Princess Cruises appears to have significantly increased the price of bottled water overnight, with no announcement, catching passengers on upcoming voyages off guard.
Passengers who pre-purchased water as recently as September 17, 2024, paid $7 per case. However, those attempting to purchase water on September 18 and after reported the cost had jumped to $24 for both domestic and international sailings.
Canadian passengers experienced a similar spike, with prices jumping from 10 CAD to 32.40 CAD per case. The new price is showing in the “Manage Booking” section of Princess Cruises.
The price hike has sparked outrage online, with many questioning the reasoning behind such a dramatic increase. However, the fact remains that Princess Cruises’ terms and conditions highlight this change can happen at any time, without warning.
“Pricing is subject to change without notice, and for vessels designated in a foreign currency, packages purchased in advance may vary from onboard pricing due to timing and currency fluctuations,”reads Princess Cruises’ online terms policy.
Additionally, the terms read, “Princess Cruises may modify, amend or update the terms and conditions of our beverage packages at any time with or without notice to guests. The terms and conditions as published on Princess.com on the date of sailing will apply.”
Princess Cruises has not issued an official statement addressing the price change.
Price Surge Outpaces Sister Cruise Line
In April 2024, Princess Cruises’ sister line, Carnival Cruise Line, also quietly raised the price of bottled water, surprising many of its loyal passengers. Although it was the third increase in 17 months, the cost of a case of water didn’t reach the expense Princess appears to be charging.
Initially, a 12-pack of water on a Carnival ship was $4.95, or about $0.42 per 16-ounce bottle. By November 2022, the price doubled to $9.95, or $0.83 per bottle. In December 2023, the price rose again to $11.95 per case, just shy of $1 per bottle. Today, a 12-pack is $14.95, which equates to $1.25 per bottle.
Princess Cruises’ $24 price, however, puts individual waters at $2 per bottle, which some passengers say is the current onboard price. It has led them to wonder if prices during their sail will also reflect an increase.
While the sudden jump in prices has upset passengers, those who have purchased the Plus or Premier Beverage Packages from Princess Cruises are unaffected by the increase. These packages include unlimited bottled water, among a variety of other drinks.
The Plus package, which is $60 per day (not including an 18 percent gratuities fee), includes unlimited (up to $15 each) cocktails, wine by the glass, beer, an assortment of specialty coffees, fountain sodas, bottled water, fresh juices, and smoothies.
(Photo Credit: Angela Bragato)
The Premier Beverage Package includes everything in the Plus Beverage Package and increases the value to up to $20 each while adding top-shelf spirits and reserve wines. This package is $90 per day and also does not include gratuities.
The package was overhauled in August 2024 with a $10 daily price increase. But, the Premier package also included unlimited specialty dining and MedallionNet Max Wi-Fi to justify the expense.
Although Princess Cruises’ new price for pre-purchased bottled water is a big jump from its original pricing, it’s still less than some other major cruise lines. Royal Caribbean, for example, charges $39, or $3.25 per bottle, for its case.
That said, all cruise lines provide guests with free tap water, which can be used to fill water bottles. Consider packing empty water bottles and filling them during your voyage to avoid the extra costs.
As more and more passengers use cruise line apps to plan their daily activities and stay updated with everything onboard their ships, digital notifications and updates are very helpful for not missing out on anything.
Now, Carnival Cruise Line will be offer an exclusive invite as a digital reminder for top tier guests in the Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty program.
The invite will be to the popular Diamond and Platinum Party, an event offered for these top level guests on all cruises of five nights or longer.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, announced the new digital reminder via his most recent live video stream, a regular feature he offers to connect with his more than 585,000 Facebook followers.
First of all, Heald does note that the paper invitation to the special event is not being discontinued and will still be delivered to guests’ staterooms.
“Currently you get a paper invitation that comes on your bed the night before, and that will continue,”Heald confirmed.
“But, as we do more and more with the App, which we are certainly going to be doing in the coming weeks and months, … you will receive an electronic reminder, a thing that goes in your planner on the App, you’ll get an e-reminder.”
Heald noted that the new e-reminders are beginning across the Carnival fleet as of this weekend, September 20, 2024. It is possible, however, that the rollout of the new feature will not be glitch-free, as few technology upgrades ever go off without a hitch.
