Taking “let’s meet up for coffee” to a whole new level, the captains of two Princess Cruises vessels grabbed a coffee together with Sydney Harbor as a picturesque backdrop when the ships were crossing paths Down Under.
Captain Mario Consentino of the Crown Princess and Captain Michele Bartolomei of the Diamond Princess shared a cup of Joe on January 11, 2025, providing a rare photo opportunity that celebrated the cruise line’s adventures in Australia.
The meetup occurred when the 113,561-gross-ton Crown Princess was departing from her homeport of Sydney on a 14-night roundtrip journey to New Zealand, just as the 115,906-gross-ton Diamond Princess was moored at Athol Bay during a call on a 10-night roundtrip sailing from its homeport in Brisbane, Australia.
Up to 2,670 passengers aboard Diamond Princess had departed from Brisbane on January 3, visiting Eden, Australia, and Port Arthur and Hobart, Tasmania, before arriving in Sydney at 7 a.m. for a 12-hour visit.
As Diamond Princess was enjoying a day in Sydney, Crown Princess was departing on its voyage to New Zealand that included Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland.
(It had arrived earlier in the day from a 13-night roundtrip cruise from Fiji that had departed on December 29, 2024.)
The two ships greeted one another with various horns while passengers hit the decks to wave to fellow cruisers. Some shared their own images from their vantage points on social media.
“This was one of the greatest experiences I’ve had while cruising,”said one passenger.“Thank you so much Princess Cruises for organizing this event. I’ll never forget it.”
Guests onboard Crown Princess – up to 3,080 – reported being slightly delayed, which may have been due to the meeting of the captains for a cup of espresso.
“We’re delighted to be in Sydney today with our sister ship, Diamond Princess, in this beautiful city,”said Captain Consentino.
“It’s the first time our ships are together in Sydney and it’s also the first time I’ll see my colleague Diamond Princess’ Captain Bartolomei in almost 10 years,” he continued.
Discover Princess Captain Michele Bartolomei (left) and Crown Princess Captain Mario Consentino (right) meet for coffee in Sydney. (Photo Credit: Princess Cruises)
The ships’ photo op aligned with Crown Princess leaving the White Bay Cruise Terminal and passing the moored Diamond Princess, which wasn’t set to leave the harbor until 7 p.m.
After departing, Diamond Princess sailed back to Brisbane to conclude her voyage on January 13.
Princess Anchors Growth in Australia’s Thriving Cruise Market
Princess Cruises Australia currently operates three ships in Australia, including the 3,560-passenger, 142,714-gross-ton Royal Princess, which was sailing in New Zealand when her sister ships converged.
The two ships showcased the popularity of Australia for cruise lines, with the tourism board anticipating 1.2 million passengers and crew member visits in New South Wales, Australia – including Port Sydney, Port Eden, Port of Newcastle, Port Botany, Port Jackson, and Port Kembla – during its 2024-25 summer season.
Last year, New South Wales celebrated a $4.4-billion cruise industry – its largest to date and a 22% increase over its pre-pandemic highs.
Princess Cruises docks at White Bay Cruise Terminal or the Overseas Passenger Terminal (Circular Quay West) when in Sydney, if not mooring due to congestion.
If you were to ask me the best way to spend Valentine’s Day, I’d recommend going on a cruise, hands-down.
Whether you go with a luxury cruise line, all-inclusive line or just a family-friendly line that offers something for everyone in your crew (including opportunities to get alone for Mom and Dad), a cruise ship’s many amenities, from fine dining to romantic spa treatments, lend themselves well to a Valentine’s Day getaway.
Here’s how I’d recommend you plan the most romantic Valentine’s Day possible.
Planning a romantic Valentine’s Day cruise starts with picking the right itinerary and the right cabin, at the time of booking, as you peruse the variety of cruises available. No matter what cruise line you choose, some itineraries and cabins just lend themselves to romance more than others.
For example, if you decide to head out from Miami on a Caribbean cruise, I’d recommend choosing an itinerary that takes you to some of the smaller, less crowded and more luxurious and intimate islands throughout the region. Personal favorites include St. Barts and St. Lucia.
Cruise Ship in Port (Photo Credit: Elena_Alex_Ferns)
Destinations like these may feel a little less crowded and hectic (and thus less stress-inducing) compared to super-busy cruise ports like San Juan or those in the Bahamas or Mexico, or cruise line’s private islands like Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay.
You’ll also want to consider the best cabin for your itinerary. If you’re going to be spending a good chunk of time in your cabin (it is a romantic trip, after all), consider splurging a bit on a more luxurious cabin.
This doesn’t mean you need to book an expansive penthouse suite, but it might mean upgrading to a stateroom that does come with extra perks and services.
For an upgrade that offers the most value for your dollar, I like booking a stateroom within cruise lines’ exclusive, suite guest-only areas, which often come with access to a private lounge, restaurant, sun deck and sometimes even a pool. Favorites include Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven and MSC Cruises’ Yacht Club.
Even if you don’t book one of these staterooms, though, at least consider a balcony stateroom or similar stateroom with outdoor space.
There’s nothing quite like sitting on your balcony with a cup of coffee right after you’ve woken up, watching the sun come up over the horizon, or stargazing at night with a glass of wine.
2. Book Select Experiences Ahead of Time
Carnival Cruise Line’s Steakhouse (Photo Credit: Jonathan C Wear)
The last thing that you want to happen when you get on your cruise? To find out that all of the activities and experiences that you and your sweetheart had looked forward to most are already booked up for your cruise’s select dates.
Remember — this is a Valentine’s Day cruise. You’re not the only one that’s going to be celebrating something special. Other couples on the cruise are likewise going to be vying for those fine dining reservations and spa treatments. Book whatever activities you have your heart set on, as soon as you can, so you’re not disappointed.
