Sun and fun are the hallmarks of most cruise vacations, but Carnival Corporation is taking the power of sunshine to new levels as it opens two more solar parks at key port destinations in the Caribbean.
The company, owner of eight major brands including its namesake Carnival Cruise Line, announced on March 18, 2025 that it has added renewable energy projects to its Mahogany Bay Cruise Center on Roatan island, off the Honduras coast, and at Puerta Maya, Cozumel.
The two new solar installations join earlier projects that Carnival Corporation launched in 2024 at the Dominican Republic’s Amber Cove Cruise Center and at two cruise terminals in Barcelona.
The solar park at Amber Cove will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,000 tons per year – roughly the equivalent to planting some 30,000 trees, while the project at Barcelona will provide enough power to run operations at the port’s Terminal D (Palacruceros) and Terminal E (Helix Cruise Center).
The new installations in the Caribbean include 400 solar panels that will supply upward of 70% of the energy needed to run the port at Mahogany Bay, and enough power to run the cruise terminal at Puerta Maya.
“Our investments in solar energy are a testament to our commitment to embedding sustainability into our operations, while also creating meaningful benefits for the communities where we operate,” said Juan Fernandez, Vice President of Destination Operations at Carnival Corporation.
“We are focused not only on delivering unforgettable vacation experiences for our guests but also on making a lasting, positive impact in our destinations, preserving the natural beauty and charm that makes them so unique,” Fernandez added.
The investment in solar energy also boosts job creation in the destinations and illustrates Carnival Corporation’s commitment to growing the local economies.
Officials in the destinations welcome the cruise giant’s energy projects, seeing them as further evidence of the company’s environmental advocacy.
Said Ron McNab, mayor of Roatan: ”This investment in renewable energy not only strengthens the environmental sustainability of Mahogany Bay but also reinforces Roatán’s position as a leading eco-conscious destination.”
Both Cruise Centers Are Leading Caribbean Destinations
Carnival Corporation opened the Mahogany Bay Cruise Center in 2009 and since then, it has welcomed millions of cruisers to the destination, which is famous for its beaches, marine life, and local culture.
In fact, the beach at Mahogany Bay is already a leader in environmental policy, having received the prestigious Blue Flag 5-Star certification from the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education.
To earn the certification, beaches must meet a wide range of criteria tied to water quality, environmental management, and accessibility, among others.
Carnival Cruise Ship Docked at Mahogany Bay, Roatan (Photo Credit: denbaim)
Puerta Maya, which opened on Cozumel’s southwest coast in 1997, is a lively port with a busy marketplace offering goods from local artisans and a selection of restaurants.
It expects to welcome about 1.8 million cruise guests in 2025, with more than 40% of them arriving on ships operated by Carnival Corporation brands.
Both the Mahogany Bay and Puerta Maya cruise centers are key to local employment, bringing business to area tour operators and other vendors.
In addition to solar energy projects, the Carnival Corporation brands — Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Cruises, Costa Cruises, and AIDA Cruises, promote environmental responsibility in various ways at the community level.
These initiatives include coastal clean-up programs, conservation and tree-planting initiatives, and coral reef preservation, among others. Onboard its ships, the company’s brands have advanced waste management and recycling systems, and are expanding their capacity for using shore power connectivity while in port.
Several ships across the brands are powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), which reduces the emission of greenhouse gases.
There is no place like home — or cruise ship cabins!
TikTok superstar @operation_niki posted a video on March 16, 2025, showing how she fully customized her cruise cabin after boarding Disney Cruise Line’s 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy.
Niki’s content focuses on cleaning — a popular video category on TikTok that has garnered her account 5.7 million followers.
The video begins with Niki arriving at her deluxe family ocean view stateroom located on the sixth deck, where she first adds Disney-themed magnets to the exterior of her cabin door.
After entering the room, she begins to customize the bathroom — but of course, not without cleaning it first.
She pulls out a bag filled with cleaning essentials — such as gloves, bed bug spray, and multiple disinfecting products and gets to work.
There was a brief break so Niki could add additional acrylic mini shelves to the sink area. This added more storage space so her skincare and personal items could be organized without overcrowding the bathroom.
Niki also deep-cleaned the tub, and all of the remaining bathroom surfaces (yes, even the toilet) — something many comments pointed out was a bit overboard.
“BOOK HOTEL TO REST ❌ BOOK HOTEL TO DO CHORES ✅,”one viewer said.
Niki then removed the bedding provided by the cruise line and replaced it with disposable bed sheets. Next, she set up her fully collapsible fan next to the bed to get more circulation in the room.
Afterward, it was time to do some laundry with the help of a portable mini washing machine — which might not be useful for winter clothing but worked for two small bathing suits.