Again, however, the paper invitations will still be delivered to Platinum and Diamond guests’ staterooms with the time and location of the event. At this time, there is no plan to discontinue the paper invitations, though that may happen in the future as the app update is refined.
Different recognition of the most loyal guests is often included in the party as well, such as which traveler has accrued the most cruise points, which guest is the youngest to reach the Diamond loyalty level, or which guests are celebrating milestone sailings.
Exactly how each party is organized varies for every sailing according to what the Cruise Director chooses to include in the event.
New Loyalty Gift Coming Soon
Heald also discussed the loyalty gift, which is currently a small tote bag in navy blue with red canvas handles and the VIFP Club logo on the side. The gift was first introduced in April, and is the third item in a matching set the cruise line first introduced in February 2023.
Supplies of the tote bag are winding down, and a new gift will be introduced in the coming weeks.
“We are running this down and there will be a new gift probably at the end of October across the whole fleet, if not before on some ships,” Heald announced.“I will tell you more about that as soon as the team let me know that it’s all in stock and ready to go.”
Exactly when the new gift is introduced will depend on when supplies are available on different ships and when the tote bag supplies are exhausted. This depends not only on how many Platinum and Diamond cruisers are on each sailing, but also on how many of those loyal guests claim their gift from the Pixels photo gallery.
While Heald gives no hint about what the new gift might be, Carnival Cruise Line’s loyalty gifts have varied widely over the years. Items such as journals, visors, drink koozies, beach bags, blankets, chess sets, hats, luggage tags, insulated tumblers, and more have all been offered as recognition to loyal guests.
Some gifts are naturally more popular than others, and how gifts change depends on manufacturing cost, overall supply chain concerns, and guest feedback.
Carnival cruise guests receive these gifts, as well as their invitation to the party, when they reach Platinum or Diamond loyalty status. Travelers earn one point in the VIFP program for every day they sail, and reach the Platinum level once they have accumulated 75 cruise points. To reach the Diamond level, travelers need a minimum of 200 cruise points.
Princess Cruises is returning to the land of the rising sun with longer sailings and deeper cultural immersion during its 2026 cruise season. The cruise line is returning to Japan with 50 departures between February and November 2026.
The 2026 Japan cruise season will give passengers a chance to explore all four main islands of Japan: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku.
Itineraries will showcase seasonal highlights like cherry blossom season, fall foliage tours, and several of the country’s most famous festivals, including the Kumano Fireworks Festival, one of the biggest fireworks displays in the world.
“Only on Princess can you become immersed into Japan’s rich culture, ancient traditions, and incredible beauty while enjoying a completely unique onboard fusion of eastern and western cultures,”said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.
He continued, “The extended 2026 season lets guests choose a cruise in the season they find most appealing.”
Worth Reading: Cruise Line Returns to Taiwan With New Itineraries to Japan
Guests will have a wide range of options, ranging from 7- to 28-day adventures aboard the 2,670-guest Diamond Princess, which was specifically designed for cruising in Japan. The ship features expansive open decks for taking in landscapes such as Mount Fiji, and with its smaller size, 115,875 gross tons, can access more intimate ports.
The ship offers passengers Japanese-inspired experiences onboard, including traditional onsens (hot spring baths), regional cuisine and fresh sushi at Kai Sushi, and cultural performances with folkloric dancers, sumo demonstrations, and karaoke evenings.
Diamond Princess will visit 38 destinations across three countries on 35 unique itineraries. It will call on the island nation’s most iconic cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima.
Highlights of the 2026 season include 10- and 11-day Spring Flowers cruises that follow the cherry blossom blooming season from the southern to northern regions of Japan, and Circle Japan voyages that range from 9 to 14 days.
These later itineraries offer a full circumnavigation of Japan with stops in ports such as Nagasaki, Kanazawa, and Maizuru for access to Kyoto.
For deeper exploration, Princess Cruises is also offering 15- to 28-day cruises that allow guests more in-depth experiences, such as extended stays in regions like Hokkaido or visits to neighboring countries like South Korea and Taiwan.
