Disney Cruise Line continues to reveal the unique experiences, including some new dining venues, that will debut aboard the line’s newest ship, Disney Destiny, when she enters service in November 2025.
Now in the final stages of construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, the 4,000-guest ship will sport the brand’s popular heroes and villains theme as she sails her inaugural season from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
And while the ship will feature Disney Cruise Line favorites, like the spirited Haunted Mansion Parlor, which was introduced on sister ship Disney Treasure, she also will add several new venues.
Among them is the family dining experience called Pride Lands: Feast of the Lion King. Disney Cruise Line teased the venue in 2024, and has now revealed more about the concept, which features musician and storyteller performances while guests dine on African-inspired cuisine.
Families will enjoy hearing Simba’s story, told in tandem with music from the official soundtrack from the iconic Disney film “The Lion King.” Menu choices will offer foods flavored with African sauces and spices.
After dinner, guests aboard Disney Destiny can head over to another new venue called Edna A La Mode Sweets, where unique confectionary treats will be waiting — think handmade gelato, cookies, ice cream, and other goodies.
Edna Á La Mode Sweets (Credit: Disney)
The new-build also will entice guests to spend time at the Worlds of Marvel experience, which looks back on and celebrates the history of Disney animation since the founding of the company in 1923.
The experience offers an onscreen look at Disney classics such as “Hercules,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “Big Hero 6,” and “Wreck-It Ralph.”
Of course, every itinerary that Disney Destiny sails will include live productions of “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” inspired by the hit animation film, as well as “Disney Seas the Adventure,” the iconic Disney show that brings Captain Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and many other favorite characters to life.
Guests aboard Disney Destiny will enjoy plenty of other tried-and-true favorite activities, such as the Pirate’s Rockin’ Parlay Party, with live music and a fireworks display, and events in Hero Zone, a sports arena.
Seven pools, including a “Toy Story”-inspired wading pool for toddlers, and dedicated spaces for supervised children’s activities are among the public spaces sure the delight youngsters.
Cruella de Vil Comes to Life and Accommodations Aboard New Disney Destiny
Disney Cruise Line’s latest reveal of new experiences aboard Disney Destiny followed announcements just days earlier about new entertainment choices, two of which will feature the wicked character Cruella de Vil.
One production features a visit to Maleficent at Saga Entertainment Lounge, where guests can participate in a runway fashion show, and another offers cruisers a chance to relax in De Vil’s piano bar. (The bar is an adult-only space.)
De Vil’s (Credit: Disney)
Disney Destiny’s heroes and villains theme extends to accommodations as well. The cruise line detailed some of the stateroom and suite choices in July 2024, when it revealed that all cabins will be decorated with custom artworks that celebrate Disney’s legendary characters.
For example, seven VIP ocean-view staterooms will feature scenes from Pixar’s “The Incredibles” while four Royal suites will showcase Greco-Roman designs taken from “Hercules.”
The ship’s maiden voyage departs Fort Lauderdale on November 20, 2025. The 4-night Bahamian cruise is scheduled to call at Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s second private island destination, which opened in 2024, and at its Castaway Cay destination. Going forward, the ship will sail 4- and 5-night cruises to the Bahamas and the Western Caribbean.
While cruise lines are careful to avoid the spread of illness onboard, outbreaks are sometimes inevitable, as thousands of people from around the world interact during every sailing.
However, two Canadian passengers think that Royal Caribbean could have done more to prevent and mitigate the spread during a Salmonella outbreak in September of 2024. Both women are now suing the cruise line for negligence and breach of duties.
The 2,112-guest ship embarked from Vancouver, Canada, on September 20, 2024, for the tumultuous week-long voyage.
The two lawsuits, which were filed by Tierny Patterson and Nicole Singh with the British Columbia Supreme Court in March of 2025, seek restitution for financial damages and compensation for pain and suffering.
In her claim, Patterson alleges that she became ill after eating several meals in the “dining hall.” It’s unclear if she is referring to the main dining rooms or buffet.
Her symptoms included diarrhea, stomach cramps, dehydration, fever, and more, but it wasn’t until she disembarked in Vancouver that she received a diagnosis from a doctor on land.
Singh reported similar symptoms and alleges that medical staff forced her to isolate in her cruise cabin because “she was viewed to be a biohazard.”
Isolated guests also wouldn’t be left to their own devices. Instead, they would be brought meals and medications as needed, and their condition would be monitored.
Singh, however, asserts that the medical staff onboard were not properly trained or equipped to provide proper care for the sick guests.
Both lawsuits also state that the onboard staff never suggested that Singh or Patterson should be removed from the ship to receive more urgent treatment.
