Yo ho, yo ho, it’s NOT a pirate’s life for guests currently onboard Cunard Line’s Queen Anne – which is in the middle of her 111-night maiden world cruise.
However, the 2024-launched cruise shipdid get an (uneventful) taste of the pirate life while sailing in the Sulu Sea on March 14-15, 2025, which is located within the Philippine Archipelago.
As these waters are known to have active pirate activity, including acts of terrorism and kidnappings for ransom, Captain Inger Klein Thorhauge issued a warning out of an abundance of caution and informed up to 2,996 passengers onboard of increased security precautions.
“This area is known for piracy threats…Therefore, we will be operating at a heightened level of security alertness during this period,”Captain Thorhauge’s announcement began.
One such precaution was that the external promenade deck was closed overnight from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. local time on the night of March 14 until the morning of March 15 – as guests would be safer if they were already inside in the unlikely event of an emergency.
The ship’s external lighting was also decreased to the bare minimum and guests were asked to keep their curtains closed in their staterooms and turn off or dim their lights.
These actions make it harder for pirates to spot and board the ship, and also preserve the crew member’s night vision capabilities.
After giving a run down of what the emergency protocol would look like if pirates did approach, Captain Thorhauge reassured cruisers that this was quite unlikely and that their safety was her top priority.
“I would like to emphasize that the safety and security of the ship, all guests, and crew onboard is my highest priority. I assure you that measures to prevent any unlikely incident have been well planned, and the likelihood of this happening on a big ship like Queen Anne is absolutely minimal,”she continued.
As expected, this portion of the voyage – which was part of how the 113,000-gross ton ship made her way from Darwin, Australia, to Manila, Philippines – unfolded without incident.
She is now carrying onto destinations throughout Asia, South Africa, the Canary Islands, England, and Germany before all segments of the world voyage conclude in Europe by April 28, 2025.
Are Pirates an Issue for Cruise Ships?
If you are cruising in the near feature, a potential pirate invasion is highly unlikely and should be very low on your list of possible concerns.
In fact, the last pirate attacks on cruise ships occurred more than a decade ago and were not successful.
The most recent of these was on Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Adventure when she was sailing in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa in 2011. In this case, the ship increased its speed, and the pirates gave up when they realized they couldn’t catch up.
In April of 2009, MSC Cruises’ MSC Melody escaped a potential attack in the Indian Ocean by enacting evasive maneuvers that involved creating large waves.
As cruise ship wakes can do a number on smaller vessels without trying, the deliberate maneuver achieved a successful outcome in just a matter of minutes.
Cunard Queen Anne Arrives in South Queensferry (Photo Courtesy: Cunard Line)
The last significant attack in the modern era was on Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Spirit (now renamed as Star Breeze for Windstar Cruises) when she was sailing off the coast of Somalia, East Africa, in November of 2005.
Even as a smaller vessel with a capacity for 312 passengers, the up to 164 crew members were able to fend off the pirates using evasive maneuvers and a long-range acoustic device.
Although encountering pirates is highly unlikely, the crew members are still trained to respond appropriately in order to keep everyone safe in an “expect the unexpected” strategy.
“We train for these situations long before sailing through high-risk areas. Cruise ships have a lot more on board than water guns. Pirates are after cargo and fishing vessels with small crews—not a cruise ship with thousands of passengers,”an anonymous deck officer stated.
Indeed, modern cruise ships are equipped with knowledgeable security personnel, security cameras, water cannons, and sound-based deterrents.
When cruise lines know one of their ships will be sailing through a high risk region, they often increase patrols and surveillance measures, and obtain security escorts – sometimes from the military.
If you’re planning an Alaskan cruise, your adventure will almost certainly take you to Juneau Cruise Port. Nestled in the heart of the state’s capital city in southeast Alaska, this popular port is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich local culture, making it a favorite among cruise passengers.
Juneau Cruise Port is located in Juneau, Alaska’s downtown core, right along the scenic Gastineau Channel. The port, as well as the city it takes its name from, is located in southeast Alaska along the Alaskan panhandle. This makes it an ideal destination for cruise ships traveling the Inside Passage.
Beyond making it accessible for cruise ships, the port’s prime location offers visiting cruise passengers easy access to the city’s charming streets, bustling local markets, and historical sites.
The port is also conveniently positioned near some of the wider Juneau area’s key attractions, including the Mendenhall Glacier, which is just a short drive away. The port’s docks are also located within walking distance of some of the city’s most iconic restaurants and shopping destinations.
From my own experience, the central location makes the port the perfect starting point for exploring everything Juneau has to offer; from a relaxing hike on nearby trails to adventurous whale-watching excursions. Trust me, you’re going to love your visit.
Juneau Cruise Port Address:470 S. Franklin Street, Juneau, Alaska, 99801
Juneau Cruise Port Piers and Terminals
Aerial View of Juneau Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Kenneth Sponsler)
The Juneau Cruise Port features multiple docks that can accommodate cruise ships, including the AJ Dock, Franklin Dock, Cruise Ship Terminal, Intermediate Vessel Float, and Alaska Steamship Dock.
All of these docks can be used by visiting cruise ships, especially during the peak travel season, but which dock your cruise ship uses may depend on the cruise line, the size of the ship, and how busy the port is when you cruise.
The Franklin Dock, Cruise Ship Terminal, and AJ Dock are the main cruise ship docks, designed to provide visiting passengers with a comfortable and convenient experience, as well as ensure that all docking operations are conducted safely and efficiently.