Photo Credit: Joel_420 / Shutterstock.com
Additionally, late-night port stays will take place at Aomori, Hakodate, and Shimizu to allow for more time to experience festivals such as the Nebuta Festival, where giant illuminated floats parade through the streets, and the Awa Odori Dance Festival, famous for its energetic traditional performances.
Diamond Princess to Explore Southeast Asia
Before starting the Japan cruise season, Princess Cruises will also sail Diamond Princess in Southeast Asia, offering journeys to destinations in Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand.
In January 2026, the vessel will offer a 10- and an 11-day voyage from Singapore. The 10-day Vietnam itinerary will call on Ho Chi Minh City, the coastal town of Nha Trang, and scenic cruising in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay.
The ship will also stop in Da Nang, where it can visit historical sites like the Imperial City of Hue and the ancient town of Hoi An.
The 11-day Malaysia & Thailand option will venture to several destinations, including Malaysia’s capital city of Kuala Lumpur. The journey continues with stops at the scenic islands of Langkawi and Phuket.
Additional ports of call include Penang and Ko Samui before concluding in Bangkok.
The two itineraries can be combined into a 21-day Southeast Asia Grand Adventure, sailing roundtrip from Singapore for travelers looking for a more extended adventure.
Future Carnival passengers who are accustomed to the cruise line’s older ships may be surprised to find that their suite is missing a once standard amenity: a bathtub.
Indeed, this happened to one recent guest who stayed in a Havana Suite onboard Carnival Vista.
The frustrated passenger wrote to brand ambassador John Heald about the missing amenity and expressed that the suites aren’t worth the money without a tub. Carnival’s standard cabins are less expensive and only have room for a shower.
“Can you explain why the suites on the newer Carnival ships do not have bathtubs? We are on the Vista now and in a Havana suite and there is not a bathtub,”the guest wrote to Heald on his public Facebook page.
“I know all older ships have bathtubs in the suites. One of the biggest reasons anyone would book a suite is for the bathtub. Why [has] Carnival stopped this luxury?,”continued the guest.
Likely to this guest’s dissatisfaction, Heald confirmed that the cruise line has stopped putting bathtubs in the suites in Carnival’s newest ships in order to make way for other desirable amenities, such as more luxurious walk-in showers.
“We have stopped putting bathtubs in the suites on the newer ships. This is mostly because we utilized the space with a large walk in shower,” Heald wrote in response.
Another reason for this change may be that showers are simply easier to clean quickly and efficiently, making things easier on the housekeepers.
Even the smallest Carnival ship, Carnival Elation, has just over 1,000 staterooms and suites, while the biggest addition to the fleet, Carnival Jubilee, boasts over 2,600 staterooms. All of these cabins have to be serviced daily by the housekeeping staff and room stewards.
Research Cruise Cabins Prior to Booking
While the guest who wrote to Heald obviously missed the bathtub, most people in the comments section felt it was an amenity they could live without.
Many actually said they would prefer to use their own tubs at home over sharing with everyone who had stayed in their suite before them – no matter how well the tubs are sanitized.
Stateroom on Carnival Cruise Ship (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
“I love a long, hot bubble bath… in my own bathtub. I don’t want to 1. Make it harder on stewards than it already is by having to clean the tub and 2. I just don’t trust the cleanliness of any bathtub besides my own to soak in it,”one Facebook user commented on Heald’s post.
“When we booked a suite once, we did not use the bathtub & wished we had only a shower,” someone else added.
That said, there are plenty of other opportunities for guests to be submerged in water – albeit in the proper swimwear – between the pools, jacuzzis, and some spa services.
If an amenity like a bathtub is super important to you, it’s always a good idea to do some extra research before booking your stateroom on your next cruise.
As this guest figured out, even across the same brand there can be big differences between the accommodations based on the class of vessel and simply from ship to ship.
That said, the mainstream cruise lines post deck plans and cabin layouts online for guests to peruse prior to booking so they know exactly what to expect when they arrive at their home away from home on embarkation day.
These can often be booked at a discount and guarantees guests will be put in a specific category of stateroom (or better), but does not allow the passenger to choose their own room. Instead, the cruise line assigns guests rooms based on availability closer to embarkation.
Disney Treasure has just surpassed another major milestone in her journey to completion.
On September 18, 2024, the third of the Triton-class vessels officially left Meyer Werft Shipyard – which is no easy feat.
