Guests eager to sail aboard Princess Cruises’ new Sun Princess for the forthcoming Mediterranean season may not be able to enjoy the itinerary they originally planned.
The cruise line has been notifying booked guests on multiple sailings of port cancellations that impact several different destinations on the same cruise.
When one port is cancelled, for example, Princess Cruises is trying to substitute alternative ports whenever possible. Because of changes in port days, however, this can have a knock-on effect on additional ports of call for the same itinerary.
Mediterranean cruises are often port-heavy schedules, with very few days at sea. This can create very confusing and complicated scheduling when itineraries must be adjusted.
For example, the ship’s July 29, 2025 sailing is an 11-night one-way voyage between Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona, arriving on August 9. Guests received the following notification about their itinerary change:
“Please be advised that due to cruise ship congestion in Genoa, Italy, Sun Princess will no longer call to Genoa on Sunday, August 3 and will instead call to Malaga, Spain on Tuesday, August 5. As a result, we will now call to Marseille, France on Sunday, August 3 rather than Monday, August 4, and call times have been amended for our visit to Gibraltar on Wednesday, August 6.”
This means one port cancelled (Genoa), two ports shifted to different days (Malaga and Marseille), and a fourth port with a time adjustment on the same day (Gibraltar). During the same cruise, five other ports of call remain the same. Sun Princess only has two full days at sea during the sailing.
On many of the ship’s Greek Isles sailings, Santorini (Greece) and Kotor (Montenegro) are being removed, with Bar (Montenegro), Mykonos (Greece), and Chania (Greece) substituted as alternatives when available. The exact timing of the changes varies based on the ship’s departure date and local availability of berth space.
The main reason being given for these messy changes is overall port congestion, which can be a problem in many destinations as cruise ships get more numerous and have larger passenger capacities.
For example, on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 Sun Princess was originally scheduled for Santorini, Greece – with MSC Divina and Odyssey of the Seas also in port. Combined, the three ships can bring as many as 13,000 guests or more to the port.
Instead, Sun Princess will now be visiting Mykonos on July 22, with three other cruise ships in port – Voyager of the Seas, MSC Lirica, and Costa Fascinosa. The four ships combined have a passenger capacity in excess of 14,000 travelers.
This might seem contradictory, but local populations, resorts, and other tourist traffic must also be taken into account with respect to whether or not a cruise ship can be “comfortable” in a port of call. Exact port times can also have a great impact, with some ships arriving early while others plan evening visits.
Cruise lines always strive to ensure their passengers will be able to enjoy a port visit without feeling too crowded.
Sun Princess has had difficulty with Santorini in the past, with the port dropped from her maiden voyage due to maintenance on the Santorini Cable Car that would have dramatically impacted the guest experience.
The availability of tour operators, visitor capacities at local attractions, and other marine traffic congestion must also be considered with itinerary planning and port scheduling.
Docked Sun Princess Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Pedro H C Carvalho)
So far, multiple Sun Princess cruises have been impacted. This includes at least the ship’s May 17, May 31, June 14, June 21, July 19, July 29, and September 27 departure dates. Additional 2025 itineraries may also have port changes.
Some cruises as far away as 2026 are also having similar itinerary adjustments.
It should be noted that Sun Princess is not the only ship having multiple Mediterranean itinerary changes for the summer season. Earlier this month, Norwegian Cruise Line announced that Norwegian Epic was dropping 17 planned visits to Corfu, Greece, with some schedules substituting alternate ports.
While many travelers are understandably disappointed at so many port swaps, all cruise lines reserve the right to alter itineraries for any reason without being required to provide compensation to guests.
As an alternative, travelers are certainly able to cancel their bookings and choose a different cruise that meets their travel plans, especially as notice is being provided several months before sailing.
Keeping in touch even while at sea is more and more important to many cruise travelers, whether they want to touch base with family members at home, stay connected to their preferred news sites, or do a bit of remote work from remote locations.
Norwegian Cruise Line is now making it easier than ever for guests on longer sailings to stay connected. The “More at Sea” program offers a range of amazing benefits, now including 300 minutes per guest on all sailings 12 nights and longer.
“Get ready to experience more on your upcoming cruise with MORE premium beverages, MORE specialty dining and MORE and faster Wi-Fi,”the announcement email from Adam Malone, Chief Marketing Officer for Norwegian Cruise Line, read.“Including the latest news that effective immediately ALL guests per stateroom on sailings 12+ nights will receive 300 minutes!”
The increase is in response to guest concerns and post-cruise surveys indicating that more minutes would be appreciated on longer sailings.
Formerly the “Free at Sea” program, More at Sea has enhanced offers for travelers, from an unlimited open bar to free specialty dining to onboard credit for shore excursions.
The Wi-Fi package benefits of More at Sea have been of great interest to cruisers. The number of minutes available vary depending on cruise length. For cruises from 3-6 nights, guests receive 75 minutes each, while on cruises of 7+ nights the total has been doubled to 150 minutes.
Previously, the 150-minute total applied to all cruises of 7 nights and longer – no matter how much longer the sailings may be. Now, travelers on 12+ night cruises again receive double minutes – 300 per sailing.
The notification also confirmed that the fleetwide rollout of Starlink Wi-Fi access is complete, making it easier than every for everyone onboard to stay connected on their cruise.
