Imagine trading in chilly winter winds for the warm Mediterranean sun. MSC Cruises is making that dream a reality by extending its 2024 Mediterranean sailing season well into the cooler months.
From October through December, travelers can soak up sunshine and mild temperatures across a variety of Mediterranean hotspots, with the cruise line revealing,“Weather data for some of the cruise line’s Mediterranean destinations throughout October, November, and December shows that guests can expect to enjoy temperatures up to 82 degrees.”
It added, “With up to 295 hours of sunshine per month and no chance of rain!”
One of the notable additions is MSC Sinfonia’s new itinerary, which features Greece for the first time. The 7-night cruise will take up to 2,567 passengers to Bari, Italy; Piraeus (Athens) and Corfu, Greece; and Izmir and Istanbul, Turkey.
The 65,542-gross-ton-vessel will also offer sojourns starting at just three nights between Bari, Athens and Izmir, with a season filled with 3- to 7-night options in the region.
Also offering 3- to 7-night journeys, the 137,936-gross-ton MSC Fantasia, which accommodates 3,300 passengers, will offer additional Mediterranean voyages from Naples (Pompei), Italy; Marseilles, France; Valencia, Spain; and Genoa (Portofino), Italy.
Its longer voyages will call on Palermo, Italy; La Goulette, Tunisia; and Barcelona, Spain, while its shortest cruise, departing October 25, 2024, travels between Valencia and Genoa, stopping in Tarragona, Spain.
MSC Lirica’s smaller size at 59,058 gross tons, makes it easier to visit smaller ports. It will feature 7- to 12-night itineraries from Venice, Ancona (Urbino), Livorno (Florence), Cagliari (Sardinia), and Civitavecchia, Italy, as well as Valencia.
The 1,800-passenger ship’s longer voyages are one-way journeys and feature stops in Katakolon (Olympia), Heraklion (Crete), and Rhodes (Lindos), Greece. They will also visit Cyprus, Croatia, and Egyptian ports in Said and Alexandria.
For MSC Grandiosa, sailing out of Livorno, Palermo, Naples, Genoa, Marseille, and Barcelona during the extended season, travelers will find cruises extending up to 21 nights.
With late-season cruises stretching from October into December, the vessel will be the first to leave the area, heading to the Canary Islands during its November 18, 2024, trip.
MSC Cruises Ship in Genoa (Photo Credit: maudanros)
That voyage will cross the Atlantic and end in Sao Paolo, Brazil, where the ship will spend its winter.
MSC World Europa, which recently became the first ship to use shore power in Valletta, Malta, will also enjoy more time in the Mediterranean, traveling from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Genoa, Naples, Palermo, and Marseille.
Most of its cruises will be 7-night itineraries with a 3-night one-way from Barcelona to Civitavecchia on November 1, 2024, and a 5-night from Genoa to Barcelona on November 3, 2024.
Expanding into the U.S.
MSC Cruises’ Mediterranean season follows a summer with nine of its ships stationed in the region, including MSC Magnifica, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Musica, MSC Opera, MSC Orchestra, MSC Poesia, and MSC Seaside.
The Mediterranean is a key destination for the cruise line, but the upscale cruise provider is expanding its presence in the U.S. with new itineraries launching in 2025 available of four ships.
Sailing new routes from Miami and Port Canaveral, Florida, New York City, and Galveston, Texas, the expansion into the American market will take MSC Cruises deeper into the Caribbean and the Bahamas.
Cruise crew members are hard-working, dedicated individuals who often go out of their way to ensure that passengers not only have a great vacation, but that they experience memorable moments that will last a lifetime.
It is natural for guests to want to acknowledge those crew members and offer them something extra, but not all extras are permitted.
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald addressed such a situation recently when a guest hoped to reward a dedicated bartender but wasn’t allowed to do so in the way they wanted.
“I have a complaint about the lack of compassion from the Captain or whoever,”the recent guest stated in reaching out to Heald.“I met a bartender at the Alchemy who made me and my [sister-in-law] laugh so much. [He] was really, really attentive.”
This sounds great, and Heald is always pleased to hear accolades from happy guests noting which crew members have gone above and beyond to deliver spectacular service. The guest, however, wanted to do something special that was not allowed.
“I had heard/read that it was possible to invite a crew person to dinner at the steak restaurant – so we asked,”the guest explained.“He had to clear it with his boss (the bar manager and captain) but told me he was denied the request. … I was wrong in thinking that Carnival cared about their workers. This proves they do not. Why was this not allowed!”
While this was a kind and generous gesture from the guest, there are different reasons why such invitations cannot always be accommodated.
“To say that we ‘don’t care’ about the crew is just silly,”Heald responded.“The reason that the Staff Captain and Department Heads say ‘no’ to this kind of request is that to take a crew member out of work will most likely have a big impact on the service we can provide the rest of the guests.”
A dinner at a specialty restaurant such as the onboard steakhouse, for example, would mostly likely take two or more hours, especially if that the crew member might need to return to their cabin and change both before and after.
This means that other crew members would have to cover that portion of a planned shift, or there may not be adequate service for other guests.
Furthermore, the evening hours when such a dinner would take place are undoubtedly some of the busiest times at popular venues, such as the vintage-themed Alchemy Bar with its specialty cocktails. This is exactly when all bartenders will be needed at their posts to ensure service is swift, smooth, and entertaining.
“We just don’t have spare bartenders to put there. Everyone is working at these busy evening times,”Heald said.
It is also possible that crew members don’t want to accept these types of invitations, for several reasons.
“While perhaps not always the case I have to say this, respectfully, sometimes the crew member doesn’t want to go to dinner,”Heald noted.“They want to keep working and while they may feel comfortable behind the bar, sitting for a dinner for two hours with a guest may simply not be something they would enjoy.”
Carnival Cruise Line Crew (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)
Crew members may be humorous and outgoing while they perform their duties, but in their off time they may much prefer their privacy or time away from guests and they don’t want to appear rude by refusing a nice invitation.
It is also possible that any loss of income or tips from unexpected time off might not be something an individual crew member is comfortable with.
Finally, a crew member may simply not want to dine at a given restaurant, perhaps for dietary concerns or interactions with other crew members at the venue (think of a “teacher’s pet” type of scenario!).