The popular shipyard, which is located in Papenburg, Germany, is positioned inland order to avoid the worst of the storms that batter the North Sea. However, this means that the process of transporting new cruise ships from the shipyard to the ocean can be rather complicated.
Like the cruise ships that came before her, Disney Treasure was conveyed to the open ocean along the narrow Ems River. The 4,000-passenger made the 20-mile journey backwards while being towed by a tugboat.
Locals lined the river banks to cheer on the ship as she navigated the twists and turns throughout the tight waterway.
But now that she’s successfully made it to the ocean, the adventure-themed ship will undergo her sea trials over the next few days.
Captain Marco Nogara, who has sailed for Disney Cruise Line since 2010 as the captain of Disney Wonder, Disney Magic, and Disney Fantasy, will also come onboard his latest charge to oversee the sea trials.
“During the next few days, the ship will go through a series of rigorous tests, known as sea trials. The captain of the Disney Treasure, Captain Marco, will step onboard to help oversee the trials and ensure the Disney Treasure is ready for its upcoming transatlantic journey,”the cruise line wrote in an update.
The sea trials are a complex process that all new vessels must pass in order to enter service. Over the course of several days, the new ship will be put through various challenges that will test her onboard safety features, maneuverability, steering, navigation, propulsion, and speed.
While the 144,000-gross ton ship is expected to pass the coming tests with flying colors, there could be potential delays in her launch if she fails any of the components depending on what would be required in order to fix the issue and retest.
Disney Treasure’s Inaugural Season is Almost Here
Disney’s next ship is due to embark on her Maiden Voyage on Saturday, December 21, 2024 – just in time to celebrate her first Christmas at sea.
The historic 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailing will call on Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands; and Castaway Cay, the cruise line’s original private island destinationin the Bahamas.
She will then spend her first years at sea alternating between week-long Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings – which she is currently scheduled to do through May 30, 2026. The family-forward cruise line has not released new itineraries beyond this date.
Soon after Disney Treasure passes her sea trials, Disney’s next ship will embark on a transatlantic voyage to sail to her first homeport, Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, so she is in place for her inaugural voyage.
Some of her 1,555 crew members are likely already onboard to assist Captain Marco with the sea trials, particularly those who have roles related to steering, navigation, and engine maintenance.
The remaining crew – or cast members as Disney calls them – will also be joining the ship in the coming weeks to months.
The cruise line will likely stagger the new arrivals to make the intake process go smoothly – bringing crew members who are essential for the transatlantic journey onboard in Germany first.
Other employees, such as kids’ club counselors, performers, and housekeepers, won’t be needed right away and can join the ship closer to the maiden voyage.
Thinking of taking a Caribbean cruise? Don’t make the mistake of assuming that all Caribbean cruises are the same. For cruising purposes, the region is split into the Eastern and Western Caribbean — and each section offers some pretty different cruising experiences. Ready to find out which is right for you? Here’s what you need to know.
Depending on your Caribbean itinerary, you’ll stop into various ports of call. If you’re traveling on an Eastern Caribbean cruise, you can expect to potentially stop in:
The U.S. Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands
Puerto Rico
The French Antilles (an island group that includes Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, La Desirade, Les Saintes, Marie-Galante)
Turks & Caicos, particularly Grand Turk
St Kitts
Antiqua
St Lucia
Nevis
The Dominican Republic
Western Caribbean itineraries, meanwhile, stop at some of the following islands, countries and ports of call:
Jamaica
The Cayman Islands
Cuba
Belize City
Mexico (including Cozumel and Costa Maya)
Costa Rica
Roatan
Honduras
Both Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises may stop in the Bahamas, particularly Nassau. Less frequently, you may find that cruise lines also bundle in some southern Caribbean destinations, into their Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise itineraries, such as:
Barbados
Grenada
Trinidad & Tobago
St. Vincent & the grenadines
Aruba
Bonaire
Curacao
While there are definitely similarities between all of these cruise destinations, do note that there are also very large differences. If you have your heart set on visiting one particular island, or a handful of particular islands, you may want to pick an Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise accordingly.
Embarkation Ports
Cruise Ships Docked at PortMiami, Florida (Photo Credit: Anthony Giarrusso)
You may only want to take cruises that leave out of embarkation ports that are easy or convenient for you to travel to.
