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MSC Officially Opens World’s Largest Cruise Terminal in Miami

Skyler Wolpert
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MSC Officially Opens World’s Largest Cruise Terminal in Miami

On April 5, 2025, the world’s largest cruise terminal officially opened!

The brand-new facility is the product of a partnership between MSC Group, Miami-Dade County, and PortMiami.

After a three-year construction period, MSC Miami Cruise Terminal comes in at a huge 492,000 square feet, which is the length of 8.5 American football fields.

With the capacity to hold up to three ships at a time, this new cruise terminal will be able to process 36,000 passengers a day.

The second largest cruise terminal in the world is located in Port Canaveral and can process 20,822 passengers a day, meaning this new one could see 73% more guests than the next largest terminal per day.

The multi-million-dollar terminal required a large investment by MSC Group, highlighting the company’s long-term dedication to cruisers in the US and the Caribbean.

Pierfrancesco Vago, the Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, commented on the importance of the cruise terminal, sharing that it is now a benchmark for the cruising industry.

“Our new cruise terminal is the most advanced in the world, designed to offer a seamless experience for our guests before and after their cruise,” Vago said, adding, “this proud moment reflects our unwavering commitment to Miami and its vibrant community.”

The advanced technology used makes this terminal more energy efficient than others, utilizing Miami-Dade County’s shore power connectivity which will help reduce local emissions when ships are at the port.

Read Also: Miami Cruise Port Guide – Terminals, Transportation and More

Facilities also include systems for water recycling, waste management, and the use of sustainable materials.

Additionally, there is a six-level parking garage with 2,400 spaces for anyone driving — other options for drop-off include via car, bus, ride share, and taxi.

This project also helps to support MSC Cruises’ newer and more efficient vessels, such as MSC World America which will be departing on its inaugural voyage out of the new terminal on April 12, 2025.

With a baggage handling system developed by Leonardo, guests and crew can rest easy knowing their luggage will be handled making the check-in process hassle-free.

Also, new biometric face pod technology has been installed to make the screening and check-in process even faster. This is also available at the E-gates, meaning guests will start their vacation immediately instead of having to wait.

MSC Yacht Club members will have special access to an exclusive lounge, but the waiting areas for other guests promise to be stylish and comfortable.

MSC also has a new cruise headquarters in Miami and has expanded its offices in Fort Lauderdale, further proving the brand’s commitment to the region.

Four of MSC Cruises’ ships will be sailing from this new terminal in 2025, the first having been MSC Seascape.

How MSC Group is Expanding its Cruise Offerings

This year, MSC has been expanding its cruise offerings more than ever. While the MSC Miami Cruise Terminal is now the newest one to open, just days ago, its other new terminal opened in Barcelona.

While not as massive as the Miami Terminal, the one in Barcelona will be the homeport for Explora II and will also see visits from MSC World Europa, MSC Seaview, MSC Seaside, MSC Magnifica, and MSC Orchestra this year.

While most cruise lines open terminals about a year apart, MSC had two open in the same week, though this was not supposed to be the case.

MSC Cruise Ship Docked at Miami Cruise Terminal
MSC Cruise Ship Docked at Miami Cruise Terminal

The Miami terminal was slated to be completed by the end of 2023 or, at the latest, early 2024, but there were delays due to regulations and seasonal storms.

MSC Seascape attempted to depart out of the terminal in January of 2025, but the construction delays caused the ship to have to relocate to the existing PortMiami facilities.

This change caused the voyage departure to be delayed by six hours and the embarkation process to start an hour after the ship was originally supposed to set sail.

Thankfully with the terminal now fully open and operational, delays like this will not be happening again anytime soon. With two new terminals and one new flagship, this year will be an exciting one for MSC Cruises!

Tampa Cruise Parking Guide: What Are Your Options?

Emrys Thakkar
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Tampa Cruise Parking Guide: What Are Your Options?

Five different cruise lines operate out of Port Tampa Bay, with eight cruise ships homeporting at the port and offering cruises of various lengths, from short four-day cruises to lengthier two-week cruises.

If you’re taking one of these cruises, you may need somewhere to park. Luckily, in addition to one large, on-site parking option, there are also plenty of off-site parking garages and lots in Port Tampa Bay’s proximity. Here’s where to get started shopping for the best deal.

In This Article:

Parking at Port Tampa Bay

No matter which of the five cruise lines that operate out of Port Tampa Bay that you’re cruising with — Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line or Margaritaville at Sea — you’ll still park in the same spot, if you choose to avoid the hassle of parking off-site.