3. Plan a Romantic Cruise that Fits You and Your Significant Other’s Style
Celebrity Cruises Deck (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
One thing to remember when planning a romantic cruise is that romance is not one size fits all. What I might think of as a perfect date night could be a total snooze-fest for you and your significant other.
So, before you rush to book that couple’s massage or chef-led dinner experience, think about what you and your significant other would actually enjoy. Whatever your preferences, you’ll likely find plenty of opportunities for romance on a cruise ship.
If you’re a foodie couple that savors a fine-dining experience, I’d suggest considering a cruise line known for its fine dining, such as Oceania Cruises, with its Jacques Pépin-directed culinary program, or Silversea Cruises.
If a luxury cruise line is out of your budget, I’ve found the fine dining on mainstream cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises to be quite nice, such as at the cruise line’s Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud restaurant, which is featured on Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond.
Maybe you and your significant other are more adrenaline junkies than anything, though, and your idea of romance includes some blood-pumping activities.
Book shore excursions to that effect and choose a cruise ship with plenty of unique on-board features like jaw-dropping waterparks (Royal Caribbean’s newer ships are a good choice for this).
If you do book shore excursions, regardless of the type you book, consider booking private excursions versus group excursions. You’ll appreciate the privacy and personalized attention.
But maybe you just want to stay on the ship the entire time and your preferences are simple; maybe you want to share a beer while you watch the sunset, or hit up the steakhouse.
The point? Plan cruise activities catered to your idea of romance, not mine or any other cruiser’s.
4. Take Advantage of Adults-Only Spaces
Adults-Only Serenity Area (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin / Shutterstock)
If you’re not cruising on an adults-only cruise line like Virgin Voyages or Viking, you may find that the poolside environment isn’t quite romantic.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some fun in the sun with your sweetheart. If you’re looking for a quieter space, try your ship’s adults-only pool or outdoor decks.
On Carnival Cruise Line, that space is the Serenity Retreat. On Royal Caribbean, it’s the Solarium. MSC Cruises likewise has an adults-only solarium. Princess Cruises has its adults-only Sanctuary.
Even Disney Cruise Line has an adults-only space, with its Satellite sun decks. For an adults-only space with a beach club vibe, you’ll find it on Norwegian Cruise Line, with the line’s Posh, Vibe and Spice H20 areas.
Do note that some adults-only areas, like those on Norwegian Cruise Line, may come with an extra admission fee.
5. Check Out the Cruise Line’s Lineup of Valentine’s Day Activities
Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal
As you plan out your cruise itinerary, check out the various Valentine’s Day-related activities that may be on offer as part of the ship’s daily programming.
For example, I’ve been on Carnival sailings in the past that have incorporated Valentine’s Day themes into their daily activities, with options like Valentine’s Day trivia, romantic poetry and love song competitions and romantic movie showings.
These activities can be fun and, better yet, free!
6. Surprise Your Sweetheart With a Special Gift
Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock
While some cruise lines will allow you to have flowers from local florists delivered to your stateroom at your embarkation port, you have other options for surprising your sweetheart with a unique gift, courtesy of your cruise line.
Whatever your chosen cruise, you should be able to order certain room décor and special surprises to be delivered to your stateroom ahead of boarding.
For example, Royal Caribbean will deliver chocolate covered strawberries, bottles of Champagne, chocolate truffles and other romantic gifts to a stateroom or suite, to help cruisers celebrate special occasions ranging from Valentine’s Day to anniversaries to a birthday.
Want to find the most perfect gift but really unsure what your significant other would like? Consider gift certificates to the cruise ship’s spa or salon.
7. Considering Renewing Your Vows
Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal
What could be more romantic than renewing your vows? If it’s been a while since you and your honey said “I do,” consider renewing your vows during your Valentine’s Day cruise.
There are several cruise lines that offer vow renewal packages that come with not just your ceremony, but also extras, bundling together items and services like photography, music, flowers and Champagne. These cruise lines include Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, P&O Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line and more.
Not really one for formal services? If you’d like to mark the occasion in a big way, but without the fanfare of a special event, you might take a look around the ship’s duty-free shops, particularly the jewelry boutiques.
A Valentine’s Day cruise is the perfect time to upgrade your wedding bands or engagement ring.
8. Dress Up For a Special Date Night
Formal Night Photos on Royal Caribbean Cruise (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
Whatever your preferred specific date night activity, look your best. Beyond going to the spa, considering going to the on-ship salon as well. In addition to basic services like haircuts and styling, some also offer waxing, teeth whitening, lash and brow services and more.
Once you’re all spiffed up, break out your favorite date night attire. Even if you’re not going to one of the ship’s fine dining specialty restaurants, I find that more formal attire isn’t necessarily out of place in many ships’ main dining rooms.
If you’re worried about sticking out, attend the main dining room’s “formal night.” Usually occurring once or twice during the cruise, depending on cruise length, the main dining room’s formal night requires a more elegant dress code and usually encompasses a slightly elevated menu to match, from the salads course to the desserts.
Cruise lines with formal nights include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Princess Cruises, and Cunard, and the level of formality differs according to the line you choose.
As a more budget-friendly cruise line, the formal dress code on Carnival Cruise Line is less strict than the dress code on Princess Cruises, where I’ve seen full tuxedos and gowns.
Just note that if you do have your date night in the main dining room, you won’t have the privacy that you’d have in one of the specialty restaurants, as you’ll be seated at a table with other cruisers.
9. Stay in and Order Room Service
Photo Credit: CathyRL / Shutterstock
There’s no need to dress up and go out for date night, though, if your preferred attire is a bathrobe. Kick up your feet and order room service. Better yet, cruise with a line that offers multi-course, in-room dining.
