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Royal Caribbean Suite Perks: Is It Worth Upgrading?

Emrys Thakkar
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Royal Caribbean Suite Perks: Is It Worth Upgrading?

Cruise vacations can be a time to spoil yourself, but you also have to consider your budget. When it comes to add-ons and upgrades, Royal Caribbean’s suite perks can be well worth the added costs for guests who seek exclusive amenities, priority access, and extra comforts that can elevate the whole experience.

From priority boarding to luxurious suite amenities and exclusive lounges, Royal Caribbean suite perks can definitely add substantial value, but whether or not they’re worth the extra money depends on your preferences.

In This Article:

Are the Perks Worth the Price? 

Before we get into the perks that come with a Royal Caribbean suite, let’s look at whether or not these perks are worth the added price.

The answer is that it depends. Here are a few factors that play a role.

What Is Your Budget?

For starters, your vacation budget should be one of the main factors. While everyone enjoys spoiling themselves while on vacation, you have to remember that modern cruise ships are packed with exciting amenities and gourmet dining establishments that allow all guests to enjoy a sense of luxury, not just those who have booked the more premium accommodations. 

In other words, only spend what you are comfortable with, as you do not want to blow your budget chasing suite perks you can’t really afford. Remember, prices can vary drastically between cabins and suites, even on a single Royal Caribbean ship.

For example, on Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class ships, like Navigator of the Seas, prices can range from $670 for an inside cabin to over $2,600 for an Owner’s Suite, qualifying you for Star Class. So, in that sense, you’re paying almost $2,000 just to enjoy all of the perks the highest tier of suite guests gain access to.

For some passengers, this could be well worth the added cost; for others, choosing the cabin and having the option to book a second cruise while still saving money makes way more sense. 

For those who are not constrained by a budget and highly value convenience, luxury, exclusivity, and the additional private space that comes with a suite, paying the extra for the perks of a Royal Caribbean suite can more than justify the additional costs. 

Who Are You Traveling With and What Are You Celebrating?

Royal Caribbean Couple on a Cruise
Royal Caribbean Couple on a Cruise (Photo Credit: yanchi1984)

For families traveling with children, groups of friends, or even those celebrating a special occasion, like an anniversary or honeymoon, there are plenty of reasons to pay extra for the improved accommodations, exclusive amenities, and more convenient services, like reserved tables at restaurants. 

From a purely financial standpoint, a lot of the perks you get are about perceived value. Sure, you get lots of freebies that you would otherwise need to pay for, like complimentary Wi-Fi and entry to the Coastal Kitchen with all of its free drinks and food, but a lot of the other perks are more about saving you time and letting you indulge, rather than providing you with valuables.

What Do You Want Out of Your Cruise Vacation?

Ultimately, the decision on whether or not the suite perks are worth the additional costs rests with the individual.

If you seek added comfort and value in a truly elevated experience, Royal Caribbean’s suite upgrade can definitely enhance your cruise vacation, but it is far from necessary to book a suite to enjoy a voyage on a Royal Caribbean vessel. 

It is also worth looking at the specific ship you plan to travel on. Some of the newer and bigger ships, like Quantum of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, or Odyssey of the Seas, have far more private, suite guest-only areas than the smaller vessels, like Radiance of the Seas. 

So, What Is a Suite?

Infinity Suite
Infinity Suite

When traveling on a cruise ship, passengers can book different types of accommodations. Where a cabin is considered the base-level accommodation, a suite is an upgraded type of quarters that offers more space, more luxurious amenities, a higher level of services, and, in some cases, access to restricted areas on the ship. 

In general, booking a suite means that your private space on the ship will have a larger sleeping area, better bed, luxury bathroom amenities, and sometimes even an ocean-view balcony. 

Most cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, offer suites in different categories, ranging from junior suites that provide a little bit of extra space for passengers to incredibly luxurious penthouse-style suites reminiscent of some of the world’s most opulent hotels.

On Royal Caribbean cruise ships, in particular, a suite tends to be more than just more spacious accommodations. This is because booking a suite usually includes access to elevated service levels and additional amenities. Hence, we are talking about Royal Caribbean suite perks! 

Sure, a suite on a Royal Caribbean vessel will also have the same basic advantages over a cabin, like more space, a bigger bed, and usually a better view, but you will also gain access to exclusive benefits compared to a standard stateroom. 

Royal Caribbean divides its suites into different classes, each offering its own benefits depending on the suite category and the price to book it. With that said, all three tiers of the Royal Caribbean’s suite category of accommodations give you access to basic Royal Suite Class benefits. 

The suite program has the slogan “Luxury That’s Anything But Boring,” so you can expect an elevated cruise experience, regardless of which of the three tiers you book. 

Royal Caribbean Suite Class Benefits

While booking any suite class on a Royal Caribbean voyage will unlock a base level of benefits, there are additional perks you will unlock depending on the suite tier you have booked.

While there are numerous subcategories within each tier, suites are generally divided into three tiers on Royal Caribbean ships, each with its own exclusive benefits: 

Sea Class

Royal Caribbean Suite
Royal Caribbean Suite (Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock)

Sea Class suites are considered the entry-level category for suites on Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Compared to booking a junior suite through another cruise line, these suites feature extra space, an improved bed, and enhanced bathroom facilities. Booking a Sea Class Suite will also unlock the following perks: 

  • A stocked Lavazza espresso coffee machine in the room.
  • Access to Sea, Sky, and Star dining establishments (Includes an exclusive restaurant on Spectrum of the Seas).
  • priority reservations to other specialty restaurants.
  • Royal Caribbean plush luxury spa bathrobes (only for use onboard the ship).
  • Luxury pillow top mattress, linen, and extra plush pillows.

Beverages, gratuities, and Wi-Fi are not included with Sea Class Suites. You will also not have access to exclusive lounges. 

