night voyage departs October 30, 2026 and also includes a call to the new Cabo Rojo port in the Dominican Republic.
Classic 7-night voyages will be available Eurodam, Zuiderdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, and Nieuw Statendam, while Rotterdam will offer a stunning 11-night Eastern Caribbean holiday sailing over both Christmas and New Year’s.
Likewise, Volendam will be offering a 14-night voyage over both holidays with eight ports of call, departing Fort Lauderdale on Tuesday, December 22, 2026. The special highlight will be a late-night call to Aruba from noon until 11 p.m. Other ports include Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, and Barbados.
So many options give travelers great control over their Caribbean cruise, with ports of call that include Jamaica, Cozumel, the Cayman Islands, Grand Turk, Key West, St. Thomas, Antigua, Costa Rica, Panama, and more, depending on ship, sailing date, and cruise length.
With so much to choose from, guests can certainly find a way to relax at exactly the Caribbean destinations that evoke the very best of the cruising life for their vacation preferences.
It’s raining, it’s pouring, the passengers are seriously concerned because this is happening inside the cruise ship!
This was the sad reality for cruisers aboard Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Magic this past weekend as the ship experienced a major leak stemming from the floor of deck 5.
One guest on the ship posted a video of the leak on Reddit to warn fellow cruisers of the situation and share how it affected their cruise activities.
The clip clearly shows water falling from the ceiling near the chandelier lights in the main atrium, meaning it was leaking from deck 5 all the way down to deck 3. You can watch a video of the leakage below:
Along with the videothe poster added, “It started yesterday afternoon and it is still ongoing today and looks like has worsened. Floors 3/4/5 midship is closed with activities cancelled/moved and you also need to go to other floors to go from forward to aft.“
Fellow cruisers shared their own experiences in the comments, pointing out that this ship has a history with leaking issues.
“Hasn’t this been happening occasionally for a while now? I remember seeing something over a year ago about the leaks causing a horrible smell in the carpets and some people having to switch rooms,”replied one person.
Another passenger who is also currently on the ship also chimed in, adding“It’s been very annoying to have to navigate around it. But I’m curious if there is a scheduled dry dock to fix this issue? It’s kinda crazy.”
Others were asking if Disney Cruise Line was offering any resolutions for those affected, given that the leak did impact the guests directly.
The poster replied that some people in the 6500s cabins had to change rooms and were given some sort of compensation, but that was it.
While some of the commenters were concerned about their upcoming cruises on Disney Magic, many reassured them that the 30-year-old cruise ship had seen it all and that the leak would likely be fixed quickly.
The leak began on March 29, 2025, while the ship was in the middle of sailing a 7-night itinerary to the Bahamas as well as Disney’s Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay.
Neither the poster nor the cruise line has shared any updates about the status of the situation, but the ship is disembarking passengers today, March 31, 2025, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, so hopefully the leak can get fixed before the ship departs again tonight.
How Common are Leaking Issues on Disney?
It might seem like deja vu for the crew on the 2,700 passenger Disney Magic, as it had another very unfortunate leak just in the last two weeks.
Passengers in the 6500s rooms were impacted by pressure issues with the ship’s plumbing system, which caused sewage leakages.
Since there were no available rooms for guests to move to, the cruise line stepped in and cleaned what they could in the cabins and ran fans in the hallway to help expedite the drying process.
Disney Cruise Line claimed just one room was affected, but passengers claimed there were more cabins impacted than was being shared.
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
The most recent leak that started on March 29, 2025, also forced some guests to move cabins, so this seems to be a recurring issue on deck 6 on this particular vessel.
While Disney Magic may have seen better days, the newest ship in the fleet has also experienced issues with the less-than-magical indoor leaking issues.
Cruise tourism is expanding so much that, year over year, cruise ports around the world are breaking records in the number of ships and the number of passengers arriving.
For Southern England’s cruise pub, Southampton, the momentum is building. After welcoming more than 3 million passengers in 2024 – breaking port records – the Port of Southampton is bracing for even more visits in 2025.
With the first quarter of the year ending on March 31, 2025, the port has already seen a significant number of vessel calls, including the inaugural voyage of the new Norwegian Aqua by Norwegian Cruise Line.
The brand-new ship, constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, set off from Southampton on March 28, 2025, to begin its inaugural season.
Up to 3,571 passengers set off from the port as it embarked on an unfortunately – or fortunate for some passengers getting extra time – weather-delayed voyage to New York City, wrapping up an impressive first quarter.
“2025 will be another fantastic year,”said Rebekah Keeler, cruise strategy manager at Associated British Ports (ABP).
“We continue to see growth in the global cruise sector, and Southampton is leading the way for the UK and Northern Europe,”she continued.
“As a port city, Southampton has welcomed cruise liners since the 1800s, and we are proud to continue offering cruises from Southampton, maintaining our position on the cruise circuit.”
Cruise Growth and Green Goals at Southampton
The Port of Southampton supports 85 percent of the UK’s cruise market and is a launching point for many big names in the industry.