What to Do Instead of a Dinner Invitation
Any cruise passenger who wants to reward the attentive service and outgoing personality of a specific crew members has many ways they can do so. Offering an extra gratuity is always welcome and gives the crew member the option to spend the cash any way they wish.
Another great way to acknowledge excellent service is to note the crew member’s name and position and share that information and any praise on the post-cruise survey Carnival Cruise Line provides to many past guests.
If travelers do not get such a survey, they can contact John Heald through his Facebook page to give props and kudos to the crew member. Heald passes those accolades along to the appropriate department heads onboard individual ships as well as in the corporate hierarchy.
This type of acknowledgement can help with crew members’ performance reviews and the possibility of bonuses, promotions, and other official recognition.
A steak dinner may be a great treat for one night, but the ongoing praise and what it can do for a crew member’s career is far more long-lasting!
Holland America Line has opened for sale its ambitious 2026 Alaska season, offering guests opportunities for glacial cruising, wildlife sightings, and cultural programming aboard a choice of six ships.
Among the new itineraries for 2026 is a Seattle departure of the line’s popular “Great Alaska Explorer” cruise, previously offered only from Vancouver, British Columbia. Three ships will operate the 14-day itinerary.
The 1,972-guest Noordam will sail from the Port of Seattle on August 23, 2026 while the 2,000-guest Westerdam will depart Vancouver on September 13, 2026.
Both itineraries are roundtrip and call at Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan, Kodiak, Sitka, and Valdez, plus Prince Rupert, in British Columbia. Glacier Bay scenic cruising rounds out the experience.
Nieuw Amsterdam will offer the voyage on a May 3, 2026 departure roundtrip from Vancouver. The ship will visit the same port calls as Noordam and Westerdam, but add a visit to Wrangell, Alaska. The ship accommodates 2,100 guests.
The 2026 season will mark the first time in five years that Westerdam will sail Alaska itineraries from Vancouver and Noordam from Seattle. Holland America’s other three ships deployed to Alaska in 2026 include the 2,100-guest Eurodam, the 2,650-guest Koningsdam, and the 1,400-guest Zaandam.
An array of voyages is offered, ranging from 6 to 28 days and featuring the line’s signature “Alaska Inside Passage” cruises along with northbound and southbound “Glacier Discovery” sailings.
“We continue to build an Alaska program that is unlike any other in the industry, that is deeply immersive, putting a spotlight on all the splendor that brings cruisers to Alaska,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management for Holland America Line.
“Whether it’s talking to a park ranger while observing a glacier calve in Glacier Bay, joining a whale-watching tour or enjoying the freshest local fish that was just brought on board, we want our guests to return home from vacation feeling inspired,” Rough added.
For the third consecutive year, Holland America Line will operate the 28-day “Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice” cruise aboard Noordam. Sailing roundtrip from Seattle on June 7, 2026, the cruise will travel to the Bering Sea and beyond the Arctic Circle while calling at 11 ports in Alaska plus Vancouver and Prince Rupert.
Another special cruise that Noordam will operate is the “Great Bear Rainforest” itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Seattle on April 19, 2026. The voyage promises a closer look at wildlife as the ship overnights in Prince Rupert and provides scenic cruising in the noted wildlife areas of the Grenville Channel, the Johnstone Strait, and the Seymour Narrows, all in British Columbia.
Signature Voyages Offered From Multiple Ports
The cruise line will sail 7-day “Alaska Inside Passage” voyages roundtrip from Vancouver on a choice of three ships — Koningsdam, Zaandam, and Nieuw Amsterdam, all of which will call at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
Sailing roundtrip from Seattle, Eurodam and Noordam will operate 7-day “Alaskan Explorer” cruises, with calls to Victoria, British Columbia; Ketchikan, Juneau, and Sitka. Eurodam also will feature scenic cruising through Icy Strait Point and Glacier Bay, while Noordam explores Dawes Glacier.
Holland America Voyage
The line offers “Glacier Discovery” voyages both north and southbound on two ships sailing between Whittier (Anchorage) and Vancouver. Port calls by Nieuw Amsterdam and Westerdam include Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.
Holland America Line in 2026 will continue its “Glacier Guarantee” policy — a pledge to wow guests on every itinerary with fantastic views of the state’s mighty glaciers. Depending on itinerary, guests can see glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park, College Fjord, Dawes Glacier, Hubbard Glacier, and Twin Sawyer Glaciers of Tracy Arm.
While in Glacier Bay, the ship will welcome aboard a Glacier Bay National Park ranger, who will interact with and educate guests about the region’s stunning glaciers.
A series of cruisetours will be offered in 2026 as well, although they have not yet been revealed. The cruise line’s combination land-and-sea tours for 2025 have already been unveiled, and the 2026 offerings are likely to be very similar.
John Heald, the official brand ambassador for Carnival Cruise Line, is addressing one onboard controversy once and for all.
Apparently, some of Heald’s 585,000 Facebook followers have developed a fixation on how the crew members onboard Carnival’s 27 shipsmonitor alcohol consumption onboard – with some suggesting that cruisers who purchase the Cheers! Drink package are treated differently.
While guests can purchase drinks a la carte during their sailing, many opt in for the Cheers! Drink package, which starts at $70.74 per passenger and is available to guests over the age of 21.
The program allows guests to consume up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (i.e., wine, cocktails, beer) and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages (i.e., soda, water bottles, energy drinks, coffee, tea).
Of course, the cruise line keeps track of drink consumption for guests in this program to make sure they don’t exceed their daily limit, but this definitely does not mean the crew members don’t keep an eye on passengers drinking a la carte – and Heald shared a statement from Chief Communications Officer Chris Chiames affirming as much.
“We monitor the alcohol consumption of all guests.The actual consumption is combined with other monitoring tools where servers, bartenders and security are trained to look for behavioral signals that a guest has reached his/her limit of safe consumption,’” reads the statement, in part, which Heald posted on Facebook.
As Chiames points out, “not all consumption is equal.” Indeed, everyone metabolizes alcohol differently depending on factors like their height, weight, and how much they’ve had to eat that day.
People who become too intoxicated risk becoming a nuisance, or even a danger, to themselves or others – which is why it’s important to keep tabs on guests who choose to consume alcoholic beverages.