The Channelside Parking Garage is Port Tampa Bay’s official parking option, located at 810 Channelside Drive, across the street from the central cruise terminal, Terminal 3. (Though the other two cruise terminals, Terminal 2 and Terminal 6, are just a short walk away.)

This parking garage offers several different options, including valet parking, self-parking and oversized vehicle parking. The parking garage is fully insured and surveilled 24/7 by trained staff.

Tampa Port Parking
Photo Credit: VIAVAL TOURS / Shuitterstock

Most of the garage’s 3,000-plus parking spaces are covered. You can pay in advance to save cash, too, and take advantage of promotional rates. Pre-booked parking is refundable for any reason up until the time of your cruise.

Parking fees start at $15 per day for self-parking, with valet services also available for a $20 upgrade fee. RV and oversized vehicle parking starts at $30 per day. You can receive free parking if your vehicle is outfitted with specialized equipment required for a disability, as well as if you have a disabled veteran Florida license plate.

Do note that, since this parking garage is so close to the terminals, there is no paid or free shuttle service available. You’ll just take your luggage with you, from your car, to the garage exit, and make your way to the terminal on your own.

Off-Site Parking Options Near Port Tampa Bay

For those who don’t want to pay $15 per day for self-parking at the Tampa cruise port, guests do have a few other options.

Before booking a parking spot, though, be sure to read up on the provider’s cancellation policies, the lot or garage’s safety parameters and the distance of the lot or garage from the cruise terminals.

If the garage or lot does not offer a shuttle service, make sure walking the distance from the lot or garage with all your luggage, to the port, or making the ride via a taxi, Uber or Lyft, will be feasible.

Rightway Parking

Port Tampa Bay, Cruise Terminal 2
Port Tampa Bay, Cruise Terminal 2 (Photo Credit: Feng Cheng)

Rightway Parking is a third-party parking deal aggregator that operates in quite a few popular cruise ship port cities. The platform allows you to search through a range of lots and garages near any particular address, and then book parking based on your travel dates and budget.

Do note that, while sites like Rightway Parking can help you find great parking deals, you do get what you pay for in many instances.

Before booking what seems like a really cheap deal, check to make sure a parking lot or garage is monitored and read past customer reviews. In some cases, the parking options offered aren’t even at lots or garages, but are at businesses, like hotels.

Rightway Parking advertises parking options near the Tampa cruise terminals for as cheap as $4 per day.

Park Connect

Park Connect is a Tampa-based provider, with multiple locations throughout the city. The unofficial parking lot company promises guaranteed best rates, with no hidden convenience fee, at a secured, covered parking facility. You can book your parking and cancel, and get a full refund, up to 24 hours before your cruise departs.

Park Connect’s cruise port parking facility is 200 feet away from the Tampa Bay cruise port. Rates start at around $12 per day.

Park 4 Cruise

Park 4 Cruises Map
Map of Park 4 Cruises Lot Locations

Park 4 Cruise offers a carpark on Channelside Drive (the same road that the terminals are on, as well as the same road that the official port parking garage is on).

This provider’s facility is less than 300 steps from the terminals and rates begin at $10.50 per day. There is a shuttle, though, if you’d like it, which will both drop you off at embarkation and pick you up after your cruise is over.

The lot is security-fenced, gated and lit, with 24/7 security monitoring.

On Air Parking

On Air Parking, similarly to Rightway Parking, offers parking options in various different cities, but they specifically specializes in providing parking near airports and cruise terminals.

They offer only one option for Port Tampa Bay and the uncovered but secure lot is just one block from the terminals. There’s no shuttle service available, but the provider’s reviews are great, and rates start at $7 per day. Free cancellations are allowed up to the day of your reservation.

One Stop Parking

One Stop Parking is much like On Air Parking, specializing in providing parking options near airports and cruise terminals. The platform’s lone Port of Tampa parking option is available through 241 Car Services.

While the gated self-park and handicap-accessible lot offers rates starting at $9 per day and does provide a shuttle service from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., on demand, do note that the lot is half a mile from the port. That means, if you can’t get the shuttle for some reason, you’re going to need to walk it.

Hotel Cruise Parking in Tampa

Port Tampa Bay
Photo Credit: Port Tampa Bay

One other option to consider beyond just parking at a garage or lot in the city, is booking a park and cruise package at a nearby hotel. This is a favorite option of mine for a few reasons.