On March 8, 2025, Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 embarked on a 29-night roundtrip voyage from Southampton to the Caribbean, beginning what will be a busy spring and summer season for the port.
In March, a relatively quieter month for cruising, the port saw 18 ships arrive in its docks and watched Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Breakaway, P&O Cruises’ Iona and Aurora, Princess Cruises’ Sky Princess, and Cunard’s Queen Victoria each set off from the port.
Located about 80 miles southwest of London, the port is jumping-off point for Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, Silversea, Celebrity Cruises, and MSC Cruises, among others.
It also sees an array of other major lines stopping by on calls, including AIDA Cruises, TUI Cruises, and Costa Cruises.
Last year, when the port surpassed 3 million cruise guests, it bested 2023’s 2.6 million passengers. This was a 15 percent growth and infused the local economy with more than $1.2 million.
While the port is growing, it’s also working hard to minimize its environmental impact, utilizing shore power connectivity that Keeler says in 2025 will be “the highest number of shore power connection confirmed.”
Port of Southampton (Photo Credit: Ben Gingell)
The port began utilizing shore power in 2022 at its Horizon Cruise Terminal and Mayflower Cruise Terminal.
This means ships can connect to a port to help minimize emissions by allowing them to operate using the port’s electrical grid instead of running diesel engines.
“We are proud to have the capability, infrastructure, and partnerships in place to facilitate this incredible economic value for our city,”said Keeler.
In 2024, the port saw a 50 percent increase in the number of ships using its power grid, and it anticipates an even higher number in 2025 as ships work to meet the EU’s Green Deal goals to reach zero emissions by 2050.
While Norwegian Aqua may be the most exciting welcome of 2025 as one of the newest cruise ships to sail the high seas, the Port of Southampton will see more than 200 cruise vessels and their passengers visit before the year ends.
MSC Poesia is the last vessel scheduled to call in Southampton this year, arriving on December 26, 2026, but it certainly won’t be on the 182-year-old port’s last.
Carnival Sunshine has come perilously close to failing her most recent public health inspection from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While a score of 85 or lower (out of 100) is considered failing the inspection, Carnival Sunshine rated just four points higher – an overall score of 89.
CDC inspections can be notoriously nit-picky and cruise ships can get lower scores for seemingly simple infractions, such as the wattage of light bulbs, a clogged drain, or a spill in the Lido Marketplace buffet.
A total of 26 items of concern were noted in the inspection report, many of which could be corrected immediately.
Some of the simpler items that impacted Carnival Sunshine‘s recent score include such issues as an open ice machine door in the pantry, some debris residue in crew handwashing stations, small drips from equipment creatin puddles on the floor, and a few burned-out lightbulbs in a dishwashing area of the galley.
Of greatest concern may have been the food employee who apparently had “an onset of acute gastroenteritis symptoms” at 1 p.m. on December 13, 2024, but who stayed at their duties until 4:40 p.m. and did not report to the medical center until nearly 6 p.m.
That delay cold have resulted in significant contamination of services, utensils, or even foods, depending on the crew member’s exact duties. Additional training was given to crew members about appropriate protocols when feeling ill or exhibiting any potential symptoms.
Fortunately, no norovirus or other gastrointestinal illness outbreak was reported aboard Carnival Sunshine for December 2024. In fact, the ship has not had any outbreaks reported at all since at least 2019.
The “ickiest” violation of the report to this frequent cruiser is the note that “numerous insects were present throughout multiple food service areas” including the Lido buffet.
Further reading of the details, however, clarifies just two “small” cockroaches (who’s measuring that? There’s no such thing as a small one to me…) and a total of nine fruit flies across five different areas. Maybe I won’t worry too much.
Fortunately, many of the necessary “corrective actions” would be easy to take, such as wiping up spills, discarding broken food trays, closing the ice machine door, and changing light bulbs.
The ship’s crew will take those actions and submit a report on the different tasks, at which point the CDC may either re-inspect the ship or simply monitor for future compliance with health and cleanliness guidelines.
Most Ships Easily Pass CDC Inspections
So far in 2025, Carnival Sunshine‘s score of 89 is the second-lowest of all cruise ship inspection reports.
That ship’s violations included similar issues as those aboard Carnival Sunshine, as well as reporting problems with children in the youth programs exhibiting illness symptoms, broken soap dispensers, and improper food storage.
Most ship inspections score in the 90s, but some vessels do exhibit perfect 100 scores. So far in 2025, those accolades belong to the new Disney Treasure, MSC Cruises’ Explora I, and Norwegian Escape.
For the Carnival Cruise Line fleet, four other ships have so far been inspected in 2025, in addition to Carnival Sunshine. Each one has scored well – Carnival Conquest (96), Carnival Elation (96), Carnival Freedom (99), and Carnival Sunrise (99).
Up-and-coming British cruise line Marella Cruises is looking to expand and create its own unique presence with its first-ever new build ships, coming in 2030 and 2032.