Sky Class

Royal Caribbean Grand Suite
Royal Caribbean Grand Suite

These larger suites include Grand Suites and Owner’s Suites. They tend to be larger than Sea Class Suites and usually offer an ocean view, often with a private balcony. In addition to all of the perks you get with a Sea Class Suite, booking a Sky Class Suite also unlocks a variety of additional perks: 

  • Complimentary dedicated concierge service.
  • All-day access to Sea, Sky, and Star dining establishments. This includes the Coastal Kitchen, a complimentary a la carte Mediterranean-style breakfast and lunch restaurant that is exclusively for suite guests.
  • Bottled water upon arrival.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi (Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet and streaming service, which is advertised as the fastest internet available through any cruise line).
  • Flexible boarding times and priority departure procedures.
  • Reserved seating for entertainment venues and live shows (available upon request).
  • Access to private suite lounges. Includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.
  • All-day access to the private suite sun deck (this includes access to The Grove on Icon of the Seas).

With the exception of complimentary cocktails at certain private lounges, beverages are still not included with Sky Class Suites. 

Star Class

Royal Loft Suite
Royal Loft Suite

Star Class is the top-tier option aboard a Royal Caribbean vessel. Currently, these accommodations are only available on Quantum, Icon, and Oasis Class ships.

In addition to all of the perks and upgrades you get with Sea and Sky suites, you get a huge list of exclusive benefits if you shell out for Star Class accommodations, including the following: 

  • Exclusive access to Royal Genie Services, a private assistant that can arrange all of your premium seating for performances, make dining reservations on your behalf, plan celebrations, organize luggage handling, and just about any other requests you may have while enjoying your cruise vacation. Resorts often describe this as a private butler service.
  • Complimentary unlimited dining package with numerous unique menu items available in specialized restaurants.
  • Complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package, which includes all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees and premium cocktails.
  • Complimentary Refreshment Package for guests under the legal drinking age.
  • Still and sparkling water brought to your suite daily.
  • Complimentary minibar stocked daily with Coca-Cola products, water, and some alcoholic beverages.
  • Complimentary gratuities at all establishments.
  • Free and unlimited VOOM internet and streaming.
  • Expedited boarding and departure times and a complimentary luggage valet service.
  • Guaranteed best seats in the house for select entertainment venues, including most live performances.
  • Priority entrance and line pass for most onboard activities and amenities.
  • Complimentary laundry and pressing services available upon request.

These premium perks are in addition to those listed for Sky and Star level suites, and your assigned Royal Genie can even help book shore excursions and other plans to ensure your vacation is as stress-free as possible. Booking any Star loft suite will unlock all of these benefits.

Royal Caribbean Suite Perks

As you can see from looking at the breakdown of the three main suite categories, Royal Caribbean suite perks can range from small room upgrades, like a fully stocked espresso machine, to extremely extravagant privileges, like priority access to certain included restaurants, upgraded seats at live performances, and even fully complimentary food, drinks, and internet. 

To really help you understand how these suite perks can elevate your entire cruise experience, here’s an overview of some of the key perks that suite guests can enjoy: 

Priority Access

Royal Caribbean PortMiami Terminal
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz

Suite guests enjoy priority access across multiple points of the cruise experience, including the following: 

Depending on the suite tier and the category you have booked, this can include a dedicated priority check-in counter at the terminal and priority boarding and departure procedures.

In other words, if you choose to do so, you can take the express path to boarding and departing the ship, saving you time and frustration. Skip the lines and get on and off the ship exactly when you want.

Suite guests can also enjoy a true VIP experience when it comes to enjoying amenities on the ship. From reserved spots in prime seating for live shows to skipping lines for popular amenities, booking a suite can give you access to special privileges and exclusive experiences while on the ship.

Worth Reading: Royal Caribbean The Key – What Are the Benefits?

For those looking to spend some time relaxing by the pool, select ships also offer VIP pool deck seating for suite guests, guaranteeing you get a comfortable spot in a prime location.

Plus, you can enjoy suite lounge access, exclusive sun decks with enhanced privacy, complimentary specialty dining establishments, and more. 

Speaking of dining, guests from all levels of the suite program enjoy extra perks at dining establishments. From Sea Class to Star Class, suite guests will receive priority when booking reservations for specialty dining venues. 

Some restaurants even offer a special seating section for suite guests. Basically, you will be able to eat what you want to eat when you want to eat it, and if you have booked a suite that qualifies as a Star Class Suite, those meals will be entirely complimentary. 

Luxury Amenities

Family Suite on Spectrum of the Seas
Family Suite on Spectrum of the Seas (Photo Credit: Phuong D. Nguyen)

Royal Caribbean’s suites are outfitted with high-end amenities designed to add an even greater sense of luxury and comfort to your vacation.

From upgraded bathroom amenities, like rooms with a rainfall shower and a jacuzzi-style bathtub, to higher quality toiletries, the bathroom inside a suite will far exceed the cramped quarters you get with a standard cabin. 

All types of suites also feature in-room Lavazza coffee machines, so you can start your day with a freshly brewed cup of name-brand coffee in the comfort of one of several Royal Caribbean plush bathrobes hanging in your closet. 

The beds are also enhanced, with premium bedding and pillow-top mattresses standard in all types of suites. Beyond room service, which is also provided to suite guests, those with Star Class Suites can even enjoy a complimentary minibar, which is stocked daily. 

Complimentary Add-Ons

Coastal Kitchen on Harmony of the Seas
Coastal Kitchen on Harmony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean suite guests also enjoy various complimentary services that those in standard staterooms have to pay extra for. For starters, complimentary room service is provided with no delivery charge, so you can relax and enjoy everything your luxury accommodations offer. For those with Star Suite status, a complimentary laundry service can ensure that your clothing is fresh and ready for you to wear. 