For one, I always advise cruisers arrive in their port city the day before embarkation day. This makes for a less stressful experience on the day that your cruise leaves, as you’re not rushing into the city, trying to make the ship.

You can take your time arriving, spend a restful night at a hotel and then leave for your cruise ship at a leisurely pace the next morning, getting your cruise off on a relaxed foot.

It also ensures that little mishaps like bad traffic or a canceled flight don’t completely derail your plans.

For two, if you do book a cruise park and cruise package at a nearby hotel, it means that you can plan some extra time in the port city before or after your cruise. While not all port cities are great vacation destinations, many are worth exploring, as is the case in Tampa. 

Lastly, I like this option because it often gives you parking, for the duration of your cruise, at a cheaper price. So, if you decide to take my advice and book a park and cruise package at a nearby hotel, what are your options?

Park and cruise packages at Tampa Hotels

A View of Tampa Cruise Port
A View of Tampa Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Feng Cheng)

Tampa hotels that offer these packages include the Barrymore Hotel, on the Tampa Riverwalk. If you book this hotel’s cruise package, you get an exclusive room rate, parking included for up to 10 days while you’re on your cruise and shuttle service both to and from the port.

Tampa Airport Marriott similarly offers a park and cruise package that includes overnight accommodations and up to four nights of parking, perfect if you’re going on one of those shorter cruises that leave out of the Port of Tampa.

The Quality Inn Airport Tampa likewise offers a park and cruise package that includes one night’s accommodations, but then up to 14 days of parking while you’re on your cruise, plus complimentary breakfast and shuttle service to the port.

Sailport Waterfront Suites on Tampa Bay additionally provides a Snooze and Cruise Package, which includes one night’s stay, seven nights of parking and shuttle service both to and from the Tampa International Airport and the cruise port.

While this is by no means an exhaustive list of Tampa hotels that offer these sorts of packages, it gives you an idea of just how much you can save when you book one of these packages rather than parking at a lot or garage.

Outbreak Hits Guests and Crew on Cunard’s Iconic Ocean Liner

Skyler Wolpert
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Outbreak Hits Guests and Crew on Cunard’s Iconic Ocean Liner

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released details about the recent outbreak on Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2.

The ship is currently wrapping up a round-trip trans-Atlantic cruise out of Southampton, England.

This voyage departed on March 8, 2025, making nine stops in eight countries, including the United States, St Maarten, St Kitts, and the British Virgin Islands.

Unfortunately, just 10 days into the 29-night cruise, both guests and crew reported having symptoms of a gastrointestinal illness. The outbreak was reported to the CDC on March 18, 2025.

Having departed from New York on March 15, the ship was on its way to Philipsburg in St Maarten when the outbreak occurred.

Reported symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting, and in response, stool specimens were collected for testing. Additionally, all of those with symptoms were isolated and sanitation efforts were increased by the crew.

The CDC has confirmed that the gastrointestinal illness was Norovirus, which affected 224 passengers (8.8%) and 17 (1.4%) crew. These numbers reflect all confirmed cases throughout the duration of the cruise.

This vessel has a 2,695 guest capacity and a 1,253 crew capacity, but on this nearly month-long cruise, only 2,538 passengers and 1,232 crew were present.

It is a CDC requirement that any and all vessels operating in the United States have to report outbreaks when reported cases involve more than 3% of the crew or passengers onboard. Even if ship departs from another country, if it stops in the US this is a requirement.

Read Also: 10 Reasons Why Cruise Ships Are NOT Floating Petri Dishes

The 149,215 gross ton Queen Mary 2 had just made a stop in the US before the outbreak began, so Carnival-owned Cunard quickly submitted the report after learning about the situation.

As an extra measure, during outbreaks like this cruise lines correspond directly with the VSP so they can ensure sanitation and cleaning procedures are adequate to help prevent the illness from being spread.

The ship arrived in St Maarten on March 19, which is when the crew informed all passengers that the vessel would be receiving a deep cleaning while at the next port of call.

When stopping in Barbados on March 22, Queen Mary 2 underwent intensive sanitation from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. while most passengers were off exploring the tropical destination.

Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner
Queen Mary 2 Ocean Liner (Photo Credit: P.Cartwright)

This effort was so extensive that it was suggested any guests who would be onboard during this time should consider vacating their cabins if possible.

In a letter from the cruise line, they detailed, “If you are unable to leave the ship, please vacate your stateroom when requested and make yourself comfortable in one of the available areas such as Golden Lion Pub, Sir Samuel’s and Pavilion Pool.” 