The cruise line signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Fincantieri, the Italian shipbuilder also responsible for such amazing vessels as Cunard Line’s Queen Anne, Norwegian Cruise Line’s brand-new Norwegian Aqua, and Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess.
“We are proud to welcome Marella Cruises as a new customer and to support its vision as it enters the newbuild segment,”said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri.
TUI Group, parent company of Marella Cruises, is also the parent of German line TUI Cruises, which is a joint venture with Royal Caribbean Group.
In February 2025, Fincantieri delivered Mein Schiff Relax to TUI Cruises from its shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. The 160,000-gross-ton, 4,100-passenger ship is the largest ever built for TUI Cruises, and the first vessel in the line’s new InTUItion class.
The new Marella Cruises ships will be designed especially for the British market, with refined touches that elevate the premium cruising experience. Further details, including gross tonnage and onboard features, will be announced at a later date.
What is already known is that the two ships will have a strong focus on environmental sustainability. This is a keen goal for many cruise lines with new ships, ensuring not only luxury getaways but responsible stewardship of the seas they sail.
“The project will bring together our expertise in ship design, innovation, and sustainability to deliver vessels that meet the evolving expectations of modern cruise passengers,”said Folgiero.
Furthermore, adding Marella Cruises as a new build client ensures ongoing “capacity saturation” for Fincantieri’s shipyards. This is great news for cruise travelers, as new ships offer new experiences and itineraries to enjoy.
While the new build order with Fincantieri is still subject to financing and other terms and conditions, this is a typical arrangement for new ships and there are no expected difficulties that may cause significant delays as the new ships take shape.
Why New Builds Matter for Marella Cruises
This first order for new builds is a big step for Marella Cruises, as the line’s current fleet is a hodge-podge of older ships purchased from different cruise lines and rebranded over the years.
Many cruise lines begin as rebranded older vessels from bigger lines, and it is only as a cruise line grows more successful and is able to expand that new build ships are ordered.
For example, Carnival Cruise Line’s first three ships – Mardi Gras, Carnivale, and Festivale – were all ships from other cruise lines.
Marella Explorer Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia)
Marella Cruise’s current fleet of five ships are from a variety of different cruise lines. Marella Discovery was originally Royal Caribbean’s Splendour of the Seas, while Marella Discovery 2 was formerly Legend of the Seas – predecessor and namesake to Royal Caribbean’s third Icon-class ship, due for delivery in 2026.
Marella Explorer was previously Celebrity Galaxy, Marella Explorer 2 was first Celebrity Century, and Marella Voyager was first Celebrity Mercury.
All five ships were built in the mid- to late 1990s, and older ships are not always able to be updated and renovated to meet modern environmental and guest experience expectations.
The two upcoming ships are sure to offer not only Marella Cruises’ premium experiences and services, but will start to forge the cruise line’s own distinctive personality.
This may be seen with unique interior architecture and exclusive spaces, as well as elevated finishes and attention to detail that will be sure to offer an amazing experience for all travelers.
Just a few months after welcoming the life-size “Ducky the Duck” quack-tastic crew member aboard, Carnival Cruise Line has given a new role to the feathery friend cruise guests already love.
Kyndall “Fire” Magyar, Cruise Director aboard Carnival Jubilee, shared a fun photo of the new Ducky and announced his new jobs onboard.
“There’s a new sheriff in town,”she said.“He is quacking down on debbie downers and making sure there is family fun for everyone!”
Ducky is sporting a new sheriff’s outfit, complete with a hat, vest, and his six-pointed badge. This wild west role is especially appropriate for Carnival Jubilee and the ship’s strong connections to Texas and the unique old west culture of the Lone Star State.
“Make sure to grab a picture with our ri-duck-ulously good looking friend onboard,”Magyar added.“As you can see, he knows where to find the Fun as he joined the Fun Squad on Lido for the Head To Head challenge on the Jubilee. To all my duck hunters, have you gotten your picture yet!?!”
Could this be just the first of several new outfits, costumes, and holiday attire Ducky might wear in the months ahead? While he wasn’t spotted dressed up for either Valentine’s Day or St. Patrick’s Day, there are more opportunities coming soon.
Will Ducky have special spring duds to celebrate Easter? What about patriotic attire for July 4th? Or what costume would a duck wear for Halloween later this year? Will Ducky be dressed up as Santa on the ever-popular holiday sailings?
While not an official mascot for the cruise line, Ducky has gotten enthusiastic responses from cruise travelers who love to stop for a selfie, a high-five, or a quick hug.
A fun nod to the wildly popular cruising ducks phenomenon, Ducky’s role aboard Carnival cruise ships is to bring joy to everyone aboard, and he’s excelling at his job.
Ducky has been spotted not only on Carnival Jubilee, but also aboard other ships – though there is no official contract obligation or work schedule for the feathered crew member.
Ducky on Carnival Jubilee
Ducky has been spotted, however, with different attire on different ships. On Carnival Venezia, for example, he wears a traditional gondolier’s blue-and-white striped shirt, red sash, and black shorts, along with an appropriate hat.