Royal Caribbean has not issued a statement regarding the lawsuits and these allegations have not been proved in a court of law. As of the time of publication, the lawsuits are currently under review by the B.C. Court.
Royal Caribbean Took the Correct Steps
While these women understandably had a nightmare experience on what should have been a dream vacation, Royal Caribbean did take appropriate steps to mitigate the spread of illness onboard.
As is standard, the crew of Radiance of the Seas was required to report any outbreaks impacting 3% or more of the people onboard to the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program – which remains operational despite recent federal layoffs.
In this case, the Radiance-class vessel had 8.29% of the population onboard become ill after exposure to the bacteria and did report the outbreak timely. Experts from the CDC then monitored the response of the approximately 858 crew members onboard.
First, passengers were encouraged to practice frequent and thorough handwashing practices, with increased sanitation and disinfection of high-touch surfaces implemented in common spaces.
Timely announcements were also made to alert passengers to the outbreak and encourage guests to report any symptoms they might experience to the medical center. Stool samples were then collected to confirm the causative agent.
Guests were also invited to take any other measures that would make them feel safer, such as avoiding crowded areas of the ship – like not getting into packed elevatorsor skipping themed parties.
But while gastrointestinal illness is never fun, the outbreak was not severe enough to necessitate any modifications to the itinerary or entertainment onboard.
Picture this: you have been working at your job for over four years, and you get the opportunity to work remotely while cruising the world for four months.
Sounds fun, right? Well, this is a current reality for one senior lawyer who works for the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, but she is now getting slammed by the press for doing so.
While many reports are saying that the City Attorney is working remotely, the truth is it is one of her top deputies, Jean Jordan.
The actual newly elected City Attorney in San Diego is Heather Ferbert, who recently gave Jordan a pay bump, is not the one on a cruise.
Jordan, who is on a cruise, was given permission by her superiors at the San Diego City Attorney’s Office to work remotely for a period of time. However, she is now receiving criticism from constituents of her boss for her decision not to work close to her office.
Some of the concerns included the length of time working remotely when working for the city, and the deputies’ ability to do her job while being far away.
Another one of the concerns was if taxpayer dollars were being used to pay for the cruise, but until more information is provided it is likely Jordan paid for it herself.
Others who were interviewed regarding the situation said that as long as Jordan’s time off was approved and she was doing her job, there should not be an issue.
Ibrahim Ahmed, a spokesperson for Ferbert shared that the city attorney has the ability to allow for temporary teleworking arrangements, but it is on a case-by-case basis.
In this situation, the job responsibilities of the position were reviewed and it was determined that they could be done remotely.
According to a San Diego-based news outlet, Jordan was promoted in January. However, based on information provided on LinkedIn, she has been the Assistant City Attorney since January 2021.
That being said, according to public records, Ferbert did give Jordan a pay bump from $239,000 to $282,651 annually earlier this year.
Supposedly, Jordan is receiving her regular salary and benefits while on the cruise — and while it is being reported that she is also collecting vacation pay, this has also not been confirmed.
Even if it is, it likely means that Jordan is using accrued time off to spend time at ports while the ship she is on is docked.
Jordan is still on the cruise and is set to depart sometime in May, upon which she will be returning to work at the office in San Diego.
Where in the World is Jean Jordan? On a Cruise!
Currently, only two cruise ships are on world cruises, which departed in January 2025 and will end in May 2025.
While some reports said that Jordan departed on a cruise weeks after being promoted in January of this year and would return in May, only one world cruise departed in February, and she is likely not on it.
Oceania Cruises’ Insignia departed on February 1 and is currently on a 180-night itinerary that will end on July 30, 2025.
However, given the lack of confirmation about Jordan’s promotion, it is more likely she is on a ship that departed in January and is indeed ending in May — which could be MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica or Princess Cruises’ Island Princess.
This vessel departed on January 4, 2025 — and right now is underway from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, South Africa where it will arrive on April 16. After making 50 stops in 21 countries, MSC Magnifica will arrive back in Rome on May 4, 2025.
Meanwhile, the 92,822 gross ton Island Princess is on a 117-night long round-trip cruise out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which departed on January 5, 2025.
Currently, this ship is underway from Nice to Marseille, France, where it will be arriving on April 16. The vessel is set to disembark after calling on 51 ports in 26 countries on May 2, 2025.
It is more than likely Jordan is working remotely from one of these two cruise ships — either way she would have access to onboard WiFi.
Unfortunately, she is learning that cruising through life may not go unpunished, pun very much intended.
With the debut of the second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, just four months away, eager guests are excited to learn more about what awaits them onboard.
But what about entertainment onboard? You might think this is old news with “Back to the Future: The Musical” vibes, but the cruise line has just released details about new and exciting shows for its new and exciting ship.