Gaining access to private, suite-only restaurants, like the Coastal Kitchen, is also a complimentary add-on that suite guests can enjoy. For those staying in Sky and Star Class Suites, a complimentary VOOM Surf and Stream Package, which would typically cost $17.99 per guest per day, is another value-adding service that comes standard with the room.

Extra-Sweet Suite Extras

Wonder of the Seas Ultimate Family Suite
Ultimate Family Suite – Room 1820 Deck 18 Midship Starboard

If you are staying in one of the more premium suites that would give you Sky or Star status, such as a Crown Loft Suite or the Icon of the Sea’s Ultimate Family Suite, you would also enjoy even more perks and privileges. 

Unlimited access to the Suite Lounge can be a particularly alluring incentive. These luxurious and well-attended private lounges offer guests complimentary cocktails, snacks, and a relaxed atmosphere that can be difficult to find elsewhere on a crowded cruise ship. 

For Star Class guests, the opportunity to enjoy the personalized assistance and attention you get from a dedicated Royal Genie can take all of the stress out of travel.

This personal concierge will handle everything you need. From taking care of your dinner and private breakfast reservations to booking excursions and spa days and making special arrangements on your behalf, this on-demand service is an incredible extra for those who have paid extra for the highest tier of suite.

Our Final Thoughts

As a brand, Royal Caribbean focuses on providing guests with an enhanced experience while they are on board the cruise line’s ships. While this is true for all guests, those who have booked upgraded accommodations can enjoy additional suite perks that offer major advantages in terms of convenience, comfort, and exclusivity.

Read Also: What is Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society?

Ultimately, deciding whether to pay extra for these premium upgrades depends entirely upon your budget and preferences. If you enjoy paying more for a more premium experience, Royal Caribbean suite perks can be well worth the cost.

On the other hand, if you value having a memorable experience at a reasonable price, a standard stateroom can still provide you with everything you need.

MSC Cruises Confirms Generator Room Fire on Upper Deck of Ship

Lissa Poirot
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MSC Cruises Confirms Generator Room Fire on Upper Deck of Ship

Guests on their first night of a 7-night cruise to the Caribbean and the Bahamas experienced a scare when emergency crew began to appear.

Taking to social media, passengers on MSC Cruises’ MSC Seashore reported seeing smoke on the 170,412-gross-ton ship in the late hours of December 8, 2024, while traveling from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the cruise line’s private Ocean Cay resort in the Bahamas.

“Elevators are shut down, some of the boat smells like smoke. Anyone else know anything?” posted one guest on Reddit.

“I was standing right under the smokestack when there were two huge bangs followed by lots of ‘sizzling’ then lots of smoke that smelled exactly like an electrical fire,” posted another guest, who said the fire occurred on Deck 18 Aft.

Additional accounts said the vessel was using generator power and that dining rooms were closed. “The galley does not have complete power. The dining rooms are closed. Internet on board is spotty. Parts were shipped to [Ocean Cay] overnight from the Bahamas and they’re flying a part in. The crew is doing an amazing job.” 

Cruise Hive reached out to MSC Cruises, with the cruise line confirming a small fire had broken out on an upper deck but that it had quickly been contained. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported.

“On the evening of December 8, a small electrical fire was reported in the emergency generator room on an upper deck of the ship and was swiftly extinguished, with no injuries reported,” a spokesperson from the cruise line told Cruise Hive.

“We do not anticipate any changes to the remaining itinerary or upcoming sailings,” the statement continued.

The ship remains in Ocean Cay, as was originally scheduled, and will not depart until noon on December 10, 2024, giving the crew time to make proper repairs.

The itinerary will continue unaffected to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, before returning to Port Canaveral on December 15.

Procedures in Place to Deal With Onboard Fires

Electrical fires can happen when electrical systems fail, overheat, or are not properly maintained. For instance, the constant vibration and movement on a ship can damage or fray wires over time, sparking a fire. 

They can also take place due to power surges, loose wiring connections, or overloaded circuits.

Of course, a fire on a ship is one of the most serious situations you can have at sea. Unlike on land, where emergency services can help put out fires, a ship is self-contained and in the middle of an ocean.

Read Also: Are Cruises Safe? What You Really Need to Know

MSC Seashore at Ocean Cay
MSC Seashore at Ocean Cay (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)

Fires can also spread rapidly in enclosed spaces and, if electrical fires affect navigation systems and other essential operations, a fire could cripple a ship’s ability to function.

This is why vessels like MSC Seashore, which debuted in 2021, are equipped with cameras, smoke and heat detectors, sprinkler systems, fire extinguishers, and fire hoses. 

For MSC Cruises, specifically, the fleet is equipped with a “Hi-Fog high-pressure water mist fire protection system, which suppresses and extinguishes fires by discharging a fine water mist at high velocity.”

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All crew members also undergo Basic Safety Training, which includes basic firefighting, and all ships feature four Fire Patrols trained by and working with onboard Safety Officers.

MSC Cruises’ crew are no strangers to fire, unfortunately. In June 2024, an electrical fire ignited in the laundry room aboard MSC Armonia as it arrived in Venice, Italy, requiring assistance from the local fire brigade. No injuries were reported, and the ship’s itinerary was not affected.

Why I Loved Disney’s Castaway Cay as a Childless Adult

Catie Kovelman
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Why I Loved Disney’s Castaway Cay as a Childless Adult

One of my fondest memories from my childhood was going on a Disney cruise with my parents. I fondly remember spending the day in Castaway Cay – which is located in the Bahamas in the South Abaco district, near Great Abaco Island.

While my parents explored the private island, I spent much of my time in the Scuttle Cove kid’s club – where I vividly remember going on an exciting expedition to hunt for dinosaur bones with the other children. 

Although we were just kids playing with toys in the sand, the cast members – which is the name for all Disney employees – truly brought the story to life in a way that made it feel real and exciting. 

When I took my first Disney Cruise as an adult with my husband in 2022 – which was a 4-night sailing onboard Disney Dream to Nassau, Bahamas, and Castaway Cay – I was curious how the exclusive DCL destination would live up to the expectations I had built in my head from my childhood experience. 

