Excitement and anticipation are building at PortMiami as the star-studded christening ceremony for MSC Cruises’ MSC World America is set for the evening of April 9, 2025.
The 216,638-gross ton ship that can accommodate a stunning 6,700 guests and 2,000-plus crew will be named by her godmother, American actor Drew Barrymore, before scores of VIP guests, cruise line and port officials, and plenty of onlookers.
Cruise Hive will be on the scene, too, and readers can follow the glittering event as it happens by clicking here.
The ceremony will be held at the MSC Miami Cruise Terminal, the largest in the world at 492,678 square feet and itself only a few days old.
The naming ceremony will feature live entertainment and several onboard activities designed to showcase the ship’s public spaces and amenities. Invitees will be treated to a gala dinner, capped off with a drone and fireworks display.
“It’s such an honour to be MSC World America’s Godmother, and I can’t wait to cut that ribbon tonight and wish the ship smooth seas and good fortune for years to come,” said Drew Barrymore.
“Millions of people will create their own memories aboard this beautiful ship as time goes by, and I know they’ll have a blast experiencing everything MSC World America has to offer,” added Barrymore.
Celebrating with Barrymore will be British actor Orlando Bloom, both of whom played leading roles in MSC Cruises’ “Let’s Holiday campaign” that introduced the massive ship to American audiences during a Super Bowl commercial earlier this year.
Ship Is First in MSC Cruises’ Fleet With Multiple Districts
MSC World America was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France and delivered to the line on March 27, 2025. Designed specifically for the American market she is the second ship in MSC Cruises’ new World-class, following MSC World Europa, which launched in 2021.
The 22-deck MSC World America is the first in the MSC Cruises’ fleet to have districts, in this case seven — Family Aventura; Aqua Deck; Zen Area; World Galleria; The Terraces; The Promenade; and the MSC Yacht Club.
The 2,614-stateroom ship offers 40,000-plus square feet of public spaces, including 19 dining rooms and specialty restaurants, and 18 bars and lounges.
New MSC Cruise Terminal in Miami
Specialty restaurants include Eataly, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Kaito Sushi Bar, and Paxos. For casual fare, guests can choose from Promenade Bites, The Harbour Bar & Bites, La Boca Grill, and Luna Park Pizza & Burger.
The All-Stars Sports Bar is among the new lounges, and The Loft comedy club is a first for the MSC Cruises’ fleet.
Among the ship’s thrilling adventures is the Cliffhanger, an over-water swing ride in the outdoor family area called The Harbour.
MSC World America also has the cruise line’s largest MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive, luxury area offering guests a range of suite accommodations with butler service and private pool facilities and dining options.
The new flagship will sail 7- and 14-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages from PortMiami, starting on April 12, 2025 with a 14-night itinerary that calls at ports in both regions.
The ship’s maiden voyage from Miami will visit the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Honduras, and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private destination in the Bahamas.
A new party is coming for Carnival Cruise Line as the official construction kicks off for Carnival Festivale, the line’s fourth Excel class ship.
The steel cutting was held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, where the 182,800-gross ton ship is now under construction.
“The steel being cut for our next new ship is music to my ears, which is in tune with many of the themed experiences Carnival Festivale will bring to our guests,”said Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line’s president.
“Each of her three sister ships is a great success and we are excited to once again partner with Meyer Werft as we continue to build upon the revolutionary Excel platform.”
Cruise line and shipyard executives were on hand for the momentous occasion, celebrating the beginning of the process that will gradually bring the new LNG-powered ship to life.
The steel cutting happened just 48 hours after Carnival Cruise Line announced the ship’s name – Carnival Festivale – in honor of the legacy of the third-ever ship to sail for the line, the original Festivale.
While few details have been confirmed for the new ship, the overall theme is going to be celebrating how music connects people together. Two distinct music-themed zones will be located on Decks 6, 7, and 8, including cutting-edge interactive experiences as well as outdoor music performances and their vibrant energy.
Carnival Festivale Steel Cutting
What Else Will Carnival Festivale Have Onboard?
The new ship will feature many of the favorites of the already popular Excel class ships – Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.
Guy’s Burger Joint, the Pig & Anchor Smokehouse Brewhouse, and Shaq’s Big Chicken will all be onboard, as well as exciting venues like the sports court, miniature golf, and a ropes course.
Carnival Festivale will also feature a treehouse-inspired elevated “adventure trail” – which could be part of the ropes course or a separate feature entirely.
What the ship will not feature is the Bolt rollercoaster, a thrilling upper deck ride on the first three Excel ships. While Bolt remains popular with guests, Carnival Festivale will instead introduce an entirely new space – Sunsation Point.
It is not unusual for sister ships to be slightly different than their siblings. While the general layout will remain the same, new spaces and unique features make each ship distinctive and offer new experiences for eager guests.
“From the music-themed zones to expansive new water park we’ve planned for this ship, she will continue the tradition of infusing innovative new features into our fleet,”said Duffy.
Carnival Festivale
The three-story Sunsation Point will offer six water slides – two of which are family raft slides – in the new Waterworks Ultra, which the cruise line is calling “the most family-friendly water park at sea.”