To be clear, the free minutes apply to all guests in the stateroom via separate logins. Minutes can only be used on one device (cell phone, tablet, laptop, etc.) at a time. There is no daily reset; all 300 minutes are accessible to travelers from the start of their sailing.
More Benefits With More at Sea
The new More at Sea program began October 1, 2024, replacing the Free at Sea package for all Norwegian Cruise Line sailings from January 1, 2025. Any bookings made prior to the new package announcement but setting sail after January 1 were automatically upgraded from Free at Sea to More at Sea.
The program enhanced a variety of benefits and simplified others, such as including more premium spirits and clarifying specialty dining charges with flat rates.
While some travelers (myself included!) appreciate the opportunity to completely unplug while on a cruise, that isn’t always the most practical option for some cruisers.
For example, guests who might leave the kids with grandparents in order to enjoy a second honeymoon could still want to check in for bedtime rituals or just to make sure everyone – kids and grandparents alike – is behaving.
Many cruise travelers also connect with others onboard their sailing through social media groups, organizing card games, craft projects, bar crawls, or cruising duck hunts.
Travel agents sailing with their group cruises also often use messaging apps and social media groups to send announcements or reminders to all their guests. Extended Wi-Fi benefits will help ensure all participants can stay informed.
No matter what the reason, the extra minutes online can ensure everyone stays connected for every minute of fun for their entire cruise.
Sitting on the southern edge of England’s famous Jurassic Coast, the growing Portland Port, in Dorset, is banking on a robust cruise season in 2025.
Based on scheduled port calls and turnaround voyages, the port in 2025 expects to welcome 100,000-plus cruise guest arrivals, whose onshore spending will deliver some £10 million ($12 million USD) to the region.
Sixty cruise ships from multiple lines will call at Portland, from small luxury vessels such as Hebridean Island Cruises’ Hebridean Princess, accommodating just 50 guests, to Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess, a mega-ship with capacity for 3,600.
Cruise lines with ships making inaugural visits to Portland in 2025 include luxe line Silversea Cruises, as both the 596-guest Silver Dawn and 608-guest Silver Spirit are set to call in September.
Portland Port in 2024 benefited from several short-notice calls, which are made by ships for various reasons, such as inclement weather or storms that prompt an itinerary change. Port officials believe short-notice calls will add revenue in 2025 as well.
In fact, the port’s first call of 2025 was a short-notice visit by Saga Cruises’ 1,000-guest Spirit of Discovery, due to weather.
“It has been another highly successful cruise season and one of our best so far,” said Ian McQuade, general manager of Portland Port and chairman of Cruise Britain.
“The sustained demand for calls and the record number of short-notice visits is testament to relentless work behind the scenes by a dedicated team to attract and accommodate ships and bring circa £10m to the local economy,” said McQuade.
The port manager also noted that the port’s robust numbers justify its 2022 investment to build a new deepwater berth. The £26 million ($31 million USD) construction project, completed in 2023, enables the port to accommodate ships up to 1,148 feet long.
That length allows most mega-ships to berth, including Regal Princess at 1,083 feet, but falls short of the 1,186 feet needed to host bigger ships, such as Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class vessels, for instance.
Cruise Totals From 2024 Show Drop in Arrivals
The 60 ships expected to visit the port in 2025 will reflect an increase from the 52 ships that called in 2024 and brought 117,000 cruise guests to Portland. The 2024 total shows a decline, however, from 2023, when 130,000 passengers visited on 56 ships.
Nonetheless, Portland Port officials are upbeat about the facility’s performance in 2024. Virtually every major cruise line was represented, including Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruise Line.
Luxury cruise lines brought guests to Portland as well, such as Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Compagnie Française de Croisières, and Cunard.
Inaugural calls in 2024 were made by Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, Ponant’s Le Champlain, Oceania Cruise’s Sirena, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Mariner, and AIDA’s AIDAsol.
“Positive feedback from cruise lines and their passengers demonstrates just how much they enjoy coming to Portland for the array of local attractions and warm welcome they receive,” said port manager McQuade.
Port records show that half of cruise guests book shore excursions, and most of the land tours keep visitors in the Dorset region. The famous Chesil Beach, on the Jurassic Coast, where fossil hunters gather, is just 10 miles from the port.
Many guests not on organized tours use the port’s shuttle service, which operates in the local area and to nearby Weymouth, where cruisers can browse shops and dine in a variety of restaurants.
Icon of the Seas by Royal Caribbean Cruise Line is the world’s largest cruise ship. Not only is the ship itself built to an unprecedented scale, but Icon of the Seas offers an incredible array of complimentary and premium amenities tailored to all ages’ preferences.
From an enormous waterpark and a live entertainment venue that surrounds a giant waterfall to a diverse range of dining venues and lounges, there is something for every type of passenger on this larger-than-life cruise ship. Learn about them with this guide!
Following an epic naming ceremony, Icon of the Seas set off from Miami, Florida, for its first official voyage on January 27, 2024. As mentioned, not only is Icon of the Seas Royal Caribbean’s largest and most innovative cruise ship, but she is also currently the largest ever built.