Will Ducky be dressed in outback adventure gear aboard the new Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter in Australia? What about wearing festive beads aboard Mardi Gras, or a bright tropical shirt for Carnival Paradise?
Of course, guests who aren’t lucky enough to come across Ducky on their next Carnival cruise can still be on the lookout for his smaller cousins – the innumerable small rubber ducks fun-loving guests hide in public spaces across the fleet.
The guest-driven game is a fun and simple one, and remember: “Keep or hide, you decide!”
Carnival Cruise Line has repeatedly noted that duck hiding is welcome aboard its ships, though guests should avoid carrying the game onshore in ports of call. Finding Ducky would be the ultimate in great duck spotting onboard!
Report your Ducky sightings on the Cruise Hive boards – photos or it didn’t happen!
What better way to celebrate your recent graduation than by taking your first-ever cruise?
Recently, a passenger in their 20s decided to do exactly that by booking an exciting Bahamian voyage with Royal Caribbean.
Unfortunately, this first-time cruiser made the mistake of assuming their booking was all-inclusive when it unfortunately it was not.
Once they realized the booking did not include WiFi or drinks as expected, they took to Reddit to seek advice.
“This is my first time sailing with Royal Caribbean. Apparently I picked an old ship (Enchantment of the Seas) and I thought this was an all inclusive but drinks and sodas aren’t included??? I’m shocked,”shared the poster.
She went on to add that the cruise line made her pay for everything upfront, but was then disappointed when the ‘fun stuff’ was all an additional cost.
It was quickly discovered that it was too late to cancel, and that the extras would not be affordable for this individual.
Excited to go on the cruise to the Bahamas and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, this passenger even contacted Royal Caribbean to see if Affirm could be used to pay for packages and passes.
The cruise line quickly responded that it would need to be paid in full, as Affirm’s buy now, pay later option could only be used when paying for the cruise and not for add-ons.
Fellow cruisers took to the comments to offer help, reassuring the poster that the packages and passes were not something needed to fully enjoy the cruise.
“You don’t need a drink package to buy drinks. You don’t need a water park pass to have fun on CocoCay,”replied one person.
“Breathe! You can take a 12 pack of soda on board with you when you board the ship,” another added, even sharing that“internet is optional, and Perfect Day waterpark…. there’s plenty of fun free things to do on CocoCay that won’t cost extra.”
The soon-to-be cruiser shared an update that thanks to the helpful replies, they decided not to buy a drink package and were excited for the cost-effective activities at CocoCay.
At the end of the update, the poster added“Everything is fine now and I can’t wait to go on this journey.”
Sometimes a positive attitude is all you need to have a good time!
Newbie Cruiser Can Still Enjoy a Smaller Royal Caribbean Ship
While this poster was seemingly disappointed with their choice of the 80,700 gross ton Enchantment of the Seas, many cruisers enjoy the smaller size of older ships.
Only 28 modern cruise ships have ever been stretched, and as they continue to be built larger, this process has become rare.
The 2,446 passenger Enchantment of the Seas’ current home port is in Tampa, Florida, and the ship frequently swaps between itineraries in the Caribbean and the Bahamas.
These voyages are usually between 4- and 5-nights long, but occasionally the vessel also does longer 10-night itineraries.
The cruiser who shared their booking experience will be going on a 5-night Bahamian cruise — which is round trip out of Tampa and makes stops in Bimini and CocoCay.
Enchantment of the Seas will only be doing this cruise one more time this spring departing on April 26, 2025 before spending the summer season sailing exclusively to Mexico. It will resume Bahamian voyages on August 2, 2025 for the fall season.
Interior rooms start as low as $572 per person, making it a relatively affordable cruising experience.
While this first-time cruiser thought they were booking something affordable, they were faced with the reality that not everything is all-inclusive on every cruise.
However, the extra packages — as fun as they can be — are not something you always need to have a great cruising experience!
A closed-loop cruise is a voyage that begins and ends at the same US port, allowing travelers to enjoy international stops without the need for a valid passport.
If you’re looking for a convenient and hassle-free vacation experience, a closed-loop cruise can minimize your pre-trip documentation concerns while still offering the excitement of a cruise vacation.
Most still visit international ports of call, but visa and passport requirements are eliminated, allowing you to set sail on a stress-free adventure.
Closed-loop cruises, which are sometimes shortened to “loop cruises,” cater to travelers who prefer simplicity and a more streamlined cruise experience.
When I take a cruise vacation, one of my main goals is to leave my stresses behind me. I’ve always been a fan of closed-loop cruises, but what does it mean?
Basically, the defining feature of a closed-loop cruise is that it departs from and returns to the same port within the United States.
Whether that port is in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boston, New York City, or any other American city does not matter—what matters is the fact that this cruise style simplifies the immigration and customs process.
Even though the ship may stop at a select few foreign ports along the way, the cruise is classified as a domestic trip under U.S. regulations.