Because guests can order alcohol in a variety of different locations and ways, such as buying a bucket of beers or a full bottle of wine that may or may not be shared, the security team onboard joins the bartenders and restaurant staff to make sure everyone drinks responsibly.
“That’s why we use a combination of factors to monitor consumption. Now some guests might be creative and figure out ways to drink and never or rarely interact with a server or bartender. That’s why the security team is also part of this plan,” continued the statement.
Fellow cruisers are also encouraged to notify the onboard security team if they have concerns about another guest’s alcohol consumption.
Signs to look out for that may indicate someone is heavily intoxicated include mental confusion, difficulty remaining conscious, loss of coordination, slurring words or losing the ability to speak, or becoming physically ill.
Should Carnival Change the Daily Drink Limit?
No one needs to worry about going thirsty on a Carnival Cruise – and passengers would likely have to try to become dehydrated.
The 15 daily drinks (per person) included in the CHEERS! Package is generally seen as a good amount, especially considering guests who go over their limit still have the ability to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks like water, iced tea, juices, and coffee.
Even so, there are always going to be guests who think the limit is too high or too low. In response to Heald’s post, some were calling for Carnival to eliminate the daily limit altogether.
Carnival Cruise Line Atrium Bar (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)
“An unpopular opinion I’m sure, but this is the exact reason why Carnival needs to eliminate the daily limit on the Cheers package,” commented one Facebook user.
“Most people (myself included) rarely or never hit the daily limit, but in Chris’s own words, everyone handles their alcohol differently. If all of the practices are in place, an unruly passenger due to overconsumption will be taken care of,”the comment continued.
Per Carnival policy, cruisers who appear too intoxicated may be cut off before they reach the daily drink package limit – with many in the comments saying it had happened to them on past sailings.
But the commenters calling for the drink limit to be lessened or eliminated are likely still in the minority – perhaps only coming out of the woodwork due to the theme of alcohol safety. Earlier this summer, Heald was actually fielding many requests to raise the daily limit.
As an example, one person commented:“The 15 drinks a day maximum on your drink package is for amateurs. I’m a professional so can we please get an upgrade.”
“We are not changing anything despite the barrage of requests I have every week. We will stay at 15 drinks in a 24 hour period (unlimited non-alcoholic drinks) and despite requests like this I wanted to save you the trouble of writing to me and say again we will not be changing anything,” Head wrote.
The brand ambassador made it clear, in no uncertain terms, that Carnival’s alcohol policy won’t be changing anytime soon. Whether guests agree with this decision or not, it’s important for passengers to know their limits and to drink responsibility.
Every cruiser knows that itinerary changes can happen for a variety of reasons, whether ports must be cancelled or times adjusted for different operational reasons.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on four different upcoming sailings of Carnival Paradise to alert them to such changes.
Fortunately, all four sailings are only having port times adjusted, and the Fantasy-class ship is still scheduled to visit each port of call on her various itineraries.
The impacted cruises are all departing from the Port of Tampa in September 2024, and the same itinerary change notice has been sent to booked guests on each sailing.
“We have made adjustments to the itineraries for the following cruises, which include yours,”the notification read.“Port times for the destinations listed below have been modified.”
The first cruise impacted is Carnival Paradise‘s September 2 departure, a 6-night Western Caribbean sailing with visits to Key West, Montego Bay, and Grand Cayman. While the Key West call is unaffected, port times for both Montego Bay and Grand Cayman have been adjusted.
Up next is the ship’s September 16 departure. That cruise is a 5-night voyage to Grand Cayman and Cozumel, and only Cozumel is being changed.
The third affected cruise is the September 21 departure for a 5-night Western Caribbean sailing to Roatan and Cozumel. For this cruise, Cozumel remains the same, but the times in Mahogany Bay, Roatan, have been changed.
Finally, the fourth impacted sailing is the September 30 voyage. This 6-night sailing is scheduled to visit Belize, Roatan, and Cozumel. Both Roatan and Cozumel are unaffected, but the first port of call – Belize City – is being adjusted.
To clarify, Carnival Paradise will still visit each port of call on her planned itineraries, but the selected ports now have their times adjusted. The exact time adjustments – 30 minutes, an hour, two hours – will be posted on Carnival Cruise Line’s website as soon as they are finalized.
If guests have already booked and paid for shore tours through Carnival Cruise Line for their destinations, those excursions will be automatically adjusted to the new port times if needed. Because tours leave at different times of day, however, not all excursions may be changed.
Any travelers who made independent tour plans for the ports, however, will need to contact their tour operators to see if adjustments are possible or needed once port times are confirmed.
The 71,925-gross-ton Carnival Paradise is homeported year-round from Port Tampa Bay, offering 4-, 5-, and 6-night sailings. While most of her cruises are Western Caribbean itineraries, the ship does have the occasional Bahamas voyage as well.
In fact, in summer 2025, Carnival Paradise will be one of the first ships to visit Carnival Cruise Line’s new private destination, Celebration Key, with her August 28, 2025 departure. For that special 4-night Bahamas cruise, Celebration Key will be the ship’s only port of call, but it will certainly be something to celebrate as travelers are among the first to enjoy the new Bahamian hotspot.
Why Port Times Can Change
While Carnival Cruise Line has not offered any detailed explanation for the changes in port times for the four different cruises, there could be a variety of reasons.
Many cruise lines are seeking to lessen their environmental impact by slowing speeds for better fuel efficiency, which in turn lowers emissions and reduces pollution. Even just a slight change in port times could make this worthwhile.
It is also possible that port congestion is impacting how Carnival Paradise will be able to arrive and depart these ports of call. With multiple ships visiting these destinations, there needs to be sufficient port staff, including pilots, to accommodate each vessel on a smooth schedule.
Fortunately, booked guests will still be enjoying each port of call with only minimal time changes, and hopefully they will not notice a significant impact on the amount of fun they’re able to have during their cruise vacations.
Carnival Paradise – one of the last remaining but much beloved Fantasy-class ships still in service – can welcome 2,124 guests at double occupancy. The ship is also home to more than 900 international crew members who work diligently to ensure everyone enjoys a taste of paradise on every sailing.
If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you may think that cruising is all beach bumming in island destinations, gorging yourself at the buffet and dancing the night away with a bottomless drink in your hand.