While constructing a ship that would redefine the size of a cruise ship was a major component of the planning for Icon of the Seas, the original vision was to build a ship that could become the ultimate family vacation at sea.
This included outfitting the ship with a diverse array of amenities that would appeal to families, adventure seekers, and just about any other type of cruise passenger.
This 20-deck, 248,663 gross-ton cruise ship features 2,805 staterooms and suites and can accommodate up to 5,610 guests at double occupancy. It clearly met and exceeded the original vision.
Icon of the Seas Stats and Amenities
To enhance the sense of wonder that guests experience when they board the ship, it is organized into eight unique “neighborhoods,” each with its own theme, style, dining establishments, entertainment venues, and other amenities.
With so many different areas of the ship to explore, and such a wide range of amenities, Icon of the Seas can easily cater to different types of travelers, from families with young kids to adults seeking luxury and relaxation, there’s something for everyone, which we will explain in further detail below
First, let’s take a quick look at some of these themed neighborhoods to get an idea of what to expect.
Neighborhood Highlights
Here are just a few of the neighborhoods that are exciting the ship’s guests:
Thrill Island
Known as the ship’s adrenaline hot spot, the Thrill Island neighborhood is home to Category 6, the largest water park at sea, with six record-breaking water slides, a zip line, the Crown’s Edge, a fear-inducing skywalk that partially hangs over the edge of the ship.
There’s also the FlowRider surf simulator, a sports court, several dining spots, and much more. Access to the neighborhood is included, but certain amenities, including the Crown’s Edge and FlowRider, come with an extra cost.
Surfside
Surfside Neighborhood
Surfside was designed to be the ultimate “Stay All Day” neighborhood, specifically made for families with young children. There are three unique water experiences, including an adults-only pool featuring The Lime and Coconut bar, several kid-friendly pools, splash pads, an arcade, a carousel, family-focused specialty restaurants, and even Social020, a teen social club.
The AquaDome Neighborhood
The Royal Loft
Not only is the AquaDome one of the ship’s most exciting neighborhoods, but it is also one of its most eye-catching features. This enormous, futuristic glass and steel dome sits at the bow of the ship, offering visitors 360-degree ocean views.
The entire interior has an underwater aquatic theme, and it centers on the AquaTheater, which hosts a variety of dazzling live performances, including high-diving shows like “Pirates vs. Mermaids.”
With an enormous cascading waterfall, themed restaurants like Hooked Seafood, the AquaDome Market, and a private VIP restaurant called the Celebration Table, it is a truly unique area of the ship packed with fun and excitement.
Other Neighborhoods
With eight themed neighborhoods in total, there are another five that passengers will be able to explore, including Chill Island, Central Park, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, and the Suite Neighborhood.
Family Fun
Aerial View of Icon of the Seas
Now that we’ve provided a quick overview of the ship, let’s look at some of the ship’s many amenities, starting with those oriented toward family fun.
Given that Royal Caribbean intended Icon of the Seas to be the ultimate destination for a family-friendly vacation on the water, it’s no surprise that she is packed with family-oriented activities.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main options for family entertainment, which we have divided into two categories: complimentary versus paid amenities.
Complimentary Family Activities
Families can experience these family activities, free of charge.
Category 6 Waterpark
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas During Sea Trials
We have already mentioned the 17,000-square-foot Category 6 Waterpark, but it is worth jumping into in more detail as the biggest and boldest of its kind.
It features six record-breaking waterslides, including Pressure Drop, the cruise industry’s first open free-fall slide; Frightening Bolt, a 46 feet tall swirling waterslide that does a full 360-degree loop; Storm-Chasers, a dual racing slide; Storm Surge, a suspended raft-style slide that allows families of three to glide over the edge of the ship; and finally, Hurricane Hunter, a 425-foot-long slide that allows families of four to ride together. With two family raft slides and four others to enjoy, Category 6 is fun for the whole family.
Plus, all the slides are included, so all guests meeting the height requirements can enjoy them. With pools, loungers, and more, Thrill Island’s Category 6 is one of the ship’s most popular family-friendly attractions.
Splashaway Bay & Baby Bay
Render Courtesy: Royal Caribbean
Designed for young families to enjoy time together, Splashaway Bay is a kid-oriented aqua park with slides, water cannons, waterfalls, and more. With shallow pools, splash pads, and loungers for the parents to supervise in comfort, it’s another fun, safe, and fully included amenity ideal for families with young children.
Surfside Neighborhood
We already touched on the ship’s Surfside Neighborhood, but it’s worth going into more detail since it is one of the top destinations for families with young kids.
Surfside offers child-friendly attractions, including an included carousel, Splashaway Bay, which we covered above, a huge dry playground called Playscape, and even a large infinity pool called the Water’s Edge for parents to enjoy while their children play.
Plus, with five family-friendly places to grab food and drinks and plenty of tables and loungers, it’s easy for families to have a perfect day enjoying Surfside.
Lost Dunes Mini-Golf
Another family-friendly activity is the ocean-themed mini-golf course on Thrill Island. No reservations are required, and the entire course is fully included for all guests.
Adventure Ocean
AO Juniors on Icon of the Seas
Adventure Ocean is an award-winning kids club program Royal Caribbean features on several cruise ships. On Icon of the Seas, this daycare and kid drop-off zone includes a range of activities tailored by age group, from arts and crafts to educational games.