Sounds pretty straightforward, right? Let’s see what allows a voyage to qualify as a “closed-loop” cruise and why this model is so appealing for passengers.
Key Qualifications for a Closed Loop Cruise
Cruise Ships From Carnival and Royal Caribbean in Miami (Photo Credit: Adam McCullough)
For a cruise to be classified as closed-loop, it is not as simple as setting off and returning to the same US port. Instead, the itinerary must be qualified by the U.S. Federal Government, which does so through agencies like the U.S. Department of State and various border protection agencies.
These government organizations set guidelines that permit these voyages to visit nearby international ports of call that do not necessitate the presentation of international travel documents.
This regulatory compliance allows passengers to board with just a government-issued photo ID or other acceptable form of identification, like a passport card, instead of a complete passport book or a birth certificate.
Because these cruises have been approved for adherence to domestic travel regulations, they only visit international stops that are considered close enough to fall under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) umbrella.
The Department of Homeland Security allows more efficient travel to and from these countries, like Canada, Mexico, many Caribbean nations, Bermuda, and the Bahamas.
View of Bermuda Cruise Port from Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Nazar Skladanyi / Shutterstock)
Even though the cruise might stop at ports of call in these countries, the cruise still has to adhere to the structure and guidelines of U.S. authorities.
To ensure compliance, the cruise lines shape their itineraries to ensure they are in line with all regulations and standards relating to domestic cruising.
What does that mean for you as a passenger? You get to enjoy the fun and excitement of a semi-foreign adventure while still enjoying the convenience of domestic travel.
This also makes them an attractive alternative to a standard cruise for big families and first-time cruisers who might be a little worried about the complexities of international travel documentation.
Plus, closed-loop cruises are an excellent option for those who do not hold a passport, but still want to travel outside of the United States and enjoy everything a cruise vacation can offer.
Do I Need a Passport for a Closed-Loop Cruise?
When it comes to closed-loop cruises, one of the most frequently asked questions I hear is whether or not a passport is required. The short answer is: for the most part, no, a full passport is not needed.
Still, the details are a bit more nuanced, so let’s look at what you need and situations where a passport could be required.
Standard Closed Loop Documentation Requirement
Photo Credit: Evgenia Parajanian / Shutterstock
For most closed-loop cruises, adult American citizens must only present a government-issued photo ID. This might be a driver’s license or a state-issued ID card.
For most situations, this form of identification is all that is needed to board the ship. To play it safe, an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) is the best option, as this confirms your U.S. citizenship and identity.
Some cruise companies even recommend additional items such as voter registration records or social security cards if you cannot produce identification that clearly clarifies your status as a U.S. citizen.
For children, other documents, like the child’s birth certificate, are usually recommended, as this provides proof of citizenship without needing an ID card.
If you don’t have the child’s birth certificate, a certified copy of the child’s birth record, a consular report of birth, or even a certificate of naturalization may be acceptable, provided it is accompanied by an appropriate identification for the adult.
If you’re not a full U.S. citizen but a lawful permanent resident (LPR), a green card or another form of documentation proving your status is often required.
I know, it sounds confusing, but it’s not actually that bad. I always stress that the best way to be sure is to contact your cruise line and confirm the specific requirements before departure.
When a Passport Could Be Required
Even though closed-loop cruises are designed to allow travel without a valid passport, there are certain situations where a passport would be needed.
For starters, certain international ports of call, like those outside the scope of the WHTI, could require visitors to present a passport or other specialized documentation. Technically, closed-loop cruises avoid these types of ports, but it’s still something you should confirm before departure.
Naturally, those who do not hold citizenship or a green card will require a passport to take a closed-loop cruise. Let’s say you’re a British tourist visiting the United States but have booked a closed-loop cruise that departs from and returns to the same American port.
You would still need to bring your British passport with you on the cruise, even if American passengers traveling on the cruise ship do not.
Finally, if you plan on disembarking at a different port than one where the cruise officially ends, you will need a passport to ensure you can get home smoothly.
If you decide you want to stay somewhere like Jamaica, then fly home rather than continue your cruise, you would need a passport to navigate airport customs in Jamaica, as well as customs in the United States when you return.
Benefits of a Closed-Loop Cruise
If you’re not entirely sold on the idea of a closed-loop cruise just yet, here are just a few of the reasons why these more convenient and stress-free getaways are so popular.
The Simplified and Streamlined Travel Process
Embarking on a Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt)
It sounds obvious, but one of the main benefits of booking a closed-loop cruise is the simplicity of the entire travel process. Since your cruise will start and end at the same domestic port, you don’t need to carry or even possess the same travel documents, like a passport or travel visas.
Since you also leave from your own country, you don’t need to worry about dealing with international flights or border crossings before or after your cruise.
For spontaneous getaways, it just makes everything so much easier. Rather than worrying about the stress of border crossings and customs agents, you can just pack your bags and embark on round-trip cruises without the fuss.
I mentioned earlier how this is really appealing for families with small children and first-time cruisers, but it’s worth repeating. While regular cruises aren’t overly difficult to manage or book, you can’t beat the simplicity of a trip that requires minimal travel documentation and a greater sense of simplicity.