While I have only personally visited the South Franklin Dock, here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect from each of the port’s terminals:
The South Franklin Street Dock (FKL)
The South Franklin Street Dock, Juneau (Photo Credit: Jessica Devlin)
Given its passenger-friendly location within walking distance of downtown Juneau, the South Franklin Dock tends to serve as the primary landing area for most visiting cruise ships. The terminal offers modern amenities, including clean and accessible restrooms, comfortable seating areas, and a tourist information booth.
Unfortunately, you can’t access free Wi-Fi at the terminal itself, but the nearby Juneau Public Library at 292 Marine Way is just a 2-minute walk and offers password-free Wi-Fi that does not have any time limit.
While I had reception in town and didn’t need to rely on the Wi-Fi provided by the library or nearby cafés, quite a few of the other passengers made use of it when I visited. Keep in mind that Royal Caribbean passengers can enjoy high-speed internet at the port!
You will notice that the entire Franklin Street Dock is wheelchair accessible, with recent upgrades including paved pathways and ramps allowing all visitors to enjoy a welcoming experience.
Although it is not as close to downtown as the Cruise Ship Terminal, it only takes a few minutes to walk into the center of town from the South Franklin Street Dock. Personally, I loved the walk along the Juneau Sea Walk, which is an elevated boardwalk that hugs the water.
The Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal (CT)
Carnival Spirit in Alaska (Photo Credit: Artha sant)
Located just above the South Franklin Dock, the Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal is slightly closer to downtown Juneau. The terminal is split into two piers, which have berthing spaces that can accommodate two full-sized cruise ships at any given time.
Like the Franklin Street Dock, the Cruise Ship Terminal is outfitted with modern amenities and is fully wheelchair-accessible. It also has a parking lot and taxi pickup and drop-off point just at the edge of the pier, so those hoping to avoid walking into town can easily take a cab.
Speaking of transportation, the Cruise Ship Terminal is also strategically located near the gondola lift station for the Mount Roberts Tramway, also called the Goldbelt Tram. As someone who has taken the Mount Roberts Tram, I can tell you it’s a must-do for panoramic views of the city and surrounding glaciers.
While it is only really used for tendering and docking smaller vessels, the relatively small Intermediate Vessel Float (IVF) docking point is located between the Cruise Ship Terminal and Franklin Dock.
The AJ Dock (AJD)
AJ Dock, Juneau (Photo Credit: Artchemy Labs)
While all of the docking points are located within a short distance of the port’s main address, the AJ Dock is the only real exception. That is because it is roughly 1 mile south of the city center. With that said, it was still designed to offer a pleasant boarding and disembarking experience.
The AJ Dock features a dedicated shuttle service that transports passengers to and from downtown Juneau, but it is not complimentary. Those looking to explore downtown Juneau will have to pay the $5 shuttle fee.
The shuttle runs continuously throughout the day, dropping passengers at the Mount Roberts Tramway Station or the central Juneau near the Alaska State Museum, depending on preferences.
As for the facilities at the AJ Dock itself, there is ample seating in an indoor waiting area, clear signage directing visitors where to go, bathroom facilities, and a small tourist information booth. There’s also a parking lot and a small taxi pickup and drop-off point located beside the shuttle bus waiting area.
While it is smaller and a little further away from downtown, the location is perfect if you prefer a more relaxed start to your shore excursions. Personally, I think using quieter docks when visiting Alaska can help you embrace that sense of isolation that Alaska is so famous for.
Cruise Lines that Visit Juneau Cruise Port
Multiple Cruise Ships Visiting Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Charles HHuang)
Juneau Cruise Port’s docking areas are amongst the busiest in all of Alaska, so it is no surprise that a number of major cruise lines include a stop at the port as one of the highlights of their voyages, especially during peak Alaskan cruise season.
Here are some of the top cruise lines that list Juneau Cruise Port as a port of call on their itineraries:
Royal Caribbean Group
Carnival Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises
Seabourn Cruise Line
Beyond the main cruise lines, some smaller, boutique cruise lines visit Juneau Cruise Port, normally docking at the relatively small Intermediate Vessel Float found between the Juneau Cruise Ship Terminal and the South Franklin Street Dock. These include small vessels like Safari Endeavour, operated by AdventureSmith Explorations.
No matter which cruise line you choose to travel with, Juneau’s stunning surroundings ensure that every visiting cruise ship can offer an itinerary that showcases Juneau’s natural wonders—from its majestic glaciers to its incredible abundance of unique types of wildlife, like humpback whales, sea lions, and bald eagles.
I already touched on the fact that part of Juneau’s appeal is the fact that it truly feels remote and isolated. Given that Juneau is only accessible by boat or plane, you really start to appreciate just how out-of-the-way it actually is.
Here’s a quick overview of the two ways visiting cruise passengers can arrive in Juneau, Alaska.
Arriving by Plane
Juneau International Airport (Photo Credit: Ken Schulze)
If you are choosing to arrive by air, you will almost certainly land at Juneau International Airport (JNU), which is about 8 miles northwest of downtown.
This city-owned and operated airport connects the city to Alaska’s other towns through daily Alaska Airlines flights. Delta Air Lines also operates seasonal routes to JNU from Seattle Tacoma International Airport, which is how some cruise passengers will arrive in Juneau.
A fun tip if you find yourself flying in or out of Juneau International Airport is to take a step outside to the airplane spotting area where you can watch seaplanes land on the man-made water runway operated by Alaska Seaplanes.
These unique aircraft run throughout the day, as they offer scheduled daily routes to other Alaskan towns, as well as chartered trips and sightseeing tours.