It’s an immersive environment that allows kids to enjoy themselves while their parents have the opportunity to enjoy their vacation their own way. While there’s a fee for overnight stays, access to Adventure Ocean is included for all guests.
Social 020
Speaking of clubs, Social 020 is an included designated teen lounge where older kids can enjoy music, games, and a space to hang out away from their parents.
Royal Caribbean recognized that many teenagers could feel isolated on cruise ships, so they introduced this innovative area so families with teens could enjoy their vacation without anyone feeling left out.
Paid Family Activities
Escape Room
Icon of the Seas also offers some paid activities, ranging from arcade games to a family-friendly escape room.
Surfside Arcade
Although Surfside is included and free for anyone to enter, the games in the Surfside Arcade are not free to play. Most cost between $1 and $3 per play.
Laser Tag
Located in Thrill Island, laser tag is a fun activity for the whole family. This glow-in-the-dark, adrenaline-filled experience is open to guests over the age of 5, and the price per half hour of fun is $10 per guest.
Royal Escape Room
For families looking to test their problem-solving abilities, the Royal Escape Room allows guests to uncover hidden clues, solve puzzles, and break codes to escape. You are given 60 minutes to escape, but it costs $8.99 for kids under 15 and $19.99 per adult.
Dining and Drinks
Swim and Tonic Bar on Icon of the Seas
While the family-friendly, theme park-style amenities on Icon of the Seas are certainly impressive, the vast array of dining options is another area where the ship is in a class of its own.
There are numerous types of restaurants, each serving its own cuisine and flavors, and even Royal Caribbean’s first swim-up bar, Swim & Tonic.
From complimentary venues to specialty dining establishments with additional fees or reserved for suite guests, here’s a basic breakdown of your options.
Complimentary Dining
Icon of the Seas offers a wide range of complimentary dining experiences that are sure to please anyone’s palate.
Icon of the Seas Dining Guide Infographic
The Main Dining Room
As the name implies, this multi-level dining room is a top destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Centered around a giant chandelier and with attentive waiting staff serving multi-course meals, it’s definitely not your typical complimentary dining area.
From international dishes to classic American favorites, this large buffet-style marketplace and café welcomes all passengers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It also offers some incredible views, making it a top destination for guests who prefer trying an assortment of different dishes.
AquaDome Market
AquaDome Market
The first-ever market-style establishment in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet, this unique food hall has five unique food stands, each serving menu items from around the world, including Korean BBQ, Mexican tacos, and Greek power bowls. It also has a dedicated coffee shop called the AquaDome Café.
Located in the ship’s AquaDome, it’s an exciting option that is included for all guests.
El Loco Fresh
A casual establishment serving lunch and dinner dishes inspired by Mexico, including tacos, burritos, and even some Tex-Mex favorites. You can also grab dishes to go so you can enjoy a meal outside in the sunshine.
Park Café
Central Park Neighborhood on Icon of the Seas
This classic deli is located in the Central Park neighborhood and is another included spot that’s great for casual lunches or a quick bite between meals.
Sorrento’s Pizza
A go-to spot for freshly made pizzas, pasta, casual bites, and draft beer. It’s included for all guests and open late into the night.
Surfside Eatery
The Surfside Eatery on Icon of the Seas
A complimentary buffet in the Surfside neighborhood, this is a great spot to fill up on surfside bites after working up an appetite in the aqua park.
Paid and Suite-Only Specialty Restaurants
Looking for something a little more special? You’ll find several paid food options and suite-only eateries on the ship as well.
The Coastal Kitchen
Although it is technically an included establishment, it is exclusively available to suite guests. For those who have booked a suite, this upscale restaurant serves Mediterranean dishes and cocktails.
The Grove
Another option exclusively for suite guests is The Grove, an open-air Mediterranean restaurant located on the suite sun deck. It’s a great place to enjoy a glass of champagne in the sun.
Empire Supper Club
Icon of the Seas Empire Supper Club
A paid upscale restaurant in Central Park is a top location for gourmet American-style cuisine, like steaks and seafood. Pair your meal with some bubbles to truly indulge.
Celebration Table
Groups of up to 12 guests can book this VIP experience. Select your choice of a multi-course meal from the chef’s menu and a signature cocktail, which is always paired with your chosen meal. It’s the perfect destination for those celebrating a special occasion while they’re cruising.
Chops Grille
A classic steakhouse where chefs will grill your selection to your exact preferences. Most main dishes are priced around $30 to $40.
Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
For fresh sushi and a variety of teppanyaki dishes, the enormous menu at this Japanese restaurant is well-worth paying extra for.
Pier 7
Another new addition, this open-air establishment, serves casual bites to more complex surf-and-turf dishes. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you; the food is incredible.
Hooked Seafood
Hooked Seafood
Specializing in New England-style seafood, it’s a casual establishment with great views. Look out of the AquaDome and enjoy lobster rolls, seafood chowder, and raw oysters. Usually priced between $20 and $40 per guest, it’s a great place to treat yourself before a live show.
Playmakers Sports Bar
Playmakers Bar on Icon of the Seas
Like your favorite sports bar on land, Playmakers has pool tables and live sports on the TV. Enjoy pub favorites, draft beer, a glass of scotch or rye, and live music in a casual atmosphere.