While there were perhaps a few things that could have been improved upon, I was actually pleasantly surprised by how fun a day in Castaway Cay could be for two childless adults.

What I Loved About Castaway Cay

Castaway Cay 5k
Castaway Cay 5k (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman)

First, it’s easy to navigate the pier. Castaway Cay is not a tender port – so you can simply walk on and off the ship. The port is also exclusively used by Disney Cruise Line, so you’re not struggling through crowds of people from other cruise ships. 

Disney also has cast members stationed within the cruise port to offer directions and to capture unique photo ops with the cruise ship from the shores of Castaway Cay – which we definitely took advantage of. 

There are also unique character photo ops around the island, but we did not look for those – although it would have been fun to see their special beach-day costumes in person. 

The highlight of our day was completing the Castaway Cay 5K. This completely free activity is a great source of exercise – which was needed after everything we had been eating onboard – and a great way to see the island.

It was also a moment of victory for me to complete the course – not just because we got cool medals for it and the sense of accomplishment, but also because it marked my comeback after having major ankle surgery almost exactly one year prior. 

It was also a very low-key experience that allowed us to get out of the crowd and go at our own pace. 

Despite how it sounds, the 5K is not operated as a race. You simply follow the signs that mark the course and then check in at the bike rental stand to retrieve your medal once you’re done. 

Speaking of free activities, we absolutely loved Serenity Bay – which was the perfect way to cool off after running (ok, mostly power walking) three miles. 

With medals in hand, we headed to the adults-only area. I’m not sure if we were just extra hot and tired, but the water felt beyond amazing. 

The ocean was calm, warm, and practically see-through – and we enjoyed watching little fish swim around our feet. We also appreciated the calmer, and less busy atmosphere from being surrounded by only cruisers who were 18-years-old or older. 

Disney's Castaway Cay
Disney’s Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)

Read Also: What Are All the Cruise Line Private Islands and Destinations?

But while we could have floated in Serenity Bay forever, we did try out Boat Beach and the family beaches – taking advantage of the float rentals (about $15 per tube at the time) and the AquaTrike ($30 for 30 minutes at the time). 

While you can pre-reserve the floats and excursions if you know for a fact you want them, we were able to take advantage of the rental and activity as a spur of the moment decision on the day of our visit. 

At the end of it all, we were also quite happy about how little our day in Castaway Cay actually cost us. Considering the BBQ lunch is also free (and delicious), and accounting for the light shopping we did, we spent less than $150 on the Bahamian island. 

But while we made it through the port call without breaking the bank, you can certainly spend a pretty penny on the island if you’re travelling with a bigger family, book several of the shore excursions, or opt for more expensive tours or experiences – not to mention the cost of a Disney Cruise in general can be pretty steep. 

Our biggest expense from the day was shopping – and it’s certainly hard to resist temptation as the shops and stands sell souvenirs and handicrafts you won’t find onboard or at other ports of call. However, these magical finds do not come at a discount. 

Potential Drawbacks to Castaway Cay

Enjoying Castaway Cay
Enjoying Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman)

While my husband and I absolutely loved our experience in Castaway Cay, there are a few not-so-great things to think about now that I’m looking back. 

First, keep in mind that there may be long lines for the buffet lunch – which is served at several locations around the island. 

We got lucky and didn’t have to wait because we happened to be next to the buffet in Serenity Bay when lunch service began. However, by the time we made it through our short line, there were people behind us who said they ended up waiting for 10-15 minutes before they made it to the front. 

Similarly, the lines at the tram stops can get pretty long – especially at the beginning and end of the day when there is a rush of guests entering and exiting the island. 

The trams may be worth waiting for if a guest has a disability or injury that makes walking difficult, but we had no trouble walking around the entire island – in addition to completing the Castaway Cay 5k! 

Castaway Cay is only 3.1 miles long and 2.2 miles wide – and we found we could get almost anywhere in about 10 minutes or less. Speaking of lines, some parts of the island do get quite crowded – most notably the family beaches. 

Unsurprisingly, we found the family beaches to be a lot less peaceful – with kids screaming, splashing, and occasionally crashing into us and knocking us off our rented inner tubes. We didn’t hate being in the water there, but we certainly didn’t stay as long as we did in Serenity Bay. 

Read Also: What Are the Best Cruise Lines for Families?

It’s also worth noting that as magical as Disney is, they cannot guarantee perfect weather. 

Even during our port call, the morning started out rather windy – but thankfully, Disney Dream was still able to dock without much issue and the wind subsided by mid-morning. 

Eventually, we didn’t notice the wind at all – aside from when a bigger gust occasionally tried to blow our floats away, which we found funny. 

That said, we met some avid Disney cruisers who said they had visits to Castaway Cay cancelled at the last minute due to weather in the past. 

How You Can Visit Castaway Cay

Visiting Disney's Castaway Cay
Visiting Disney’s Castaway Cay (Photo Credit: Catie Kovelman)

If you want to see what Castaway Cay is like for yourself, all you have to do is book a Disney Cruise that includes the private island on the itinerary – which can be done online, by calling the cruise line, or through a travel agent. 

Aside from Disney Wonder, all in-service Disney ships offer sailings to Castaway Cay at various points during the year – as will Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny when they officially enter service at the end of 2024 and the end of 2025, respectively. 

The private island is even included as part of Disney Treasure’s maiden voyage – which is a 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing embarking from Port Canaveral, Florida, on December 21, 2024. 

Select sailings in 2025 and 2026 onboard Disney Dream also call on both Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point – which is the cruise line’s new private island destination in the Bahamas that recently opened in summer 2024. 

Mexico Decides to Delay New Cruise Tax Fee

Lissa Poirot
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Mexico Decides to Delay New Cruise Tax Fee

Cruise passengers heading to Mexico in early 2025 can breathe a sigh of relief – albeit a short one – as the nation’s government has announced its new Federal Law of Rights tax will be delayed by six months.