Royal Caribbean’s iconic aqua shows are a cruise vacation must-see, and guests at Star of the Seas‘ AquaTheater will enjoy the high-energy, adrenaline-fueled “Torque” show. Throughout the performance, daredevil stunts and cutting-edge technology combine for an unforgettable and heart-pumping experience.
Down on Deck 5 in Absolute Zero, the ice rink is transformed for “Sol” creating a fire-and-ice performance tracing the sun’s fiery path from coast to coast. In addition to extreme stunts, the show will feature immersive projections that truly create an unforgettable space.
For a bit of fun on the Royal Promenade, guests can join the hunt for the lost Royal Scroll, assisting King Atlantis and his courtiers through “Ocean Odyssey.”
Altogether, these entertainment options are as larger-than-life as the ship herself. Star of the Seas will feature the biggest orchestra at sea, the most synchronized swimmers of any AquaTheater show, and the largest ice skating cast in the Royal Caribbean fleet.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Of course, Star of the Seas will also be offering comedy shows in The Attic for gut-busting laughs, along with live music all across the ship.
Want some elegant music for ambiance with an evening stroll? Visit Central Park. Want to spice up the night with some sexy salsa steps? Try Boleros. Prefer pub vibes and fun folk songs? Visit the Thorn & Thistle.
And don’t forget to keep a lookout for the Stowaway Piano Player, who might show up just about anywhere – including inside an elevator! I never have figured out how they fit a piano through those doors.
From piano music in the esteemed Schooner Bar to rock tributes in the Music Hall, there will be tunes for all travelers to enjoy!
As the day winds down, entertainment will continue to heat up onboard with a variety of nightlife and flavorful cocktails from the Casino to the 1400 Lobby Bar to the Playmakers Sports Bar to the Rye & Bean.
Star of the Seas Entertainment
Sailing Aboard Star of the Seas
Star of the Seas will homeport from Port Canaveral on Florida’s Space Coast, offering 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Her weeklong sailings will visit top ports such as Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico; Roatan Island in Honduras; St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands; San Juan in Puerto Rico; and Philipsburg in St. Maarten.
Each sailing – east and west – will also visit Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Because the shipbuilding schedule has been adjusted not once but twice, Star of the Seas will also be offering three shorter “showcase” sailings before her official maiden voyage departs on August 31, 2025.
The August 20 departure is a 3-night cruise just to CocoCay, while the August 23 and August 27 departures are both 4-night cruises, also visiting just the private island.
The ship will remain sailing from Port Canaveral at least through April 2027, giving eager travelers – up to 5,610 per cruise at double occupancy – plenty of chances to enjoy her amazing entertainment and onboard amenities.
Is history repeating itself? Royal Caribbean fans won’t soon forget how the cruise line avoided its private destination on Labadee, Haiti, for seven months in 2024.
But after successfully resuming cruises to Labadee in October of last year and reassuring guests of the destination’s safety, the cruise line is once again removing the exclusive port from itineraries due to unrest in the Caribbean nation – at least temporarily.
So far, current guests onboard Voyager of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas have reported that the destination has been switched out – with one guest saying that Royal Caribbean would be avoiding Labadee for the next month.
“The captain has just come over the Tano and said that Royal Caribbean have [cancelled] all stops to Haiti for the next month due to the ongoing situation which is rapidly escalating. We are now going to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic,”one current guest onboard Voyager of the Seas shared.
The Voyager-class flagship is currently operating a 5-night Eastern Caribbean cruise that embarked from Port Canaveral, Florida, on April 14, 2025. The only other port call on the original itinerary is Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, which is unimpacted.
Letters to impacted guests onboard Oasis of the Seas also reflect that the sudden change was made due to potential safety concerns.
“As previously announced by our Captain, out of an abundance of caution, instead of visiting Labadee on Thursday, we’ll enjoy a beautiful day in Nassau, Bahamas, on Friday,”reads a letter from the cruise line, in part.
This update was sent to guests of the current 6-night Western Caribbean voyage that embarked from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 13, 2025. The sailing also includes calls on CocoCay and Falmouth, Jamaica, which have not been affected.
Are More Changes Coming?
With initial reports suggesting that Royal Caribbean will be avoiding Labadee for the next month, more itinerary changes are likely forthcoming.
Both Voyager of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas are scheduled to visit Labadee several more times in April and May, as are other ships like Adventure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Grandeur of the Seas.
Royal Caribbean’s announcement also comes after a dozen sailings from Celebrity Cruises, which is owned by Royal Caribbean Group, were modified to skip Labadee.
At the time, Celebrity Cruises did not provide a reason for the change, but many in the cruise community suspected that it had to do with unrest throughout other parts of Haiti.