While these are certainly aspects of some cruises, though, not every cruise is the same and before you book a cruise, you need to know what you’re getting into.
Here are the 11 questions to ask yourself before booking a cruise, to help you pick the right cruise to book, as well as the questions to ask to decide if cruising is even for you at all.
The thing about cruising is that you get on the ship and, from there, it’s not really up to you what happens. Sure, you’ll have your pick of all the interesting things to do on the ship (think theatrical shows, rollercoasters, water parks and escape rooms), but the itinerary as far as where you go and when is set.
The only caveat? That set itinerary can change on a whim — and you have no control over that either. Sometimes, cruise ship captains decide to divert their schedules due to bad weather, full ports, safety concerns and other elements. That may mean you skip a stop on your itinerary or replace it with another.
In short, when you cruise, while you may be in charge of what you do on the cruise ship, you’re not so much in charge of where the cruise ship goes, when or why. As such, you’ll need to relinquish a bit of your control, sit back and enjoy the ride.
For some travelers, this is fine and dandy. For others, it can be stressful. As such, think about what you like and how you like to travel before you jump into the cruising experience.
2. Do I Like Being Around Other People?
No matter the size of the cruise ship, you’re going to be around other people. Cruising is not for those who prefer never to see another tourist.
The giant cruise ship Icon of the Seas holds a whopping 7,500-plus passengers at max capacity, but even small cruise ships, like those operated by boutique cruise lines like Windstar Cruises, still hold several hundred guests.
Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady Cruise (Photo Credit: Dans Destinations)
And, remember, it’s not like sailing with a small cruise line means 300 people are spread out over a ship the size of Icon of the Seas. The ship is much smaller, to match the number of cruisers, so the crowd density may feel similar.
As such, if you hate being around other people and prefer to book vacations that take you away from crowds, cruising might not be for you.
3. Am I Overwhelmed By a Lot of Choices?
If you sail on one of today’s larger ships, you’ll be inundated with choices. You have so many options to choose from when it comes to entertainment, activities, dining and drinking. For example, the aforementioned Icon of the Seas has more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges.
For some travelers, this is a great thing. However, other travelers can find this abundance of choice overwhelming, anxiety-inducing and stressful.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Docked in Miami (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
Are you one of the latter? If so, you may find that you prefer to either sail on a smaller ship with a limited number of restaurants, bars and entertainment options, or you might not prefer cruising at all.
Instead, you might prefer to go to an all-inclusive resort, where there’s just a handful of restaurants to pick from and limited activities beyond the beach.
4. What’s My Budget?
It’s unlikely that your budget is going to tell you that you can’t cruise at all. Some cruising options are highly affordable. However, your budget may dictate what type of cruise you take.
Carnival Cruise Line, for example, is known as one of the most budget-friendly cruise lines out there. You can pay as little as $50 per night per person for a Carnival cruise, in some instances.
In contrast, luxury cruise lines like Regent Seven Seas might charge thousands of dollars per night for a stateroom.
Carnival Conquest at PortMiami (Photo Credit: JHVEPhoto)
That said, you get what you pay for. While Carnival is a fine cruise line, it’s not known for luxury and the line’s budget-friendliness attracts a lot of families and younger adults. Regent Seven Seas, meanwhile, offers top-of-the-line amenities and services, and attracts only the wealthy and, often, older travelers.
Carnival and Regent, though, represent two polar opposite ends of the cruising spectrum. You can find plenty of cruise lines that fall somewhere between the two, in terms of both cost and environment.
As you decide if and how you’ll cruise, think about your budget and your ideal cruising experience, and book accordingly.
5. Who Will You Be Cruising With?
Along the same lines, before booking a cruise, think about who you’ll be cruising with.
If you’re cruising with small children, for example, you don’t want to book a cruise that doesn’t offer many kid-friendly amenities or, even worse, doesn’t allow children altogether (like Virgin Voyages).
Virgin Voyages Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: EQRoy)
Similarly, if you’re cruising with your friends on a girls’ or guys’ trip, you won’t want to book a stuffy luxury cruise where the average age is over 60. You’ll want a cruise where you can let your hair down and party a little (again, like Virgin Voyages).
Even if you’re just cruising by yourself, you may want to sail with certain cruise lines that don’t charge extra fees for sailing on your own (called a single supplement charge).
Before booking any cruise, think about who you’d like to bring with you (or not) and how that might impact what cruise you actually book.
6. What’s Your Cruise Personality?
Again, along the same lines, think about your own cruise personality and what kind of cruising experience you want to have. If you’ve never cruised before, you may not feel like you have a good idea of what your cruise personality is, but think of it in the same way you might think of your travel personality.
For example, do you love to be on the go, constantly, while traveling, seeing and experiencing something new? You might want to book a cruise on a large ship with lots of options and activities, and that’s visiting a large number of ports, with few or no sea days.
Carnival Cruise Line Passengers (Photo Credit: GagliardiPhotography)
Similarly, if you’re a relaxed, low-key traveler who just wants to kick their feet up and chill, you might want to opt for a smaller cruise ship with fewer amenities and activities, and a more relaxed itinerary.
There are also a range of cruises that cater to niche interests. For example, you can find themed cruises that focus on certain television shows or sports teams, expedition cruises from lines like Lindblad Expeditions or family-focused cruises like those offered from Disney.
7. How Long Do You Want to Cruise?
You can find cruises that only sail for three days, like the short weekend cruises that Royal Caribbean offers out of Miami, or you can find cruises that take up to nearly an entire year, like Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise, which took place over more than 270 days.
Of course, you can also find a wide range of cruises that last somewhere between these two opposite ends of the spectrum. So, how long do you want to cruise?
Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise (Photo Credit: Diego O. Galeano)
Both shorter and longer cruises come with their pros and cons. A shorter cruise is easier to fit into a busy schedule and can be more convenient for some travelers. A longer cruise gives you more time to become accustomed to the ship and really feel at home, without feeling the need to rush and cram every experience into your trip.
Carefully consider how long you want to be gone, before booking your first cruise.
8. Where Do You Want to Cruise?
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a corner of the world’s waterways where cruise ships don’t show up. Yes, while the major destinations welcome the big cruise ships, the smaller, more remote destinations around the world still welcome their fair share of small, boutique cruise ships.