This influencer is so detailed about cleaning even while traveling that she even brought a portable hanging dryer system.
Additional items Niki brought to create more of a homey feel to her cabin included a portable heatable water device to make tea with and a makeup case that doubled as a light-up vanity mirror.
In less than 24 hours since being posted, the video itself has gone viral, amassing 6.7 million views.
Cleaning and customizing her cabin made Niki feel like it was truly her own — even if her viewers did not completely agree with all of her choices.
Mixed Feelings on Cruise Cleaning
While Niki’s content is focused on cleaning, viewers of the cruise cabin cleaning video had mixed opinions about what they were seeing.
Many thought that the video was satisfying to watch — and added that after experiencing a global pandemic, people are more than allowed to clean if it makes them feel better.
“The crazy way not a single thing shown was an essential,” said one viewer, while another backed her up stating“guys please it gives her peace of mind and it makes sense to her.”
While Niki did choose to purchase and bring these items with her on this cruise, things like the fan could be redundant since the rooms do feature individual climate control.
Also, all Disney Cruises do offer laundry services — though it comes at a cost. To pay for laundry or to pay for a mini portable washing and drying devices, that is the question.
Even though this cleaning video often used single-use items such as disposable bed sheets, something like a portable washing machine could be used on multiple vacations and could even use less water than the laundry machine machines on the cruise ship.
At the end of the day, everyone’s cruise essentials will be different — and seeing that Niki specializes in cleaning content, everything she brought was a must-have item to make her experience the best one possible.
The world can’t wait for the next Icon class ship, and she can’t wait to welcome her first guests either – so much so that the new ship is going to be debuting even sooner than previously expected.
Royal Caribbean has contacted guests booked on the ship’s first “showcase sailings” to let them know that a new, even earlier showcase sailing is now planned.
“We have an updated timeline for the arrival of Star of the Seas at Port Canaveral!”the email announced.“Building such a large and incredible ship is no easy feat, but lucky for us, there are times when we get to embark on our new ship ahead of schedule, and that time is now!”
Previously, the cruise line had added two short showcase sailings ahead of the ship’s official maiden voyage. Those two cruises will depart Port Canaveral on August 23 and August 27.
Now, a new showcase sailing has been added for August 20. The 3-night Perfect Day Cruise will kick off the inaugural celebrations for the new vessel and give even more travelers the opportunity to be part of the festivities.
Guests already booked on either of the two previously announced showcase sailings have the exclusive chance to either add a new reservation or move their existing booking to the earlier cruise. Guests have one week to make their decision, and if they take no action, their existing bookings remain intact and unchanged.
After that deadline, the new showcase sailing will be open for any guests to book.
For some travelers, being the very first guests onboard a new ship is a bucket list vacation plan. Of course, such an opportunity only comes along once in any cruise ship’s service lifetime.
Will the REAL Inaugural Sailing Please Stand Up?
The changing timeline for Star of the Seas can be confusing for eager guests, and may even be frustrating for guests who want to be the very first onboard.
Originally – when the ship’s very first itineraries were released – Star of the Seas was scheduled to debut with her inaugural sailing on August 17, 2025. That itinerary was to have been a 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing.
Unfortunately, in February 2024, Royal Caribbean reached out to travel agents and booked guests that the ship’s delivery would be delayed and that first cruise had to be cancelled.
It is not unusual for construction timelines to be adjusted, especially with as complex of a project as a massive cruise ship.
What is more unusual, however, is that in January 2025, the cruise line updated the ship’s timeline once again and announced that she would be able to debut sooner than expected. Two 4-night “showcase sailings” were added ahead of the official maiden voyage.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Now, one more showcase sailing is added, and Star of the Seas is closer than ever to her original debut date.
But which cruise is the official inaugural sailing? According to the cruise line, the August 31 departure is the ship’s first 7-night sailing and her official maiden voyage. That Western Caribbean itinerary will visit CocoCay, Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel before returning to Port Canaveral on September 7.
The earlier showcase sailings (now all three of them) will offer guests a wonderful experience, but not quite with the same fanfare of the maiden voyage. As shorter cruises, they may feel more rushed and there will be less time to truly enjoy all the 250,800-gross-ton ship has to offer.
Furthermore, it is possible that not all entertainment may be available on the shorter, earlier cruises, or some finishing work may still be underway. This is not uncommon for a brand new ship or one that has just left an extensive dry dock renovation.
Ultimately, all cruise ships have more than just a single inaugural voyage. A ship’s first inaugural season includes her first visits to a wide range of port destinations, as well as new experiences.
Depending on her positioning and scheduling, this might include a first transatlantic crossing, a first season in Alaska, a first hurricane season, or first visits to a wide range of different sailing regions.