Due to how large the Caribbean as a whole is, you’ll find that many Eastern Caribbean cruises sail out of a handful of ports on the Eastern side of the United States, while many Western Caribbean cruises set sail out of a handful of ports that are further west.
Eastern Caribbean cruises often leave from cruise ports in Florida, like those in Jacksonville, Miami, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale or Tampa Bay, and even from ports as far north as South Carolina, New York and New Jersey.
Western Caribbean cruises, meanwhile, may set sail from a Florida port, but many others also leave out of Alabama, New Orleans and Texas, with popular options including Galveston and Mobile.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that, depending on the individual cruise, as well as whether you’re sailing the Western or Eastern Caribbean, you may get sea days during different parts of the cruise.
Eastern Caribbean cruises often have sea days at the beginning and end of the cruise itinerary. Western Caribbean cruises often have sea days in the middle of the cruise itinerary.
So, think about both the embarkation ports you want to leave from, as well as how many sea days you might like (and when you might like them), before picking between a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise.
One valuable tip: Whether you go for a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise, consider embarking from a Caribbean island, not the mainland of the United States, such as St. Maarten and Puerto Rico. Doing so can get your island stops started faster, so you can avoid a sea day at the beginning or end of your cruise.
Cruise Line Private Islands
Celebrity Cruises Perfect Day at CocoCay (Photo Credit: Solarisys / Shutterstock)
Many cruise lines have private islands throughout the Caribbean, where cruisers can enjoy greater convenience and more land-based activities, and where many of the experiences (if not all of them) are already included in the price of your cruise.
There’s no arranging for a third-party tour, no fighting crowds from other ships and no struggling to get around a port city and then back to your ship on time to leave. The entire experience is perfectly orchestrated by your cruise line.
However, visiting one of these private islands will depend on your cruise itinerary.
Probably one of the most well-known cruise line private islands is Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, which offers the first overwater cabanas of their kind, as well as the tallest waterslide in North America. This private island is located in the Bahamas.
Likewise, Holland America Line’s Half Moon Cay is also in the Bahamas, and it offers more of an all-natural vibe than a waterpark motif, with nature walks and horseback riding among the activities up for grabs.
Princess Cruises’ Princess Cay is also in the Bahamas, as is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay and Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key.
The great thing about all of these private islands being situations in the Bahamas? It means that, feasibly, whether you’re on a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise, you could experience them, without picking between the two.
Geography and Weather
Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship in Bad Weather (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
As mentioned, just about every cruise stop that you could make on either an Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise will take you to some beautiful beaches. However, some say that the Eastern Caribbean’s white sand beaches are overall more beautiful.
Additionally, while there are islands in the Eastern Caribbean where you can explore mountains, waterfalls and rainforests, those geographic features are usually more accessible on a Western Caribbean cruise.
As for weather, specific islands may cause you trouble. For one, Grand Cayman is frequently skipped on cruise itineraries due to winds, as are many of the cruise line private islands that require tendering.
All of the islands will offer you warm, even hot weather, and tropical climates. Likewise, all of the Caribbean is at some risk (even if it’s minor) for a tropical storm or hurricane, come hurricane season, which is June to November.
Historically, the islands that are most impacted by hurricanes include the Bahamas, St. Kitts and Nevis, British Virgin Islands and Antigua and Barbuda. These are all typically included on Eastern Caribbean cruises.
Meanwhile, the islands historically least likely to be hit by a hurricane during hurricane season are Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Barbados, Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While these islands lie to the south of the Caribbean, they may pop up on either a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise.
In short, if you want to take a cruise during hurricane season and you want your best chances of avoiding a hurricane, plan a Western Caribbean cruise with the possibility of visiting some southern islands.
Shopping
Shopping at the Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt)
You can find shopping in just about any port, whether you’re sailing in the Western or Eastern Caribbean. However, the type of shopping may differ.
Wherever you are, you can safely assume that you’ll be able to pick up your typical tourist souvenirs. However, for high-end goods and luxury items, look to the Eastern Caribbean.
Eastern Caribbean destinations known for their excellent shopping options include the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and Saint Maarten.
