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MSC Cruise Ships By Size: Largest to Smallest

Emrys Thakkar
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MSC Cruise Ships By Size: Largest to Smallest

While MSC Cruises may not boast the largest cruise ships in the industry, it still has a nice range of cruise ships of various sizes in its fleet, from the largest MSC World America, at 215,638 gross tons, to the smallest MSC Armonia, at 65,542 gross tons.

If you’re considering taking an MSC Cruises vacation in the near future, and you either want to stay on a big ship with lots of amenities, or you’d prefer a smaller, more intimate ship that focuses on itineraries rather than flashy on-board amenities, here’s everything you need to know, with MSC Cruises’ ships organized by size from largest to smallest.

MSC World America (215,638 GT)

MSC World America at Shipyard
MSC World America at Shipyard (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)

Not only is MSC World America the largest cruise vessel in MSC Cruises’ fleet, but it’s also the newest ship in the fleet.

The second World-class ship, this ship can hold nearly 7,000 passengers over its 22 decks and 2,614 cabins. The ship is split into seven “districts”: Family Aventura, Aqua Deck, Zen Area, Galleria, The Terraces, The Promenade and the MSC Yacht Club.  

The ship, which was built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique with construction starting in October 2022, is pretty similar to the first World-class ship, MSC World Europa.

Read Also: I Took a Sneak Peek at the Huge MSC World America While Under Construction

However, MSC World America takes the World class to new heights with new features such as the first Eataly at sea and new restaurants for MSC Cruises, including Paxos Greek Restaurant, Paxos on the Go, Promenade Bites and The Harbour Bar & Bites.

  • Entered service: April 2025
  • Gross tonnage: 215,683
  • Passenger capacity: 6,762
  • Length:  1,092 ft. 

MSC World Europa (215,683 GT)

MSC World Europa
MSC World Europa (Photo Credit: meunierd)

Not at all surprisingly, tying for the biggest cruise ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet is the other World-class ship currently sailing the oceans. MSC World Europa, also built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique and with construction starting in 2020, is the same size in gross tons as MSC World America.

However, if we were to rank these cruise ships’ size based on length rather than gross tonnage, MSC World Europa would actually come out on top, as its just a foot longer than its sister ship.  

Other size-related standout features on this big ship? There’s the Venom Drop dry slide, the longest dry slide at sea, and the largest waterpark in the fleet.

  • Entered service: December 2022
  • Gross tonnage: 215,683
  • Passenger capacity: 6,762
  • Length: 1,093 ft. 

MSC Euribia (183,500)

MSC Euribia Cruise Ship
MSC Euribia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Studio Porto Sabbia)

Another relatively new ship, MSC Euribia is actually newer than MSC World Europa, but it’s still smaller. A member of the Meraviglia Plus-class and built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique starting in 2021, the ship is quite a bit smaller than MSC World Europa in terms of gross tonnage, but the capacity isn’t far off, with only about a 400-person difference. 

This ship boasts some of its own size-related feats. It features the longest LED dome at sea, in the Galleria, and it has five pools that, when all are full, can accommodate a thousand cruisers! 

  • Entered service: June 2023
  • Gross tonnage: 183,500
  • Passenger capacity: 6,327
  • Length: 1,087 ft.  

MSC Virtuosa (181,541 GT)

MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship
MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Sergey_Bogomyako)

While not as big as Meraviglia Plus-class sister ship MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa still is by no means shabby in the size department. Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2018, the ship can actually fit more passengers than MSC Euribia, even with the small size difference. 

MSC Virtuosa has just over 2,400 cabins and suites, and a crew of just over 1,700. It also features the largest shopping area at sea, with the ship’s galleria accommodating 11 art boutiques and more than 250 brands available for purchase. 

  • Entered service: May 2021
  • Gross tonnage: 181,541
  • Passenger capacity: 6,334
  • Length: 1,087 ft. 