Two splash pads and dedicated “baby splash” areas are also part of the space, along with plenty of lounge space to enjoy the outstanding sunshine and ocean views.
Especially exciting is the news that Sunsation Point will offer evening events, including extended water park hours – the first time Waterworks is open at night on any Carnival ship. Waterslides after dark? Yes please!
While her construction is now underway, Carnival Festivale will not arrive at her homeport – Port Canaveral, Florida – until 2027.
The new ship will likely offer 7-night sailings, though her exact itineraries have not yet been announced. We do know, however, that her sister ship – Mardi Gras – will transition to shorter 3- and 4-night sailings at that time, with Port Canaveral continuing to be home to both vessels.
The original Festivale sailed for Carnival Cruise Line from 1975 through 1996 – may her new, larger namesake have an even longer service life, bringing a festival of FUN to thousands of guests every week!
Ensenada Cruise Port is one of Mexico’s most popular maritime gateways, located in the vibrant coastal city of Ensenada in Baja California.
This bustling port welcomes cargo vessels and a steady stream of cruise ships year-round. Despite the industrialized nature of the port itself, visiting offers cruise passengers an exciting blend of cultural, culinary, and natural attractions, all within a charming seaside setting.
Ensenada’s port is strategically situated on the Pacific coast of Baja California, so it’s an exciting and nearby destination for cruise ships traveling along the coast of Mexico from San Diego Cruise Port.
Geographically, the port lies in the heart of Ensenada, a city that boasts a rich maritime history, stunning views of the ocean, and a mild climate by Mexican standards, which makes it an attractive destination for adventure-seeking travelers, as well as those looking to enjoy some rest and relaxation.
Sitting at the northern point of the Baja California peninsula, it is sheltered by the Bahia Todos Santos, or Bay of All Saints. This means the waters surrounding this deep-water port are relatively calm, perfect for visiting cruise ships.
This location isn’t just practical for visiting cruise ships; it is also close to two major highways, making it accessible to those driving from San Diego.
While it’s nearly 70 miles south of Tijuana International Airport (TJI), several cruise lines offer shuttle services to the port, making it possible to fly to your cruise.
Aerial View of Ensenada Cruise Port (Photo Credit: schlyx)
Even though cruise ships visit the Ensenada Cruise Port dock within an industrial harbor, the facilities are actually fairly impressive. Cruise ships dock at one of two berths on the ‘C’ shaped pier in the center of the harbor. The first, simply called Port Ensenada Pier, is the smaller of the two cruise ship berths.
The second, Ensenada Cruise Ship Dock 2, can accommodate the largest cruise ships, so it tends to be busier.
While two cruise ship berths may seem limited, it is the only deep water cruise ship port in Baja California, which means it is an extremely busy port. In fact, in 2023, it was the second most visited port of call in all of Mexico.
Amenities and Facilities
Ensenada Cruise Dock 2 and Dock 1 in the Back (Photo Credit: Kirk Fisher)
I’ll start by saying that the terminal itself is fairly underwhelming. The industrial surroundings and backdrop of cargo ships don’t really scream tropical destination.
With that said, you can still find spacious and indoor waiting areas with ample seating and clear directional signage that makes it easy to know where you’re supposed to go.
There are also numerous restroom facilities, as well as a tourist information booth. When you disembark, you’ll notice a few vendors and booths offering private tours and other shore excursions.
The terminal building is directly in front of Cruise Ship Dock 2, and its dark red color scheme makes it difficult to miss. Inside, you’ll find a few souvenir shops and multiple ATMs that dispense both Mexican Pesos and USD.
The pier and the terminal building are fully accessible, with ramps making it easy for travelers with mobility challenges to navigate.
While the cruise port section of the harbor dates back to 1983, the terminal building has since undergone significant upgrades. You’ll find digital displays with real-time updates on ship arrivals and departures.
Unfortunately, the port does not offer free Wi-Fi, but there are a few cafés a short distance from it that do, including a Starbucks and Xcaanda Coffee Bar. These coffee shops can be found by following the palm tree-lined path that leads passengers from the port to the edge of downtown.
Cruise Lines that Visit Ensenada
Carnival Ship Visiting Ensenada (Photo Credit: Victor Alli)
Again, Ensenada is a popular stop for itineraries headed south along the Mexican Riviera, so it’s no surprise that some of the most major cruise lines in the industry make regular stops there.
Here are just a few of the cruise lines that feature a stop at Ensenada Cruise Port in their itineraries:
Carnival
Royal Caribbean
Princess Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Holland America Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
MSC Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
Seabourn Cruise Line
Silversea Cruises
How to Get to Ensenada Cruise Port
Few ships use the port as a homeport, so it’s not a place many itineraries list as the original embarkation point, but some passengers will still choose to join a larger itinerary by meeting a ship in Ensenada.
For those hoping to travel from California, Los Angeles, or even San Francisco, here is a quick overview of the most hassle-free ways to get to Ensenada Cruise Port.
Getting to Ensenada by Plane
Tijuana International Airport (Photo Credit: Arlette Lopez)
Tijuana International Airport sits adjacent to the Mexico-United States border, making it a main entry point for American tourists into Baja California.