The “non-resident” fee, which has been in effect since 1999 but exempted cruise travel, was set to begin charging guests of cruise ships disembarking in Mexican ports $42 (860 Mexican pesos) per person in January 2025.

Following cruise industry uproar, Mexican authorities have now postponed the tax on cruise passengers until July 1, 2025.

The uproar comes largely from the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), which fears the tax will cause a 15 percent drop in cruise calls. It says cruise lines will be forced to alter itineraries to avoid Mexican ports as they appeal to guests who don’t want to pay an additional $168 in fees as a family of four.

The Mexican Association of Cruises (AMANAC) expressed similar concerns, warning of a “progressive drop in arrivals” that would hurt employment and income for various sectors in Mexico, including suppliers, tour operators, and taxis.

“The impact of this tax on Mexican tourist destinations will be disastrous,” it believes.

Additionally, the FCCA says the reduction in cruise traffic will offset the intended tax revenues, significantly harming Mexico’s cruise tourism and the livelihoods of coastal communities.

“We thank the Mexican government for listening to our concerns and proposing a delay in the implementation of the tax that will fall mainly on American citizens,” said the FCCA’s CEO Michele Paige.

She added, “We look forward to the opportunity to continue meaningful dialogue around a balanced solution that protects Mexico’s communities, supports its vibrant tourism industry, and ensures the affordability of cruise travel for our guests.”

Cruise Industry Warns of Financial Fallout

The Federal Law of Rights, Ley Federal de Derechos, outlines various fees and charges for services provided by the federal government, including those related to tourism and immigration.

Historically, cruise ship passengers were exempt from certain immigration fees under this law as they are considered “in transit” travelers who typically remain on board or spend limited time ashore during port calls.

However, on December 3, 2024, the Mexican government dropped a bombshell by revealing it had passed new legislation that would impose the new tax for cruise travelers beginning January 1, 2025. 

“The removal of the in-transit tax exemption – which was provided to our industry over a decade ago for valid reasons that still apply today – was done without our prior input and after the legislation was passed,” said Paige.

“It is ironic that until this law was abruptly announced the industry was looking to grow business in Mexico, and now the opposite will occur,” she continued.

Cruise Pier in Cozumel, Mexico
Cruise Pier in Cozumel, Mexico (Photo Credit: EWY Media)

Industry growth includes the construction of exclusive cruise destinations, such as Royal Caribbean’s new Royal Beach Club Cozumel, set to debut in 2026, and Perfect Day Mexico near Costa Maya, which is scheduled to open in 2027.

At $42 per person, the new tax would make Mexico one of the most expensive cruise destinations globally and 213 percent more expensive than the average Caribbean port.

With over 10 million cruise passengers expected in 2025, Mexico stands to make millions in taxes on cruise guests traveling to popular ports like Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.

However, communities already benefit from ship arrivals. Cruise passengers visiting Mexico in the first four months of 2024 alone were reported to have spent an average of $83.90 each.

Read Also: One of These Mexico Cruise Ports Could Be on Your Itinerary

AMANAC anticipates the loss of passengers and ship calls will equate to less income for communities, “fewer jobs and lower tax revenues for the government.”

The FCCA and AMANAC now have until July 1 to convince the Mexican government not to enforce the tax on guests. If they don’t, all eyes will remain on Mexico’s cruise ports as to whether they’ll be able to maintain their appeal.

Cruise Ship Engine Trouble Strands Passengers in Japan

Lissa Poirot
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Cruise Ship Engine Trouble Strands Passengers in Japan

Passengers who boarded MSC Cruises’ MSC Bellissima on December 6, 2024, woke up the following day to discover they hadn’t left port. Two days later, they were still there and discovered they would not leave.

The 171,598-gross-ton vessel was scheduled to set sail at 7 p.m. on December 6 for a 4-night cruise, but it turns out that navigation and engine problems have prevented its departure. It was slated to be in Ishigaki, Japan, on December 7, but that call needed to be cancelled.

“We should have left yesterday (6th December) at 19:00, but it was reported some engine issues. We went to bed and woke up still in the Port of Naha, with our first port of call cancelled Ishigaki,” shared a passenger of the ship on Reddit.

Later that day, the cruise line sent word to passengers the vessel would remain in the Okinawa port until December 10, when the voyage was expected to end, and that its calls to Keelung, Taiwan, and Miyakojima, Japan, had also been scrapped.

In a statement to Cruise Hive, MSC Cruises said:

“MSC Bellissima remains in the port of Naha, Japan while the necessary maintenance work is completed to enable the ship to continue with the planned cruises. We have chartered aircraft and booked seats on commercial flights to help guests fly back home. We are doing everything we can to ensure that the guests on board still have an enjoyable time on the ship.“

Poor weather conditions in Naha caused a high wave advisory that remains in effect until 12 a.m. on December 10. The good news is that MSC has confirmed that repairs are complete.

Read Also: How You Can Relax and De-Stress on a Cruise

Although Japanese passengers have been able to disembark, local media reports approximately 1,880 Taiwanese guests remain aboard the ship. MSC Cruises is working with Japanese authorities to allow guests to go ashore on December 9.

Passengers who disembark on the 9th will be able to make return travel arrangements. The cruise line also indicated it has arranged flights to help everyone get back home.

“We are actively discussing the plan to arrange a plane pick-up to Keeling. The company’s passenger service team will contact you to provide further details,” stated a letter to guests from MSC Cruises.

Full Refunds and Vouchers Provided

While passengers stuck on MSC Bellissima have been able to spend their time on the ship enjoying its amenities, including numerous bars, lounges, and dining venues, MSC Cruises has offered 100 percent refunds to all guests for the unforeseen cancellation. This includes refunds for all missed excursions booked through the cruise line.