So, do you want to see some of the most popular cruise destinations out there, like the U.S. Virgin Islands or the Mexican Riviera? Or do you want to go off the beaten path and explore the Galapagos or Papua New Guinea? Or, maybe you want to sail up the Amazon or down the Mississippi?
Wherever you want to go, as long as there’s a body of water, chances are likely there’s a cruise that can take you there. Don’t limit your idea of where cruising can take you.
9. What Are Your Non-Negotiable Travel Needs?
We all have them. As a traveler, there are just some things you don’t want to travel without, no matter where or how you’re traveling. What are those things for you, and can you find a cruise ship that can meet those needs?
Cruise Passenger Keeping Fit on Cruise (Photo Credit: Andrew F. Kazmierski)
For example, maybe you’re a gym rat and you desperately need a good fitness center to keep you feeling your best during a vacation. If that’s the case, look for a cruise ship with a good gym setup (luckily, they’re pretty easy to find).
Maybe you’re a total foodie and dining is the highlight of any vacation you take. If that’s the case, don’t just plan your foodie experiences around your ports of call. Look specifically for a cruise line renowned for its culinary program, such as Celebrity Cruises or Norwegian Cruise Line.
10. What Kind of Cabin Do You Need?
Once you’ve decided that cruising is definitely for you and you’ve narrowed your choices down to a few cruise lines, also think about what kind of cabin you’ll need.
Just like there are myriad cruise line and cruise itinerary options, once you decide on a cruise line and ship, you’ll find that each ship comes with dozens of stateroom and suite selections.
If you’re traveling solo, do you want to spend more for a big stateroom, or would you prefer a singles-geared stateroom that doesn’t come with a singles’ supplement fee?
The Ultimate Family Suite
If you’re traveling with several others or the family, do you want to all be crammed into a small interior stateroom, or would you be better off booking connecting rooms, a suite or even an expansive option like the Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean.
If you’re more of a luxury traveler, you may want to book a suite regardless of who you’re traveling with. Even if you’re not normally a luxury traveler, you may still want to book a suite anyway, for the perks it gets you.
For example, if you book a suite on Norwegian Cruise Line, dependent on the ship, you may get extra amenities and services such as priority dining and entertainment reservations, concierge service, butler service, personal escort on and off the ship, free room service and more.
Yes, when you book a cruise, you can usually get a full trip within the cost of your cruise fare, as cruise ships always have a handful of free dining options and free activities.
However, you usually can’t do and enjoy absolutely everything on the ship for free. In most instances, you’ll pay extra for things like alcoholic beverages or specialty dining.
Regent Seven Seas Cruise Ship
While that’s the case for most cruise ships, though, some cruise lines are actually all-inclusive, where anything and everything you could want is free, once you’re on the ship.
This is most common on luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines, such as Silversea, Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas. If you want an all-inclusive experience wherein you can do whatever you want, whenever you want, without ever incurring any extra costs, think about that before you book.
If, though, you’re fine with either paying a little extra here or there, or you don’t feel as if you need any extras, you’ll likely be fine with one of the standard cruise lines.
The city of Baltimore might not seem like a typical location for a cruise port, but the Baltimore Cruise Port handles over half a million cruise passengers per year.
It’s an important departure point for cruises headed for the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, New England, and the Atlantic coast of Canada. Learn all about downtown Baltimore’s cruise port with this guide.
Baltimore Cruise Port is situated along the Patapsco River in Winans Cove. Not only does this allow cruise ships to easily make their way to and from the North Atlantic Ocean, but it also means that visiting cruise passengers are just 3 miles from Baltimore, Maryland’s downtown core.
The location is ideal for those hoping to visit the city’s main attractions before boarding. Its proximity to an international airport and major highways also makes the cruise port accessible for those traveling from out of state.
If you are planning on driving to the port, you can simply put the following address into your preferred navigation app:
Baltimore Cruise Port Address:
Cruise Maryland Terminal, 2001 East McComas Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21230, United States
History of the Cruise Port
While the Port of Baltimore dates back to 1706, the history of the Baltimore Cruise Port is much younger. In the early 2000s, the city of Baltimore and the state of Maryland identified the potential economic benefits that cruise tourism would bring to the cash-strapped city.
Starting in the late 1950s and intensifying through the 1980s and ‘90s, Baltimore suffered serious economic consequences from deindustrialization.
In the early 2000s, the city began looking for ways to revitalize the area and inject money and jobs into the city. With the Port of Baltimore being a nationally important shipping hub and one of the city’s employment mainstays, it only made sense that the waterways could also cater to the needs of cruise ships.
Carnival Pride in Baltimore (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)
Not only would hosting cruise ships help create jobs and inject money into the area, but it would also create a major tourism boom in a city that had become seen as a fairly undesirable destination.
Construction of a dedicated cruise port began shortly after, with the port beginning cruise operations in early 2004. Thanks to the city’s strategic location along the Atlantic Coast and the deep waters of the Patapsco River.
It is possible for cruise ships to make their way to the city, and it has since grown to become a popular departure point for cruises bound for the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and even Canada and New England.
Baltimore Cruise Port Piers and Terminal
As mentioned, Baltimore Cruise Port features a single terminal called the Cruise Maryland Terminal. It was designed to provide all visiting cruise passengers with a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
The cruise terminal is actually a converted 65,000 square ft. former paper warehouse, further demonstrating how the port revitalized an area that jobs had left.
While the Baltimore Cruise Port began operations in 2004, the terminal building was opened in 2006, with major modernization efforts taking place in 2014.
Aerial View of the Baltimore Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Cruise Maryland)
Currently, there are no plans to expand the port or the terminal building, but it is still capable of handling nearly 500,000 cruise passengers per year, helping to inject more than $65 million into Baltimore’s economy. The port also employs over 400 people, providing full-time jobs in a city where economic stability is much needed.
Rather than being built around a pier, the cruise port has a single cruise ship berth, which allows a full-sized cruise ship to pull alongside the terminal building.
While a pier sits immediately in front of the cruise ship berth, this pier is not used for docking cruise ships. Instead, it is used to house supplies for visiting cruise ships and docking the port’s tugboats and other smaller vessels.