Onboard, the first few sailings will encompass a wide range of “firsts” – shows, games, deck parties, and much more. Regardless of whether guests are on the very first cruise or anytime in the first season, they’re sure to enjoy the inaugural energy of the ship and her eager crew.
The “gooooooodtimes” have come to an end with the passing of Matt Baker, a popular radio DJ and former cruise director for cruise lines Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises.
“Mr. Goodtimes” Baker, who passed away earlier this week, was known for his vibrant personality, a deep passion for music – often spotted singing and playing the guitar on gigs – and his magical prowess, having studied magic for more than 20 years.
“It’s with a broken heart I have to share with you that Matt has gone on another journey,” Phyllis Oostermejer, Baker’s mother, said of her son’s many life adventures.
Sharing the news of his passing in the early morning hours of March 15, 2025, Oostermejer said, “I know he will kick his heels up and make everyone happy. That was his life, to bring love and Gooodtimes to all.”
His brother, Simeon, also shared his grief online, saying Baker was loved and cherished all around the world.
“His unwavering love, musical passion, and all-round zest for life will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched,” he posted. “Rest in peace my talented brother, we love and miss you dearly.”
Colleagues and friends immediately followed with condolences and shared their memories.
Former Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruise Director Richard Spacey said, “Really sad to hear about the passing of Matt Baker, he was a force of nature and a very talented Musician, Cruise Director, Magician, and Radio Host, honestly, he could do it all.”
DjFly Gertos worked with Baker at Norwegian Cruise Line. “Rest well and goodbye for now, my fave Cruise Director. Matt Baker, we had a good run,” he wrote.
“I did not [lose] a boss; I lost a friend,” he continued, ending with one of Baker’s catchphrases, “Wiki wiki waaah.”
The sentiment was also shared by numerous cruise passengers who said Baker had been their favorite cruise director.
“We met Matt on our Alaska cruise in 2019. He was the first cruise director that made an impact on any cruises we had ever been on,” said one guest, with hundreds more sharing similar comments.
From Cruise Ships to Radio Waves
Baker, who hailed from Haverfordwest in Wales’ Pembrokeshire, got his start in cruising with Royal Caribbean in 1997 at the age of 27.
During that time, he served as a cruise director for the cruise line for more than seven years. He called the role his proudest accomplishment.
Following a two-year hiatus, he spent over five years as a cruise director at Norwegian Cruise Line until 2011.
In between additional gigs at Princess Cruises and a return to Royal Caribbean, Baker also took roles as director of guest services and entertainment at a St. Vincent & the Grenadines resort, a landlord of a local Welsh pub that featured live music, and co-owner of his own entertainment company.
Matt Baker
Most recently, Baker had been a radio presenter with Pure West Radio in Haverfordwest.
In April 2024, Baker shared news that he had been struggling with undisclosed health issues and shared his final social media post.
“You might of noticed or not that I’ve not been very active on FB as of late. This is due to ill health. (Good for [losing] weight though.)” he joked.
“Got some ways to go but getting there,” he continued. “Once I’m back fighting fit, you’ll know but until then, there will be continued silence on this platform.”
Baker once kidded that one thing people might be surprised to know about him is that “I’m actually a lovely guy.” The outpouring of love and condolences indicates that it wasn’t a surprise at all.
Cruise Hive extends its condolences to Baker’s family and all in the cruise and entertainment industry who will miss his antics.
The iconic and much-celebrated SS United States has gained great attention over the past few months as her ultimate fate has been decided and the grand old dame made her slow and stately way to Mobile, Alabama to be prepared for scuttling as the world’s largest artificial coral reef.
The exact location of that reef might not be where originally anticipated, however, as another Florida county has made a generous offer to be involved in the decision and eventually, the tourism that will result from the ship’s final resting place.
According to Channel 7 WJHG, the Bay County Tourist Development Council has offered $3 million to have the ship’s hull eventually sunk closer to its shores, 30 miles further west than generally planned.
The money has been offered in a deal to Okaloosa County, which purchased the liner and has paid for her relocation and preparation for sinking. If accepted, the money would be earmarked to help finance the sinking as well as marketing the new dive site.
Okaloosa County is the third county from Florida’s westernmost state border, in the panhandle of the state. Bay County is fifth and therefore further east along the Gulf Coast.
The original sinking location for the SS United States has been planned to be offshore of the Fort Walton Beach and Destin area. The Bay County Tourist Development Council, however, is hoping the site can be moved 30 miles further east, closer to Panama City Beach.
“We are excited that this is going to be the world’s largest artificial reef, so if we can get that as close to Panama City as possible and partner with Okaloosa County, it is going to be great for both of our dive industries and bring a lot of people to this area,”said Patrick Green, owner of Panama City Diving.