From the airport, taxis and shuttle services are readily available to bring you into downtown Juneau, with occasional complimentary shuttle services taking cruise passengers directly to the cruise port from the airport.
Arriving by Boat
Ships Docked in Juneau (Photo Credit: Stanley C. Rippel)
If you’re like most visiting cruise passengers and plan on arriving in Juneau from the water, your cruise ship will dock directly at one of the Juneau Cruise Port’s docks.
Even though the AJ Dock is a little bit of a hike, you’ll still arrive right in the heart of the city with all major attractions within walking distance or a short shuttle ride.
Alternatively, the Alaska Marine Highway System is a unique passenger ferry service that operates a 3,500-mile route that connects 35 Alaskan ports and towns along the Inside Passage.
While taking the ferry isn’t the most direct way to get to Juneau, the ferries can provide stunning views, and they’re equipped to carry up to 100 passenger vehicles at a time. The Auke Bay Ferry Terminal that serves the area is also located just 13 miles from downtown Juneau.
What Cruise Passengers Can Do in Juneau, Alaska
While Juneau itself is packed with exciting things to do, it is the many unique excursion opportunities that are available to visitors that make it such a special place to visit.
Here are just some of the popular options for Alaskan adventures that are available to those visiting Juneau Cruise Port:
Whale Watching Tours
Humpback Whale in Alaska (Photo Credit: Cavan-Images)
Juneau is arguably one of the best whale-watching spots in all of Alaska. With humpback whales migrating to the area after wintering in the warm waters surrounding Hawaii, it is no surprise that numerous excursion operators offer tours that are catered to visiting cruise passengers.
With most tours lasting between three and four hours, and some even offering money-back guarantees if you don’t see whales during the tour, it is no wonder that these budget-friendly excursions are amongst Juneau’s most popular.
Glacier Tours
Mendenhall Glacier (Photo Credit: Ramblin Rod)
A visit to the nearby Mendenhall Glacier provides an opportunity to take in truly breathtaking views. Most involve a canoe or kayak tour to explore the glacial ice up close, which can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. To make things even easier, these tours usually include transportation from your cruise ship terminal.
Helicopter Tours
Helicopter Tour in Alaska (Photo Credit: travelingclever)
If you want to take in the serene natural landscapes from above, a helicopter tour can provide that unique bird’s-eye view of the glaciers, mountains, and dense forests that surround Juneau.
While these excursions tend to be in the $600 to $800 range, amongst the priciest shore excursions offered in Juneau, they’re something you will remember for the rest of your life. Plus, some include a dog sledding experience near Herbert Glacier!
Biking and Hiking Tours
Alaska Tours for Cruise Passengers (Photo Credit: Bob Pool)
For something a little bit more budget-friendly, taking a hiking or mountain biking tour of the surrounding area can be just as fun.
These types of excursions tend to cost less than $100 per person, but they still include scenic views from downtown Juneau to Mendenhall Glacier. Most are also narrated tours, so you can learn all about the area’s unique history, culture, and natural wonders.
There are even Juneau city tours where you can learn all about historic downtown Juneau’s exciting history, links to local native culture, and even take in a breathtaking view of Mendenhall Glacier from Brotherhood Bridge Park.
If you’re looking to keep things local and are not an adrenaline junky, I recommend taking one of these tours and asking your tour guide for food recommendations.
The best part is that most include roundtrip transportation from your cruise ship terminal, so they’re suitable for all ages, as well as those requiring a wheelchair, walker, or mobility scooter.
Gondola Ride
Goldbelt Tram (Photo Credit: David Rajter)
I mentioned the Goldbelt Tram earlier, but it’s worth repeating that this is one of the most memorable things you can do in Juneau.
Located just at the edge of the Juneau Cruise Terminal Dock, this gondola system takes visitors 3,819 feet up Mount Roberts for breathtaking, panoramic views of Juneau, Douglas Island, and the several mountains that surround the town.
At the top, you can head into the Mountain House where you’ll find a café, gift shop, art gallery, and theatre showing informational films about the area.
If you really want to treat yourself, head into the Timberline Restaurant for gourmet takes on local seafood and other ingredients. Tickets are $60 for adults and $45 for children, so it’s cheaper than most of the excursions offered in Juneau.
Dining in Juneau
Local Restaurant on the Cruise Pier (Photo Credit: WhiteBlush)
While it might be isolated, Juneau is still home to numerous award-winning chefs. With numerous restaurants serving up fresh-caught seafood and other local ingredients, cafés offering coffee made locally roasted beans, and four craft breweries pouring their unique beers and spirits, Juneau offers a delightful array of dining options.
To make things even easier, many of these locally-owned restaurants, cafés, distilleries, and breweries are located within a short distance from the port. Here are a few recommendations for places that stood out to me when I last visited Juneau.
Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.
Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.
It’s no secret that Alaska can get pretty chilly, so why not warm up with a freshly roasted cup of joe from a locally owned and operated coffee company?
Established in 1974, this distinct coffee roasting company isn’t just a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee, you can purchase whole beans as a souvenir. With packaging that celebrates Juneau’s native heritage, it’s the perfect low-cost memento for your trip.
There are two locations downtown Juneau, as well as one at 230 South Franklin Street, which is just steps away from the cruise ship docks.
Tracy’s King Crab Shack
Tracy’s King Crab Shack (Photo Credit: Charles HHuang)
If you’re looking for something more substantial than a cup of coffee and a sandwich, but still want to keep things casual, Tracy’s King Crab Shack has two locations in Juneau, with one located less than half a mile from the port.