Lou’s Jazz n Blues
Sip a classic cocktail, grab a bite to eat, and listen to live music. It’s a perfect date spot for couples looking for somewhere to spend an evening.
Entertainment and Leisure
In addition to the activities aimed towards family fun, there are plenty of other entertainment and leisure options on Icon of the Seas. From free experiences to premium options available for a fee, there’s plenty to do for those seeking some thrills.
Free Entertainment Options
You’ll find plenty of free entertainment onboard, too, including the following options.
The AquaDome Shows
Icon of the Seas AquaTheater Show
We already mentioned the AquaTheater, an included venue offering high-diving performances, acrobats, light shows, and more.
Absolute Zero
A complimentary ice-skating rink that doubles as a venue for on-ice live performances, it’s a fun destination for all guests.
The Royal Theater
Watch Broadway-style performances that are catered to adults, as well as family-friendly productions during the day.
The Music Hall
Watch live music performances, including rock bands, dueling pianos, and DJs. The venue also hosts Spotlight Karaoke for those brave enough to get on stage.
Adrenaline Peak Rock Climbing Wall
Thrill-seekers can scale this wall whenever they want. Although climbing walls are usually something you need to pay extra for, it is surprisingly offered for free to all passengers on Icon of the Seas.
The Sports Court
Sports Court on Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
With rolling itineraries that include drop-in basketball, tennis, pickleball, volleyball, and more, the Sports Court and all sports equipment are fully complimentary.
The Seven Swimming Pools
Pools and Slides on Icon of the Seas
The ship has seven swimming pools that are open to all guests, including the Royal Bay Pool, which is not only the largest pool in the fleet but also the biggest on any cruise ship.
For adults looking to get away from the crowds, the Hideaway Pool is adults-only and is the first suspended infinity pool to ever be featured on a cruise ship.
Paid Leisure Activities
If you’re willing to spend a little for your onboard entertainment, Icon of the Seas has a several options.
FlowRider Surf Simulator
FlowRider may cost $69 per person, but it’s an excellent opportunity to learn how to surf. With private lessons available, it’s a fun activity that is one of the ship’s top attractions.
Crown’s Edge Obstacle Course and Zip Line
Royal Caribbean Logo on Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
This aerial obstacle course sits above Thrill Island and is a unique experience that gets the heart racing. At $89.99 per person, it’s fairly expensive but lots of fun.
The Casino Royal
This fully functional casino on the water is a fun option for those hoping to try their luck. While it is paid, suite guests can enjoy complimentary drinks.
Health, Fitness, and Spa
Guests looking to prioritize wellness can explore several options on Icon of the Seas, from workout facilities to spa treatments; there are both paid and unpaid options to explore.
Complimentary Health & Fitness
For guests who want to maintain their wellness routines while onboard, the Icon of the Seas offers two complimentary spaces to focus on fitness and mental health.
The Fitness Center
This fully equipped gym features cardio machines, spin classes, free weights, a sauna, a steam room, and a huge stretching area. It’s also accessible to all guests.
Paid Leisure Activities
Looking for another way to treat your mind and body while onboard? These paid leisure activities can get your heart pumping or help you wind down.
The Vitality Spa
With services that include massages, facials, and other body treatments, it’s another amazing place to relax and unwind. All guests can access it, but services are paid. Prices range from $100 to $300, depending on the type of service and duration.
The Thermal Suite
Another paid relaxation area, the Thermal Suite features traditional Turkish baths, aromatic steam rooms, saunas, heated loungers, saunas, and more.
Access costs around $20 per guest, but you can purchase a 7-day pass for $60.
Personal Training Sessions
For those looking to use their getaway as an opportunity to set new goals and start fresh, private fitness classes and training sessions are available for a fee. Check at the front desk of the Fitness Center if you are interested.
Technology and Connectivity
Icon of the Seas Docked in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
Beyond the dining opportunities and amenities, Icon of the Seas offers incredible technology to ensure all guests enjoy their vacation.
For starters, Ocean Medallion is a type of wearable technology attached to each guest’s account. It provides hands-free room access, tap-style purchasing, and other personalized services.
There’s also the Royal Caribbean App, which makes it easy to book shows, make reservations, and even book excursions from the convenience of your smart devices.
For those looking to stay connected while they are at sea, the VOOM Wi-Fi and Streaming Packages offer lightning-fast internet access at a cost of around $15.99 per day per guest. Package deals are also available for multiple days and families, while certain suite guests enjoy complimentary internet.
Conclusion
With so many complimentary and paid amenities, it’s almost impossible to be bored on Icon of the Seas. The ship is packed with entertainment and dining options that appeal to all types of guests and age brackets.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or want to indulge in extravagant and varied dining experiences, relax and unwind, or simply explore, Icon of the Seas offers something for everyone.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) program offers some outstanding benefits to loyal cruisers, but it’s no secret that the program has its challenges.
So many frequent travelers have reached the top two tiers, Platinum and Diamond levels of VIFP loyalty status, that it’s commonplace for some of the most desirable benefits to be removed from popular sailings.
Priority boarding and guaranteed Main Dining Room selections are often not available on Carnival Journeys sailings, and toward the end of 2024, the cruise line was even ran out of the highly collectible VIFP pins.