They also informed guests that if they were isolated due to the outbreak, they should stay in their cabins. Passengers will disembark from Queen Mary 2 this weekend, thus ending yet another cruise affected by Norovirus.

Is 2025 the Year of Getting Sick on Cruises?

While it is quite rare to get something as serious as Norovirus on a cruise ship, the cruising industry in 2025 is not off to the best start.

In 2024, the CDC reported a total of 16 gastrointestinal outbreaks — tying with 2012 for the most to happen in a single year. So far, there have been 10 outbreaks just four months into 2025.

In January, affected ships included Holland America Line’s Volendam, Viking Ocean Cruise’s Viking Mars, and Princess Cruise’s Coral Princess.

CDC Sign
CDC Sign (Photo Credit: Tada Images)

Then in February, it was Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas, Holland America Line’s Rotterdam and Eurodam, and yet again Princess Cruise’s Coral Princess.

Finally, in March 2025, there was one more on Holland America Line’s Rotterdam, a new one being reported on Seabourn Cruise Line’s Seabourn Encore, and of course, the one on Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2.

While it is the first this year, this recent outbreak on Queen Mary 2 comes just shortly after the ship had two outbreaks in a single month.

In December 2024, the ship saw two back-to-back voyages with Norovirus — and hopefully, this third one is its last for a while.

With peak outbreak times for this particular virus tending to be between October and April, there is a good chance we will see fewer of these occurrences heading into the summer.

CEO Charged After Barefoot Dance Floor Confrontation on Virgin Voyages

Lissa Poirot
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CEO Charged After Barefoot Dance Floor Confrontation on Virgin Voyages

A vacation on the high seas turned confrontational when a passenger was arrested for allegedly choking another passenger aboard an adults-only Virgin Voyages cruise during a recent Caribbean cruise.

The incident, which occurred in international waters on March 31, 2025, has now led to federal assault charges with authorities and the accused preparing for a courtroom showdown.

The incident took place in the early morning hours in the cruise line’s Resilient Lady’s 360-degree “On the Rocks” bar, the vessel’s largest bar located below The Roundabout. The bar features a small stage for live performances and a dance floor.

Reports say a dispute escalated when Kenneth DeGiorgio, the 53-year-old CEO of First American Financial, a Southern California mortgage lending company, attacked another passenger, identified only by the initials M.A.

The altercation apparently began over a request by DeGiorgio to M.A. to wear shoes on the dance floor, leading to threats and a physical confrontation.

According to the criminal complaint filed, DeGiorgio grabbed M.A. by the neck and threatened his life, which was captured on the ship’s security cameras.

The altercation took place 70 nautical miles off the coast of Martinique’s Ford-De-France during a 10-night “Puerto Rican Daze & Caribbean Nights” cruise, which had departed San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 22, 2025.

DeGiorgio was confined in his RockStar Suite by order of Resilient Lady’s Captain Hannu Haaponiemi until he could be arrested by FBI agents when the vessel returned to its homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on April 1, 2025.

The suites are Virgin Voyages’ most luxurious accommodations and include a 24/7 RockStar agent and a fully stocked in-room bar.

Dance Floor Confrontation

According to an affidavit filed in Puerto Rico, FBI Special Agent William P. Waters of the San Juan Division said surveillance footage from the 110,000-gross-ton Resilient Lady shows M.A. dancing and at one point raising his middle finger to DeGiorgio’s wife, identified as Nichol DeGiorgio. 

DeGiorgio is then seen walking up to M.A. and placing his hands around his neck, causing M.A. to stumble. 

In interviews conducted by the FBI, Nichol DeGiorgio said M.A. was dancing barefoot and said, “Look, we are all grown-ups here, can you put your shoes on?”

She says he responded with vulgarities, which caused her husband’s reaction. She also said she should not have told the man to put shoes on and admitted he had not touched her.

On the Rocks
On the Rocks bar on Virgin Voyages (Photo Credit: Virgin Voyages)

A bartender at the ship’s bar contacted security, and DeGiorgio was contained.

The incident took place after the journey’s final call in Kingstown, St. Vincent. The roundtrip sailing from San Juan had previously visited the British Virgin Islands, Antigua, St. Kitts, Martinique, St. Lucia, and Barbados.

Read Also: I Spent 7 Days on My First Adults-Only Virgin Voyages Cruise

During DeGiorgio’s in-room confinement, Resilient Lady spent the day at sea, and he was arrested upon arrival in the early morning hours of April 1, 2025.

No other passengers on the 2,700-guest ship were involved in the altercation.