As you can probably guess, this local favorite specializes in buckets of fresh king crab legs and full seafood platters. Do yourself a favor and make sure you grab a bottle of Tracy’s Signature Crab Cake Sauce on your way out; it’s worth the trip to Alaska on its own.
The Red Dog Saloon
The Red Dog Saloon (Photo Credit: Bob Pool)
Located roughly 0.3 miles from the port, the Red Dog Saloon is a must-see destination for any visitors to Juneau. Although it has moved to different areas of the town throughout its history, this Juneau mainstay has been serving up food and drinks to locals and visitors since Juneau’s early mining era.
It still retains the classic swinging saloon doors you’d expect from an old-fashioned mining town watering hole, but don’t let the rugged exterior fool you, the food was some of my favorite in all of Juneau. Try the beer battered Alaskan cod, it’s incredible!
Deckhand Dave’s Wild Alaskan Fish Tacos
Located in the heart of downtown just half a mile from the port, this casual spot serves up delicious fish tacos, local beer, and even a Mexican-inspired take on seafood chowder.
Deckhand Dave’s was founded by a former fishing boat cook, so it’s no surprise that all of their seafood is freshly sourced and sustainably caught. This means you can feel good about your decision to fill up on these mouth-watering tacos.
The Hangar on the Wharf
The Hangar on the Wharf (Photo Credit: Supapai)
This former floating airplane hangardates back to 1940. Today, it serves as a truly unique restaurant and craft beer bar that serves up fresh Alaskan seafood, house-made burgers, hearty bowls of pasta, and much more. It also offers over 125 different beers, with 25 draft offerings from local breweries.
The huge windows and outdoor seating area offer incredible views of the Gastineau Channel, and you can see cruise ships coming and going from the port. Given it’s only a 0.4-mile walk from the cruise ship port, it’s a convenient spot for those with limited time to explore Juneau.
Shopping in Juneau
Stores Near Juneau Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
Downtown Juneau might seem like it’s in the middle of nowhere, but it is a treasure trove for shoppers looking for unique Alaskan souvenirs. With a thriving local arts scene and plenty of Alaskan-inspired souvenirs on offer, it’s easy to find something you can buy to remember your time in Juneau.
Here are just a few of my suggestions for those looking to pick up a souvenir or two:
Annie Kaill’s Fine Crafts Gallery
If you’re an art lover, this art gallery and hand-made jewelry store has been one of Juneau’s favorites since 1975. From pottery and paintings to miniature totem poles and soapstone carvings, you’ll be sure to find something that matches your unique preferences.
Mendenhall Mall
If you are looking for more options, Mendenhall Mall is Juneau’s top shopping destination. From local shops offering local souvenirs to more big-box stores carrying cruise essentials and clothing, you will be able to find whatever it is that you are looking for.
The mall is also home to several eateries, so it’s an easy spot to grab a quick bite. Keep in mind that it is 9 miles away from the port in nearby Mendenhall Valley, but it only takes 15 minutes to get there by taxi.
Shopping Near Juneau Cruise Port
Shopping Near the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Artchemy Labs)
If you’re low on time, don’t worry, there are numerous shops located at the port itself. Caribou Crossing, Alaska Mining Co., Trove, Northstar Gift Shop, Simply Natural, and Del Sol are just some of the options located in the port area.
With everything from T-shirts, mugs, and Christmas decorations to smoked salmon and local honey, you’ll easily find a souvenir that matches your tastes just by walking the shops outside the port on South Franklin Street.
The Best Time to Visit Juneau
Cruise Ship Docked in Juneau, Alaska (Photo Credit: Kenneth Sponsler)
Unsurprisingly, the best time to visit Juneau is during the peak of Alaska cruise season, which runs from late April to early October. The summer months, especially June and July, are ideal for enjoying long daylight hours and relatively comfortable outdoor temperatures between the mid-60s and high 70s.
This makes it a perfect time of year for shore excursions and spotting Alaska’s famed wildlife. While this time of year is the busiest for a lot of good reasons, the crowds can make it a little difficult to book the excursions you want to experience, so I’d recommend doing so well ahead of time.
On the other hand, if you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind the cooler temperatures, visiting during the shoulder seasons in May and September can also be a great way to experience a different side of Juneau.
Remember that these less busy months can get really chilly and daytime rainfall can interrupt any outdoor plans you may have, especially if you visit in October.
A mysterious murder of a cruise ship passenger during a Mediterranean cruise has found its way into the spotlight again, nearly 20 years after the incident shocked passengers and made headlines.
On March 13, 2025, the UK’s new true crime drama, “The Push,” premiered, diving into some of the most bewildering criminal cases from around the world.
The very first episode? “Murder on a Cruise Ship,” which centers around the death of Micki Kanesaki in a cruise mystery that was so stunning it was destined for television.
Kanesaki, a former Orange County, California, paralegal, was sailing with her ex-husband, Lonnie Loren Kocontes, an attorney, on a Mediterranean cruise together from Spain to Italy in May 2006.
Sharing a cabin on the Island Escape, a cruise ship jointly owned by Royal Caribbean and First Choice Travel, which was originally built as a ferry boat and later converted into a cruise ship, Kanesaki mysteriously disappeared on the evening of May 25, 2006.
The following day, her body was found floating near the coast of Paola, Italy.
It took seven years before Kocontes was arrested on the suspicion of murder in an attempt to gain financial access to $1 million of funds tied up between Kanesaki and himself.
It took another 7 years before he was tried and convicted of the crime, receiving a lifetime sentence without parole in September 2020.
Airing on Channel 5 in the UK, “The Push” provides viewers with an in-depth look at the psychological and legal intricacies of the case, providing a detailed reconstruction of the crime, along with interviews with key figures involved in the investigation and a review of the trial.