If you’re sailing with a luxury cruise line like Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas or Princess Cruises, you can enjoy high-end dining served right in your suite or on your balcony, for a more private experience that allows you to fully enjoy your upgraded stateroom.
Even if you’re not sailing with a luxury cruise line that offers this service, don’t forget about room service come morning. I’m partial to ordering room service breakfast at least once during a cruise.
It’s the perfect way to kick off the day on a relaxed note (and without fighting the crowds at the breakfast buffet!).
10. Experience the Ship’s Nightlife
Virgin Voyages Party (Photo Credit: AVOXY)
Your romantic date night doesn’t just have to be dinner. Plan to enjoy the ship’s nightlife as well, whether that means heading to a show after dinner or going out to one of the ship’s clubs or music venues.
There’s typically a range of nightlife options on every ship, so you can find something to fit your and your significant others’ preferences. Beyond theater shows and clubs, you can also find comedy sets, film screenings, karaoke and more.
11. Make Sure to Get Lots of Photos
Couple Taking Photo on Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Nazar Skladanyi)
You can work with one of the ship’s professional photographers to get photos of all your favorite moments during your cruise, but this comes with its pros and cons.
The major pro is that you don’t have to even think about it. They show up, take the photos and you just worry about having a great time. The major con is that these professional photos come with an added cost, so you might prefer to bring your own camera.
Whatever you choose, be sure to get lots of photos of every memorable moment. Those photo souvenirs will be the best keepsake that you could give yourself.
12. Don’t Stress Over It
Couple Enjoying Cruise (Photo Credit: ReganP)
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of cruising, it’s that you should prepare and plan for your cruise as much as possible ahead of time — but then once you’re onboard the ship, it’s ideal to focus on enjoying yourself and not on making sure every small detail is 100% perfect.
If you’ve put in the right amount of research and planning, your cruise will be just as relaxing and romantic as you hoped, so settle back and focus on spending time with your loved one.
It’ll be a Valentine’s Day to remember (and you might just find that a Valentine’s Day cruise becomes an annual tradition!).
Social media is often filled with rumors which can spread rapidly and seem to be factual. Reaching out to an authority and properly looking into the background of an issue can often reveal something quite different, however.
Such is the case with a recent rumor surrounding a very popular, award-winning dining venue beloved aboard Carnival cruise ships – Guy’s Burger Joint.
Images of a supposedly “new” breakfast menu have been circulating in recent days. Many eager guests have reached out to Carnival Cruise Line’s official Brand Ambassador, John Heald, about whether or not the menu will be spread across the fleet.
Heald has responded to the inquiries – he answers hundreds of comments, questions, and requests every week on his popular Facebook page – noting that the menu is only offered on one ship at this time.
“I see on social media (questionable source, I know) that Guy’s Burgers is now serving breakfast,”one guest wrote recently.“Great if it’s true! Which ships are doing this, and are there plans and a schedule to roll this out fleetwide?”
This guest rightfully acknowledges that social media resources are not always the most reliable, and notes that the rumor of the breakfast menu may not be true. By asking Heald, they’ve attempted to go to the most reliable source of information about all things Carnival Cruise Line.
Heald does respond, but does not have the news the guest might wish he did.
“Carnival Sunrise is currently the only ship doing this,”Heald noted.“If we had any further ships, I will of course let you know.”
Interestingly, Heald answered this question slightly differently a few days earlier.
“Good morning, John! Does the Jubilee have the new Guy’s Burgers breakfast offerings?”another guest asked.
This guest obviously believes the breakfast options at Guy’s Burger Joint are a new addition to the menu selection. Heald’s answer, however, gives a different impression.
“You know, we tried that, but with so many other breakfast choices it wasn’t very popular so no, at the moment we don’t serve breakfast from there,”Heald explained.
While there is no indication that the breakfast menu will be removed from Carnival Sunrise, it’s clear that it won’t likely be expanded to additional ships.
The breakfast menu includes different burgers topped with fried eggs, maple aioli, hashbrown patties, a French toast bun, turkey breakfast sausage, and more, depending on which burger a guest orders. All breakfast burgers are still served with fries.
Carnival Sunrise is homeported year-round from Miami, Florida, offering diverse itineraries to the Bahamas, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Western Caribbean, depending on departure date.
Could the Menu Change?
Of course, it isn’t unusual for cruise lines to beta test new menus on a single ship or just a few ships to gauge responses and gather feedback before deciding whether or not to roll out changes to the entire fleet.
Because the Guy’s Burger Joint breakfast menu is still available aboard Carnival Sunrise, it is possible the offering is continuing to be considered for expansion, perhaps with tweaks or updates.
It is also possible that it is being kept aboard the ship as a unique offering just for that vessel, similar to the Italian-style burgers with pepperoni and mozzarella only available on Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze.
In the meantime, guests aboard other ships in the Carnival fleet have a wide range of delicious breakfast options to enjoy. These include service in their staterooms, the expansive Lido Marketplace buffet, the popular Seaday Brunch or the whimsical Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast, and various other tasty choices.
As wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Los Angeles County, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is offering assistance to affected passengers and contributing to community relief efforts.
The fires, which have been particularly severe in areas like Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, prompted NCL to take action to support its guests and the wider community during this challenging time.
John Chernesky, senior vice president of North American sales at NCL, expressed his concerns for the victims, noting that he, himself, lives just 5 miles from the Hurst Fire that as of January 11, 2025, is forcing evacuations and destroying properties.
“The fires that have impacted Los Angeles are nothing short of devastating, and all of us at NCL are heartbroken at the loss of life and the destruction that has occurred,” he said.