Agent Waters says DeGiorgio violated 18 U.S.C. 113(a)(4) Assault within the Maritime and Territorial Jurisdiction of the United States, which is an assault under federal jurisdiction.

DeGiorgio requested an attorney during his arrest and did not answer any questions, according to the affidavit.

Considered a misdemeanor, the violation comes with a maximum imprisonment of one year.

Record Ship Calls and Embarkations Seen at Ports Across UK

Donna Tunney
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Record Ship Calls and Embarkations Seen at Ports Across UK

Cruise ports across Great Britain marked some key milestones in 2024 when they welcomed a record 2,500-plus cruise ship calls and embarked a record 1.6 million passengers.

New data from Cruise Britain shows year-over-year growth, from 2023 to 2024, reached an enviable 9.9%. The boost in ship calls delivered 2 million-plus guests to Britain’s ports and surrounding destinations and attractions, and that translated into an economic boon.

According to the findings, each transit guest injects an average of £80 ($103 USD) into local coffers, meaning that the total transit arrival number accounts for a £170 million ($220 million USD) infusion of spending into local and regional economies through shore tours, shopping, and other services cruisers spend money on during port calls.

Most of the transit arrivals — more than 75%, were foreign visitors, with the lion’s share hailing from the US and Germany.

The numbers bode well for the future of cruise tourism in the UK, and some ports are taking more steps to attract additional business. Among them is the Port of Dover, which recently completed upgrades that will enable larger cruise ships to call at the southeast England destination.

Worth Reading: Southampton Cruise Port – Terminals, Getting Around and More

Cruise Britain represents ports in England, Scotland, and Wales, and in April 2024, signed a memorandum of understanding with Cruise Ireland that created a partnership between the two groups.

“Britain and Ireland cruise popularity goes from strength-to-strength with the diverse multi-country story of discovery really resonating with visitors, whether they be international guests, as the vast majority are, or UK residents exploring their own country,” said Ian McQuade, chairman of Cruise Britain. 

“Looking ahead, we expect that the current season will continue to build on the strong 2024 figures,’’ added McQuade.

All told in 2024, 57 cruise ports received visits from 134 cruise ships representing virtually all of the major global cruise lines, from mega-ships to small, luxury vessels.

The UK’s largest port, Southampton, is expecting record numbers of cruise arrivals in 2025. It will follow a record 2024, when more than 3 million passengers transited the port either as port call visitors or guests embarking or disembarking a ship.

The port has experienced a busy first quarter of 2025, and had the honor of welcoming Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, during one of her inaugural sailings in late March.

Port of Dover Looks to Attract Larger Cruise Ships


Among the initiatives to bolster the growth of Britain’s cruise industry is the Port of Dover’s newly completed project to improve the moorings on its two cruise berths, enabling larger ships to call at the southeast England destination.

The £6 million ($7.7 million USD) moorings upgrade allows ships up to 350 meters, or 1,148 feet, in length to dock in Dover.

Carnival Cruise Ship Docked in Dover, UK
Carnival Cruise Ship Docked in Dover, UK (Credit: Port of Dover)

That length still excludes the industry’s largest ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (1,196 feet) and Oasis of the Seas (1,186 feet), for example, but does enable most mega-ships to call.

Ships such as Norwegian Aqua, at 1,056 feet, will be able to dock, along with other notable ships like Princess Cruises’ newest ship, Sun Princess, at 1,134 feet, and Cunard’s iconic Queen Mary 2, at 1,132 feet.

Read Also: The Essential Guide to All Southampton Cruise Terminals

The April 4, 2025 announcement that the mooring project is completed solidifies Dover’s ambitions to be a leader in the UK’s cruise sector.

“We are delighted to share this exciting news with the industry, which demonstrates our long-term commitment to be one of the UK’s leading cruise destinations. My thanks go to our engineering and operations teams for delivering this key project,” said Peter Wright, head of cruise at the Port of Dover.

Twenty-plus cruise lines typically call each year at the port, which had a robust 2024. The facility also operates growing cargo and marina businesses.

Carnival Cruise Line Shuts Down Reserved Seating Idea for Shows

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Line Shuts Down Reserved Seating Idea for Shows

With cruise ships getting larger and larger, the struggle to get the best seats for extravagant production shows can be fierce. Carnival Cruise Line, however, is unlikely to implement any type of reservation-based system to ensure seating at different performances.

The discussion began when an irritated guest contacted John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, about their experiences on a competing cruise line (shall we say, Competitor of the Seas?).