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald has long hinted at upcoming changes to the VIFP program, though no details have yet been confirmed. He is frequently inundated with questions about the update, however, though his answer is always the same.
“With regard to the loyalty program, what updates / changes can we look forward to?”one guest asked just today – mirroring the multiple such questions Heald responds to nearly every day through his Facebook page.
“I’m afraid I don’t have anything to share at this time but as soon as I do have all the information I will, of course do so,”Heald responded.
Despite the fact that Heald has never commented on what the possible changes to the program might be (other than agreeing that changes are necessary), rumors continue to persist about what is coming.
One of the most egregious such rumors is the idea that benefits already awarded to certain tiers are about to be removed, which is one another concerned guest inquired about recently.
“About the priority boarding being taken away from the platinum. Why is that happening to make way for the new level? Can you please explain that I don’t think that’s fair,”the guest asked.
The guest goes on to clarify that they heard about the benefit change from a YouTube video discussing cruise line loyalty.
“[The YouTuber] was on the ship and they actually mentioned the next level of the loyalty thing and that’s how I knew about them taking away priority boarding to platinum people and putting us platinum cruisers back in the regular line,”the guest explained.“I don’t think that’s fair when we already had that privilege.”
Priority embarkation and debarkation, including at ports of call, is one of the most coveted benefits of being a Platinum or Diamond level VIFP guest. This gives travelers more time on the ship, faster access to ports of call, and the ability to debark more smoothly at the end of their sailing.
The idea that this benefit might be removed is of great concern to many, but Heald quickly notes that this is an unsubstantiated rumor only.
“Anything that you have read about the loyalty program from any of these Youtubers is 100% false,”Heald noted.“They do not know, I do not know, so please ignore everything because it’s all speculation or lies.”
While there is much speculation about how the VIFP program might change, it is important to remember that these are ideas only. Carnival Cruise Line has not yet confirmed any details about possible changes to the program or when such changes might take place.
Uproar Has Eerie Similarities to Another Carnival Change
The growing concern about the removal of priority boarding is similar to an uproar a few years ago, when Carnival Cruise Line first introduced the immensely popular Faster to the Fun (FTTF) program.
This program permits guests, regardless of their loyalty status, to purchase an add-on to their cruise vacation that includes some of the benefits awarded to higher level VIFP tiers – including priority boarding and debarkation.
At the time that FTTF was announced, it wasn’t immediately clear that the package would be limited and only available when numbers permit.
Two Carnival Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: denbaim)
The package does have a high price tag – at least $60 and as much as $190 or higher per stateroom, depending on cruise homeport, ship, and departure date. That doesn’t compare, however, to the cumulative cost of multiple cruises that Platinum and Diamond guests have paid to attain that loyalty status.
Still, as the years have passed it has become clear that FTTF does not impinge on VIFP privileges and travelers continue to enjoy their Carnival cruises.
Undoubtedly, whatever changes are made to the VIFP program in the coming weeks and months – whether it is a brand new loyalty tier, changes in priority consideration, new gifts, casino offers, etc. – will please some guests and disappoint others.
All cruisers simply need to remember that cruise lines aren’t required to give any benefits at all. I still don’t get benefits from faithfully paying bills every month – and I don’t even cruise every month! Any loyalty perks should be considered as kind gifts that can be fun for your next cruise vacation.
The third reported outbreak of gastrointestinal illness aboard a cruise ship so far in 2025 – with the year not yet even three weeks old – is impacting Holland America Line’s Volendam on her current sailing.
The oldest ship in Holland America Line’s fleet, Volendam is in the midst of an extensive 21-night voyage that departed Miami, Florida on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
The ship has explored throughout much of the eastern and southern Caribbean along the way, including San Juan, St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, and more.
To be clear, cases are reported as totals for the entire voyage. Not all guests or crew members may be feeling ill simultaneously. Furthermore, since Volendam will not arrive in Fort Lauderdale until Saturday, January 25, additional cases may yet be reported for this outbreak.
The most common symptoms being noted are vomiting and diarrhea, and testing has identified norovirus as the cause. Norovirus has been widespread in recent weeks on land as well, and is easily spread through contaminated surfaces.
To combat the contagion and reduce spread, the crew aboard Volendam quickly increased cleaning and sanitation measures and isolated both guests and crew members reporting symptoms. These are standard responses all cruise ships utilize when such illnesses are reported.
“We initiated enhanced sanitation protocols in conjunction with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to minimize further transmission, including continuous disinfection of the ship,”a statement from Holland America Line to Cruise Hive read.
The 61,241-gross-ton, Rotterdam-class Volendam can welcome 1,432 travelers at double occupancy. She is offering a winter season of longer sailings, including her upcoming 133-night Grand Voyage with a “pole to pole” itinerary that will leave Fort Lauderdale on January 25.
Outbreaks Appear to Be on the Rise
The outbreak aboard Volendam is the first confirmed norovirus outbreak on a cruise ship in 2025. Two outbreaks earlier this month – one aboard Silversea Cruises’ Silver Ray and another aboard Sea Cloud Cruises’ Sea Cloud Spirit – have not yet been conclusively identified.