While it takes about 1.5 hours to drive to Ensenada Cruise Port from the airport, the abundance of regular flights in and out of Tijuana make arriving by plane an easy and affordable option.
Once you arrive, you can take a bus or shuttle service from the airport. Most have drop off points at the port and numerous other stops throughout downtown Ensenada. These services are reliable and vary in price, with the most affordable being about $15 per person.
Getting to Ensenada by Car
Cars Parked at the Port (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
Given the relative proximity of the port to the border, plenty of people will choose to drive down from San Diego, California. Whether you are driving your own vehicle, or plan on renting a car, the 71-mile journey will take about two hours to drive.
Once you arrive, ample overnight parking is available at the port itself and through the many hotels and resorts just a short distance from the pier.
Almost the entire drive is along the Mexico-1D Highway, a scenic journey that hugs the coastline. Not only will having your vehicle with you make it easy to explore Ensenada at your own pace, the drive down through Baja California can be another memorable part of your vacation.
Getting to Ensenada Cruise Port from Downtown Ensenada
Ensenada Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Luke De Guzman)
If you’re already in Ensenada, you’ll find getting around is relatively easy. Unlike some of the larger Mexican cities I’ve visited, I found Ensenada to have a compact layout that makes the area surrounding the port very walkable.
However, for longer journeys or if you prefer not to walk at all, XMB is the name of the city’s public transportation network, and it operates numerous micro-buses. With routes all over the city and fares less than $1.50, it’s the cheapest way to get around.
With that said, taxis are everywhere and easy to flag. Just make sure you never get in an unmarked cab, as all taxis in the city need to be registered. There are three main taxi companies you should look for: Metro Ensenada, Radio Taxi, and Taxi Pioneros.
All three accept Mexican Pesos or American Dollars. You can get to the port from pretty much anywhere in the city for under $15, so taxis aren’t just convenient, they’re very affordable.
Uber recently started operating in Ensenada, so you can request a ride if you would prefer to go that route.
What You Can Do Near the Port
Photo Opportunity at the Port (Photo Credit: Sherry V Smith)
You don’t have to go far from the port to enjoy yourself. If you’re up for a short stroll, the Centro Social Cultural Center is just 0.8 miles from the port. Initially built in 1930 as a luxury hotel and casino, numerous Mexican and American celebrities visited it in its heyday.
Today, it acts as a cultural museum as well as a fully functional arts school. I highly recommend taking a guided tour of the historic building and its gardens.
No trip to Ensenada is complete without visiting the original Hussong’s Cantina, the oldest bar and most well-known cantina in Baja California. Initially opened in 1892, it claims to be the place where the margarita was invented back in 1941.
As if that weren’t reason alone to make your way there, it’s only a 1.2-mile walk from the pier. Whether you’re hungry, just want a cold beer, or want to take in the atmosphere, it’s almost like a museum and a bar in one.
Right at the pier, you’ll also find plenty of excursion operators offering walking tours, wine tastings, fishing trips, and more. However, you don’t have to spend big to enjoy the area. Even just taking a stroll around the port offers scenic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Right at the end of the pier you’ll also find Avenida López Mateos, one of the main shopping strips in downtown Ensenada. Here you’ll easily be able to shop for souvenirs, like unique handicrafts, handmade silver jewelry, artisanal liquors, hot sauces, coffee, and so much more.
Beaches Near Ensenada Cruise Port
If exploring the city isn’t your thing, you’ll be happy to learn that Ensenada is also home to some picturesque beaches, making it the perfect place to enjoy some fun in the sun. Here are just a few of the beaches that are accessible from the cruise port:
Malecon de Playa Hermosa
Malecon de Playa Hermosa (Photo Credit: David J. Mitchell)
Located approximately 2.5 miles south of the port, Playa Hermosa isn’t just accessible, it’s also one of the most popular beaches in the area. Known for its gentle waves and long sandy shores, it’s the ideal spot for families traveling with kids.
If you don’t feel like walking to the beach, a short taxi ride from the port is always an option. It’s also fun to rent a bicycle near the port, then take the bike path to the beach.
The beach itself stretches nearly three miles and has public restrooms and outdoor showers. With lifeguards on duty, volleyball nets, umbrella and beach lounger rentals, and a wide variety of beachside vendors and restaurants, there’s plenty to do. The calm waters also make it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling.
Playa Guarnición Militar
A bit further afield, Playa Guarnición Militar is about 5.5 miles south of the port. It’s clean, quiet, and has a small boardwalk lined with local musicians and street food vendors serving tacos and seafood.
While it’s not as immediately close as Playa Hermosa, it’s a good option if you want more of an authentic experience and a lively coastal atmosphere, as it isn’t quite as touristy.
Keep in mind that the currents and countercurrents are pretty strong if you swim out too far from the shoreline, so it can be pretty dangerous if you’re not a strong swimmer.
While the currents are fairly strong, the waves make it a good spot for surfing. In fact, some of the surfing and jet ski excursions you can book near the port will take you to Playa Guarnición Militar.
Estero Beach
Estero Island Beach Club
If you really want to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, Estero Beach is one of the quietest and calmest beaches in the area. Like Playa Guarnicion Militar, it’s not as popular with tourists, so it has a more secluded feel.