Cruise Passengers in Labadee, Haiti (Photo Credit: Mary Baratto)
It’s true that the country is under a Level 4: Do Not Travel Advisory from the US government, which is the most severe warning – with the reasons behind the alert listed as kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare.
However, most of the unrest has been in other parts of Haiti, namely the capital city of Port-au-Prince. As Labadee is over 100 miles away (or a more than six hour drive) from the worst of the unrest, and is a controlled access area with private security, Royal Caribbean had chosen to resume visits to the 260-acre resort.
The only changes that guests had noticed upon the reopening were that shore excursions that required guests to leave the safety of the controlled cruise port had been temporarily suspended.
“The only thing different about this cruise is Royal has canceled the excursions that leave the area right about the pier/compound,”one guest who recently visited the private destination observed.
But with outlets like the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Crossreporting that the violence and humanitarian crisis throughout Haiti is worsening, it is likely best to steer clear of Labadee for the time being.
A new star is getting ready to shine bright in Finland as Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas has begun its liquified natural gas (LNG) fueling process – a final step before her sea trials.
On Thursday, April 10, 2025, the LNG bunkering vessel, Coralius, arrived from Norway and was positioned alongside the under-construction, 250,800-gross-ton Star of the Seas.
Once in place, shipyard workers began transferring fuel, a process that takes roughly 12 hours, with the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland sharing images of Coralius’ arrival.
“Liquefied natural gas, LNG, is a fuel that has been cooled into liquid form and produces fewer emissions than traditional marine fuels,” said the shipbuilder.
The second Icon class ship, constructed at Meyer Turku shipyard follows its sister Icon of the Seas, which debuted in January 2024, in utilizing the eco-friendly LNG fueling system.
“The Icon Class ships run on LNG, and thanks to other environmentally efficient solutions such as shore power connections and advanced waste recycling, they are the most environmentally efficient vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet,” Meyer Turku added.
Next up for Star of the Seas? Sea trials, which are a series of tests marking a ship’s final phases.
During sea trials, which could last up to a week, the new vessel will sail in open waters for the first time to test its operating systems, including its engine, propulsion, steering, navigation, fuel system, and power.
Star of the Seas, which will have the capacity to accommodate 5,610 guests, is moving quickly through her construction phases, which began with her steel cutting in February 2023, moved onto her keel laying in December 2023, and saw her float out in October 2024.
Originally scheduled to begin sailing on August 31, 2025, from Port Canaveral, Florida, perhaps Meyer Turku’s earlier work on Icon of the Seas has made it easier to work faster on Star of the Seas.
The vessel is now offering three preview sailings on August 20, 23, and 27, indicating Royal Caribbean is expecting successful sea trials and an early handoff from the shipbuilder.
That doesn’t mean Meyer Turku will get any rest. It’s also working on a third Icon class ship for the cruise line, scheduled to arrive in 2026.
Paws, Perks, and Ports
Nearly identical in size and design as Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas will debut with some enhancements, beginning with the cruise line’s second Chief Dog Officer, a golden retriever named Sailor.
This new tradition of having an onboard resident dog began with Rover on Icon of the Seas and has captivated cruise lovers, who have been following Sailor’s growth on social media since she was born on Valentine’s Day 2025.
Additionally, the vessel is expected to feature more dining venues than the already expansive selection of 40-plus restaurants, lounges, snack spots, and casual eateries on Icon of the Seas.
Star of the Seas LNG fueling (Photo Credit: Mediascope Productions)
Also different will be the expansion of programming for kids. Where Icon of the Seas’ Surfside caters to kids ages 0 to 6, Star of the Seas will extend its reach to kids up to age of 10.
Star of the Seas’ first cruises will be a 3- and 4-night showcase sailing to Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamas destination, Perfect Day in CocoCay.
Her first “official” journey will be a 7-night roundtrip Western Caribbean itinerary to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras.
The vessel will continue to operate alternating 7-night sailings from Port Canaveral to Eastern and Western locales, with Eastern Caribbean calls taking place in the US Virgin Islands, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico.
A Virgin Voyages guest charged with assaulting another passenger not only must contend with the legal ramifications of the alleged act but also with his new-found unemployment.
Kenneth DeGiorgio, formerly the chief executive officer of First American Financial Corporation, has departed the company, an April 15, 2025 statement from the California-based firm says.
While vacationing aboard Resilient Lady as she sailed off Martinique on March 31, 2025, DeGiorgio allegedly assaulted another guest, choking him after the guest made a rude gesture to the suspect’s wife, Nichol DeGiorgio.
The incident happened in the ship’s On the Rocks bar and was filmed by security cameras in the venue.