Of 18 reported cruise ship outbreaks the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated in 2024, 14 were confirmed as norovirus.
This includes each outbreak reported aboard Holland America Line ships throughout the year: Koningsdam in February/March as well as Zuiderdam, Rotterdam, and Eurodam, all in December.
According to the CDC, the disease is generally mild and typically resolves without extensive treatment within just a few days.
CDC Sign (Photo Credit: Tada Images)
The spokesperson from Holland America Line confirmed that the cases onboard Volendam “have been mostly mild and quickly resolved.”
While experienced cruise travelers are familiar with the risk of norovirus or other gastrointestinal illnesses aboard ships, the recent increase of outbreaks can be concerning.
Norovirus is typically more prevalent during the winter months. Since the beginning of December, however, there have been seven norovirus outbreaks reported aboard cruise ships within the CDC’s jurisdiction, as well as at least one outbreak from P&O Cruises in the UK.
For comparison, from the first of December through mid-January in 2023-24, there was just one norovirus outbreak, aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Constellation. During the same time period in 2022-23, there were three norovirus outbreaks, and from 2021-2022, there were none.
Cruise travelers can take simple steps to protect themselves from contracting illnesses during their vacations. The easiest and most effective protection is frequent, thorough handwashing, especially before and after using the restroom or dining. Minimizing touching shared surfaces – railings, elevator buttons, serving utensils, etc. – can also be helpful.
In a surprising move given the strict size and weight restrictions on dogs eligible for the upcoming inaugural “Tails of the Seas” dog-friendly cruise, Cruise Tails has announced that slightly larger dogs may now apply to join the November 2025 voyage.
The initial round of applications, which opened in early December, required that participating dogs (only one per stateroom) be no more than 20 pounds in weight and less than 18 inches in height.
Now, Cruise Tails has reached out to those registered to receive updates with the news that the weight limit has been increased.
Very large breeds are still ineligible for the sailing, but dogs may now weigh up to 28 pounds and still be welcomed aboard. The 18-inch height limit still applies.
“We can’t wait to emBark on this amazing adventure with you and your beloved pet,”the email invitation reads.
No explanation has been given for the increase in the weight limit, though it is described as a search for “a select few dogs” to join the special sailing. All dogs must still be in full compliance with established protocols, including vaccination requirements and health certificates.
The original weight and height limits were set as a very conservative approach to welcoming such a large group – up to 250 – dogs onboard the Margaritaville at Sea Islander cruise ship.
“This starting point eased the legal eagles minds about the dogs jumping overboard,”Cruise Tails’ FAQ reads.“But just to make sure, we agreed on this first cruise to be super conservative.”
Other restrictions such as limiting the overall number of dogs onboard and preserving some human-only spaces (including all restaurants, pools, and the ship’s casino) are intended to ensure the sailing goes off smoothly. This will hopefully make it easier to organize similar sailings in the future.
“Right now, we’re playing it extra safe with our ‘proof of concept’ inaugural voyage, and our rules reflect that cautious approach,”the website states.“After this first cruise, we expect to loosen the leash a bit. We’re working hard to break through the industry’s strict no-pet-dogs rule, so we can open the way for more flexibility in the future.”
Space for the now-slightly-heavier dogs is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Onboard will be plenty of dog-friendly fun, including costume contests, grooming tips, parades, “pet butlers” for each dog, puppy picnics, and more.
The 6-night cruise will depart Port Tampa Bay on November 18, 2025, with visits to Key West, Florida and Progreso and Cozumel in Mexico. The 85,619-gross-ton Margaritaville at Sea Islander can welcome 2,114 passengers at double occupancy, but only 250 staterooms will be hosting dogs on this unique voyage.
Why the Weight Increase?
It is possible the weight limit increase is in response to difficulties in finding enough interested travelers to fill up the available cabins. Some very popular dog breeds, for example, can easily cross the 20-pound limit.
According to the American Kennel Club, the French Bulldog, for example, is currently the #1 most popular dog breed in the country. The breed standard for the French Bulldog’s weight is as high as 28 pounds, and these chonky canines are often close to the upper end of that guideline even when healthy and well cared for.
Dog-Friendly Cruise (Photo Credits: Margaritaville at Sea & Wirestock Creators)
Similarly, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is #11 in national popularity, with an upper weight limit for females at 28 pounds, and 30 pounds for males.
Both these very popular dog breeds are well under the 18-inch height requirement to join the Tails of the Seas cruise. Beagles, dachshunds, and cocker spaniels are other popular dog breeds that easily meet the height requirement but could be over the initial 20-pound weight limit.
Of course, even breeds that should naturally be smaller – such as Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and other popular dogs – can often be overweight and might cross the threshold to be ineligible for the sailing.
Royal Caribbean is once again looking for Caribbean-based artists to paint murals on one of its largest ships, the new-build Star of the Seas, due to launch in August 2025.
The cruise line’s “Artist Discovery Program” was introduced onboard Icon of the Seas, the first in the Icon class, and is now being expanded to Star of the Seas, the second in the class.
Starting January 16, 2025 and continuing through February 15, 2025, artists across the Caribbean can submit applications to participate.