A Tragic Reunion at Sea
Married in 1995 and divorced in 2001, Orange County prosecutors claim Kocontes strangled Kanesaki and threw her body overboard during their cruise in a premeditated murder plot.
The case against Kocontes, which became fodder for “The Push,” was filled with intrigue as prosecutors won their case on a single flaw: Kocontes first strangled his ex-wife before throwing her body overboard.
Because she was deceased when she went into the sea, her lungs did not fill up with air, making her body float instead of sinking, allowing it to be found.
MS Island Escape (Photo Credit: Simon Hark)
“The defendant thought he had planned the perfect crime and lured his pray to her death with a Mediterranean cruise,”said Todd Spitzer, the Orange County district attorney that prosecuted Kocontes.
“He picked the perfect ship, the perfect state room, and the perfect time to kill his ex-wife. And he almost got away with murder,” he continued.
While awaiting trial, Kocontes was also indicated in May 2015 on two counts of solicitation to commit murder and one count of solicitation to bribe a witness.
It seems that while detained at the Orange County Jail, he allegedly drafted a letter intended for his third wife to sign.
The document claimed her previous grand jury testimony in 2006 was truthful and that her damning 2013 testimony was coerced by law enforcement threats.
Prosecutors said that between February and July 2014, Kocontes solicited fellow inmates to secure his new wife’s signature on the letter and subsequently kill her.
However, a former inmate reported the plan to authorities, leading to the new charges.
Although it’s too early to know how many viewers watched the docudrama, fans of the genre can find less dramatic ways to get their entertainment aboard a special true crime cruise sailing on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Joy in January 2026.
Cruise ships offer more than endless buffets, high-flying entertainment, and battles to find lounge chairs near swimming pools.
For some, visiting a ship’s shops, galleries, and art houses is part of the full experience.
But what was supposed to be a celebratory moment at an art auction aboard a Royal Caribbean sailing turned sour for one family.
During a Park West Gallery art auction held on the 4,515-passenger Freedom of the Seas, the family bid on and supposedly won a piece of art for $650.
Although the auctioneer’s gavel confirmed the sale, when finalizing the purchase later, the family was informed that due to a pricing error, the artwork’s price would be $2,700 and not the $650 initially agreed upon.
Currently sailing on an 8-night roundtrip voyage from Fort Lauderdale to the Eastern Caribbean, the father reached out to fellow passengers on social media about his shock and dismay.
“My wife and I (and two kids) attended their art auction and the whole family were drawn to a piece of art,” he wrote.“Someone came over to assist us, and really continued to ‘sell it.’ He provided us the ‘reserve’ lowest price, and we decided to bid on it.”
The then-thrilled-turned-shocked family was informed they had won the auction, but when meeting with Park West Gallery representatives, the digital copy of the artwork did not look the same.
That’s when they were told the piece they purchased was “sold out” and also wrongly priced.
“I feel like it was a scam, announcing one price to the crowd, but then, later, in private, backing out,” continued the passenger.
He said Royal Caribbean’s Guest Services told him Park West is a separate company and they are not responsible for its business dealings.
The passenger doesn’t condone the partnership, saying, “I feel like Royal [Caribbean] should make sure they do what they said they would do – sell the auctioned painting at the auctioned price they agreed to in a room full of people – as they operate on their ship and under their banner.”
Park West Stirs Controversy
Park West Gallery can be found on nearly 100 cruise ships, including vessels in Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises fleets.
Says the company, “Whether you are an avid art collector or just starting your collection, the Park West Gallery cruise experience is one that is incomparable to anywhere else in the art collecting industry.”
But not all cruisers are enamored by Park West, with many telling the family they should be thankful they just saved themselves $650 and to avoid the gallery in the future.
Photo Credit: Park West Gallery
“I’ve heard for years Park West is a scam. If I and others know it then I assure you RCL [Royal Caribbean] knows it,” replied another. “How much of a cut, if any, is RCL getting from Park West? RCL should ban them.”
While it is true that Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines lease space to galleries and shops found onboard – meaning it earns money from renting the space but doesn’t earn a cut of its sales – it is not responsible for any wrongdoing of its tenets.
Just as any shopper needs to be aware of who they are buying with, cruise passengers may want to turn to reviews to get a good sense of where their money is going.
On TrustPilot, a popular online review platform, Park West Gallery is rated 1.7 stars of 5, with over 100 reviews complaining about its ethics.
The company is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau, a nonprofit that promotes trust based on their ethical practices and customer interactions.
After 24 years in service, the much beloved Carnival Spirit is looking fresher and better than ever following her month-long dry dock update in Cadiz, Spain. New spaces have been added and favorite venues renovated, and highly sought-after features have been added to guest staterooms.
Carnival Spirit entered dry dock in mid-February, following her last sailing from Mobile, Alabama for the season. As the lead ship in the Spirit class, she has been due for major updates, and that’s just what she received in her bow-to-stern refresh.
One of the biggest updates is the addition of the Heroes Tribute Bar, which is now featured on 14 Carnival ships – more than half the fleet of 27 vessels. The military-themed venue was first introduced aboard Carnival Panorama in 2019 and has been gradually added to ships as they are updated.
The patriotic watering hole features unique memorabilia from veterans of all branches of the armed forces, along with other red, white, and blue Americana decor.
While the venue is focused on honoring members of the military and is where the military appreciation gathering is typically held, all guests are welcome to enjoy it.