To support its guests, Chernesky announced that the cruise line is waiving all cancellation penalties for January and February cruises from any location for anyone who resides in areas affected by the fires.
Additionally, NCL is offering a 100 percent future cruise credit (FCC) for the total price of their cruise for passengers who are unable to sail as planned due to the horrific fires.
Typically, FCCs are good up to one year from the date of issue, so guests can rebook a future cruise when it’s more convenient for them to steal away.
To further aid recovery efforts, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, NCL’s parent company, which also operates Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, is donating $50,000 to the Red Cross.
“All of us at NCLH are very proud to be part of an industry that rallies together in times of crisis and need,” said Chernesky. “It’s heartwarming to see the actions being taken at every level, from agencies to individual advisors, to assist those in need.”
Cruise Lines Respond to LA Wildfires
The wildfires spreading quickly across Los Angeles first ignited on January 7, 2025, fanned by the Santa Ana hurricane-force winds with speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.
The Palisades and Eaton fires, which encompass the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena, were among the first reported, causing significant destruction.
As of January 11, the fires have led to at least 11 deaths, destroyed more than 12,300 homes and buildings, and have left over 150,000 thousand residents displaced.
The situation remains critical, with the new Hurst fire erupting near the San Fernando Valley and the Kenneth fire in Bell Canyon.
Efforts to contain the fires are ongoing, with containment levels low. The Palisades Fire is currently only 8 percent contained and the Eaton Fire is only 3 percent contained.
The cruise line, which is based inLos Angeles, is allowing for free cancellation of any of the five cruises scheduled to depart from Los Angeles in January, with a future credit at full price good for one year.
Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles (Photo Credit: Pedro.Fonoff23)
In a statement to Cruise Hive, representatives from Princess Cruises said, “Princess Cruises, Los Angeles’ hometown cruise line, is deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the Palisades and Eaton fires. Our hearts go out to all those affected during this challenging time.”
Carnival Cruise Line, which homeports ships in the nearby Port of Long Beach and, like Princess Cruises, is owned by Carnival Corporation, has not announced any similar offerings for its passengers.
Cruise Hive reached out to Royal Caribbean, which currently homeports Navigator of the Seas in LA, about any offer it may have for those affected by the wildfires but did not receive a response.
Both the Port of Long Beach and LA’s World Cruise Center, just south of the city, remain open, despite the nearby emergency.
Carnival Cruise Line has made an itinerary change to Carnival Firenze on one particular cruise in February 2025 (and February 2026) that may be upsetting to sports fans.
While the ship will still be sailing to the planned ports of call, the day of the port visits has been changed and will now conflict with Super Bowl Sunday on her February 6, 2025 and February 5, 2026 departures.
Booked guests were notified of the change less than a month before the ship’s 2025 departure date. Savvy travelers noted that the change – moving the call on Ensenada, Mexico from Saturday, February 8 to Sunday, February 9 – now means Carnival Firenze will be in port on game day.
“We have made an adjustment to the itinerary for your cruise – changed day of port visit for Ensenada,”the notification read.
No further explanation was offered for why the port visit date has been changed, though any pre-purchased Carnival shore excursions will be moved to the new date if possible. If adjusting tours is not possible, those tours will be cancelled and refunded.
Port congestion is a common reason for such changes, but on both February 8 and February 9, 2025, Carnival Firenze would be docked in Ensenada with just one other vessel. Carnival Radiance is visiting on Saturday, while Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas is visiting on Sunday.
For comparison, Carnival Radiance can welcome 2,984 travelers, while Navigator of the Seas can welcome 3,376 guests. This means that Carnival Firenze – with the largest passenger capacity at 4,208 guests – will now be visiting Ensenada on a day when even more travelers will likely be in port.
The change is the same for Carnival Firenze‘s February 5, 2026 departure. The visit to Ensenada has been moved to Sunday, while Saturday will be a day at sea. For both sailings, the time in the popular Mexican port remains as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Super Bowl begins at 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time. With pre-game specials and analysis beginning hours before, travelers may now have conflicts with shore tours if they had hoped to watch the game onboard.
Admittedly, guests booked on the ship’s 2026 departure still have plenty of time to cancel or change their cruise date if they prefer. This is not necessarily an option for the 2025 departure, as travelers would lose 75% of their cruise fare as a cancellation penalty at this point in time.
Watching the Super Bowl at Sea
Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has confirmed that the Super Bowl will be broadcast onboard Carnival ships. Several guests have inquired about the game, and Heald has been positive about his answers.
“Yes, we will be playing it on the big screens,”he confirmed.“It certainly is a wonderful, wonderful event.”
This gives Carnival guests the unique opportunity to cheer on the biggest sporting event of the year with a passionate, enthusiastic crowd, while at the same time enjoying Carnival’s amazing service and hospitality.
Cruise Passengers On Ship During Port Day (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
If one’s cruise ship is in port that day, however, shore excursions may take up most of the pre-game part of the day, while cleaning up afterward and going to dinner would conflict with gametime.
Many experienced travelers may recommend that sports fans not book a cruise at all over Super Bowl weekend if watching the game is that important. However, being able to watch the game at sea with a group of friends may be exactly what guests had hoped for in booking an itinerary when Super Bowl Sunday is a day at sea.
Cruise lines have the right to adjust ship itineraries at any time and for any reason, without offering compensation to travelers. Unfortunately, this may mean that guests on Carnival Firenze hoping to watch Super Bowl LIX could miss out if they planned to explore Ensenada.
It is always an option for guests to cancel their shore tours, which are fully refundable up to the time of sailing (if tours have been pre-purchased). This could open up the day and permit plenty of time to enjoy Ensenada in the morning while still being ready for kickoff.