According to FBI statements, the victim of the assault, identified only as M.A., raised his middle finger and spewed vulgarities to Nichol DeGiorgio after she asked him to put his shoes back on — apparently M.A. was dancing barefoot.
Her husband then approached M.A. and attempted to choke him, the statement from FBI Special Agent William P. Waters says.
Security was called and Kenneth DeGiorgio was taken to his stateroom and confined there until the cruise concluded on April 1, 2025. He was arrested upon debarking the ship in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The 53-year-old suspect was charged with assault within the Maritime and Territorial Jurisdiction of the United States. The misdemeanor charge could carry up to one year in jail if DeGiorgio is convicted.
In announcing the news, the financial services firm made no reference to a reason for the departure but stated: “We want to thank Ken DeGiorgio for his many years of service to First American.”
The 2,700-guest Resilient Lady had sailed from San Juan on March 22, 2025, operating a 10-night “Puerto Rican Daze & Caribbean Nights” cruise. No other guests were involved in the incident.
The ship has since repositioned to the Eastern Mediterranean and is sailing seasonal cruises roundtrip from Athens.
When Tempers Flare, Cruise Guests Face Ramifications
Assault charges stemming from confrontations on cruise ships happen from time to time but are considered uncommon, considering that 31 million people took a cruise vacation in 2024, according to Cruise Lines International Association.
One recent incident unfolded on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seascape in October 2024, when a female guest and her son got into an argument with an elderly guest in the ship’s theater. According to reports, the woman and her son were seen, and apparently filmed, striking the guest.
Virgin Voyages and CEO (Photo Credits: Kevin Shipp & First American Financial)
However, she was ultimately charged with battery on a person 65 or older upon MSC Seascape’s return to PortMiami on October 12, 2024.
Sometimes, altercations aboard cruise ships involve multiple people, and if the incident is violent, the guests involved can be banned from sailing with the cruise line in the future. That was the case aboard Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Paradise in June 2024.
A brawl, captured on video and posted on social media, erupted in the ship’s buffet line late in the evening of June 6, 2024. The ship, which was based in Tampa, Florida, was sailing a 5-night Western Caribbean cruise.
The fight involved around a dozen guests, who fought each other, threw chairs, and broke dishes. Security officials onboard the 2,100-guest ship broke up the fight and all those involved were banned from any future travel with the cruise line.
Unexpected circumstances can quickly sink a cruise vacation, and it might seem like reaching out to the cruise line can be helpful. They care about their loyal guests, don’t they? They want everyone to have the best time?
That may be true, but cruise lines are also businesses. They cannot simply offer special exceptions to booked guests who might fall on hard times, a lesson Carnival Cruise Line’s official Brand Ambassador, John Heald, is trying to impress on his fans.
Heald responds to hundreds of comments, requests, and questions nearly every day, sharing extensive information with his more than 600,000 Facebook followers.
Though he is an official representative of Carnival Cruise Line, Heald does not himself make policy changes. He does, however, have the ear of “the beards” and is often able to pass along issues to the proper department or assist with simple requests.
Dining room seating assignments, spreading ashes at sea, or celebrating something special onboard are typical requests he receives.
Unfortunately, Heald also receives more heartbreaking requests that he simply cannot help with, but he is urging travelers to take their own steps to secure proper assistance.
“I know everybody has a budget, I understand that and I respect that, but hear me out,”he began.“One of the saddest, most gut-wrenching parts of my job is when people write to me that they’ve been ill, they’ve lost a loved one, or been involved in some sort of an emergency situation at home and they’ve had to cancel their cruise.”
Heald gets these sorts of notes nearly every day, which could involve an illness or surgery, a lost job, a sudden death, a car accident, a natural disaster, or any other devastating circumstance.
“They ask me, they beg me to help them reclaim their money, because, well, they didn’t take insurance,”he said.“Responding to you when you write that to me is so hard.”
Heald notes that guests are often angry and resort to personal attacks when they write to him about the possibility of refunds, often after being refused by customer service. He understands, however, that the guests are emotional and sad and understandably upset.
“Nevertheless, it really does tug at the heartstrings,”he said.“I hope I’m not out of place to say to everyone, please, if you can purchase travel insurance, please do so. You of course, like most people, it’s human to say it will never happen to me – until it does.”
The Travel Insurance Dilemma
Adding insurance to a cruise purchase can be up to several hundred dollars, depending on the cruise line, length of cruise, overall fare, itinerary, departure date, and other factors.
This can be a hefty additional cost to guests with tighter budgets. For travelers who have very low risk for health conditions, who have stable jobs, and who aren’t expecting any difficulties, insurance can seem like an unnecessary expense.
But as Heald noted, you don’t think any such things will happen to you – until they do.