Even on departure day itself, closed-loop cruises are so much less stressful. Since there’s no need to pass through customs, mobile check-in services and digital boarding passes help you really cut down on the hassle of travel day logistics.
Cost-Effectiveness and Time Savings
Cruise Booking
Another significant advantage is the financial benefit. You can save time and money by avoiding the expenses associated with obtaining a passport, including application fees, expedited processing costs, and even just getting to and from a passport office.
Again, this is really appealing for those planning a last-minute getaway. If you see a good last-minute deal on a cruise, you don’t have to worry about double checking your passport expiry dates for your group or anything else.
Since this opens you up to more spontaneity, you can also save money on your cruise fares, as these last-minute deals can be extremely cheap, especially on shorter voyages, which are common with closed-loop cruises.
Enhanced Flexibility
Cruise Ships Docked at Miami Cruise Port, Florida (Photo Credit: Francisco Blanco)
Speaking of spontaneity and saving money, one of the main benefits of a closed-loop cruise is the enhanced flexibility when planning your trip.
Since you’re not required to navigate the complexities of international travel, you have more freedom to choose itineraries that best suit your schedule and preferences.
This flexibility extends to the types of excursions available, the range of onboard activities, and even the ability to adjust travel dates on short notice.
As a cruiser who has always loved the sense of freedom I feel when I book a last-second trip, these low-cost, short-duration cruises let me book multiple getaways throughout the year.
Drawbacks of a Closed-Loop Cruise
While closed-loop cruises offer a lot of benefits, especially for those who do not have a passport, they’re not without their drawbacks. To help you determine if closed-loop cruises actually align with your travel preferences, here are the most prominent complaints about them.
Limited International Exposure
View of the Entire Port (Photo Credit: Port Canaveral)
It sounds obvious, but one of the main drawbacks is the limited range of international destinations you can visit on a closed-loop cruise.
Because closed-loop cruises must adhere to strict regulatory guidelines, including beginning and ending at the same US port, the number and types of foreign stops will always be limited.
This could be a bit of a disappointment for travelers seeking a more global adventure. With that said, you can still experience international cultures, as there are a number of exciting countries closed-loop cruises are allowed to visit, but the scope of your journey remains a little bit restricted.
I like to think of a closed-loop cruise as a way to experience a taste of international flavor rather than an opportunity to dive into what these different cultures offer.
Most of these trips have shorter itineraries, which means they visit fewer destinations, and the time in each port is also relatively short.
The focus is on relaxation, convenience, and the sense of getting away, rather than cultural and geographic exploration, which tends to be a more prominent component of traditional multi-destination cruises.
The Potential for Documentation Challenges in Emergencies
Cruise Passenger (Photo Credit: ad-foto)
While simplicity is a major part of the marketing for closed-loop cruises, there is always a bit of risk when traveling outside your home country without a passport. While you hope it never happens, you might need to fly home unexpectedly if an emergency occurs.
This could be an emergency medical issue that impacts you or someone you are traveling with, or an emergency at home that affects a loved one.
Either way, your ability to take an international flight from an airport in a foreign country will always be way more complicated without a passport.
Regulatory and Policy Uncertainties
Princess Cruises and US Flag
If you know anything about government policies at the federal level, you know that things can change quickly and unpredictably. Unfortunately, the rules governing closed-loop cruises can also change based on evolving government policies and security measures.
For example, even initiatives like the WHTI are updated from time to time, which means that what is acceptable one year may not be the next. This uncertainty can add a layer of stress, particularly for travelers who book their trip well ahead of time.
Where Can I Go on a Closed-Loop Cruise?
While closed-loop cruises are limited compared to traditional international cruises, they can still allow you to visit different countries and ports. Let’s look at some of the places you can visit and typical routes and itineraries for closed-loop cruises.
Closed-Loop Cruise Destinations
Cruise Ships Docked in Nassau, Bahamas (Photo Credit: SNEHIT PHOTO)
The Bahamas
Bermuda
Canada
Mexico
The Caribbean (Aruba, Jamaica, US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Antigua, Barbados, St. Lucia, Martinique, and Bonaire)
Beyond these international destinations, Alaskan cruises that depart from the continental United States and cruises to the Hawaiian Islands are also popular places to visit on closed-loop cruises.
I wanted to cover a few popular itineraries to help you understand just how exciting these closed-loop trips can be.
Alaska
Cruise Ships in Skagway, Alaska (Photo Credit: Just dance)
A closed-loop Alaskan cruise will often depart and return to either Seattle Cruise Port or the Port of San Francisco.
From there, the cruise will visit ports in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, allowing you to enjoy Alaska’s coastline and Inside Passage. Some will even offer brief stops in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.
The Bahamas
Perfect Day at CocoCay (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Another very popular closed-loop cruise destination is The Bahamas, with numerous US ports in Florida and along the Atlantic Coast offering these types of trips.