A packed schedule of activities is one of the greatest things to enjoy about a cruise, with games, contests, shows, lectures, crafts, and more offering something for everyone.
But who exactly makes that schedule? Carnival Cruise Line has offered a bit of insight into just how complex the process can be.
Official Brand Ambassador John Heald frequently responds to guest inquiries, comments, and questions through his Facebook page, assisting travelers with all types of issues, from dining room seating assignments to ashes scattering ceremonies to celebrating special occasions.
At times, he even offers unique insights into how Carnival Cruise Line operates. This could be from a behind-the-scenes video, as he did recently while explaining how lost items are processed, or his famous “walkies” around the Carnival ships he visits.
Recently, one guest asked about which activities are scheduled onboard different ships, which gave Heald the opportunity to show just who is responsible for different scheduling.
“I’ve noticed how wildly different the schedule has been for each cruise I’ve been on,”the guest explains.“I’m assuming the cruise director creates the schedule, but I wonder what factors go into it.”
The guest goes on to explain some differences they noted on their own recent sailings aboard Carnival Elation under different cruise directors. They even noted that there was the occasional “bored” feeling from what seemed to be a lack of activities.
As a former cruise director himself, Heald is very familiar with how activity schedules are created and approved.
“Well, it’s actually created by the entertainment director [and] the cruise director and then signed off by the hotel director,”Heald explained.“Yes, it is different from ship to ship and from the different classes of ship as well.”
Carnival Cruise Line Cruise Director (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)
It makes perfect sense that both the ship’s entertainment director and the cruise director would need to collaborate to create activity schedules.
The entertainment director is in charge of Playlist Production shows as well as the onboard guest comedians, live music, and any other acts for each sailing, such as magicians, jugglers, or soloists who may be brought onboard for Carnival Journeys cruises.
The cruise director, on the other hand, oversees the Fun Squad and trivia contests, game shows, and top events like the ever-popular Welcome Aboard and Love & Marriage shows, as well as activities such as the Groove for St. Jude fundraiser.
By coordinating their individual scheduling needs, the entertainment director and cruise director can work together to ensure that the most popular events do not cause scheduling conflicts. This way, all guests onboard have the opportunity to enjoy them.
Being Bored on Carnival Cruise Ships
Heald was dismayed, however, to learn that the guest felt bored on occasion.
“It’s very rare that I ever see anybody write to me saying they were bored during the cruise,”he said. “If you’d like to be a little bit more specific about perhaps some of the things that we’re missing and which ship you are on I promise to make sure they will be seen by the right people, as we only ever want you to be having fun.”
It is important to note that even with a full roster of activities to choose from it is possible that no options might appeal to some travelers.
Carnival Cruise Line Deck (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
For example, I myself have been onboard Carnival cruises when a “Friends” trivia, Thriller dance lesson, wine tasting class, Build-a-Bear workshop, and Ladies Pamper Party are all held within the same hour – none of which appeal to me.
This does not mean, however, that these activities are necessarily boring to other guests, simply that it’s up to me to go find something else to enjoy at that time. I might take a stroll around the Lido deck, grab a slice of pizza, read a book in Serenity, or take a swing at mini-golf instead.
Now, if the schedule included a “Game of Thrones” trivia, country line dance class, chocolate tasting class, LEGO building workshop, and burn-calories-without-working-out-or-changing-your-diet party were all held at once, I wouldn’t know which one to pick!
While MSC Cruises may not boast the largest cruise ships in the industry, it still has a nice range of cruise ships of various sizes in its fleet, from the largest MSC World America, at 215,638 gross tons, to the smallest MSC Armonia, at 65,542 gross tons.
If you’re considering taking an MSC Cruises vacation in the near future, and you either want to stay on a big ship with lots of amenities, or you’d prefer a smaller, more intimate ship that focuses on itineraries rather than flashy on-board amenities, here’s everything you need to know, with MSC Cruises’ ships organized by size from largest to smallest.
MSC World America (215,638 GT)
MSC World America at Shipyard (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
Not only is MSC World America the largest cruise vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet, but it’s also the newest ship in the fleet.
The second World-class ship, this ship can hold nearly 7,000 passengers over its 22 decks and 2,614 cabins. The ship is split into seven “districts”: Family Aventura, Aqua Deck, Zen Area, Galleria, The Terraces, The Promenade and the MSC Yacht Club.
The ship, which was built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique with construction starting in October 2022, is pretty similar to the first World-class ship, MSC World Europa.
However, MSC World America takes the World class to new heights with new features such as the first Eataly at sea and new restaurants for MSC Cruises, including Paxos Greek Restaurant, Paxos on the Go, Promenade Bites and The Harbour Bar & Bites.
Entered service: April 2025
Gross tonnage: 215,683
Passenger capacity: 6,762
Length: 1,092 ft.
MSC World Europa (215,683 GT)
MSC World Europa (Photo Credit: meunierd)
Not at all surprisingly, tying for the biggest cruise ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet is the other World-class ship currently sailing the oceans. MSC World Europa, also built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique and with construction starting in 2020, is the same size in gross tons as MSC World America.
However, if we were to rank these cruise ships’ size based on length rather than gross tonnage, MSC World Europa would actually come out on top, as its just a foot longer than its sister ship.
Other size-related standout features on this big ship? There’s the Venom Drop dry slide, the longest dry slide at sea, and the largest waterpark in the fleet.
Entered service: December 2022
Gross tonnage: 215,683
Passenger capacity: 6,762
Length: 1,093 ft.
MSC Euribia (183,500)
MSC Euribia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Studio Porto Sabbia)
Another relatively new ship, MSC Euribia is actually newer than MSC World Europa, but it’s still smaller. A member of the Meraviglia Plus-class and built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique starting in 2021, the ship is quite a bit smaller than MSC World Europa in terms of gross tonnage, but the capacity isn’t far off, with only about a 400-person difference.