If it’s not luxury you’re shopping for, though, and you’re after a deal, you might want to head to the Western Caribbean, such as Grand Cayman or Jamaica.
History and Culture
Fortaleza San Felipe (Photo Credit: Viagens e Caminhos)
But when it comes to actual things to do on an Eastern or Western Caribbean cruise, beyond shopping or heading to the beach or rainforest, what can you expect?
Again, there are major differences. For example, while just about all of the islands offer beaches and water activities, if you want luxury shopping and dining, you might prefer an Eastern Caribbean cruise that stops by some of the less crowded islands. If, though, you want to see Mayan ruins or go for a land-based nature trek, you might prefer a Western Caribbean cruise.
In general, an Eastern Caribbean cruise can offer you:
Gorgeous beaches
Lots of water sports
Plenty of shopping
Fine dining
High-end, glitzy nightlife
In general, a Western Caribbean cruise can offer you:
Ancient ruin excursions
Active adventures
Wildlife excursions
Surfing
Snorkeling and diving
In terms of similarities in history and culture, just about all of the Caribbean islands offer a laid-back, relaxed vibe (think “island time”). All of them likewise have their own histories, but the history that’s on display to travelers will differ.
For example, on a Western Caribbean cruise, you might see Mayan ruins. On an Eastern Caribbean cruise, you might visit a former plantation or the streets of Old San Juan.
Unfortunately, though, unless you specifically choose a small cruise that goes to smaller ports, you’ll also find that just about all of the Caribbean islands can be crowded. Some are more crowded than others (think St. Maarten or St. Thomas), but don’t expect a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise to be reliably more intimate than the other.
The Bottom Line on Eastern vs. Western Caribbean Cruise
Cruise Ships Docked in St. Maarten, Caribbean (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
At the end of the day, you can have an amazing experience on either a Western or Eastern Caribbean cruise. Both regions come with their pros and cons and, depending on the type of traveler or cruiser you are, you may prefer one to the other.
If you’re interested in a more leisurely, relaxed trip with plenty of opportunities for sunning, sightseeing and nightlife, with maybe a few luxury experiences and shopping added in, opt for an Eastern Caribbean cruise.
If you want thrilling adventures and a very wide array of high-adrenaline activities, you might have the best time on a Western Caribbean cruise. Trying to stay out of a hurricane’s path? Opt for a Western Caribbean cruise there as well.
The best way to really know which is right for you? Try them both! There’s hardly a better excuse to book an extra cruise vacation.
No traveler is ever surprised to learn that obviously dangerous items like weapons, fireworks, or toxic chemicals are not permitted to be taken onboard cruise ships, but some things on the prohibited items list can be surprising indeed.
Royal Caribbean has recently updated its prohibited items list to include “multi-plug outlets” – an item many travelers often bring along to ensure they have adequate space to plug in a range of cell phones, tablets, hair tools, and other electrical items.
Now, however, multi-plug outlets are specifically forbidden and listed under the potentially “Flammable Items” on the cruise line’s prohibited items list. Similar items on the list include extension cords and power strips.
This will be frustrating to passengers who do use a variety of devices that need a power supply or frequent recharging. Especially on older ships, power outlets can be sparse, making it hard to charge every family member’s phone, laptop, e-reader, tablet, or other devices.
To be clear, a multi-plug outlet is a device that plugs into a single electrical outlet but expands that outlet’s capacity to accommodate several plugs at once. These come in a variety of configurations and may provide 2, 3, 4, or even more plug spaces at once. They do not feature a cord of any kind, but stay right at the original plug.
This update to Royal Caribbean’s prohibited items policy is a fairly recent one. Just a few weeks ago, the list specifically noted “electrical extension cords, including power strips/surge protected strips” as prohibited, but did not mention multi-plug outlets.
The danger of plugging multiple devices into a single outlet is that the outlet may not be designed to handle such a load if all plugs are used at once, which could lead to overheating and potential fire, power loss, or other problems.
The recent update to the prohibited items list also includes a dramatic expansion of exactly what items are now prohibited, with exact examples provided in many categories.
For example, in June 2024, the list only stated “Sharp Objects, including all knives and scissors” as being prohibited. Now, the “Knives and sharp objects” section of the list discusses, in detail, the different types of knives, as well as knives disguised as other commonplace objects, that are prohibited.