MSC Bellissima Cruise Ship in Japan
MSC Bellissima Cruise Ship in Japan (Photo Credit: Princess_Anmitsu)

In addition to the refund, guests will also receive a future voyage voucher valued at 50 percent of the cruise fare originally paid. This voucher is for the first and second guests in each cabin. Third and fourth guests will receive a voucher valued at $75 per person.

Additionally, passengers in need of transportation within Japan, be it air or train, were offered up to $200 per person compensation, while those overseas were granted up to $400 per person.

Guests are advised to contact their travel advisor or booking agency to facilitate the refunds and get assistance on voucher redemption and additional questions.

MSC Bellissima has not had a history of engine troubles in the past. In fact, the vessel has been voted Asia’s Best Cruise Ship for two consecutive years.

The cruise line’s MSC Seascape, however, did experience engine failure within a month of its debut in late 2022. By January 2023, an issue with engine software forced the vessel to abort a call in Jamaica, with three of four engines down due to the malfunction.

Hallway Floods During Royal Caribbean Cruise, Guests Moved

Lissa Poirot
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Hallway Floods During Royal Caribbean Cruise, Guests Moved

“And why is the carpet all wet, Todd?” became the joke of the holiday season for passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas as they witnessed an unexpected flood on Forward Deck 10 during a recent cruise.

The reason, however, wasn’t so funny, as water gushed and pooled on the floor following a water leak taking place the day after the 5,496-passenger capacity ship had departed from PortMiami on a 3-night cruise to the Bahamas on December 6, 2024.

A post by joshuaofrichardson on TikTok showed water pouring from the ceiling panels and overhead lights, pooling around doors to staterooms. 

The same poster followed up once the leak was contained by the crew, saying, “Pipe stopped, leak being fixed, and people moved right away to other rooms. Royal Caribbean does things right when nature rumbles.”

Another passenger on the ship said they didn’t even know there was a leak and that it was not affecting their cruise, writing, “I’m on this ship right now and didn’t experience this. It must be below us.”

@joshuaofrichardson

meanwhile on royal Carribean allure, who ordered the hallway sauna? #bustedpipes #royalcarribean #fyp #now #trending #cruise #cruising #vacations #waterfall #hottub #sauna

♬ original sound – Joshua Esquenazi

Comments on the video included surprise that the cruise line was able to relocate so many passengers to other rooms, indicating the 225,282-gross-ton ship was not sold out as it headed to Nassau and Royal Caribbean’s private destination, Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

The flood did not affect the ship’s itinerary, which continued without delay and will return to Miami on December 9, 2024. Royal Caribbean did not comment on the incident.

Aging Allure of the Seas Infrastructure May Get Overhaul

The flooding may be a sign the nearly 15-year-old Allure of the Seas is in need of an upgrade. Debuting as Royal Caribbean’s second Oasis-Class ship in 2009, the vessel is already scheduled for renovations beginning in mid-February 2025.

In fact, the aging ship was originally meant to undergo $100-million renovations in 2020 until the pandemic delayed its dry dock. Now, the Allure of the Seas is meant to spend nearly two months undergoing a refit in line with the Royal Amplified renovations taking place across Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Read Also: What Do Cruise Ships Do with Sewage and Waste?

It just so happens that the vessel is first enjoying one last brief winter season in the Caribbean and the Bahamas from Miami, with 3-, 4-, and 7-day voyages through February 10, 2025. The vessel will then embark on a transatlantic repositioning voyage to Spain to begin its upgrades, arriving in Barcelona on February 22, 2025.

Allure of the Seas Hallway Flood
Allure of the Seas Hallway Flood (Credit: @joshuaofrichardson)

The refit will introduce new dining options, bars, venues, and accommodations, including the addition of Ultimate Panoramic Suites above the ship’s bridge.

Upgrades will also include the addition of the 10-story dry slide, the Ultimate Abyss, more than 35 dining and drinking venues, resort-style pools, fun like laser tag and an escape room, new adults-only spaces and kids’ clubs, and waterslides.

No doubt, the dry dock will also include an opportunity to give the pipes a once-over to make sure leaks and bursts like this one don’t take place again.

Although pipe bursts and plumbing issues on ships occur now and then, like on Voyager of the Seas in February 2024 and again in August 2024, these situations also happen on other cruise lines. The famous Ultimate World Cruises on Serenade of the Seas in early 2024 also had to deal with some flooding issues onboard.

Additionally, there have been a number of freak accidents, like when Harmony of the Seas’ swimming pool overflowed in January 2023, creating a six-story waterfall effect. More recently, the sprinklers accidentally went off on the promenade of two different vessels, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas.

P&O Cruises Ship Remains Docked Due to Rough Weather

Melissa Mayntz
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P&O Cruises Ship Remains Docked Due to Rough Weather

Early winter storms can be brutal in northern Europe, and make for challenging conditions for cruise vacations. Instead of sailing into such weather, P&O Cruises’ Iona is remaining docked in Southampton for longer than anticipated following her early arrival on Friday evening ahead of the worst of Storm Darragh.

The ship had been scheduled to depart Southampton and navigate to the English Channel in the late afternoon on Saturday, December 7, 2024. Instead, the vessel is remaining securely docked until conditions improve.

Guests who boarded the 184,089-gross-ton, Excel class vessel – one of the largest ever built for the British cruise market – were informed of the delayed departure.

The ship’s captain advised that the earliest departure would be 10 p.m. on Sunday night, though it is possible that Iona may remain docked until Monday morning if conditions don’t improve.

As of 11 p.m. on Saturday night, the ship was still firmly docked, and local winds were recorded at 20 knots (23 miles per hour) close to the cruise terminal. In the English Channel along the ship’s route, winds were as high as 35 knots (40 mph).

With a delay of this magnitude, itinerary changes will be necessary for Iona‘s 7-night voyage. The first port of call was to have been Hamburg, Germany on Monday, December 9, but the ship will be unable to reach that port on schedule.