“The new Heroes Tribute Bar and all the other upgrades to Carnival Spirit are part of our ongoing effort to continually enhance our existing fleet with features we know our guests appreciate and enjoy,”said Lisa McCabe, Carnival’s vice president of refurbishments.
Upgraded Carnival Spirit Mini Golf (Credit: Carnival)
The Heroes Tribute Bar is located on Deck 2 (Promenade Deck), in the space that was formerly the Skybox Sports Bar.
In addition to the new bar, the ship also now features a dedicated Chef’s Table space for that popular dining experience, a sell-out on nearly every sailing.
While great drinks and dining are part of every cruise vacation, what else will guests do onboard? Carnival Spirit‘s updates offer something for everyone.
New Heroes Tribute Bar on Carnival Spirit (Credit: Carnival)
The Cloud 9 Spa and Fitness Center were updated, as well as the nightclub, miniature golf course, and the basketball court. No matter what type of activities guests enjoy, they’ll find new and reenergized spaces onboard Carnival Spirit.
For capturing every moment of an amazing cruise vacation, guests can visit the new Dreams Studio to book a personalized portrait session (well worth the investment for the best cruise photos ever). For souvenirs to remember their time onboard, guests will want to check out the exclusive merch at the Carnival Adventures store.
Guests who want to try their luck in the ship’s casino on Deck 2 will find an all-new layout and a wide selection of new machines for the most updated gaming challenges and (hopefully!) exciting jackpots.
Other updates across all public spaces include new carpeting, lighting updates, and general refreshment.
Inside guest staterooms, convenient features such as bedside and sofa bed lights with USB A and C charging ports have been added. Extra charging ports are one of the most requested updates guests look forward to.
Full Speed Ahead to Exciting New Itineraries
With so much done, Carnival Spirit is ready to welcome guests for unique and popular sailings.
The ship greeted her first guests on Sunday, March 16, 2025 in Barcelona, Spain, before heading out on a westbound transatlantic cruise. The ship will visit ports in Spain, the Azores, and Bermuda before arriving in Miami, Florida on Sunday, March 30.
The very next sailing is equally unique as a 15-night one-way cruise from Miami to Seattle, Washington, including a bucket-list passage through the Panama Canal. Guests will also be treated to stops in Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico.
Once she arrives in Seattle, the better-than-new Carnival Spirit will be ready to begin her Alaska season. Through the summer, she will be offering primarily 7-night Inside Passage itineraries with visits to Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan, along with spectacular scenic cruising through the Last Frontier.
In late September, the ship will offer a unique 15-night Hawaii sailing roundtrip from Seattle before crossing through the Panama Canal again and returning to Mobile, her winter homeport.
From Alabama, she will be offering 6- and 8-night Bahamas itineraries, which will include visits to Carnival Cruise Line’s upcoming private destination, Celebration Key.
With such a diverse few months ahead of her, Carnival Spirit is sure to wow thousands of guests with her new updates and spectacular spaces.
The ship can welcome 2,124 guests at double occupancy and is also home to nearly 1,000 international crew members, all of whom are ready to ensure every traveler has a memorable getaway.
Disney’s magic is notorious with both the theme parks and a cruise line renowned for creating unexpected experiences for its guests.
But passengers on a recent Disney Cruise Line voyage found that magic turned sour when an unexpected sewage backup left feces seeping onto the carpet.
According to a guest’s post on Reddit, the problem was caused by pressure issues within Disney Magic’s plumbing system – and not by inappropriate items being flushed, as commonly assumed.
The incident appears to have occurred on the 2,700-passenger ship’s 6-night roundtrip Western Caribbean sailing from Galveston, Texas, where the ship is homeporting until April 2025.
“It was a ship issue and affected multiple rooms; no alternative rooms were available. Poop on the carpet,”said the passenger, who also said the cruise line cleaned and dealt with the issue immediately.
“It’s so gross,” the guest continued. “They are still running fans in the hallway two days later. No amount of cleaning makes this not gross.”
The passenger said the affected cabins were on Deck 6 in the high 6500s. However, Disney Cruise Line told Cruise Hive only one cabin experienced the issue.
Still, the guest wondered what sort of compensation would be acceptable from the cruise line.
An equally unfortunate passenger said a similar incident took place on Disney Magic in October and they were only compensated $150 onboard credit plus some snacks.
“Our bathroom flooded with poop water three times. It was so gross,”the prior guest commented.“The whole deck seemed to smell of sewage, so I am sure we weren’t the only ones it was happening to.”
A former Disney Cruise Line cast member also responded regarding cleaner products. “I can tell you they are very effective. Poop particles are how [gastrointestinal illness] is spread, so they will take this incredibly seriously.”
“If a certain threshold of guests get sick, they won’t be able to run cruises with that ship until it’s completed a quarantine,” the cast member continued.
“Keeping the ships clean and ready for [US Public Health] inspection at all times is drilled into the crew.”
What Went Wrong?
Disney Cruise Line, which most recently introduced the Disney Treasure in December 2024 and will unveil its Disney Destiny in November 2025 and Disney Adventure in December 2025, currently operates a fleet of six ships.
Beyond 2025’s new additions, the company has plans for four new ships to be delivered between 2027 and 2031.
However, the sewage trouble is leading some guests to question if the cruise line should put more effort into its original ships, especially the sewage-troubled Disney Magic.
Disney Magic Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia)
Making its maiden voyage on July 30, 1998, the 83,969-gross-ton ship is the oldest in the fleet and introduced Disney to the high seas.
That said, despite its age, the ship has been well maintained. Its last dry dock was completed in Freeport, Bahamas, in May 2023.