“Why is it that Carnival does not require any reservations for shows or comedy like what you need on other cruise lines who charge money to watch shows but give first choice to their elite members?” the guest asked.

“This is what Carnival should be doing for the big shows and comedy shows, but … you are not, why?”

Okay, that’s a fair question. Carnival Cruise Line’s largest ships, for example – the Excel-class Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee – each have a guest capacity of approximately 5,300 at double occupancy, or more than 6,600 if fully booked with all third, fourth, and fifth berths filled.

The main theater capacity of these ships, however, is just about 1,100 – only about 20% of the guests onboard.

Granted, many guests may not care to see different production shows, especially if they are frequent cruisers who may have already seen the same stage shows multiple times.

Worth Reading: Disney Cruise Guest Frustrated by Talking During Theater Shows

It is exactly the most frequent cruisers, however, that the original poster thinks should have the most access to theater seating.

“It is not fair that platinum people cannot get guaranteed seating for shows,” they concluded.

Heald did respond to the guest’s concerns, first noting what Carnival Cruise Line has done to give more travelers the opportunity to see any show they wish.

“I do understand that on some ships the shows do get very full which is why we have increased the number of performances,” he began.

He went on, however, to open a discussion on reserved seating, tickets, and even charging for shows.

“However, tickets may be something that would help?” he questioned. “It is very challenging to operate this and manage this. We tried this back on the Carnival Dream when the ship first started sailing. The main problem was that people would line up for tickets and then not show up.”

Carnival Dream entered service in September 2009. At that time, technology wasn’t nearly as ubiquitous in our lives, and there weren’t as many potential solutions to different organizational problems.

Heald notes that the Carnival Hub app might be able to be used for seating reservations, but for the moment, it does not have that functionality.

Meanwhile, the idea of “guaranteed seating” for “platinum people” rubs this “platinum person” the wrong way. Yes, I have been fortunate to cruise frequently, but no, I do not deserve extra privileges for doing so.

Guest Responses Support Current Policies

Responses from hundreds of other loyal Carnival guests agree that the current first-come, first-served policies for show seating are vastly preferred.

Read Also: Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival Cruise Line – Which One Does It Better?

While it is true that the best seats may fill up quickly, the “best” view can vary from traveler to traveler. For example, I prefer seats in the upper deck where I may be further from the energy, but also have a better chance for an unobstructed view (I’m a bit on the shorter side, even in heels).

Carnival Jubilee Theater
Carnival Jubilee Theater

Experienced travelers note that showtimes are advertised well in advance, and arriving 30-45 minutes before a show can virtually guarantee guests any seat they might like.

Many guests also note that choosing a show reservation time can be a bother, especially if they may not be sure what other activities could be happening each evening or when they may be finished with dinner.

“I don’t know if I want to go to comedy on Tuesday at 8 p.m. two months from now on vacation. HUGE turn off for me,” one guest explained.

More From Cruise Hive

The flexibility to come and go can make cruising much more relaxing, and of course, plans do often change at the last minute, making any possible reservation system even more complicated.

What about charging for tickets or reserved seats? Carnival Cruise Line has no intention of doing so outside of the soon-to-be-expanded Carnival LIVE! entertainment series, which are add-on concerts and performances by top artists available only on select sailings.

The Surprising Cruise Length Carnival Guests Don’t Like

Melissa Mayntz
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The Surprising Cruise Length Carnival Guests Don’t Like

Carnival Cruise Line offers sailings of all lengths, from classic short 3-4 night getaways to iconic weeklong 7-night cruises to Carnival Journeys of 9+ nights. But which cruise length is the most popular?

Of course, with bookings at incredible highs and nearly every ship sailing fully booked, all cruise lengths are popular. But some surprising insight has come to light about what sailing length Carnival’s biggest fans prefer – or not.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, regularly responds to questions, comments, and – no matter how crazy – complaints about a wide range of issues. One that has come up recently is cruise length.

While he does not address an individual comment directly, he did post a poll on Thursday, April 3, 2025 that included an either/or selection on cruise lengths. These poll questions are based on things he has been asked throughout the day, so it is clear that at least some inquiring cruisers are interested.

“Can you explain why there are so few three day cruises? These used to be a great way for us to take short breaks over the weekend with family,” one guest asked. “Please bring back more three day cruises.”

Surprisingly, just two percent of the more than 53,000 votes, or roughly 1,100 voters, agree with the idea that the cruise line should be offering more short sailings.