Here are just some of the features and facilities the terminal is outfitted with:
Check-in and Security Counters
Baltimore Cruise Check-In Area (Photo Credit: Cruise Maryland)
The Cruise Maryland Terminal Building features multiple check-in counters, ensuring a quick and efficient boarding process. There is a tented area just outside the terminal marked “Cruise Luggage Tags” where passengers can weigh and tag their luggage, further helping to ensure the check-in line moves quickly.
Waiting Areas and Restrooms
Interior of Maryland Terminal (Photo Credit: Cruise Maryland)
Although the terminal building is fairly basic, there is a spacious and air-conditioned waiting area outfitted with comfortable seating, so passengers can pass the time until their embarkation time. Fully accessible restroom facilities are also available throughout the terminal building.
Information Desk
A basic information desk staffed by representatives of the cruise ship that is currently docked sits inside the terminal building, and the helpful staff can assist you if you have questions about the boarding process or anything else related to your cruise.
Luggage Handling
Baltimore Terminal Arrival
Tagged luggage can be brought to the luggage handling service desk. While tipping is highly recommended, they will provide complimentary luggage handling for cruise guests who arrive in time.
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout the building, but guests have a 30-minute time limit before they have to sign in again. Unfortunately, it can be pretty slow, especially if the terminal is crowded when you try to connect.
2014 Terminal Upgrades
Even though the terminal building was only completed in 2006, it was subject to a major renovation project in October and November 2014. The improvement project focused on improving passenger flow management with better security screening and baggage handling services and expanding the seating area.
Vision of the Seas in Baltimore (Photo Credit: Cruise Maryland)
While the project was a bit of a disturbance, it was a testament to the fact that demand for cruises departing from Baltimore was high and the decision to introduce a cruise port to the city was a major success.
Cruise Lines that Visit Baltimore Cruise Port and Where They Dock
Several major cruise lines frequent Baltimore Cruise Port and offer a wide range of itineraries along the Atlantic Seaboard and beyond.
Since the port only has a single berth, all cruise ships, regardless of the cruise line they belong to, dock at the same spot.
Just make sure you carefully check your embarkation time and regularly check for updates with your cruise line before departure, as the port only allows traveling cruise passengers to enter two hours before their embarkation time.
Norwegian Sky Cruise Ship Baltimore (Photo Credit: Port of Baltimore)
Here are the cruise lines that operate out of Baltimore Cruise Port and some of the itineraries they offer:
Royal Caribbean International: Regularly sails from Baltimore Cruise Port to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, and New England
Norwegian Cruise Line: They offer New England and Canada itineraries from Baltimore
Carnival Cruise Line: Offers cruises to the Bahamas, Bermuda, and several Caribbean itineraries
American Cruise Line: Smaller cruise ship tours along the East Coast to Chesapeake Bay
Parking at Baltimore Cruise Port
When the cruise port was in the design phase, parking was a priority. Knowing that the vast majority of cruise passengers would be traveling to the port from outside of Baltimore, the design team wanted to ensure that visitors could easily find overnight parking. For this reason, the relatively small cruise port features two on-site parking lots.
Cruise Ship in Baltimore, Maryland (Photo Credit: Port of Maryland)
Here’s a breakdown of parking facilities and what you can expect if you use one of the two official lots that sit to either side of the Cruise Maryland Terminal Building:
Reservations: Not required, simply arrive at the terminal and you will be allowed to park
Security: 24/7 on-site security and patrols for both parking lots
Parking Rates: $20 per night for regular passenger vehicles. $40 per night for RVs under 30’ and $50 per night for RVs over 30’
Payment Options: Major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express)
Disabled Parking Options: There are numerous disabled parking spots for those with valid permits or disabled parking tags
Off-Site Parking Lots
Until August 1st, 2024, parking was only $15 per night for regular passenger vehicles, but the price was increased to help manage demand. Due to rising costs, some nearby off-site parking facilities have begun offering more competitive rates and complimentary shuttles to the port.
If you are looking to save money, or you require parking for a longer duration, we recommend the following nearby private parking lots and garages:
On Air Parking
With rates starting at just $3.50 per day and free cancellations up to the day before your cruise, On Air Parking offers a far more budget-friendly alternative to the port’s official parking lots.
Despite these low prices, they even provide a free shuttle service to the port. They’ll even refund you if you find cheaper parking after booking a spot.
Cruise Ship Docked in Baltimore
Since this is the most affordable option in the area, you will want to reserve your spot early, as the lot fills up fast, especially during peak travel season.
Premium Parking P2345
Located 0.6 miles from port, Premium Parking is a good option if the cruise port lots are full. While this rarely occurs outside peak travel season, it is always good to have a backup option.
Overnight 24-hour rates are $20, so the same as you would pay at the port, but it is a covered parking garage. You can also reserve your spot ahead of time, which can be helpful to avoid any confusion on the day of your cruise.
Traveling from Nearby Airports
Baltimore Cruise Port is accessible from two major airports. If you are planning on flying in from elsewhere, you can use the following directions to get to the port:
Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
Since Baltimore’s main airport is just 10.6 miles southwest of the port, this is where the vast majority of cruise passengers will fly into. Luckily, it’s really easy and affordable to travel between the two.
Taxis are readily available at the airport and do not need to be booked ahead of time. Travel by taxi takes roughly 20 minutes, but leave extra time if you arrive around rush hour.
Taxis also offer a $30 flat rate from BWI to the Cruise Terminal and vice versa. The flat rate applies regardless of the number of passengers, so it is very affordable.
Uber and Lyft operate in Baltimore, so you can also check rates when you arrive. Just be careful about surge rates if you arrive around rush hour, or during peak travel season.
If you prefer to take public transit and save a bit of money, the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) provides a light rail service from BWI to downtown Baltimore.
With several stations in the downtown core, you can then walk or cab to the port. Amtrak BWI also operates a train between the airport and Baltimore’s Penn Station, less than 5 miles from the port.
If you have rented a vehicle and prefer to drive yourself, you can follow these directions:
Get on the I-195 West from Stoney Run Road. Continue for 2.2 miles
Take exit 2A for MD-295 North and continue for 8.7 miles
Take exit 55 towards Key Highway. Look for signs for the Ft McHenry National Monument and Baltimore Cruise Port
Merge onto East McComas Street and arrive at your destination
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
DCA is located roughly 42.7 miles southwest of the port. While it seems a bit far away, traveling between the two is actually fairly straightforward, with plenty of options for cruise passengers arriving at DCA.