That 21-night dry dock – performed ahead of her 25th anniversary – had the ship run the gamut of routine cleaning, upgrades, and paint, as well as receiving shore power technology to help it reduce its carbon footprint.
Cruise ships typically undergo dry docking every few years for routine maintenance and refurbishment, and the ship is not behind schedule.
Still, plumbing systems on cruise ships are often a closed loop that relies on pumps to move wastewater from lower decks to treatment facilities found on higher ones.
If these pumps fail or pressure within the system isn’t properly regulated, backups can occur unexpectedly. It may be time for the cruise line to look at the pumps and pipes to ensure this stinky situation doesn’t become so routine.
It’s been rough sailing for Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas for the past few days as strong winds in the Bahamas have impacted multiple cruises.
The most recent impact is to her St. Patrick’s Day departure, a 4-night Bahamas Perfect Day cruise with calls scheduled to both Nassau and CocoCay. The day before embarkation, guests received notification of an itinerary change to ease the rough weather.
“Our captain along with our Chief Meterologist, Craig Setzer, have been monitoring strong winds developing in and around Nassau, Bahamas. As a result, we have rearranged our port order,”the email explained.“We’ll enjoy a Sea Day before we make our way to Nassau, Bahamas.”
Liberty of the Seas was scheduled to depart Fort Lauderdale on Monday, March 17 and visit Nassau from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday. A day at sea would follow on Wednesday, and then Thursday, March 20, was to be a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay before the ship returns to Port Everglades on Friday, March 21.
AccuWeather predicts winds of 20 miles per hour in Nassau on Tuesday, with gusts as high as 33 mph.
The ship’s departure on Monday is not impacted by the poor weather, but she will remain leisurely at sea and away from the worst winds with a day at sea on Tuesday. Wednesday, then, will be spent in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas.
The visit to CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination, is unchanged for Thursday. Similarly, there should be no delay to the ship’s return to Fort Lauderdale on Friday.
Any shore excursions for Nassau that guests pre-paid through Royal Caribbean will be automatically rescheduled for the new visit date. If the tours are unable to be rescheduled due to operator availability or other factors, they will be cancelled and refunded to guests’ onboard accounts.
The onboard credit can be used for souvenirs, photos, drinks, or any other expenses on the ship. Any account credit remaining at the end of the sailing will be returned to the original form of payment.
Guests may be understandably disappointed at the itinerary change, particularly if further changes are necessary and Liberty of the Seas may not be able to visit both Nassau and CocoCay. Safety is always the cruise line’s primary consideration, however.
“We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change caused by the weather – your safety is our top priority,”the cruise line said.“Please know, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather.”
Weather-related changes are not uncommon on cruises. These might involve port delays or swapping days in port, or even spending extra days at sea if a swap or alternative port is not possible.
Second Sailing in a Row Impacted
The 155,889-gross-ton, Freedom class Liberty of the Seas is currently homeported from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, offering 3- and 4-night Bahamas cruises.
Because the ship’s itineraries are so brief, any strong weather system has the potential to impact more than one sailing, as has been the case with Liberty of the Seas.
In addition to the port day swaps for the March 17 departure, the ship was also forced to cancel her visit to CocoCay on the previous cruise, a 3-night itinerary that left Fort Lauderdale on March 14.
Liberty of the Seas Cruise Ship Overboard (Photo Credit: Enrico Powell / Shutterstock)
For that weekend getaway, the ship was also scheduled for Nassau along with CocoCay, but high winds meant docking at CocoCay was not possible. Without any day at sea on the original itinerary, simply changing the port day or making other arrangements was not an option.
Missing a private island experience is always disappointing for travelers, and Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is consistently voted as the best private island destination. With a thrilling waterpark, multiple beaches, an adults-only area, nature trails, and much more, CocoCay is a top choice for many cruise guests.
While CocoCay does have a pier, ships must be able to dock safely and the pier must be safe for walking. Very high winds and waves can make it dangerous, and in those situations, it is not possible for a ship to visit.
Guests boarding Carnival Sunshine in Norfolk, Virginia on Sunday, March 16, 2025 are not setting sail on their cruise as soon as they’d hoped.
Due to a passing cold front, poor weather in the region has delayed the ship’s departure until Monday morning and as a result, one of the Bahamas port of call visits has been cancelled.
Guests were informed of the need to delay the ship’s departure just the day before embarkation, though the full impact to the ship’s 6-night Bahamas itinerary was not yet known.
“Our Fleet Operations Center is actively monitoring an easterly-moving cold front that is likely to impact the Norfolk area Sunday afternoon into evening time,”the email notification explained.“The front is producing unfavorable conditions, including strong winds and rain, that could make it unsafe for us to depart as scheduled.”
True to the prediction, local radar weather tracking showed strong thunderstorms and heavy rain throughout the Norfolk region on Sunday afternoon and into the nighttime hours.
Furthermore, Windy.com indicated strong winds from 25-30 knots (29-35 miles per hour) at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, where Carnival Sunshine would have to pass to reach the Atlantic Ocean.
These conditions make delicate navigation to begin the voyage unsafe, and would also make for very uncomfortable sailing conditions for guests.
Instead, satellite tracking data confirms that Carnival Sunshine has remained docked in Norfolk through Sunday evening and into the night. The ship will be departing on Monday morning, once conditions improve for easier sailing.
The ship’s embarkation on Sunday was not impacted despite the unpleasant weather, and guests were welcomed onboard for their first Guy’s burger, a slice of Funfetti cheesecake, and plenty of entertainment and activities even without a sailaway party.