This ship boasts some of its own size-related feats. It features the longest LED dome at sea, in the Galleria, and it has five pools that, when all are full, can accommodate a thousand cruisers!
While not as big as Meraviglia Plus-class sister ship MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa still is by no means shabby in the size department. Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2018, the ship can actually fit more passengers than MSC Euribia, even with the small size difference.
MSC Virtuosa has just over 2,400 cabins and suites, and a crew of just over 1,700. It also features the largest shopping area at sea, with the ship’s galleria accommodating 11 art boutiques and more than 250 brands available for purchase.
Entered service: May 2021
Gross tonnage: 181,541
Passenger capacity: 6,334
Length: 1,087 ft.
MSC Grandiosa (181,541 GT)
MSC Grandiosa Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Gabriel S Fernandes)
The first Meraviglia Plus-class ship, MSC Grandiosa is the same size as MSC Virtuosa, and offers the same passenger capacity. The ship was built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique starting in 2018.
Some fun, size-related details regarding this ship? There are five specialty restaurants, 12 total dining venues and 21 bars and lounges, all serving 15,000 meals per day, and eight different types of hot chocolate.
There are 1,137 square meters of retail space, 975 seats in the theater, a 570-square-meter gym and 1,100-square-meter MSC Aurea spa. The kids space measures more than 700 square meters.
Entered service: November 2019
Gross tonnage: 181,541
Passenger capacity: 6,334
Length: 1,087 ft.
MSC Bellissima (171,598 GT)
MSC Bellissima Docked in Valletta (Photo Credit: revers)
The most recent Meraviglia-class ship to debut, MSC Bellissima entered service in 2019 after construction began in 2017 at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.
The ship offers 12 dining venues and just over 2,200 staterooms and suites, and there are 1,595 crew members on board to serve the 5,600-plus passengers that take over the ship when it’s at full capacity.
Entered service: March 2019
Gross tonnage: 171,598
Passenger capacity: 5,655
Length: 1,034 ft.
MSC Meraviglia (171,598 GT)
MSC Meraviglia Cruise Ship in new York (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)
The lead of the Meraviglia class ships, MSC Meraviglia was the sixth-largest cruise ship in the world when it debuted in 2017, following two years of construction at STX Europe.
The ship features over 2,200 staterooms and suites, 19 decks (15 are accessible to passengers), a 5,200-square-foot LED dome in the Galleria, a main pool that measures more than 100 square feet and not one but two Formula 1 simulators. There are nine dining options and, of course, MSC Cruises’ fan-favorite MSC Yacht Club.
This ship is quite a bit newer than some of the larger ships detailed above, but it’s on the smaller side, as it’s a Seaside EVO-class ship. Built by Fincantieri with construction starting in 2019, the ship is outfitted with 11 dining venues, 19 bars and lounges, 13 pools and water features and 2,270 staterooms and suites, 131 of which are MSC Yacht Club suites.
Guests will find 200-plus casino games in the large casino and 300-plus entertainment activities throughout the ship. The ship also boasts the only three-seat Robotron thrill ride on the seas.
MSC Seashore is the same size as MSC Seascape, as the two are relatively close in age and of the same class, the Seaside EVO class.
However, when it launched ahead of MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore gained status as the longest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet at the time. The ship also features more than three acres of outdoor space, 11 dining venues and 19 bars.
The ship was built by Fincantieri, with construction starting in 2019.
The most recent Seaside class ship, MSC Seaview is just a bit smaller than the two Seaside EVO-class ships. Still, that doesn’t mean that this ship doesn’t have anything worth bragging about, size-wise.
The ship offers one of the longest zip lines at sea, and its just over 5,000 passengers are distributed among 2,026 staterooms and suites. The ship has a crew of 1,413 people. The ship was built by Fincantieri in 2017.
Very similar in size and style, MSC Seaside may seem small-ish, but when it debuted in 2017, after construction at Fincantieri took about a year, it was one of the world’s biggest cruise ships.
In fact, it easily fit into the top 15 largest cruise ships at that time. Now, though, it barely fits into the top 40 largest cruise ships in the world.
Entered service: December 2017
Gross tonnage: 153,516
Passenger capacity: 5,079
Length: 1,060 ft.
MSC Preziosa (139,072 GT)
Photo Credit: maudanros / Shutterstock
A Fantasia-class ship built by STX Europe starting in 2010, MSC Preziosa offers 1,751 staterooms and suites, and requires 1,388 crew members.
While this ship is quite a bit smaller than MSC Cruises’ current largest ships, the ship still manages to pack a lot into its small footprint. For example, the ship has one of the longest water slides at sea and it still has fan-favorite features like the MSC Yacht Club.
Entered service: March 2013
Gross tonnage: 139,072
Passenger capacity: 4,345
Length: 1,094 ft.
MSC Divina (139,072 GT)
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
Another STX Europe-built Fantasia-class ship, MSC Divina is the same size as MSC Preziosa. Like its sister ship, MSC Divina manages to squeeze quite a lot of features into its small footprint. There’s the MSC Yacht Club, four pool areas, eight restaurants, 12 bars and lounges and a 22,507-square-foot water park.
The first two Fantasia-class ships were slightly smaller than the last two Fantasia-class ships, as can be seen with the second ship in the class, MSC Splendida.
Again, though, for its time, this ship was remarkable in terms of size. In 2009, it was one of the largest cruise ships owned by a European cruise line. The ship offers 1,637 cabins and suites, including 43 accessible staterooms.
Construction on the ship began in 2007, at STX Europe.