The other option stated that “Three-day cruises are too short for me,” and garnered an amazing 29 percent of votes – more than 15,400 responses.

In addition to voting, different guests posted their thoughts on shorter sailings with a variety of reasons why these brief sailings may not be as appealing.

Many guests note that they don’t live close to a popular homeport and the hassle (and expense!) of travel means they get more bang for their vacation buck on longer sailings.

“For me, a 3-day cruise is a waste of time. It costs me almost as much to get to the port as it does to cruise,” one guest explained.

Carnival Paradise Docked in Cozumel, Mexico
Carnival Paradise Docked in Cozumel, Mexico (Photo Credit: denbaim)

Other guests feel that a shorter cruise just doesn’t give them enough time to unwind in vacation mode, especially with how stressful travel to and from a cruise homeport can be.

The reputation that shorter Carnival cruises have gotten as “booze cruises” has also soured some travelers who, while they love the fun of a Fun Ship cruise, don’t want to be in quite that raucous of an atmosphere.

Personally, I do live less than an hour from Port Canaveral, and even I don’t always care for very short weekend sailings because of that frenzied party vibe. I do, however, completely agree with one guest.

“Three day cruises may be too short sometimes, but at other times they are a good ‘quick fix’ when needed!” they quipped.

Are Longer Cruises Always Preferable?

Not all travelers can enjoy longer sailings, however.

Parents with children in school note that a 7-night cruise isn’t always the best option if they do need to travel to and from the embarkation port.

This could mean needing to take their children out of school for longer due to flights and the possibility of delays, which can have negative impact on their schoolwork, testing, and extra-curricular schedules.

Read Also: What to Expect When You Go on a Carnival Cruise

Even longer sailings can also be more expensive for travelers, and while Carnival Journeys longer cruises can be amazing immersive experiences, they aren’t as frequently available for scheduling flexibility.

Some guests also note that Carnival Journeys sailings aren’t typically offered in the summer when families have more time off school to schedule a longer cruise.

What is your preferred cruise length? Share your best sailing times and options on the Cruise Hive boards!

Royal Caribbean Ship Forced to Skip Port Due to High Winds

Skyler Wolpert
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Royal Caribbean Ship Forced to Skip Port Due to High Winds

Passengers on a Royal Caribbean cruise may have been excited to visit Costa Maya, Mexico, but their visit was cut short due to weather conditions.

The 6,780 passenger Harmony of the Seas was supposed to arrive at this popular tropical destination on April 3, 2025, but instead is having an unplanned day at sea.

When the vessel was only 300 feet off the coast, guests were notified that the ship would be unable to dock and would be heading back out to sea.

Several passengers shared posts online about the port cancellation, one of which included a photo that showed winds being measured at 43 knots.

While the ship’s equipment was reporting gale-force winds, weather reports indicate that the wind speed during the docking attempt should have been around 13 knots.

Still, this would be more than enough to warrant canceling an attempt to get the 226,960 gross-ton vessel to the pier safely.

Ships have tried and failed to dock in Costa Maya while the wind was being measured at just 10 knots — so rather than risk it, the crew decided to head to safer waters.

Another guest shared a video showing just how close Harmony of the Seas came to docking, as it was extremely close to reaching the long pier.

However, this video also showed just how choppy the ocean was as the conditions were not safe for the ship to attempt docking.

This passenger also shared that the cruise line would be refunding them for their port fees, but some cruisers commented that the process can sometimes take months.

“Costa MAYBE strikes again,” one person commented, pointing out that the popular cruising destination has this nickname for a reason.

This region of Mexico frequently experiences high winds which have caused many cruise ships to cancel — so cruisers know this is not always a guaranteed stop.

This ship departed on a round-trip itinerary out of Galveston, Texas on March 30, 2025 — so far just making one stop in Roatan, Honduras.

Now on their unexpected day at sea, Harmony of the Seas is heading towards Cozumel, Mexico, where it will arrive on April 4, 2025, before heading back to Galveston where it will disembark on April 6.

Read Also: Costa Maya, Mexico: What to Do During Your Visit

The only other cruise ship that was supposed to be in Costa Maya that day was MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore — though based on its current location on radar, it likely also skipped the port.

While guests on the ship may be disappointed that the wind caused this port cancellation, when it comes to windy weather it is always better to be safe than sorry!

The Wind Always Wins

Costa Maya has become one of the most popular ports of call in the Caribbean — but Royal Caribbean is no stranger to itinerary changes due to the weather at this tropical destination.