With the goal of providing opportunities to budding artists in the Caribbean, the cruise line will choose from among the applicants and ultimately commission a group of artists to paint large murals in four high-traffic areas of the ship — the embarkation area, the Royal Promenade neighborhood, the Suite Sundeck Lobby, and Suite Sundeck.
Each artist will receive a grant between $20,000 and $100,000-plus to complete their work. The chosen artists will work with the cruise line to create the murals while the ship is being built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland.
“We are excited for this next edition of the Artist Discovery Program and can’t wait to be awestruck by visionary artists across the Caribbean,” said Jay Schneider, chief product innovation officer for Royal Caribbean.
“Last year, our first-ever call to artists received an overwhelming response with more than 140 artists across 25 Caribbean countries submitting pieces that told a unique story and captured the allure of the region,” added Schneider.
The artwork is seen as a way to recognize and celebrate local Caribbean culture while supporting up-and-coming artists.
The program’s debut with Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest ship that launched in January 2024, focused on the culture of the Bahamas.
Three Caribbean-based artists were chosen to create the murals on the massive ship — Angelika Wallace-Whitfield, Bahamas; Phillipe Dodard, Haiti; and Jason Hospedales, Trinidad/Tobago.
Onboard Icon of the Seas, the chosen artists painted nine murals in three areas — the embarkation space at PortMiami, in the Royal Promenade, and on the Suite Sundeck.
The application process for the Star of the Seas project includes sending Royal Caribbean five samples of artwork, an artist statement that describes what inspired the samples, and a resume.
Star of the Seas Artists
The murals will join an art collection that will feature works by other Caribbean artists, with all of the artworks highlighting Caribbean themes.
Winners will have their work seen by many tens of thousands of cruise guests and crew members over the coming years, since Icon-class ships accommodate 5,600 guests in double occupancy (more than 7,000 with all berths filled) and about 2,300 crew members.
Ship to Sail Inaugural Cruise to the Western Caribbean
Star of the Seas is undergoing her final outfitting following her float-out from the shipyard in October 2024. Construction on the mega-ship began in February 2023.
Prior to her handover to the cruise line later this year, the 250,800-gross ton ship will undergo a series of sea trials to test and evaluate operational systems such as propulsion, navigation, and safety.
The ship will be based at Port Canaveral. Her first scheduled cruise departs on August 31, 2025. The 7-night Western Caribbean sailing will call at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Honduras.
Star of the Seas will homeport year-round at the Central Florida port, and sail alternating 7-night Western and Eastern Caribbean cruises. All voyages will call at Perfect Day.
Passengers sailing with Carnival Cruise Line from its homeports in Dover, England; Barcelona, Spain; and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, are being advised to prepare for new electronic visa requirements in the UK and EU, which come with hefty fees.
In a video and Facebook post, the cruise line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald shared the new requirements are now detailed on Carnival Cruise Line’s website.
The new UK ETA Visa, required by all guests, including children, will cost £10, while the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) travel authorization required in 30 European countries, will cost €7.
If traveling between the UK and the EU, passengers will need both visas, costing nearly $20 per person.
“All travelers (as of January 8, 2025) who do not hold a passport to the United Kingdom or Ireland must obtain an electronic visa, known as the UK Travel Authorization, to enter the UK by air or sea,”Heald shared.
Although, at this time, ETIAS is not yet accepting applications. It is expected to be operational six months following the EU’s new automated Entry/Exits System (EES) is launched.
ETIAS will be required in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
However, one ETIAS application is good for entry into all 30 countries for up to 180 days. In the UK, visas don’t expire for 2 years, unless the passport associated with it expires earlier.
Heald said,“Our Chief Communications Officer Chris [Chiames] and his brilliant team will be sending notices to people closer to the cruise.”
Although officially launching on January 8, 2025, the UK began accepting ETA applications for non-European nationals on November 27, 2024, to allow disembarkation in UK ports.
The program was initially prepared to collect applications from European nationals beginning on March 5, 2025. However, that date has been moved up to coincide with non-European passengers without a UK or Ireland passport. Both visas can take up to 3 days to obtain.
Carnival’s European Itineraries
Heald specifically called out Dover, Barcelona, and Rome cruise departures as Carnival Cruise Line will have two ships operating in Europe and the UK in 2025, along with several liners beginning journeys from the region after dry dock in Cadiz, Spain.
Carnival Miracle will arrive in its homeport of Dover on England’s southern coast on May 18, where it will sail 9- and 12-night voyages around the British Isles and Northern Europe until August.
The ship will then reposition to Italy on August 25, 2025, where it will begin offering roundtrip itineraries from Civitavecchia to Greece and Turkey with calls in Naples.
Carnival Legend (Photo Credit: denbaim)
Carnival Legend will also sail from Dover beginning June 7 and enjoy 9- and 12-night journeys to Northern Europe and the Baltic before repositioning to Civitavecchia on September 11.
Carnival Cruise Line has several ships that will leave the Mediterranean from Barcelona on transatlantic voyages in 2025, including Carnival Spirit, which will undergo dry dock from January 30 through March 15.
The vessel will return to the US via Barcelona on March 16.
Carnival Valor, conducting her dry dock on May 10 through June 10, will begin a return to the US with a June 11 cruise from Barcelona, while Mardi Gras, undergoing dry dock from September 28 through October 15, will make hers on October 16.