As the biggest cruise port in the world, it’s no surprise that PortMiami is the most popular embarkation and disembarkation for closed-loop cruises to destinations like Nassau, Freeport, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Bermuda
Bermuda Cruise Port and Terminal Facility (Photo Credit: Viktor Hladchenko / Shutterstock)
Given its proximity to the United States, closed-loop itineraries around Bermuda are also popular. Most will depart from Manhattan Cruise Port or Baltimore Cruise Port, then travel directly to Bermuda’s historic King’s Wharf in Sandy’s Parish on the Western Tip of the tiny island nation.
Typically, itineraries are only two or three days, but that still allows passengers to enjoy time on the ship and explore everything stunning Bermuda has to offer.
New England and Eastern Canada
Cruise Ship Visitors in Bar Harbor (Photo Credit: New England Photo)
If the tropical sun isn’t your thing, plenty of closed-loop cruises explore New England and Eastern Canada. New Jersey’s Cape Liberty and Brooklyn Cruise Port are common departure points.
From either port, the cruise will stop in American cities, like Boston, Massachusetts, and Portland, Maine, before exploring Canadian cities, like Saint John, New Brunswick; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and Newfoundland’s Saint John’s Cruise Port.
The Western Caribbean
International Cruise Terminal, Cozumel (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
If you’re looking for a bit of a lengthier getaway, but still want the benefits of a stress-free closed-loop voyage, a round trip visit to the islands of the Caribbean is an amazing option.
Given the variety of locations within the Caribbean, these trips can visit exciting destinations like Jamaica, Antigua, Grand Cayman, Martinique, and Barbados.
Others, including those departing from Galveston, Texas, focus on visiting Cozumel, Cancun, and other Mexican ports.
The exact itinerary will depend on the length of the voyage, the cruise line you are traveling with, and where you are cruising from, but these trips remain among the most popular types of closed-loop cruises.
Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera
For those on the West Coast of the United States who are looking to soak up the sun rather than visit the rugged landscapes of Alaska, closed-loop cruises departing from Los Angeles and San Francisco include stops at exciting destinations, like Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta.
There are also fully domestic closed-loop cruises from LA and San Francisco that visit the Hawaiian Islands.
How Much Does a Closed-Loop Cruise Cost?
Like any other type of cruise, the cost of a closed-loop cruise will depend on the length of the voyage, the level of onboard accommodations, the cruise line, and the specifics of the itinerary. Still, it’s worth looking at some pricing examples and the main factors influencing the overall cost.
Pricing Examples from Top Cruise Lines
Passengers Passing Other Docked Cruise Ships in Miami (Photo Credit: gary yim)
Many popular cruise operators, like Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line, offer closed-loop options that are competitively priced.
For example, you might find a 3- to 5-night closed-loop cruise departing from Miami and visiting the Bahamas for as little as $250 to $400 per person.
For an even more budget-friendly trip, 2-night closed-loop trips to the Bahamas from Miami are available between $150 and $250, with MSC, Carnival, and NCL all specializing in these affordable getaways.
Most major cruise lines also offer closed-loop cruises to Bermuda between 4 and 7 nights, with costs ranging between $550 and $800.
These depart from and return to ports in Boston, New Jersey, and New York City, so they’re a good option for those living in the northeastern states.
Longer and more complex voyages, like week-long closed-loop cruises that visit multiple international ports of call in the Western Caribbean, tend to be priced over $550 per person.
That said, they can approach $1,000 per person with more elaborate accommodations.
As you’d expect, closed-loop trips to Alaska are more expensive, as they tend to be at least a week long. While you can shave down the cost by traveling during Alaska’s shoulder seasons, you should anticipate costs between $1,500 and $3,000.
Factors Influencing Cost
Cruise Ships Departing Port Everglades (Photo Credit: Allen Furmanski)
Again, like any cruise, some variables come into play when it comes to the cost of your closed-loop cruise.
One of the main factors you should consider is the season when you’re traveling, as cruises are almost always more expensive when you travel during the busy season. Keep in mind this varies depending on where you are traveling.
For example, Alaska is busier and more expensive in the mid-summer months, while Caribbean cruises are cheaper during the winter.
Your departure port will also factor into the price of your trip, with popular hubs like Fort Lauderdale, PortMiami, and Tampa able to offer more frequent voyages, so prices are more competitive than you’ll find at smaller ports.
The cabin type you select will also play a major role in your fare cost. If you’re looking to keep things cheap, interior cabins can be significantly more affordable than suites and even cabins with ocean views.
If you’re looking for a cheap getaway, book low-cost accommodations and stick to the basic included meals and drinks, rather than premium dining and drinks packages.
When I’m just looking for a low-cost escape, I treat my cabin as a place to sleep and shower, so I’ll book the cheapest accommodations and spend as much time as possible soaking up the sun and enjoying the ship’s amenities.
When you book, it also plays a role in the cost of any trip. This doesn’t necessarily mean when your cruise departs, but when you book your fare.