Carnival Venezia in New York (Photo Credit: Just dance)
This happened to me, in fact. Excited about Carnival Venezia coming to Port Canaveral for the very first time, my husband and I eagerly booked her first departure (December 18, 2024) when the reservations opened in May 2023.
Fast forward to July 2024 – 14 months after we booked the cruise – and I was diagnosed with lung cancer at the age of 47.
As a non-smoker who grew up in a non-smoking household and has never worked around toxic fumes or chemicals, the diagnosis was, to say the least, a bitter shock.
Through my treatment plan, I would be at the worst point of chemotherapy just days before our departure on Carnival Venezia. Regrettably, we made the decision that we had to cancel the cruise – without travel insurance.
Fortunately, we were able to cancel just days before our final payment due date. Because of that timing, we only lost our deposit, but we did lose every penny of it, despite rebooking Carnival Venezia for a 2025 sailing.
Was that financial hit yet another blow at an already difficult time? Absolutely. Should Carnival Cruise Line have granted us an exception and fully refunded our deposit even though we chose not to have travel insurance? Absolutely not.
Every cruiser has to decide whether or not to purchase travel insurance based on their own personal circumstances, including their individual financial situation if they need to cancel their vacation.
Any cruise line – Carnival or otherwise – should not be expected to make exceptions for unexpected hardships. Cancellation and refund policies and penalties are clearly posted (Section 7 of Carnival’s Cruise Ticket Contract) and all guests agree to them when they book their vacation.
Is it frustrating when vacation plans change? Of course. But, dealing with that frustration is the guest’s responsibility, not the cruise line’s. Purchasing travel insurance can make a challenging situation just a little less frustrating in the future.
So exactly how does the ill-fated Titanic, with its unparalleled levels of indulgence, measure up against today’s average cruise ship? Let’s take a look at the quick numbers.
As the most luxurious ship of its time, the Titanic was…
48,328 gross tons
882 feet, 9 inches long
92 feet in width
With 9 passenger decks
And a passenger capacity of 2,435, with a crew of 892
Icon of the Seas vs Titanic
Now, let’s compare that to the current largest class of cruise ships in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, which includes Star of the Seas and Legend of the Seas. Icon of the Seas measures in at…
248,663 gross tons
1,196 feet long
159 feet in width
With 20 total decks
And a passenger capacity of 5,160 guests at double occupancy, with a crew of 2,350 people
Today, the Titanic would be considered a mid-size ship by passenger capacity, hardly holding a candle to the many massive vessels sailing the high seas in the modern era.
Still, it took ocean travel to new heights when it was built, exceeding all other ships that had come before it and making significant strides in the travel industry.
Titanic Compared to Cruise Ships
Similar size comparisons can be made with other larger ships from all the major cruise lines, including NCL’s brand-new Norwegian Aqua, Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Jubilee and MSC Cruises’ MSC World America.
Cruise Ship
Gross Tonnage
Length
Passenger Capacity
Titanic
48,328
882 feet, 9 inches
2,435
Norwegian Aqua
156,300
1,056 feet
3,571
Icon of the Seas
248,663
1,196 feet
5,160
Carnival Jubilee
183,521
1,130 feet
5,362
MSC World America
216,638
1,092 feet
6,762
Compared to today’s state-of-the-art cruise ships, the Titanic just can’t stand up. It even cost a tiny amount to build compared to today’s cruise ships.
In today’s money, the Titanic would cost approximately $400 million to build. Meanwhile, Icon of the Seas cost Royal Caribbean a whopping $2 billion.
Differences Between Cabins on the Titanic vs. a Current Cruise Ship
There are many differences between cabins and their facilities on the Titanic vs. modern cruise ships.
While the Titanic split its diverse range of travelers into first, second and third classes, today’s bigger ships would never do something so possibly offensive. Instead, they offer upgrades upon upgrades, and those who pay for those pricey upgrades get the best treatment.
Think of the VIP cabins and private pools and restaurants that are available to Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven passengers, for example; it’s just like their very own first class, just by a different name. (So maybe things aren’t so different after all!)
Additionally, while Titanic passengers may’ve been stuck choosing between three classes, modern cruise ships offer a bevy of stateroom and suite options.
For example, I was recently on Norwegian Aquaand this ship features nine stateroom and suite options within The Haven VIP area alone. Then, there are more than six other types of suites, penthouses and staterooms to choose from throughout the rest of the ship.
Some rooms on Norwegian Aqua can accommodate as many as eight passengers, but those eight passengers are spread across a generous 2,100 square feet, in the largest suite on the ship. (A far cry from the 10 passengers stuffed into the Titanic’s small third-class cabins!)