The beach itself features soft sands and the waves are usually calm. There’s also a nearby estuary where you can take a nature walk and spot tropical birds.
It is about 8.3 miles from the pier, so it’s a bit of a journey, but it’s worth it if you want to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Plus, Estero Island Beach Club is nearby, allowing non-overnight guests to book day passes to access their pools, restaurants, and swim-up bar.
Dining in Ensenada
One of the main things that keeps me coming back to Mexico is the incredible food. As you’ll quickly learn if you visit, Ensenada’s culinary scene is just as vibrant and diverse as its cultural heritage.
I already mentioned Hussong’s Cantina, which is a must-visit for cold drinks and small plates, but there are many other options for those hoping to treat their taste buds.
Whether you’re looking to try some of the local flavors or you just want a simple meal near the port, here are a few of the top spots I would recommend:
La Ensenada Restaurante
La Ensenada Restaurante
Located just half a mile from the pier, La Ensenada Restaurante offers upscale dining in a welcoming environment. With a strong focus on local ingredients and traditional recipes, it’s an excellent option if you hope to get a taste of the local cuisine. For wine lovers, they import wine from throughout Baja California and beyond.
While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, the grilled seafood dishes are the real highlight. If you want something a little different, try the octopus tacos.
Mercado Negro Seafood Market
Mercado Negro Seafood Market (Photo Credit: Mary at T-Comms)
If you’re looking for something a little bit different, Mercado Negro is located just half a mile from the port. Vendors at this iconic food market sell fresh fish and other raw ingredients, but you’ll also find a huge variety of prepared seafood dishes, grilled meats, fresh fruit, and more.
The market is a must-see for food lovers seeking out those authentic Mexican flavors. Even if you’re not overly hungry, it is incredibly colorful and has a lively atmosphere, enhanced if you’re lucky enough to visit while live musicians are performing.
La Bufadora Tequila Grill and Restaurant
La Bufadora (Photo Credit: Domingo Saez)
Nearly 20 miles from the port near Pai Pai Ecotourism Park, you can find La Bufadora Restaurant.
While this may seem like a far way to go just for a meal, the restaurant gets its name from its proximity to the famous La Bufadora Blowhole, one of the area’s most iconic tourist sites. This means you can combine visiting the site with a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant specializes in regional seafood, but offers a full menu of traditional dishes. Not to be confused with the American chain La Bufadora Baja Grill, this family-owned restaurant is always worth visiting.
La Guerrerense Carreta
La Guerrerense Carreta (Photo Credit: schlyx)
If you really want to treat yourself to some truly delicious food, La Guerrerense Carreta has some of the freshest and tastiest seafood you’ll find anywhere in Mexico. Those aren’t just my words, this claim was originally made by Anthony Bourdain, who visited while filming one of his travel shows.
This incredible spot has blossomed from humble food truck to one of the most frequented spots in the entire city. Best of all, it’s located less than a mile from the port.
Shopping in Ensenada
Local Store in Ensenada (Photo Credit: Sherry V Smith)
The city of Ensenada offers an incredible range of delightful shopping experiences, and you don’t have to travel far to find them. In fact, the area around the port is dotted with markets, boutiques, and artisan shops that cater to every taste.
If you walk from the port into downtown Ensenada, you’ll see countless stores carrying all sorts of souvenirs. If shopping is your thing, make sure you walk along Avenida López Mateos, the city’s main shopping strip.
I already mentioned Mercado Negro, which is a good option if you’re looking to purchase items the area is known for, like its locally-made wine. If you want to bring back some wine, the market is excellent, as most vendors will offer you a sample glass of wine before you buy.
The city is also known for its silver jewelry, which can be found pretty much everywhere in the city. If you are looking for silver items and other souvenirs, Plaza Comerical Artesanal is just steps away from the pier.
Here you’ll find vendor stalls, cafés, wine bars, and plenty of restaurants and food stands. Remember that most vendors only accept cash, so you’ll need to pull out American or Mexican currency.
Is Ensenada, Mexico, Safe?
Disney Ship Docked in Ensenada (Photo Credit: Arlette Lopez)
Safety should always be a top priority, no matter where you travel. This is particularly important when you visit Mexico, which does have some dangerous regions that are best avoided by tourists.
Fortunately, Ensenada is one of the safer areas of Mexico, especially near the port. You’ll notice a prominent police presence there that helps keep tourists safe. The U.S. State Departmentdoes not have any travel warnings for the city or the surrounding area.
Still, it’s always a good idea to check on this before you visit, as travel advisories constantly change.
With that said, the Canadian Government does recommend that its citizens practice a high degree of caution in Ensenada, with petty crimes, like pickpocketing and fake tour scams being the primary concerns.
To ensure you remain safe during your visit, it’s a good idea to avoid wandering off alone. If you’re concerned, I’d recommend keeping your valuables secure or leaving them on the ship. As mentioned, using reputable transportation options is also a good idea, rather than risking getting in unmarked taxis.