This includes ice picks, meat cleavers, and sabers – all of which must have very interesting stories to be included so precisely on the list.
Similarly, a completely new category of “Tools” is now prohibited, which includes axes and hatchets, hammers, drills and drill bits, saws, and – wait for it – cattle prods. One has to wonder who tried to bring a cattle prod on what Royal Caribbean ship for this to need to be explicitly listed as prohibited.
Presumably, most cruise travelers would never try to bring the more – exotic – items aboard their ship, but some commonplace items are listed that passengers should remember to leave at home.
This includes clothing irons, travel steamers, box cutters, and pepper spray, any of which might be seen as a travel essential under other circumstances.
Making the Most of Outlets
Since travelers are now no longer permitted to bring multi-outlet plugs, it will be necessary to take other steps to ensure all devices are appropriately recharged and usable throughout a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation.
First, consider if items are even necessary. With so much to do onboard each Royal Caribbean ship – from entertainment and activities to waterparks, ropes courses, escape rooms, and much more – some devices may simply sit unused anyway, and can be left at home.
Wonder of the Seas Boardwalk Cabin (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz)
Second, plan when items will be recharged to make the most of limited plug real estate. For example, recharge a tablet while spending time at the pool or make dinnertime a “no phone zone” and leave phones for recharging while enjoying the meal.
Devices can also be recharged overnight, and consider more frequent recharging so outlets don’t need to be in use as long to ensure everything is fully charged and ready to go.
Ultimately, all cruise travelers are responsible to know what items are prohibited from being brought onboard and should make plans to leave those items at home.
Checking each cruise line’s individual prohibited item list before setting sail is a good precaution to be sure no excluded items will need to be confiscated when checking in at the cruise terminal.
The German government has effectively saved Meyer Werft from financial collapse by acquiring around 80 percent of the shares in the historic shipyard.
With a €400 million investment, along with an additional €1 billion in guarantees, the German federal government and the state of Lower Saxony has provided immediate financial stability to the Papenburg-based shipyard, known globally for designing major cruise ships, including Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, and Norwegian Cruise Line.
The intervention comes as Meyer Werft, which has been building ships for over 225 years, has struggled to stay afloat.
“Our goal is to lead Meyer Werft and its employees into a successful and secure future. We firmly believe that our company, with its innovative technology and dedicated team, has a future,”said Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Werft.
He continued, “We are confident that together we will emerge stronger from this crisis and maintain our position as one of the leading companies in international shipbuilding.”
Typically, only 20 percent of a ship’s construction costs are paid upfront, with the remaining 80 percent paid upon delivery, making financing the construction process heavily reliant on loans.
The new financial guarantees from the government will enable Meyer Werft to continue building cruise ships and ensure financial stability for ongoing operations.
As more than 3,000 employees work directly for Meyer Werft, and another 20,000-plus jobs across Germany depend on the shipyard through suppliers and service providers, the financial support will also secure jobs.
Despite the government’s majority stake, the long-term plan is to return Meyer Werft to a private ownership and the Meyer family retains a buy-back right.
Said former CEO and 7th-generation Meyer family member Bernard Meyer,“I am very grateful that everyone pulled together to build this financial bridge for us.
However, I am also convinced that we will now be able to correct course under our own steam and will one day be an economically healthy and successful, family-run flagship company again,” he said.
Officials stress that while the current situation has stabilized, Meyer Werft’s road to full recovery will require restructuring and long-term planning.
Despite of its financial woes, the shipbuilder still holds orders worth €11 billion through 2031, which are now secure thanks to the government support.
Construction Continues at Meyer Werft
Currently, several highly anticipated cruise ships are under construction at Meyer Werft, include two sister ships for Disney. Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny will be delivered in late 2024 and 2025, respectively.
The 144,000-gross-ton Disney Treasure, which will accommodate 4,000 passengers, is expected to be delivered to Disney Cruise Line ahead of its maiden voyage to the Eastern Caribbean on December 21, 2024.
Disney Treasure Construction
The shipbuilder is also constructing two Excel-class ships for Carnival Cruise Line. The first, a 180,000-gross-ton, 6,400-passenger sister to the new Carnival Jubilee, which debuted at the end of 2023, will arrive in 2027 as the fourth in its class. The fifth in class, at the same gross tonnage, will be delivered in 2028.