While taxis are readily available at the airport, travel time will take roughly an hour, depending on traffic. Unfortunately, there is no flat rate for taxis, so you will have to negotiate with your driver or pay the meter rate.
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (Photo Credit: Eli Wilson)
With that said, most taxi drivers will provide one-way travel to the port for about $75, so it isn’t overly expensive if you can split costs.
If you use Uber or Lyft, you can also check costs ahead of time, as DCA has a designated pickup zone for rideshare vehicles near the arrivals area.
You can also take the Metrorail from DCA to Union Station in downtown Washington, D.C., then transfer to the Amtrak train to Baltimore’s Penn Station.
While it sounds like a hassle getting there, it gives you the option to take a low-cost taxi to the port from the station. Fares are only $2 for a one-way single trip on the Metrorail, so it is an affordable way to get to Baltimore from Washington.
If you are planning on driving from DCA to Baltimore Cruise Port, use the following directions:
From the DCA, get on the I-395 North and continue for 2 miles
Take exit 2B for State Highway 295 North towards US-50 and continue for 28 miles
Take the exit for I-95 North towards New York and continue for 1.2 miles
Take exit 55 towards Key Highway. Look for signs for the Ft McHenry National Monument and Baltimore Cruise Port
Merge onto East McComas Street and arrive at Baltimore Cruise Port
How to Get to Baltimore Cruise Port
Even if you are not arriving at one of the airports that service Baltimore Cruise Port, traveling to the port from other parts of the city and beyond is incredibly easy. The following are just some of the options you have at your disposal:
By Taxi
As mentioned, taxis are widely available throughout Baltimore, including at the airport, in front of hotels, and near all the popular tourist spots.
Taxis in Baltimore (Photo Credit: f11photo)
Rates are affordable, and they provide cruise passengers with a more direct way to reach the port. Since the port has a designated taxi drop-off area right near the front entrance, it couldn’t be easier.
Using Rideshare Services
Both Lyft and Uber are very popular in Baltimore. They can be an affordable alternative to taking a taxi. They’re also useful while you explore the city, as you can set your pickup and drop-off points before you get in the vehicle.
Using Public Transit
The Maryland Transit Administration operates several bus routes that connect the port to some of the major hubs throughout Baltimore.
Baltimore Bus Route
You can also use the Light Rail and MARC Train services to get to nearby downtown Baltimore, allowing you to take a much cheaper taxi ride to the cruise port than if you took one from the city outskirts.
Driving
Driving to Baltimore Cruise Port is really straightforward thanks to clearly marked directional signs, plenty of on-site parking, and nearby major highways, like the I-95 and I-395, providing easy access to the port from outside the city.
Dining Near Baltimore Cruise Port
Unlike some larger cruise ports, Baltimore Cruise Port lacks dining options. Aside from a few vending machines in the Cruise Maryland Terminal Building, there are limited options for food and drinks at the port. With that said, there are some great options within proximity of the port, including the following:
Dining at the Waterfront (Photo Credit: Stoniko)
Samos Greek Island
Located less than half a mile from the cruise port, Samos Greek Island is one of the closest options for those looking for a quick bite before they set sail. Not only is it close to the port, they have a full menu of delicious house-made Greek food.
With fresh ingredients, this Baltimore staple has been serving up hearty plates of authentic Greek food in Baltimore since 1977. It’s a casual spot, and they also offer takeout, which is great if you’re pressed for time.
Diamondback Brewing Company
This rustic taproom and microbrewery is a great option if you’re looking to sample a few local beers before you set sail. Not only do they have an amazing menu of unique beers, but they also have a dine-in menu that features stone-baked pizzas, burgers, and more.
Given that Diamondback Brewing Company is just half a mile and roughly an 11-minute walk from the cruise port, it’s a great way to kill some time and set the tone for your cruise vacation!
Don Tigre Mexican Cuisine Bar
Enjoy a delicious menu of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other authentic Mexican favorites at this trendy restaurant and bar. The fun interior will make you feel like you are already in a tropical port of call, but you’ll just be 0.6 miles from the cruise port.
Whether you just want to kill some time with a few cold drinks, or you want a full meal, Don Tigre Mexican Cuisine Bar is a great option.
Shopping Near Baltimore Cruise Port
While the terminal building does have a very small gift shop, most people will look elsewhere for souvenirs, gifts, or even last-minute items they need for their cruise.
Sadly, the historical Harborplace Mall is changing ownership, so many of its stores are closed but there are still great options in the city for those who would like to do some shopping.
Inner Harbor Shopping Mall (Photo Credit: James Kirkikis)
Here are the best options near the port:
Lexington Market
Located roughly 2.9 miles from the port, Lexington Market runs every day of the week except for Sunday. This large indoor market dates back to 1782 and features a variety of food stalls, produce stands, souvenir vendors, and more. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir and take in the history of the city.
CityCenterDC
If you want to do some serious shopping and you have a bit of time before your cruise sets sail, taking a trip out to CityCenterDC is well worth your time.
This enormous shopping and dining complex spans more than five city blocks and is considered by many to be one of the best shopping neighborhoods in the country.
With luxury stores, designer boutiques, outlet stores, high-end restaurants, and much more, it is a must-visit destination for shopping enthusiasts. Although it’s a 42-mile drive away in Washington, D.C., many people embarking from Baltimore Cruise Port will make time for a visit.
Fell’s Point
One of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, Fell’s Point is packed with cozy boutiques, bookstores, restaurants, diners, and cafés. Whether you’re shopping for clothing, antiques, or even just some reading material for your cruise, you’ll find it by walking around Fell’s Point, just over 2 miles from the port.
The Best Time to Visit Baltimore
Like nearby Washington, D.C., Baltimore experiences very different weather throughout the four seasons. While the summer weather is warm and fairly pleasant, it can be a bit humid.
Fall brings cooler temperatures, which makes it a nicer time of year to explore the city. The winter can bring snow and cold temperatures, but this is also when the port is its busiest because it’s peak cruise season for the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda.