Entered service: July 2009
Gross tonnage: 137,936
Passenger capacity: 4,363
Length: 1,093 ft.
MSC Fantasia (137,936 GT)
Photo Credit: maudanros / Shutterstock.com
The first of the Fantasia class ships, MSC Fantasia, like its immediate predecessor, also made its mark in terms of both size and features.
The ship was the largest in the MSC Cruises fleet in 2008, and it was also the very first ship to introduce the MSC Yacht Club. The ship includes approx 1,600 staterooms and suites, and was built by STX Europe.
Entered service: December 2008
Gross tonnage: 137,936
Passenger capacity: 4,363
Length: 1,093 ft.
MSC Magnifica (95,128 GT)
Photo Credit: Obatala-photography / Shutterstock
Built by STX Europe, MSC Magnifica was the last of the Musica class. With its 13 decks, the ship offers five restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, two outdoor pools, a spa and a casino. There are 1,004 cabins with ocean views and 248 inside cabins. The crew numbers 1,038 individuals.
Entered service: March 2010
Gross tonnage: 95,128
Passenger capacity: 3,223
Length: 964 ft.
MSC Poesia (92,627 GT)
MSC Poesia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: juerginho)
With construction at STX Europe beginning in 2006, MSC Poesia is slightly smaller than Musica-class sister ship MSC Magnifica. The ship offers three pools (two outdoor), four hot tubs, three restaurants and 1,275 staterooms and suites (275 of which are interior and a thousand of which are exterior). There are 987 crew members.
Entered service: April 2008
Gross tonnage: 92,627
Passenger capacity: 3,223
Length: 964 ft.
MSC Orchestra (92,409 GT)
Photo Credit: Vytautas Kielaitis / Shutterstock.com
Even smaller, the second Musica-class ship, MSC Orchestra, was built in 2006 by STX Europe. While it is just a tiny bit smaller than MSC Poesia, though, it can still accommodate the same number of cruisers. The ship has 940 crew members, and 1,275 staterooms and suites, including 17 accessible staterooms for those with disabilities.
Entered service: May 2007
Gross tonnage: 92,409
Passenger capacity: 3,223
Length: 964 ft.
MSC Musica (92,409 GT)
MSC Musica Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: byvalet)
Yet another MSC Cruises ship that’s considered tiny today, MSC Musica made waves for its size when it entered service in 2006. At that time, it was the largest cruise ship MSC Cruises had ever launched (and even today, the ship was recently considered the largest ship to sail from Israel).
Built by STX Europe with construction starting in 2005, MSC Musica is the lead ship in the Musica class. It contains 1,275 staterooms, including 17 accessible cabins. There are 16 decks and 1,014 crew members.
Entered service: July 2006
Gross tonnage: 92,409
Passenger capacity: 3,223
Length: 964 ft.
MSC Opera (65,591 GT)
MSC Opera Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: CeltStudio)
Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2004, MSC Opera is a member of MSC Cruises’ smallest and oldest cruise ship class, the Lirica class. The Lirica-class ship has just over a thousand staterooms (only five of which are accessible) and just over 700 crew members. There are 13 decks.
Entered service: June 2004
Gross tonnage: 65,591
Passenger capacity: 2,658
Length: 902 ft.
MSC Lirica (65,591 GT)
Photo Credit: Mummert-und-Ibold / Shutterstock
The first new-build cruise ship for MSC Cruises, MSC Lirica was built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2002. The 14-deck ship is pretty small in pretty much every way. There are only three dining options, including main dining rooms.
The theater can only hold about 700 people. Some of the bars can only hold about a hundred people. There are fewer than a thousand staterooms and suites. There are fewer than 800 crew members. Still, when the ship was refurbished in 2015, MSC Cruises somehow found space to add a water park.
Entered service: March 2003
Gross tonnage: 65,591
Passenger capacity: 2,648
Length: 902 ft.
MSC Sinfonia (65,591 GT)
MSC Sinfonia (Photo Credit: Roger Utting)
While this ship was built in 2002 at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, it wasn’t originally built for MSC Cruises. Instead, it was built for Festival Cruises, until that now-defunct Greek cruise line declared bankruptcy, and MSC Cruises purchased the ship, renaming it MSC Sinfonia and adding it to its Lirica class.
The ship’s nine decks include just over 350 interior cabins and just over 600 exterior cabins. There are around 700 crew members, three dining options and only a handful of entertainment venues.
Entered service (for MSC Cruises): March 2005
Gross tonnage: 65,591
Passenger capacity: 2,646
Length: 902 ft.
MSC Armonia (65,542 GT)
MSC Armonia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Stefan Lambauer)
Last of all, the Lirica-class ship MSC Armonia is both the smallest and the oldest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, at just slightly smaller than MSC Sinfonia in terms of gross tonnage.
Like MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia was originally a Festival Cruises cruise ship, until MSC Cruises purchased the ship and added it to the fleet. Much like MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia has under a thousand cabins, and only a handful of dining and entertainment options.
Marine wildlife sightings add excitement and adventure to cruise vacations around the world. Just ask guests who sail with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
The UK-based line, which caters to the British market, partners with the ORCA Ocean Conservationist program to monitor and count the world’s dolphin and whale populations.
In 2024, conservationists onboard the cruise line’s three ships have documented more than 9,500 marine animals — much to the delight of the ships’ guests.
The data collection and research that the conservationists perform onboard the cruise ships have real life effects on marine animals, such as establishing protected areas for sea creatures at risk.
“It’s a real privilege to work with ORCA, as we know that for our guests, spotting native wildlife is something that makes a cruise truly unforgettable, while also learning more about the wildlife they spot, and playing a part in capturing important data too,” said James Moss, Cruise Product Manager at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.