The remaining calls to Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, and Le Havre (Paris) may also require adjustment depending on when the ship is able to set sail and what speed she is able to make for her voyage.

Above all, the safety of Iona and all aboard her is the first priority, and cruise lines always make delay, adjustment, and cancellation decisions based on safety. Iona can welcome 5,206 guests aboard for each sailing and is also home to approximately 1,700 international crew members.

To be clear, none of Iona‘s operational systems are impacted in any way by this delay. In fact, guests onboard are enjoying entertainment and activities just as if the ship were sailing as planned.

P&O Iona Cruise Ship
P&O Iona Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: P.Cartwright)

“We are closely monitoring the weather across the UK this weekend. We have many festive activities and entertainment planned and can’t wait to welcome you on board,” the cruise line said to guests with the delay notification.

Iona is scheduled to return to Southampton on Saturday, December 14, and there should be no adjustment to her expected debarkation at that time. Furthermore, there are no anticipated changes to the next sailing, a 14-night Christmas cruise to the Canary Islands.

Other Recent Weather Difficulties

Also arriving early to Southampton on Friday evening to avoid Storm Darragh was Saga Cruises’ Spirit of Adventure, which had embarked earlier that day from nearby Portsmouth but took shelter in Southampton.

Read Also: The 10 Roughest Seas in the World for Cruise Ships

Spirit of Adventure is now sailing a 30-night Caribbean holiday sailing, but may make some early itinerary changes to avoid the worst weather.

These two ships are not the only vessels recently to have had to contend with foul weather. Just days ago, Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambition remained docked at the Port of Tilbury for the entirety of her planned 3-day cruise due to the severity of Storm Bert.

Winter storms are accelerating just as the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season has ended with a higher number of storms, on average, than a typical year, including several that had dramatic impacts on Caribbean and Mexico cruises.

Experienced cruise travelers will always be aware of weather forecasts that might influence their sailings, and will be flexible with their travel plans when poor weather might interfere.

What Is a Lido Deck on a Cruise Ship?

Emrys Thakkar
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What Is a Lido Deck on a Cruise Ship?

Derived from the Italian “lido,” referring to a pool or beach, a cruise ship’s lido deck (pronounced “lee-doh”) is where you’ll find the ship’s main pool and sundecks, but often so much more. A prominent feature for most cruise lines, the lido deck can also be home to buffets, restaurants, bars, outdoor activities and other features.

Here’s what you need to know.

In This Article:

What’s on the Lido Deck? 

While pools and sun decks with lounge chairs are the very basic features on a lido deck, what exactly you’ll find on a ship’s lido deck will depend on both the cruise line and individual cruise ship. 

Other popular features and attractions you might find on your ship’s lido deck include:

  • Water slides
  • Hot tubs 
  • Dining options (particularly the ship’s buffet)
  • Poolside bars
  • Amenities such as showers and restrooms
  • A spa 
  • Retractable roofs for use in poor weather

As an example, on Carnival Celebration, the lido deck is technically deck 16. Here, you’ll find two pools, plus dining and drinking options, including BlueIguana Cantina, Lido Marketplace (the buffet), RedFrog Tiki Bar, the Seafood Shack, and Street Eats. You’ll also find a handful of staterooms. 

On Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas, the lido deck isn’t called the lido deck (that’s the case on all Royal Caribbean cruise ships), but it could still be considered deck 11, where you’ll find the pools and buffet.

Beyond the main pool, sports pool and Windjammer Café (the buffet), this deck also contains multiple whirlpools, a handful of suites, the solarium, part of the fitness center, the Splashaway Bay water area for children, The Lime & Coconut bar, El Loco Fresh, Chops Grille, The Plaza Bar and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen.

Celebrity Cruises calls its lido decks its resort decks. On Celebrity Edge, the resort deck on deck 14 houses a terraced pool and sundeck, lap pool, pool bar, cabanas, the solarium, the rooftop garden and a handful of dining and drinking options, like Oceanview Café and Il Secondo Bacio. 

More generally, most cruise ships use their lido decks as a hub of activity, so you can expect a lot of events happening here. For example, deck parties often occur on the lido deck, and you can usually find some daily programming occurring, from movies in the pool to crew member-led contests and games.

Should You Book a Stateroom on the Lido Deck?

Carnival Cruise Line Cabin
Carnival Cruise Line Cabin (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)

As you probably noticed above, on some cruise ships, there are some staterooms and suites on the Lido deck. These staterooms come with their pros and cons. 

The pros to booking a stateroom on the lido deck include being close to all the action, as well as having a higher position up on the ship, giving you better overall views (this is why you’ll sometimes find suites on the lido deck, taking advantage of the height).

Read Also: What Are the Best Rooms on a Cruise Ship?

The cons, though, include more noise and foot traffic. While lido deck staterooms are set apart from the main public attractions, you’ll still be exposed to all that activity to some degree. Don’t expect a very quiet deck.

Additionally, the height of these cabins can be a problem for those who suffer from seasickness. The general rule is that seasickness can be lessened by staying toward the middle of the ship, where the ship’s motion is less noticeable. 

Where to Find Your Cruise Ship’s Lido Deck

Elevators on Carnival Cruise Ship
Elevators on Carnival Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)

Some cruise lines, like Carnival Cruise Line, explicitly call their lido deck just that, on a ship’s deck plan. However, other cruise lines don’t use this terminology. Instead, the lido deck is just synonymous with the cruise line’s top deck or pool deck.

So, if you want to find the lido deck on your cruise ship, head upward. You’ll know you’re there when you see, most importantly, the main pool.

What to Do on the Lido Deck

Carnival Cruise Line Lido Deck
Carnival Cruise Line Lido Deck (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)

On most cruises, you don’t even really need to go out of your way to have fun on the lido deck. It’ll naturally happen over the course of your cruise, so long as you’re not staying holed up in your stateroom the entire time. 