Best Time to Visit Ensenada
Mexican Flag Over Ensenada Port (Photo Credit: Felipe Sanchez)
The climate in Ensenada is pleasant year-round, but most people agree that the best time to visit is during early fall months. From September through November, the weather is warm, sunny, and dry, without being overly hot or humid, making it a much nicer time to explore the city.
The spring and winter months are also pleasant, but visiting during the summer can be very hot. Another good thing about visiting during the fall is that crowds are not as intense as during the winter, especially near the holidays.
If you really want to enjoy the local culture, the biggest festival of the year is Carnaval Ensenada, which runs from the last week of February to early March. This festival has been going on for over 100 years and is celebrated with parades, colorful costumes, beach parties, and much more.
If you have rented a car or have chosen to drive your own vehicle down to Ensenada, it is worth keeping in mind that the traffic can be pretty heavy during rush hour, which tends to run between 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. in the mornings, and 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. in the evenings.
Parking is pretty easy to find, but it can be a bit tricky near the main tourist sites. This is why so many people will opt for taxis rather than driving their own vehicles.
Carnival Cruise Line’s wildly popular Brand Ambassador, John Heald, will be making waves in November, while he waves from the deck of a Carnival ship!
Heald will be sailing aboard Carnival Magic from Miami, Florida for one special departure. Typically, he announces his cruises more than a year in advance, not just seven months.
The ship’s November 15, 2025 sailing is a 6-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary with visits to Amber Cove, Princess Cays, and Nassau.
“We are adding some itineraries this fall on Carnival Magic from Miami, and I’ll be sailing and hosting some special activities on the November 15 departure,”he confirmed.
In fact, followers on Heald’s official Facebook page – and he has more than 600,000 fans – can register for exclusive deals for this cruise.
Depending on the type of stateroom booked, guests will receive up to $100 onboard credit, lowered initial deposits, and a free room upgrade as part of the booking promotion. Additional registration may be necessary to reserve space for events with Heald.
Carnival Magic can welcome 3,690 guests at double occupancy, or up to 4,724 travelers when fully booked.
Space is limited for the special registration to sail with Heald, however, and will fill up on a first-come, first-served basis.
Interestingly, Carnival Magic has been scheduled for dry dock from early October through mid-November, but it appears this plan has changed.
The ship’s last dry dock was in May 2021. At that time, Carnival Magic was the first ship to receive her red, white, and blue hull livery after the new look was introduced for the then-brand-new Mardi Gras.
It is not unusual for dry dock schedules to change. If shipyards have changes in their workforce or supply lines that could impact project scheduling, or else if other ship schedules have adjusted, the entire dry dock calendar can shift.
It is possible the dry dock for Carnival Magic may be shifting earlier or later than anticipated. Impacted guests will be contacted with details if any cancellations or rescheduling may be necessary.
It is also possible that the essential maintenance work may not be as extensive as previously anticipated. If this is the case, the dry dock can be easily shortened to accommodate this new sailing.
Is This Another FFS Cruise?
This new cruise announcement comes weeks after Heald had already announced his next “FFS Cruise” – a voyage to Alaska aboard Carnival Spirit‘s May 5, 2026 departure.
Typically, Heald only sails one of these unique cruises each year. These voyages include exclusive activities, meet-and-greets, games, trivia, autograph sessions, and swag for registered guests. Space is limited to ensure everyone has the opportunity to meet Heald and participate in all the fun.
The 2025 FFS cruise was also aboard Carnival Magic, the same ship as this new November sailing. This appears to be simply a coincidence, however, but that size ship – the 128,000-gross ton Dream class – is convenient for Heald’s cruises.
Previous FFS cruises have been aboard Carnival Horizon, Carnival Freedom, and other ships as well.
This new sailing, however, is not immediately being marketed as a “For Fun’s Sake” cruise. Heald does note that there will still be a lot of things for guests to enjoy.
John Heald at Punchliner Comedy Club
“I promise to make this a very FUN time for you all,”he said.“Cheers and hope to see you there.”
Undoubtedly, there will still be exclusive activities and other fun aboard, though perhaps not quite as extensively as on the annual FFS sailings.
This could also be a move by Carnival Cruise Line to introduce more FFS Cruises, giving more loyal guests the chance to meet the popular and charismatic brand ambassador.
Heald (and his ever-helpful assistant, Jacinta) responds to hundreds of questions and comments through his Facebook page every week about all sorts of issues.
Mayonnaise, dress codes, spreading ashes at sea, mobility scooters, egg shortages, dining times, mattress toppers, prohibited items, and much more are just some topics he’s covered in the past few months.
Obviously, some issues are more serious than others, but Heald always treats guests with respect and diligently tries to address their concerns, all with a dollop of humor.
Exceptionally rude guests, however, just might hear from his alter-ego, Bob, with an acerbic remark or less-than-flattering comparison.
Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations and a bucket-list itinerary for many cruisers. But will as many cruisers be able to visit the capital of the Last Frontier if a new initiative passes?
The new measure, filed on Monday, April 7, 2025, seeks to solidify more casual agreements into actual law for the City and Borough of Juneau. This would protect the voluntary limits already in place from a Memorandum of Agreement signed in May 2024.
The proposal sets a total annual cap of cruise ship guests at no more than 1.5 million and a daily limit of 16,000 Sundays through Fridays, with no more than 12,000 on any Saturday.