MSC Grandiosa (181,541 GT)

MSC Grandiosa Cruise Ship
MSC Grandiosa Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Gabriel S Fernandes)

The first Meraviglia Plus-class ship, MSC Grandiosa is the same size as MSC Virtuosa, and offers the same passenger capacity. The ship was built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique starting in 2018. 

Some fun, size-related details regarding this ship? There are five specialty restaurants, 12 total dining venues and 21 bars and lounges, all serving 15,000 meals per day, and eight different types of hot chocolate.

There are 1,137 square meters of retail space, 975 seats in the theater, a 570-square-meter gym and 1,100-square-meter MSC Aurea spa. The kids space measures more than 700 square meters. 

  • Entered service: November 2019
  • Gross tonnage: 181,541
  • Passenger capacity: 6,334
  • Length: 1,087 ft. 

MSC Bellissima (171,598 GT)

MSC Bellissima Docked in Valletta
MSC Bellissima Docked in Valletta (Photo Credit: revers)

The most recent Meraviglia-class ship to debut, MSC Bellissima entered service in 2019 after construction began in 2017 at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

The ship offers 12 dining venues and just over 2,200 staterooms and suites, and there are 1,595 crew members on board to serve the 5,600-plus passengers that take over the ship when it’s at full capacity.

  • Entered service: March 2019
  • Gross tonnage: 171,598
  • Passenger capacity: 5,655
  • Length: 1,034 ft. 

MSC Meraviglia (171,598 GT)

MSC Meraviglia Cruise Ship in new York
MSC Meraviglia Cruise Ship in new York (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock)

The lead of the Meraviglia class ships, MSC Meraviglia was the sixth-largest cruise ship in the world when it debuted in 2017, following two years of construction at STX Europe.

The ship features over 2,200 staterooms and suites, 19 decks (15 are accessible to passengers), a 5,200-square-foot LED dome in the Galleria, a main pool that measures more than 100 square feet and not one but two Formula 1 simulators. There are nine dining options and, of course, MSC Cruises’ fan-favorite MSC Yacht Club.

  • Entered service: June 2017
  • Gross tonnage: 171,598
  • Passenger capacity: 5,642
  • Length: 1,036 ft. 

MSC Seascape (169,400 GT)

MSC Seascape Departing Miami, Florida
MSC Seascape Departing Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Deutschlandreform)

This ship is quite a bit newer than some of the larger ships detailed above, but it’s on the smaller side, as it’s a Seaside EVO-class ship. Built by Fincantieri with construction starting in 2019, the ship is outfitted with 11 dining venues, 19 bars and lounges, 13 pools and water features and 2,270 staterooms and suites, 131 of which are MSC Yacht Club suites.

Guests will find 200-plus casino games in the large casino and 300-plus entertainment activities throughout the ship. The ship also boasts the only three-seat Robotron thrill ride on the seas.

  • Entered service: November 2022
  • Gross tonnage: 169,400
  • Passenger capacity: 5,877
  • Length: 1,112 ft. 

MSC Seashore (169,400 GT)

MSC Seashore Cruise Ship
MSC Seashore Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Solarisys)

MSC Seashore is the same size as MSC Seascape, as the two are relatively close in age and of the same class, the Seaside EVO class.

However, when it launched ahead of MSC Seascape, MSC Seashore gained status as the longest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet at the time. The ship also features more than three acres of outdoor space, 11 dining venues and 19 bars.

The ship was built by Fincantieri, with construction starting in 2019.

  • Entered service: August 2021
  • Gross tonnage: 169,400
  • Passenger capacity: 5,877
  • Length: 1,112 ft. 

MSC Seaview (153,516 GT)

MSC Seaview Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: LukeandKarla.Travel / Shutterstock.com

The most recent Seaside class ship, MSC Seaview is just a bit smaller than the two Seaside EVO-class ships. Still, that doesn’t mean that this ship doesn’t have anything worth bragging about, size-wise.

The ship offers one of the longest zip lines at sea, and its just over 5,000 passengers are distributed among 2,026 staterooms and suites. The ship has a crew of 1,413 people. The ship was built by Fincantieri in 2017.