Meyer Werft most recently completed Silversea Cruises’ Silver Ray in May. The second Nova-Class ship, capable of carrying 728 guests, made its maiden voyage on June 15 for a 12-night Mediterranean voyage.
Meyer Group, owns Meyer Werft as well as Meyer Turku shipbuilders in Turku, Finland. Meyer Turku’s financial situation is unrelated to Meyer Werft’s and will not be impacted by the bailout.
Following on the great success of Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, as well as great anticipation for the upcoming Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed the next ship in the innovative class – Norwegian Luna.
The new ship will set sail in March 2026 homeporting from Miami, Florida, offering 7-night Caribbean sailings to guest-favorite ports, including Great Stirrup Cay, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, Cozumel, Costa Maya, and more.
Already under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, Norwegian Luna will be a twin sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, first in the Prima Plus class.
The ship will be 10% larger both in overall size and guest capacity than Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, and will offer the same stunning architecture and elegance that guests have come to expect from the outstanding class design.
The ship’s overall artful design – from her hull art to her interior spaces – reflects the moon and tides in a wistful, ephemeral way.
“Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua,”said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.
The hull art is richly colored in blue, teal, and purple tones, reflecting lunar imagery complete with a full moon on the ship’s bow. The art is designed by ELLE, a highly acclaimed street artist whose work includes underground graffiti as well as collaborations with Reebok, Samsung, Ikea, and much more.
The ship hull artwork, titled “La Luna,” showcases a deep connection between humanity and celestial forces focused on the ebb and flow of the moon and tides, a perfect representation for a cruise ship that connects space and sea.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line who has been known for showcasing stunningly designed hull art across its entire fleet,”said ELLE.“It’s been an incredible experience crafting this piece and knowing my 1,056-foot piece of artwork will sail across the seas, traveling the globe for all to see.”
Norwegian Luna will offer travelers far more than just an artistic experience, however.
“The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean. It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation,”said Herrera.“We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!”
What to Expect Onboard
For the best thrills at sea, guests can take on the exclusive Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that will debut on Norwegian Aqua and will also be a highlight of Norwegian Luna. A magnetic lift will propel guests on two different courses, through three stories of outstanding twists and turns.
Norwegian Luna Aqua Slidecoaster
Also onboard will be the Glow Court, a digital interactive sports complex that will transform into a high-energy nightclub each evening. Travelers can also up their game at the Stadium with a variety of classic activities with new twists, including ping-pong and other games.
The popular 10-story free-fall slide, The Drop, will also be a prominent feature of Norwegian Luna, giving guests yet another way to dive in to all the fun onboard.
Norwegian Luna Glow Court Rendering
To relax after so much excitement, Norwegian Luna will offer the all-new three-bedroom duplex Haven Suites in the ship’s special-access complex, The Haven. These three-bedroom, three-bathroom suites will have separate living and dining areas along with an expansive balcony.
Of course, access to all the exclusive amenities of The Haven are also included – a sundeck, outdoor spa, sauna, dedicated concierge, private lounge, and more.
All passengers will be able to stroll along the 46,000-square-foot outdoor artistic walkway, Ocean Boulevard, featuring stunning sculptures and unparalleled ocean views. The adults-only Vibe Beach Club will be a key feature of Norwegian Luna, as will Infinity Beach with its unobstructed, sweeping ocean views.
Norwegian Luna Render
For refreshment, the ship will feature brand new bar and restaurant venues exclusive to the Prima Plus class, including the Thai specialty restaurant Sukhothai. Also returning are guest favorites, including Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Onda by Scarpetta. To toast all the deliciousness, passengers can raise a glass at the Whiskey Bar, Belvedere Bar, and the Metropolitan.
Norwegian Luna will be the 21st ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet when she debuts on April 4, 2026. Her inaugural sailings from PortMiami are now available for booking, and are sure to fill up fast given the popularity of this outstanding class of ships.
At double occupancy, the 156,300-gross-ton ship will be able to welcome 3,550 guests, with an outstanding crew onboard to ensure every passenger has an unforgettable getaway.