Another big difference between the Titanic and modern cruise ships? While every single cabin on today’s cruise ships comes with its own private bathroom (even if it is a slightly cramped one), that wasn’t the case on the Titanic.
Club Balcony Suite (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
Instead, many first-class passengers, despite their luxury, were forced to share communal restrooms.
Additionally, due to a lack of fresh water, baths were taken in sea water and, for similar reasons, there was no laundry service, even for the sheets (though first-class passengers had their linens changed daily).
One thing, though, that the Titanic offered that today’s cruise ships do not? Cabins that included separate servants’ quarters. So posh!
Similarities Between Cabins on the Titanic vs. Modern Cruise Ships
Still, there are some similarities between cabins on the Titanic and cabins on today’s passenger ships.
Much like many of today’s best cruise ships aim to model their cabins after high-end hotels, with modern and luxurious furnishings, right down to the interior cabins (just take a look at some of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships), so did the Titanic.
In fact, the Titanic’s designers looked to the Ritz Hotel in London as inspiration for their decor.
As such, the Titanic’s opulent interiors were decked out with elegant European-style decor, with sweeping staircases (yes, including the one from the movie), ornate woodwork and luxurious furnishings.
Also, just like today’s cruise ships, the Titanic offered connecting cabins for groups and families.
First-Class Staterooms on the Titanic
Your onboard experience on the Titanic would differ heavily depending on your class.
In total, the Titanic featured around 350 first class cabins, of which a small portion could be used as second-class staterooms if needed.
These most luxurious and most spacious staterooms were decorated in nearly a dozen different styles, from Georgian to Jacobean to Italian Renaissance, with a fine attention to unparalleled luxury and detail in recreating every historic aspect of the various decor styles.
First Class Titanic Stateroom (Photo Credit: Robert Welch)
Depending on where a passenger’s stateroom was located on the ship, that luxury extended out into the halls, via cut-glass ceiling fixtures, gilt details, lavish amenities and more. Everything was thought of to provide guests with the utmost in relaxation and high taste.
That said, for all their comfort, you’re not going to find common modern features in these first-class cabins from the early 1900s. Forget the hot tub or private balconies.
Second-Class Staterooms on the Titanic
The ship’s second-class accommodations boasted room for over 500 second-class passengers — perhaps that’s because the Titanic crammed its second-class passengers into every nook and cranny it could?
RMS Titanic (Photo Credit: D. Ribeiro / Shutterstock)
Second-class passengers slept in bunk beds, in cabins that came with either two or four bunk beds apiece.
Despite the cramped quarters, those second class rooms still had their linens changed daily, and there was a sink in each cabin, even if the restrooms were communal.
Third-Class Staterooms on the Titanic
But no one had it as bad as those in third class (though, compared to other trans-Atlantic liners at the time, the situation could have been worse). The Titanic’s third-class passengers numbered about a thousand individuals.
Cabins were outfitted for 10 passengers each and were located near the engines. And for all of those passengers, there were only two bathrooms.
Third-class passengers were fed a basic diet, nothing fancy, but the food was free and there were leisure spaces for the guests to socialize.
What was Entertainment Like on the Titanic?
Today’s modern cruise ships are basically floating resorts, playgrounds filled with tons to do and see.
For example, Icon of the Seasis particularly notable for its diverse array of entertainment options and amenities, with its seven pools, six waterslides, more than 40 restaurants and bars, AquaTheater, casino, surfing simulators, laser tag, miniature golf, rock climbing walls, theater with Broadway-style shows, comedy clubs, fitness centers and more.
The Pool and Sports Zone
While you wouldn’t find any casinos, surfing simulators or rock-climbing walls on the Titanic, you would find lots of entertainment venues suitable to the day.
There were wellness facilities that featured the workout gear that you would expect at the time, as well as a few pieces that would be recognizable to cruisers in gyms today (like stationary bikes, though you likely wouldn’t recognize the electric horses and camels).
Titanic’s Turkish Baths
Instead of traditional spa services and spa treatments, there was a Turkish bath, steam rooms, saunas and massages room for guests’ well-being needs. There was only one pool, compared to the many, many water attractions you’ll find on today’s cruise ships.
Other entertainment-geared spaces included a squash court, smoking room, lounge, reading and writing room and promenade.
You would not, however, unlike on today’s cruise ships, find huge theaters or live music performances by cover bands. Despite this, there was enough to keep high-class passengers’ boredom at bay.
What Was Dining Like on the Titanic?
For the longest time, cruise industry food didn’t receive a great reputation, but thanks to a few modern cruise lines’ efforts and some world-class chefs, that’s all changed.
Certain cruise lines have gained a great reputation for their culinary offerings and delicious meals. Royal Caribbean’s first Oasis class ship, Oasis of the Seas, gives guests more than 20 spots to dine and drink, ranging from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants to specialty cuisine venues.