Green explained that historically, adding a new dive site to a region has done as much as doubled existing business. If the SS US is scuttled too far from Panama City Beach, tourism could fall as visitors head further west to see the exciting new site.
Okaloosa County has not yet responded to the idea, but has not outright rejected the proposal either.
Final Resting Place for the SS United States
While the ultimate destination for the hull of the SS United States has not yet been determined, the plan is for the ship to be laid to rest in approximately 180 feet of water.
This could be a challenging dive for novices, but it should be noted that the ship’s immense size – 990 feet long and 175 feet tall – means even divers who can’t go so deep can still get good looks at the vessel.
SS United States Departure (Photo Credit: SS United States Conservancy – Hampton Roads Chapter)
The history of the ship and the records she still holds give her even more appeal and will surely attract even more visitors. Furthermore, the plans to build a shoreside museum highlighting her legendary career and featuring multiple artifacts and exhibits will provide even more context for divers and non-divers alike.
At the moment, the SS United States is docked in Mobile, Alabama awaiting environmental refurbishment and other steps that will ensure she can be a stable, viable dive site and a benefit to the marine environment.
The ship arrived in Mobile on March 3, 2025, after leaving Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on February 19, following several months of delays.
The process of preparing the ship for sinking is expected to take approximately a year, but no date has been set for a final decision on where she will be located or when she will dip beneath the waves for the first and final time.
Before guests can sail to paradise aboard Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess, they will first need to make it through the embarkation processin a cruise terminal that is known for being less than ideal.
The upcoming 16-night sailing to Hawaii is due to set sail from San Francisco, California, on March 19, 2025. Originally, the embarkation process was going to take place within the Pier 27 James R. Herman Cruise Terminal that opened in 2014.
But due to port dredging – which is necessary maintenance to ensure the depth of berthing areas – the up to 3,080 booked guests will be boardingthe ship from Pier 35, which has a less than stellar reputation among locals.
“Please be advised that due to port dredging, embarkation for your upcoming Ruby Princess cruise in San Francisco will now take place at Pier 35 rather than Pier 27 as previously scheduled,”reads an update to passengers.
Pier 35 is usually only used as a backup pier for maintenance situations like this or when multiple ships are in the port on the same day – with the San Francisco Cruise Port able to accommodate up to two cruise ships at once.
While guests may need to adjust their arrival plans with short notice, such as changing their drop-off location with pre-booked ride services, Pier 35 is only a 10 minute walk at most from Pier 27.
Once onboard, they can unwind from the stress of the change with a cocktail and a plethora of entertainment options – assured that the pier change did not impact their itinerary and will only be a small portion of their experience.
The 113,500-gross ton ship will still depart as planned at 4 p.m. PST and will call on Hilo, Honolulu (Oahu), Nawiliwili (Kauai), and Kahului (Maui) in Hawaii, along with Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Francisco on April 4, 2025.
Is Pier 35 Really That Bad?
Over the years, Pier 35 has gotten a bad reputation as being ill-equipped for cruise operations – and is much older than Pier 27, as it first opened in 1916. It went on to serve as the primary cruise terminal for the city for eight decades.
But today, the primary complaints associated with this facility tend to orient around long lines, not enough space to accommodate the number ofpassengers embarking and disembarking, and lacking creature comforts that many cruisers take for granted.
“Processing of passengers was not only extremely slow but disorganized as well. The terminal lacks basic conveniences like A/C, readily accessible restrooms, restaurant and bar, and other amenities,”one review reads.
Another passenger, who sailed on Ruby Princess in 2022, also embarked from Pier 35 – much to their dismay.
“It was a mess, I’m sorry to say. The line was about three to four hours long…There didn’t seem to be adequate space and whatever they needed for boarding, as I don’t think that pier was intended for that purpose,”they observed.
Ruby Princess Docked in San Francisco (photo Credit: Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock)
Additionally, passengers with disabilities have complained that the pier isn’t very accessible – saying the elevators don’t work correctly or take them to the wrong location.
“Upon arriving to give our passports, and ID, I asked again, they said “we don’t do priority boarding at this pier” and asked if I would be okay to walk to the ship; I have a disability and was told it wasn’t far to walk,” a former Carnival Magic guest said after explaining she was supposed to have priority boarding.
“WELL, it was far, very far, and we had to use an escalator because the elevator didn’t take us where we needed to go,” she continued.
This information isn’t just noteworthy for guests with disabilities, but also for elite members of Carnival’s VIFP loyalty program and those who purchase the Faster To The Fun package, which usually includes priority check-in and boarding.
That said, the historic pier can’t be all bad, or Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line wouldn’t continue their homeporting operations from this port – which are currently in place.
Additionally, Pier 35 currently has a 4.4 star rating on Google Reviews – with plenty of recent four and five star reviews to combat the poor experiences.
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.