However, you should definitely try to make plans to specifically do a few things on the lido deck.

Spend an Afternoon by the Pool

Lounging by the main pool is a required experience for any new cruiser. Whether you go during a sea day (though note it’ll be more crowded then) or come back to the ship early after exploring port and then head to the pool, the main pool is a fun, lively spot you’ll want to enjoy. 

Grab a Bite at the Buffet 

Even if you’re not a buffet person on land, a cruise ship buffet may just win you over. Outfitted with just about every food you could want and with much longer opening hours than some other cruise ship restaurants, the buffet is a favorite with avid cruisers. Plus, it’s free!

Attend a Deck Party

Carnival Panorama Deck Party
Carnival Panorama Deck Party (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)

Deck parties occur throughout your sailing, with most cruise lines hosting a sailaway party as soon as the cruise ship departs on embarkation day, and then other, themed parties throughout the cruise.

Every event, though, is typically high-energy and full of fun, with flowing drinks, live music, DJs and more. Attend at least the sailaway party, which can really set a fun tone for your cruise. 

What Not to Do on the Lido Deck  

There are also a few things you should not do on the lido deck. Even though this area is one of the more laid-back, casual areas of the ship, there are still some rules.

Don’t Let the Kids Run Wild

Keep an eye on the kiddos while you’re on the lido deck. Yes, there’s plenty of fun to be had, but there are also potential hazards. Children should not be running around the pool area or near the side of the ship. You also want to ensure they’re not disturbing other passengers with excessive noise.

Don’t Set up Camp by the Pool

Chair Hog Carnival Enforcement
Chair Hog Carnival Enforcement

Yes, spend time by the main pool. Don’t, however, set up camp like you own the place. These guests are known as chair hogs. Carnival Cruise Line actually upped its efforts to clamp down on this lido deck practice.

Most cruise lines frown on reserving deck chairs via setting a towel, flip-flops or beach bags on the chair, and they definitely frown on disruptive actions like bringing your own music via a portable speaker. (In fact, you may find that some cruise lines don’t even allow you to bring portable speakers on board!)

Don’t Disrespect Adults-Only and Kids-Only Spaces

The great thing about a cruise vacation is that, with most cruise lines, the experience will appeal to everyone in the family. There’s plenty for kids to do and plenty for adults to enjoy as well.

Worth Reading: Why Do Cruise Ships Use Port and Starboard Instead of Left and Right?

This is in part thanks to cruise ships offering separate spaces that are exclusively for kids and exclusively for adults. As such, don’t muddy the waters by bringing kids into adults-only spaces on the lido deck (like the solarium) and don’t crowd the kid-friendly spaces like splash pads with older children and adults.

Amsterdam Receives First Green Globe Certification

Lissa Poirot
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Amsterdam Receives First Green Globe Certification

One of Europe’s most-visited cruise ports has become the first cruise terminal in the world to receive Green Globe certification, complying with more than 300 sustainable tourism standards.

Cruise Port Amsterdam’s terminal, which welcomes more than 150 cruise ship calls and 300,0000 passengers each year, was awarded the certification for its sustainability initiatives in energy, water, waste, procurement, “green office” operations, and carbon reduction efforts.

“We are very proud and pleased that we are certified as the first cruise terminal worldwide,” said Esther Lebbink, office manager the port. 

“A combined venue for cruise and events faces significant environmental challenges, but with the Green Globe certification program, Cruise Port Amsterdam is committed to doing business sustainably,” she continued.

The terminal’s ongoing sustainability measures include reusing materials during renovations, such as repurposing windows from a demolished section of the concourse to provide natural light to the existing terminal.

In 2024, the terminal also increased its recycling rate to 83.5 percent and expects to reach 85 percent in 2025.

The terminal is also preparing for the launch of shore power in 2025, which will allow docked ships to connect to onshore electricity grids instead of relying on engine-generated power, reducing emissions.

Currently, shore power is operational for river cruise vessels, and with the full installation, the port will require all cruise ships to utilize shore power systems by 2030, ahead of the City of Amsterdam’s goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050.

Read Also: The Cruise Industry’s Pursuit of Carbon Neutrality by 2050

Additionally, 2025 goals include the expansion of electric vehicle charging stations from 2 to 10, converting half of its forklift fleet to electric models, adding 10 segregated waste bins, and developing a dashboard for tracking energy and water consumption.

Beyond its environmental focus, the terminal located on the southern banks of the River IJ engages with the local community through clean-up campaigns, educational site visits, and charitable events.

Amsterdam’s Sustainability Push and Protests

The recognition comes at a good time for the port, which has received a fair share of turmoil in recent months. 

The port has been a focal point for climate protests by the environmental group Extinction Rebellion. Activists from the organization disrupted port operations during the summer months, forcing some vessels to relocate to different ports and delaying multiple cruise ship arrivals, including Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas.

At the time, Extinction Rebellion called for “an immediate termination of the cruise industry due to the urgent and rapidly escalating climate and environmental crisis.”

It claims studies show cruise ships are a significant source of pollution for air, water, and land.

NCL Cruise Ship in Amsterdam
NCL Cruise Ship in Amsterdam (Photo Credit: Bert e Boer / Shutterstock)

The Amsterdam City Council is in agreement and called for a ban of cruise ships docking in the city center, citing concerns over pollution and the strain large vessels place on local infrastructure. 

By 2026, the city will cap the number of cruise ships allowed to enter to 100 – down from the current allowance of up to 190 – and enforce a complete ban by 2035. The city also will reduce river cruise visits by half by 2028.

The city is also requiring all ships docking at Cruise Port Amsterdam to utilize shore power by 2027, further spurring the port’s own initiatives.

The Port of Rotterdam, located an hour south of Amsterdam, expects to accommodate 40 additional cruises who are relocating due to the changes. This port will be equipped with shore power by 2030.

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