Dining on Oasis of the Seas (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
Now, cruise lines offer not just extravagant dining experiences, but also cooking classes and themed parties in their restaurants, and they can cater to your dietary restrictions with ease.
The variety of dining options were more limited aboard the Titanic, though. The ship boasted four restaurants: A la Carte Restaurant, the Dining Saloon, the Verandah Cafe and the Cafe Parisien.
A la Carte Restaurant was open to first-class passengers only and was one of the earliest examples of for-a-fee dining on a cruise ship. An alternative to the main dining room, it was smaller and served the most fashionable of French decor.
First Class Dining Room (Photo Credit: Francis Browne)
Passengers could show up and dine whenever they liked, no set dining reservations required (again, much like for-a-fee dining on today’s cruise ships).
A passenger would later describe the food as “superb” and including “caviar, lobster, quail from Egypt, plovers’ eggs, and hothouse grapes and fresh peaches.”
The grand dining saloons, on the other hand, were basically the ship’s equivalent of today’s main dining room. Passengers were assigned seating for the length of the voyage and had to show up at specific times in order to eat.
Titanic’s Café Parisien (Photo Credit: Robert Welch)
Both the Verandah Cafe and the Cafe Parisian were located off the promenade, and offered a more intimate, casual dining experience than could be found with the other two selections. Sadly, 24-hour room service was not an option.
What Were Safety Precautions Like on the Titanic?
Given the tragic sinking of the Titanic, this question doesn’t really need to be asked, as this ship wasn’t exactly known for its stringent safety regulations or rigorous safety drills.
However, for comparison’s sake, let’s look at how the Titanic stacks up against modern cruise ships in terms of safety features.
Titanic Lifeboat
The Titanic was only equipped with 20 life rafts, or enough for 1,178 people. The ship was also outfitted with approximately 3,500 life jackets and 48 life rings.
However, those were of little use for a great number of passengers, given the temperature of the water and the quick onset of hypothermia.
In comparison, the gigantic cruise ship Icon of the Seas is outfitted with 17 lifeboats that can fit 450 passengers each, for a total of 7,650 passengers in lifeboats.
Royal Caribbean’s icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)
Additionally, the ship features a Marine Evacuation System, which basically deploys more inflatable rafts during an emergency.
These inflatable rafts would be used by crew members in the event of an emergency, with lifeboats reserved for passengers, as the rafts can be difficult to navigate.
How Will the Titanic II Stand Up to the Competition?
In 2012, Blue Star Line, based out of Australia, launched a Titanic II project, hoping to replicate the fateful ship.
Still, though, even with all the modern advancements of cruising, the Titanic II won’t quite be able to stand up to today’s biggest and best cruise ships — that is, if it’s even completed at all.
The ship was initially planned to be finished in 2016, but things were delayed, then Covid-19 happened, causing further delays.
Titanic II
As of 2024, though, the project was underway again, with newly unveiled information revealing that the ship would provide as much of an authentic experience as possible — right down to the first, second and third classes.
Passengers will be encouraged to dress for the time period, and the dining will be period appropriate as well (so you might want to think twice about booking that third-class experience).
The planned ship is expected to be 833 feet long, with nine decks and 835 cabins capable of holding just over 2,300 passengers. The current hope is for it to set sail in 2027.
A Modern Cruise Ship with Titanic-Esque Vibes
But what if you want to take a cruise on a modern, contemporary cruise ship, but you don’t really like the sound of an exact Titanic replica?
Consider a voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2. An ocean liner, just like the Titanic, designed for transatlantic journeys, the ship similarly set a new standard when it debuted as the longest, tallest, widest, priciest, biggest passenger liner thus built.
Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 in Southampton (Photo Credit: Skyshark Media)
The ship is definitely not the title holder of these records anymore, but is still the largest ocean liner ever built — a key distinction, as ocean liners are built with rougher ocean crossings in mind, compared to standard cruise ships.
Transatlantic voyages on ocean liners also offer fewer shore excursions in exotic destinations (or even no shore excursions!) than cruise ships traveling around the Caribbean or Mediterranean, with passengers spending their time enjoying onboard activities.
Of course, the Queen Mary 2 is still quite a bit larger than the Titanic, at 149,215 GT, but the ship is somewhat similar in length and passenger capacity, at 1,132 feet long and holding 2,695 people.
The ship also offers an elegant, somewhat old-fashioned vibe, with fewer flashy amenities and less overall features as compared to a resort-style cruise ship like the ones discussed above.
The Queen Mary 2 even follows a similar route to the Titanic, traveling between Southampton and New York City, making for a memorable vacation experience.