If passed, no more than five large ships would be permitted each day. The measure defines a “large cruise ship” as one carrying 950 guests or higher based on total capacity – regardless of how many may actually be aboard on any given voyage.
The measure has been brought to the municipal clerk’s office by Juneau resident Karla Hart, who has been involved in the cruise ship limit fight for years, advocating for ship-free Saturdays entirely.
“We’re just asking for a limit that might allow us, let the town, catch up with the cruise ship passenger numbers and to level off, and not have all the stress and conflict that we have,”Hart told the Juneau Empire.
Juneau has a population of roughly 32,000. It is easy to understand how multiple cruise ships carrying hundreds or thousands of guests could quickly overwhelm the city.
“The cruise industry is vital to our local economy, and we need to improve our infrastructure and grow our tour capacity to create a great guest experience and reduce impacts on residents,”said Alexandra Pierce, Juneau visitor industry director, when the Memorandum of Agreement was signed.
When Ships Could Visit Might Also Be Limited
The new proposal wouldn’t just be limiting the number of guests able to visit Juneau, however. It would also limit when ships can visit Alaska’s capital city.
Included in the regulations is a note for “no medium and large cruise ships before May 1 or after September 30.”
April and October are the so-called “shoulder months” for the Alaska cruise season. Because Alaska can be such a profitable destination for cruise lines and sailings may sell out years in advance, adding more cruises in these shoulder months is a popular way to expand the season.
Local residents, however, may be less than enthusiastic about extending the cruise season. Alaska’s most popular attractions are its stunning natural beauty and wildlife, but very early and very late in the season, those attributes aren’t at their best.
I have cruised to Alaska in late April. While it was still a stunning destination, we didn’t see nearly as much wildlife as guests might spot in June or July and Mother Nature was still waking up from her long winter slumber. Nevertheless, it was still an amazing experience.
Because of the seasonal nature of tour work in Alaska, some tour operators have difficulty staffing their operations very early and late in the season. This can dramatically impact the quality of a cruise guest’s experience.
The new measure proposal comes exactly as the city of Juneau has approved development of a fifth cruise ship dock, this one in downtown Juneau on Egan Drive, and to include retail space, a welcome center, and a cultural center.
The new project is under the control of the Huna Totem Corporation, which also developed the popular port destination of Icy Strait Point. The new dock is slated to be ready to welcome ship for the 2026 cruise season.
If passed, the new measure limiting the sizes of ships and the length of the Alaska cruise season will take effect from October 1, 2027.
The cruise industry’s so-called green transition took a big leap forward with the announcement that the world’s first, fully hydrogen-powered cruise ships are being built for Viking Ocean Cruises at a Fincantieri shipyard in Italy.
Slated for delivery in 2026 and 2027, Viking Libra will be the first to debut, followed by Viking Astrea. Both will have a hydrogen propulsion system designed by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a Fincantieri subsidiary.
IFM will build the systems with onboard containers able to store enough hydrogen to power ship operations with virtually no emissions, and avoid potential supply chain issues while voyages are underway.
Viking and Fincantieri also disclosed that the cruise line has placed orders for two new ships, both to be delivered in 2031, and options for two additional vessels.
Hydrogen is widely seen as a catalyst for the cruise industry since it generates electrical power in a fuel cell, and in doing so emits only water vapor and warm air. The power source has potential for near-zero greenhouse gas emissions, according to the US Department of Energy.
When completed, the propulsion systems aboard Viking Libra and Viking Astrea, coupled with advanced fuel cell technology, will produce up to 6 megawatts of power, enough to support navigation and operations.
Worth Reading: Viking Ship Marks Construction Milestone With Float Out Ceremony
Viking Libra will introduce the technology to the cruise industry when the 54,300-gross ton ship enters service in late 2026. Both ships will have a capacity of 998 guests and will be able to sail in highly sensitive environments.
“From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud that the Viking Libra and the Viking Astrea, will be even more environmentally friendly,” said Torstein Hagen, chairman and CEO of Viking.
“Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution. We look forward to welcoming the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026,” added Hagen.
Under Construction Viking Cruises Ship (Photo Credit: GEORGE STAMATIS)
Fincantieri officials point out that its hydrogen-powered system will set the bar for sustainable maritime transportation in the future.
“Beyond shipbuilding, we are driving a systemic evolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering supply chain innovation, and creating a model for the widespread adoption of hydrogen in the maritime sector,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri.
Hydrogen Power on the Cusp of Expansion
Viking Ocean Cruises is not the only cruise line with the goal of building hydrogen-powered vessels. Explora Journeys, the luxury brand operated by MSC Group, has plans to use a combination of hydrogen and liquified natural gas (LNG) for its fifth and sixth ships in the fleet.
The line has two ships currently operating — both Explora I and Explora II were built at Fincantieri shipyards but are powered by traditional fuels.
Viking Ocean Cruises is a fast-growing fleet. In October 2024 it ordered two ships from Fincantieri, both due to launch in 2030. It also placed options for four more ships at that time, with deliveries in 2031 and 2032.