Port Visit Cancelled – But Which One?
Guests onboard the ship have also confirmed the delay as well as the cancellation of one of the planned port visits in the Bahamas.
Carnival Sunshine had originally been scheduled to spend Monday, March 17 at sea on her way to the Bahamas, with visits to Nassau, Bimini, and Freeport planned for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, respectively. Another day at sea on Friday will bring the ship back to her Old Dominion homeport on Saturday, March 22.
Now, however, it is not possible for the ship to reach all three ports of call as planned. Initially, announcements onboard indicated that Bimini would be cancelled, but instead it was ultimately decided that Nassau would be cancelled while Bimini and Freeport would remain on the schedule.
Carnival Sunshine Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Daniel Wright98)
Further updates on the exact port timing will be made available as the scheduling is finalized, which also depends on exactly when the weather clears and the ship can depart Norfolk.
It is also possible that as port operations are confirmed, further changes may be necessary. By skipping Nassau, however, the ship should be able to retain her original times for visiting Bimini (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) on Wednesday and Freeport (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) on Thursday. Any change in times will be communicated to guests onboard as soon as possible.
Any pre-paid Carnival shore excursions booked for a cancelled port of call (whether it is Nassau or Bimini that is ultimately cancelled) will be automatically refunded.
Similar delays – both leaving the homeport and returning at the end of a sailing – also happened while Carnival Sunshine was homeported from Charleston, South Carolina.
Every traveler wants their perfect cruise vacation with nothing but blue skies and smooth seas. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case, and when things do go wrong, it can sour the whole experience.
Carnival Cruise Line guests are lucky they have someone to reach out to with comments, inquiries, requests, and yes, even complaints – the official Brand Ambassador, John Heald. Through his popular Facebook page, Heald interacts with hundreds of guests every week.
While he does always remain polite and humorous in his responses to guests (except when his less-than-courteous alter ego, Bob, makes a rare appearance), Heald does wish guests would do one thing before sending complaints to him.
“I read comments where people tell me what was wrong with the cruise. I get that, it’s my job to listen and I want people to tell me these things,”he explained.
“However, what drives me absolutely stark raving bonkers is when every day, and yes it is every day, that when I investigate with the ship … [I learn] ‘Um, there are no reports here from the guest.’ Nothing was reported, nothing was said.”
When following up on a complaint, Heald will contact the ship in question and the department head who would typically address the issue.
This could include the Guest Services Manager as well as the Hotel Director, Dining Room Manager, Security Chief, or any other department necessary.
For a bathroom issue, for example, Heald would check with the ship’s engineering, maintenance, and plumbing teams. For a dining issue, he would check with the associated Maitre ‘D, the Head Chef, and the assigned dining room team.
What is so frustrating, however, is when Heald follows up but learns that the guest – who has come to him with the complaint – has not actually filed a report onboard. He notes that the crew members he contacts always respond in the same way.
“They always add something along the lines of ‘I wish the guest had told us because we could have helped,'”he said.
Cruise crew members work spectacularly hard to try and ensure that every guest has an enjoyable vacation. When a problem arises, they can’t help correct it if they don’t know about it.
Issues Crew Members Can Set Right
Heald goes on to share examples from recent guests and how crew members might have been able to resolve different problems and preferences.
“What has happened to the warm chocolate melting cake on the Carnival Sunshine. I ordered it every night and it was overcooked each time. Your chef needs to go back to cooking school,”one guest noted.
Despite ordering the iconic dessert every night and being disappointed each time, the guest never reported their preferences to their dining team.
I have personally been in this situation and all it took was one mention to my waiter and every melting cake for the rest of the sailing was the perfect firmness I enjoy.
Heald shares another example, one even more serious for cruise ship safety.
“Every night the person on the balcony directly below us on Deck 8 was smoking. This woman can kill herself but why should I not be able to use my balcony because of her. Smokers are disgusting people and her disregard for me and others on balconies near hers proves my point. The crew did nothing to stop her,”one guest described.
“This is a very important one. The crew didn’t do anything to stop her because they didn’t know,”Heald said.“Having checked with the ship there were no reports made by this guest or indeed any guests from cabins around the area. … The cruise was 8 days long, the guest says this lady was doing it every night, yet there were no reports. If there had have been I promise the right steps would have been taken.”
Heald explains that smoking on balconies is of course absolutely forbidden – as is noted in every cruise ship safety briefing. Carnival Cruise Line’s Cruise Ticket Contract, section 9(b), explicitly outlines the smoking policy and consequences for violating it.
“Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Guest agrees to refrain from smoking in non-designated areas and agrees that Carnival has the right to assess up to a $500 charge, per violation, and to disembark the Guest for failure to observe Carnival’s Tobacco and Marijuana Smoking Policy with no refund to the Guest,”the contract reads.
Smoking is not permitted on balconies, or indeed, in any guest staterooms of any kind. Yet if crew members are unaware of smoking violations, they cannot stop the behavior or issue any punishments.
Yes, I have reported a balcony smoker on a cruise, and yes, the ship’s security responded promptly and without mentioning my name or cabin number to the guest as they resolved the issue. For the rest of the cruise, there was no smoking.
“I get that some people do not like confrontation. But please, don’t be worried, the crew are there for you,”Heald said.“That’s why our crew are the best in the industry because they truly do care, they want to exceed your expectations.”
All Carnival cruise guests, no matter whether it is their first sailaway or their fiftieth, are urged to let crew members know if there is a problem or concern of any kind.
While not all problems may be able to be fixed, the crew will do everything possible to try and give every guest a memorable and fantastic FUN vacation.