Past data collected by the ORCA conservationists have helped to protect important wildlife areas such as the Hebrides and the Bay of Biscay, for example.
In 2024, researchers onboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ ships recorded 9,539 sightings across close to 30,000 miles. The common dolphin was the animal most frequently sighted — 4,367 times.
Other important sightings included 189 humpback whales, 75 beluga whales, 11 orca, and 5 blue whales. Other species sighted were 307 tuna and 16 Cuvier’s beaked whales, which are not often spotted by observers.
The partnership between the cruise line and the conservation group began in 2019. The number of sightings varies. In 2023, close to 3,500 wildlife sightings were recorded, down a bit from 4,400 sightings in 2022.
In 2024, ORCA conservationists were onboard 30 Fred. Olsen voyages.
ORCA Marine Wildlife Sightings From Fred. Olsen Vessels in 2024
In addition to counting marine wildlife, the onboard conservationists interact with guests, offering an educational component and valuable insights into the world of dolphins, whales, and other marine animals.
“Every Fred. Olsen guest who comes and joins our teams out on deck will be helping us in our conservation mission and we can’t wait to work together for another amazing year in 2025,” said Steve Jones, director of fundraising and operations at ORCA.
These 2025 Voyages Will Have ORCA Conservationists Onboard
Cruisers eager to join a Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines sailing and experience the conservationist program firsthand have several options on spring and summer sailings. Among the choices:
The 1,230-guest Balmoral will host ORCA volunteers on her 14-night Easter Escape to Portugal’s Unspoilt Islands cruise, setting sail from Southampton on April 10, 2025. Port calls will include Praia Da Vitoria, Horta, and Funchal, Portugal, and La Coruna, Spain.
A 5-night Scenic Scottish Isles cruise onboard the 1,380-guest Bolette departs from Liverpool, England on May 2, 2025 and explores the Hebridean Islands.
Port visits are scheduled in Portree, Isle of Sky, and Stornoway, Scotland. Scenic cruising is featured in the Small Isles, Scotland, and by Dutchman’s Cap and Fingal’s Cave, Scotland.
The 1,400-guest Borealis will welcome the marine volunteers on her 12-night Whales, Waterfalls and Geysers of Iceland cruise, which departs Dover, England, on July 17, 2025. Key ports in Iceland will include Akureyri, Isafjordur, Reykjavik, and Vetmannaeyjar, Iceland.
The voyage also visits the Faroe Islands and features scenic cruising off Scotland.
When it comes to navigating a ship, speed matters. And, unfortunately, one Norwegian Cruise Line ship is experiencing a technical issue that is impacting its ability to cruise at maximum speeds.
The 145,655-gross-ton Norwegian Breakaway has to adjust its itinerary on its current voyage to make it back to its homeport in Miami on time.
“We are glad you have joined us aboard the beautiful Norwegian Breakaway and hope you have been enjoying the stunning beaches, historic charm, colonial architecture, and tropical beauty of the Southern Caribbean,”said Captain Ashutosh Chandra before delivering the bad news.
Passengers on the vessel were enjoying a sea day during a 9-night sailing in the Caribbean that had departed Miami on January 2, 2025, when they received the news they would be unable to enjoy a full-day call at Norwegian Cruise Line’s private Bahamas destination, Great Stirrup Cay.
However, it’s not just the technical issue that is having an impact. It’s also due to severe weather, including strong winds in the area and around Great Stirrup Cay. As the NCL’s private island can only take guests ashore using a tender boat, rather than a pier, it can have more of an impact on the weather conditions.
“Unfortunately, due to a combination of strong winds, adverse current, and a technical issue that has impacted the speed of our beautiful ship, but does not impact your safety or that of our crew, we are unable to make the speed needed to get to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas,” he continued.
As a result, the 3,903-guest vessel is sailing directly back to Port Miami, turning its January 10 schedule into a sea day.
All shore excursions booked at Great Stirrup Cay were cancelled, with guests receiving full refunds to their onboard accounts. The ship will return to port, as planned, at 7 a.m. on January 11, 2025.
Norwegian Breakaway has a subsequent 9-night roundtrip cruise scheduled to depart at 4 p.m. on January 11 to the same ports of Puerto Plata/Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic; Bridgetown, Barbados; St. Johns, Antigua; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Great Stirrup Cay.
It is unsure at this time if the technical difficulties it is facing will impact that voyage but one passenger aboard the ship shared on social media that the issue had been fixed as of January 10.
“The thrust problem with one of the pods is resolved. Now we are just enjoying another day at sea. Hopefully the next cruise doesn’t experience any issues,”said the guest.
Propulsion Problems Plague Fleet
Norwegian Breakaway, which debuted in 2013, is powered by four large diesel engines that are connected to advanced propulsion systems that include two Azipod units, which are like giant underwater motors.
Together, the equipment designed by ABB of Finland allows the ship to reach a top cruising speed of 22.5 knots, or about 26 miles per hour.
However, about a year after its maiden voyage in New York, the ship was forced to be towed back to port after propulsion issues left it stuck in the Hudson River.
Throughout the years, Norwegian Cruise Line ships have faced a number of propulsion issues, including the 145,655-gross-ton Norwegian Getaway, which was delayed returning to port in New York last March due to an inability to reach maximum cruising speeds.
Norwegian Jade, at 93,500 gross tons, also experienced a non-functioning Azipod during a July 2024 sailing that delayed its return to Port Canaveral by a full day.
The cruise line actually sued the makers of its propulsion systems in 2022, and won. It received $159 million in a suit that claimed ABB purposely mispresented the reliability and safety of the Azipods, which caused its ships to experience failures.
Norwegian Cruise Line introduced two new ships following the lawsuit, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, and will debut its Norwegian Aqua later this year.