Now under construction for the line are Viking Mira, set to launch in 2026, and Viking Vesta, due in July 2025. The cruise line’s newest ship, the 998-guest Viking Vela, entered service in December 2024, bringing the fleet to 13.
Juneau, one of Alaska’s busiest cruise ports that has taken steps to limit the impact of cruising on local lifestyle and environment, has agreed to the development of a fifth cruise ship dock in the city’s downtown area.
The decision by the Juneau Assembly on April 7, 2025 enables the Huna Totem Corporation to get started on the project, which will include one dock, retail space and a welcome center, and a culture and science center.
The go-ahead for a new cruise dock comes on the heels of a new citizen petition that would ban medium and large cruise ships from calling at Juneau before May 1 and after September 30, although the petitioner does not attach specific ship sizes in the document.
The petition also asks Juneau voters to set an annual limit of cruise arrivals at 1.5 million, which is significantly less than the 1.6 million-plus that visited in 2024. It is not known when the petition will be filed with the city, or voted on.
The Huna Totem project, green-lighted by the city’s planning commission in 2023, has some stipulations.
The new dock will only accommodate ships with passenger capacity up to 4,400 in double occupancy, and the berthing schedule must adhere to Juneau’s regulation that allows only five ships to visit simultaneously across all of the ship city’s docks.
The guest capacity limit is not likely to affect most of the ships that sail Alaska waters during the summer season. Ships slated to call at Juneau in 2025, for example, include Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice, with capacity for 2,852 guests; Princess Cruises’ Grand Princess, with 2,600 guests; and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade, with 2,402.
Huna Totem owns the space where the development will rise. The land was donated to the local corporation by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) in 2022, with the understanding that Huna Totem would build a cruise pier and provide NCLH’s cruise brands with preferential berthing rights once completed.
The new cruise dock will be at a downtown location on Egan Drive, adjacent to Juneau’s US Coast Guard Station.
Technically, the Juneau Assembly vote did not directly address the development; it agreed to an ordinance creating a 35-year tidelands lease that allows the dock to be built on what is submerged lands in the Gastineau Channel owned by the city of Juneau.
Juneau Dock, Downtown (Photo Credit: Steve Heap)
The cruise dock and related spaces will be called Aak’w Landing, and are scheduled to be developed in three phases. Phase One includes the construction of the dock, an underground parking area, the retail space, and a welcome center, all due for completion by the 2026 summer season.
Phase Two adds more retail space and an upper-level plaza, set to open by the 2027 season, and Phase Three completes the project with the building of the Indigenous Knowledge, Science and Cultural Learning Center. Phase Three does not yet have a completion date.
Juneau Joins Another Port in Dock Expansion
Juneau is not the only Alaska port that has agreed to expand the number of cruise ship docks. In Seward, port officials in February 2025 obtained legislative approval enabling it to build a new two-berth dock and a cruise terminal.
Seward is considerably smaller than Juneau and welcomes about 100 cruise ship calls per year versus Juneau’s 500. However, it is a growing port with an existing dock and terminal that were built in the 1960s.
Legislation now allows the port owner, Alaska Railroad Corporation, to issue the necessary bonds to construct the $137 million project. Once completed, the Seward facility will have a 68,000-square-foot terminal and a 750-foot, two-berth floating dock.
While Juneau is enabling its new dock to move forward, it has also moved to rein in its cruise-tourism market.
In 2024, Juneau and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) agreed to set a limit of 16,000 cruise arrivals per day, dropping to 12,000, on Saturdays. Also in 2024, the city’s limit of hosting no more than five cruise ships per day went into effect.
Some local residents believed that these efforts did not go far enough and put forward a citizen petition to suspend all cruise ship calls on Saturdays. However, voters in the October 2024 municipal election put the kibosh on that idea, voting down the measure by a margin of 60%.
A new era is about to begin for both North American cruising as well as Europe’s leading cruise line as the two come together with MSC Cruises’ MSC World America, one of the largest ships to debut in the US for 2025.
The outstanding new ship, the first World class vessel to sail from the US, has arrived at PortMiami! As the sun rose over the Sunshine State on Monday, April 7, MSC World America pulled gracefully into the Government Cut and eased around in the turning basin, giving onlookers spectacular views of the new ship.
Fittingly, the ship has docked at the brand new MSC Cruises terminal, the world’s largest cruise terminal with 492,600 square feet and the capacity to process 36,000 guests each day with biometric identity verification.
While MSC World America won’t host quite that many at once – though the ship’s capacity is nearly 6,800 – guests are eager to welcome the ship into the swiftly growing MSC Cruises fleet.
Before the first guests arrive, however, the ship will be ceremonially named with festivities appropriate to her stature. The special event will include traditional blessings and speeches, live music, and a variety of celebrities on hand, including the ship’s godmother, actress Drew Barrymore.
The naming ceremony will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the new cruise terminal. Immediately following is a celebratory 2-night special event sailing to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas.
MSC World America Entering PortMiami
Cruise ship christening ceremonies are amazing events rich with maritime tradition as well as a way to showcase a ship’s individual vibes. For MSC World America, the event is sure to be a fusion of the cruise line’s European style and classic American touches.