While they might not be the best months for walking around the city of Baltimore, the fall and winter months between late October and early April are the busiest in the Baltimore Cruise Port. Expect cooler temperatures and occasional showers, as well as snow in the mid-winter months.
No matter when you book your cruise, just make sure you check the weather in Baltimore before and after your cruise, and pack at least one outfit suitable for the time of year.
As you’ll quickly discover, the weather in Baltimore can be very different from the tropical locations many of the cruise ships that visit its cruise port sail to.
Norway is taking bold steps to protect its breathtaking World Heritage fjords, introducing zero-emission rules for maritime activity starting January 1, 2026. The new regulations will initially target vessels under 10,000 gross tons, including tourist ships and ferries.
However, larger ships, including cruise vessels, are expected to comply by 2032. Compliance will involve using alternative fuels such as bio-gas and connecting to shore power, when available.
“The goal is to preserve the spectacular fjords and create sustainable tourism,”said Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, climate and environment minister.
“The zero-emission requirement will drive technology development, reduce emissions, and ensure the World Heritage fjords remain attractive tourist destinations,” he continued.
The move comes as part of a broader effort to reduce the environmental impact of the cruise industry, which, while economically beneficial to destinations, has been linked to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution in these sensitive areas.
Norway’s Western fjords, including Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord, Geirangerfjord, Sunnylvsfjord, and Tafjord, are all listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, placing them under international scrutiny and protection.
In addition to the net-zero mandate, the Norwegian government is providing financial support to establish shore power facilities in Flåm, a popular port for cruise ships. This infrastructure will enable ships to connect to the local power grid, further reducing emissions while docked.
The Norwegian Parliament has backed the zero-emission initiative, emphasizing a gradual rollout, particularly for larger vessels.
Currently, the necessary technology for such ships is still in development, and the staggered timeline reflects the challenge.
Norwegian ports saw 3,943 cruise calls throughout the year, marking an increase of nearly 500 from the previous season.
Even more striking was the surge in passenger visits, which topped 6.1 million – a jump of almost 1.9 million compared to 2022. Cruise Norway anticipates 4 percent growth for 2024, for another record-breaking year.
Holland America Ship Docked in Geiranger, Norway (Photo Credit: John New)
A key factor driving this increase is the arrival of larger cruise ships. Vessels from major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises, with capacities exceeding 5,000 passengers, have become a common sight in Norway’s ports, especially during peak summer months.
With a rich maritime history, Norway currently offers over 100 ports, although only 10 of the ports received more than 200,000 passengers in 2023. Following Oslo’s busiest port is Bergen, which serves as the gateway to the fjords.
This last week of August alone, Bergan will welcome AIDA Cruises’ AIDAperla, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima, TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 4, Viking Oceans’ Viking Saturn, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Splendor.
Many of these ships continue to visit various fjord ports and weigh over 48,000 gross tons at the lightest (Viking Saturn) and 140,000 gross tons at the heaviest (Norwegian Prima).
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), following the European Union’s Green Deal, aims to have all cruise line members sailing with zero emissions by 2050, 18 years after Norway’s regulations go into effect.
Meanwhile, the EU’s Fit for 55 program is requiring its main ports to be equipped with shoreside electricity by 2030. This does not include the fjord ports in Norway that would need to offer the option to align with net-zero cruise ships.
At this time, only the Norwegian-based cruise line, Hurtigruten, is working to provide a net-zero cruise ship before Norway’s rules are implemented. Set to sail along the nation’s coasts, the 500-passenger vessel is scheduled for competition in 2030.
At least from the outside, Mein Schiff Relax looks just about ready to join the TUI Cruises fleet. Considering construction began in June of 2022, it’s exciting to see how far she has come.
The Germany-based cruise line released new photos of its eighth ship, which is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. Aside from some remaining scaffolding to suggest otherwise, the exterior of the 4,100-guest ship looks complete.
As the 160,000-gross ton ship was successfully floated out in November of 2023, it makes sense that all or most of the exterior work would be finished – as it’s easier to do so in dry dock. The float out ceremony commemorates the first time a new ship touches water and she leaves dry dock.
Shipyard crews are most likely in the process of finishing off the ship’s interior – from perfecting the onboard decor to making sure all operating systems are functional.
Her next big milestone will likely come with her seafaring trials, in which she proves she is fit for sailing with paying passengers. Around the same time, nearly 1,100 crew members will join the vessel for her inaugural sailings.
Speaking of which, the highly anticipated maiden voyage is scheduled for March 16, 2025, and will sail round-trip from Palma De Mallorca, Spain. The 7-day voyage will call on Rome, Italy; La Spezia, Italy; Barcelona, Spain; and Valencia, Spain.
She will continue to homeport in Palma De Mallorca throughout her inaugural season – primarily offering 7 to 9-night cruises to destinations throughout Spain, Italy, and France.
It’s also possible that the small-but-mighty cruise line might add an earlier test voyage to work out any kinks prior to the inaugural sailing – as was done for Mein Schiff 7 prior to her official launch in June of this year.
TUI Cruises Ship Arrives With Many Firsts
Mein Schiff Relax, which is being launched through a joint venture between TUI Cruises and Royal Caribbean, will make history when she officially joins the TUI fleet in 2025.
First, avid cruise fans may have noticed that this is the first ship in the fleet to have her own name, rather than just a number. The previous vessels, all of which are called Mein Schiff, are numbered from one to seven.
Mein Schiff Relax at Monfalcone Shipyard (Photo Credit: TUI Cruises)
She is also the first of two ships that will form the new InTUItion class. Her unnamed sister ship is also under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard and is expected to enter service in 2026.
The new class is meant to signify that these are the most modern and environmentally friendly ships in the fleet – helping the company work towards its goal of being climate neutral by 2030 while offering an elevated experience for guests.
This means that the new-builds will be equipped with LNG-powered engines (liquefied-natural gas), which is a greener alternative to traditional diesel-fueled engines, and will have the capability to run on biofuel made by processing organic waste flows in the future.
The new and improved amenities onboard the soon-to-be largest ship in the fleet are also likely to be instant favorites among cruisers – with the theater that extends from decks 3 to 5, wellness area on deck 15, and the pool deck with a unique shadow roof standing out as particularly exciting.
There will also be a new atrium with panoramic windows and various themed restaurants, bars, and lounges onboard.