Many cruise lines offer package deals or special offers that bundle extras with your fare at certain times of the year, including during Wave Season.
If you’re flexible about dates, you can also cut costs by traveling at the last minute, which is nice with a closed-loop cruise because you don’t have to worry as much about travel documentation.
Plan Your Last-Minute Cruise Getaway
Cruise Ships Docked at PortMiami (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
Closed-loop cruises can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a cruise vacation. Without the complexities of international travel documentation, or the headaches of going through customs, they can be perfect for spontaneous getaways, short vacations, and experiencing different cultures without needing a passport.
If you are someone who does not possess a valid passport, I’d always recommend double-checking your travel documents and what is required for that specific cruise.
Make sure it is actually a closed-loop cruise and the route doesn’t require passengers to carry extra documentation you may not have available, such as a Certificate of Naturalization or a certified copy of your identification.
Once you book, it’s also worth keeping an eye on the latest updates from your cruise line to ensure you’re fully aware of the requirements for all of the stops on your voyage.
While it can sound stressful to first-time cruisers, closed-loop cruises are almost like cruising with training wheels. It will give you a taste for everything a cruise vacation can offer, but with a much less complicated travel experience.
Whether it’s just a couple of days to a single destination or a whole week of traveling around the Caribbean, make the most of your closed-loop cruise vacation and enjoy everything the ship, voyage, and destinations have to offer!
With the newly refreshed and rebranded Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter now officially part of the Fun Ship fleet, who is taking the helm to bring Carnival Cruise Line’s signature vibe to each ship?
A ship’s cruise director can make all the difference in guest experiences onboard. An outgoing, energetic cruise director ensures the liveliest parties and best attitudes for all the activities staff.
Of course, Carnival Cruise Line is well known for its fun and engaging atmosphere – they are the Fun Ships, after all!
Now, two brand new Carnival cruise directors have joined the ranks to bring that fun to two new ships: Ben Kitchen and Chelle O’Callaghan.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, made the official announcement of their promotions and positions on his popular Facebook page.
“I would like to give a wonderful welcome to two new Cruise Directors for the two ships that have recently joined the fleet in Australia. They are: Carnival Encounter Cruise Director, Ben Kitchen [and] Carnival Adventure Cruise Director, Chelle O’Callaghan,”he said.
Both cruise directors offer their own unique personalities and energy to the job, making them well-suited to welcome guests aboard the newly renovated and updated ships with newly renovated and updated experiences.
The exact activities schedules aboard each vessel have not yet been detailed, but they are sure to include sailaway deck parties, thrilling game shows, popular Playlist Productions, trivia contests, dance lessons, scavenger hunts, and so much more.
Carnival Encounter Cruise Director – Ben Kitchen
Ben Kitchen Cruise Director
Ben Kitchen is no stranger to the cruise industry, having worked previously with Princess Cruises (also owned by Carnival Corporation & plc) from 2005-2014 as a cruise director as well as a trainer.
Kitchen moved on to Norwegian Cruise Line from 2014-2016, also as a cruise director coordinating with the entertainment department. Of course, both Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line have very different vibes than Carnival Cruise Line.
He returned to the Carnival family with Carnival Australia as a cruise director and entertainment director in 2016. Kitchen hosted all the fun Down Under, planning daily schedules and collaborating with all team members to be sure crew members were as happy as the guests.
With his experience already in Australia, Kitchen understands the local personalities and can seamlessly bring Carnival fun to Carnival Encounter, giving every traveler a hearty g’day mate along the way!
Carnival Adventure Cruise Director – Chelle O’Callaghan
Chelle O’Callaghan Cruise Director
Michelle “Chelle” O’Callaghan is likewise no stranger to the unique and quirky Australian vibes, having served as a cruise director with P&O Cruises Australia since 2023.
She will be a familiar face aboard the former P&O Cruises ship, but now bringing Carnival’s signature fun style to every guest with new parties and activities.
While O’Callaghan is a relative newcomer to the cruise industry, she is no stranger to entertainment and guest interaction.
From 2010-2014, she served as an entertainment manager with the Thomas Cooke Group for a variety of hotels and holiday experiences. She has also been a voiceover artist (maybe some quirky voices will be in order?) and a dedicated youth programming officer.
O’Callaghan’s vibrant style and vivacious personality are sure to bring laughs and smiles to everyone aboard Carnival Adventure for every adventure the ship sails.
While the former P&O ships will remain in Australia serving the markets that know and love them, both vessels have also been updated with a unique hybrid hull livery to showcase their personalities and history.
Onboard, guests will find a blend of favorite Carnival Cruise Line venues and activities as well as familiar P&O Cruises options. This will create a fun Down Under vibe found nowhere else in the world, helping passengers make once-in-a-lifetime vacation memories.
Carnival Encounter will now be offering a diverse range of 3-12-night sailings from Brisbane, while Carnival Adventure will be offering similar options from Sydney. Both ships will remain in Australia year-round.
Most memorable, of course, will be the phenomenal hosting and energy of each ship’s new cruise director!