Of course, a highlight of the event will be the ceremonial breaking of a champagne bottle over the ship’s hull – an unforgettable moment that is a symbolic “toast” to the new vessel.
Sailing Aboard MSC World America
Guests will board MSC World America for her official maiden voyage on Saturday, April 12, 2025. That first 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing will visit Puerto Plata on Monday, April 14; San Juan on Tuesday, April 15; and MSC Ocean Cay on Friday, April 18 before returning to Miami.
The 215,800-gross ton ship will also be offering Western Caribbean itineraries. The western voyages will visit Costa Maya, Roatan, and Cozumel, also with MSC Ocean Cay.
Guests who want to take advantage of all the ship offers can easily arrange back-to-back voyages to combine both itineraries into an unforgettable 14-night voyage aboard one of the world’s largest cruise ships.
MSC World America in Miami, Florida
Onboard, a world of amazing experiences awaits every guest. The LNG-powered ship features 20 bars and lounges along with 13 distinctive restaurants for a wide range of tastes and treats.
The indoor World Galleria showcases a state-of-the-art LED and kinetic light ceiling for energetic light shows, while the outdoor World Esplanade brings those displays outdoors and couples them with unparalleled ocean views.
Furthermore, guests can enjoy the laid back relaxation of 14 hot tubs and six onboard pools, as well as the exclusive MSC Yacht Club.
In the meantime, thrillseekers will love the first-of-its-kind Cliffhanger over-water swing, or might better enjoy the expansive onboard waterpark, 11-deck shark-themed spiral dry slide, the roller rink, the ropes course, or the bumper cars.
Entertainment onboard MSC World America includes the first dedicated comedy club for any MSC Cruises ship along with high-energy production shows and a variety of live music. Prefer retail therapy? More than 10,000 feet of retail space is found onboard the massive ship.
With so much to offer, MSC World America is sure to take the North America cruising market by storm!
Chalk up another big win for Port Canaveral, soon to be the homeport for one of Carnival Cruise Line’s newest Excel-class ship, Carnival Festivale, the fourth vessel in the class.
The cruise line confirmed the deployment, along with several other future port changes, as part of a broad, April 6, 2025 announcement revealing an ambitious five-year strategic plan.
It was the first time that the name of Carnival Festivale, and her sister ship in the Excel class, Carnival Tropicale, were disclosed. Carnival Festivale will be based at the Central Florida port when she debuts in 2027, joining Mardi Gras, which has been homeported there since her debut in 2021.
But the Space Coast port is not the only winner in Carnival Cruise Line’s future plans. Mobile, Alabama, and Baltimore also received good news, with the cruise line pledging to substantially increase its presence in both destinations.
In Mobile, a drive-to port on the Gulf Coast and an easy embarkation choice for cruisers in the US South, Carnival Cruise Line will expand its presence from seasonal to year-round Caribbean voyages starting in 2027.
Carnival has a 20-year history with the port, which served as the base for Carnival Ecstasy before that ship was scrapped in 2022.
The 2,124-guest Carnival Spirit was deployed to Mobile starting in the fall of 2023 and has since split her time between the Alabama port and Seattle, where she is based for Alaska cruises from mid-April to early October.
The Mobile expansion fits into the cruise line’s strategy to have a presence in secondary markets, helping it maintain its goal to offer a cruise embarkation option that is less than a five-hour drive for half of the US population.
Carnival Spirit Docked in Mobile
Carnival Cruise Line has not yet revealed whether Carnival Spirit will be the ship deployed year-round. Currently, the ship is scheduled to sail from Mobile only through March 2027.
In Baltimore, the cruise line has decided to boost capacity by basing a larger ship at the port. Currently, the 2,124-guest Carnival Pride serves the port. The Spirit-class ship in 2027 will be replaced by an as-yet-unidentified Conquest-class ship that can accommodate 1,000 more guests.
Carnival Pride has been based at Baltimore since 2009. It temporarily shifted operations to Norfolk, Virginia, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024.
Baltimore is also considered a secondary market and an important drive-to port in the mid-Atlantic US.
Port Canaveral Ready to Welcome New Carnival Festivale
Port Canaveral, the second-busiest cruise port in the world behind PortMiami, is celebrating Carnival Cruise Line’s decision to homeport a second Excel-class ship at the destination starting in 2027.
Carnival Festivale, which will have the capacity to accommodate up to 8,000 guests, will sail 7-night Caribbean cruises and join the line’s Mardi Gras, also of the Excel class. The addition of Carnival Festivale will enable the cruise line to offer short cruises on Mardi Gras, which currently sails 7-night voyages.
Carnival Festivale
“We’re thrilled that Carnival Cruise Line has selected Port Canaveral as the homeport for their latest Excel-class ship,” said Capt. John Murray, CEO of Port Canaveral.
“We are very proud of our 35-year relationship with Carnival Cruise Line and this deployment is a reflection of our partner’s confidence in our Port to consistently deliver a high-quality experience for its guests,” Murray added.
When Carnival Festivale begins sailing from Port Canaveral she will be the sixth liquified natural gas-powered ship to be based at the port, which has taken a leading role in offering cruise lines access to the cleaner fuel option.
Both Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale are under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany.