Wonder of the Seas was forced to skip docking at this port in October of 2024 due to Hurricane Milton, while Harmony of the Seas was also forced to move up its visit to this port during the same week to make sure it avoided being in the path of the storm.

Just one month before that in September, Serenade of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas both had to cancel their visits to Costa Maya, instead visiting the Bahamas due to Hurricane Helene.

Despite the weather causing the occasional cancellation, Royal Caribbean recently announced a $600 million deal with plans to transform Costa Maya into Perfect Day Mexico.

The project is expected to be completed by 2027 and will feature a waterpark, pools, and private beach access.

If you are concerned about missing a stop in Costa Maya, the best thing to do is to book a cruise outside of hurricane season.

Thankfully, port cancellations this early in the year are uncommon as the weather tends to be more tame.

Be flexible with the experience and enjoy whatever your cruise has to offer!

No Production Shows for Norwegian Gem Due to Charter Sailings

Melissa Mayntz
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No Production Shows for Norwegian Gem Due to Charter Sailings

Guests looking forward to their upcoming sailing on Norwegian Gem will not have the same entertainment options to enjoy that they might have anticipated.

The cruise line reached out to booked guests recently to alert them to the change, and the unique reason why.

“We want to keep you in the loop about a small adjustment to our entertainment lineup because sometimes, timing just doesn’t let all the stars align!” the email read.

The “stars” could be referring to the stars of the ship’s high energy production shows, who won’t actually be able to perform because of scheduling alignment.

“As part of our diverse cruise offerings, Norwegian Gem occasionally hosts charter sailings, and your cruise follows directly after one of these special events,” the notification explained.

“As a result, our spectacular cast from our larger production shows will not be onboard, meaning these performances won’t be available during your sailing.”

Norwegian Gem actually has several charter sailings booked back-to-back in the next few weeks.

The “Cruise to the Edge” progressive rock sailing (April 4-9) is followed immediately by the “Creed Summer of ’99 and Beyond Cruise” nostalgic ’90s rock cruise (April 9-15) and the “Heather McMahan Absolutely Knot Cruise” comedy sailing (April 13-17).

By offering multiple full ship charter sailings one after another, Norwegian Cruise Line can schedule training and onshore practices for the ship’s regular entertainment staff.

This may also be a time when cast members and regular entertainers are rotating to different ships, and so casts onboard may be incomplete.

Because of this, the regular production shows aren’t able to be offered on the next sailing(s). Guests aboard the April 20, 2025 departure – an 11-night Southern Caribbean itinerary – have received the notification, but other sailings may likewise be impacted, including the April 17 departure, a 3-night Bahamas cruise.

This does not mean, however, that there won’t be any entertainment at all aboard Norwegian Gem.

Instead of the typical production shows, there will be live music, multiple comedy performances, magic show, and more – including a mind-reading mentalist! (Or are they REALLY reading minds?)

Guests are urged to use the NCL App while onboard the ship or to refer to the Freestyle Daily newsletters for each day’s entertainment offerings, activities, shopping specials, and more.

Compensation Offered

Even though there will still be plenty of entertainment all around the ship, not to mention other onboard activities, Norwegian Cruise Line is still offering impacted guests some compensation for the inconvenience.

A $100 (USD) non-refundable onboard credit is being provided per stateroom, which can be used for specialty dining, spa treatments, photos, souvenirs, or just enjoying a drink.

All guests are also going to receive a 10% future cruise credit discount that can be used on any published Norwegian Cruise Line sailing through December 31, 2026.

Norwegian Gem Cruise Ship
Norwegian Gem Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: On The Run Photo)

This credit does not have to be used for another Norwegian Gem cruise, but instead can be applied toward any ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet in any sailing region.

While these offers only apply to the April 20, 2025 departure of Norwegian Gem, it is possible the cruise line may extend similar offers at other times when the entertainment schedule is impacted.

Read Also: Are Smaller or Bigger Cruise Ships Better?

Another group of charter sailings, for example, is coming up in May 2025 as well. This includes the “Chefs Making Waves” culinary cruise (May 5-9), the “Little Stevens Underground Garage” rock cruise (May 9-13), and the “Lindsey Stirling’s Master of Tides” music concert cruise (May 13-17).

Guests booked immediately following these charter cruises will want to stay alert to any notifications from the cruise line about whether or not their onboard entertainment may also be impacted.

Norwegian Gem is homeported from Miami, Florida through mid-August, offering short Bahamas sailings that visit Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, depending on departure date and cruise length.

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