  • Entered service: June 2018
  • Gross tonnage: 153,516
  • Passenger capacity: 5,079
  • Length: 1,060 ft. 

MSC Seaside (153,516 GT)

MSC Seaside Cruise Ship
MSC Seaside Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: ODIN Daniel)

Very similar in size and style, MSC Seaside may seem small-ish, but when it debuted in 2017, after construction at Fincantieri took about a year, it was one of the world’s biggest cruise ships.

In fact, it easily fit into the top 15 largest cruise ships at that time. Now, though, it barely fits into the top 40 largest cruise ships in the world. 

  • Entered service: December 2017
  • Gross tonnage: 153,516
  • Passenger capacity: 5,079
  • Length: 1,060 ft. 

MSC Preziosa (139,072 GT)

MSC Preziosa
Photo Credit: maudanros / Shutterstock

A Fantasia-class ship built by STX Europe starting in 2010, MSC Preziosa offers 1,751 staterooms and suites, and requires 1,388 crew members.

While this ship is quite a bit smaller than MSC Cruises’ current largest ships, the ship still manages to pack a lot into its small footprint. For example, the ship has one of the longest water slides at sea and it still has fan-favorite features like the MSC Yacht Club. 

  • Entered service: March 2013
  • Gross tonnage: 139,072
  • Passenger capacity: 4,345
  • Length: 1,094 ft. 

MSC Divina (139,072 GT)

MSC Divina in Port Canaveral
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz

Another STX Europe-built Fantasia-class ship, MSC Divina is the same size as MSC Preziosa. Like its sister ship, MSC Divina manages to squeeze quite a lot of features into its small footprint. There’s the MSC Yacht Club, four pool areas, eight restaurants, 12 bars and lounges and a 22,507-square-foot water park. 

  • Entered service: May 2012
  • Gross tonnage: 139,072
  • Passenger capacity: 4,345
  • Length: 1,094 

MSC Splendida (137,936 GT)

MSC Splendida Cruise Ship
MSC Splendida Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: MariaMaslova)

The first two Fantasia-class ships were slightly smaller than the last two Fantasia-class ships, as can be seen with the second ship in the class, MSC Splendida.

Again, though, for its time, this ship was remarkable in terms of size. In 2009, it was one of the largest cruise ships owned by a European cruise line. The ship offers 1,637 cabins and suites, including 43 accessible staterooms.

Construction on the ship began in 2007, at STX Europe. 

  • Entered service: July 2009
  • Gross tonnage: 137,936
  • Passenger capacity: 4,363
  • Length: 1,093 ft.  

MSC Fantasia (137,936 GT)

MSC Fantasia in Genoa
Photo Credit: maudanros / Shutterstock.com

The first of the Fantasia class ships, MSC Fantasia, like its immediate predecessor, also made its mark in terms of both size and features.

The ship was the largest in the MSC Cruises fleet in 2008, and it was also the very first ship to introduce the MSC Yacht Club. The ship includes approx 1,600 staterooms and suites, and was built by STX Europe.

  • Entered service: December 2008
  • Gross tonnage: 137,936
  • Passenger capacity: 4,363
  • Length: 1,093 ft. 

MSC Magnifica (95,128 GT)

MSC Magnifica Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: Obatala-photography / Shutterstock

Built by STX Europe, MSC Magnifica was the last of the Musica class. With its 13 decks, the ship offers five restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, two outdoor pools, a spa and a casino. There are 1,004 cabins with ocean views and 248 inside cabins. The crew numbers 1,038 individuals.  

  • Entered service: March 2010
  • Gross tonnage: 95,128
  • Passenger capacity: 3,223
  • Length: 964 ft. 

MSC Poesia (92,627 GT)

MSC Poesia Cruise Ship
MSC Poesia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: juerginho)

With construction at STX Europe beginning in 2006, MSC Poesia is slightly smaller than Musica-class sister ship MSC Magnifica. The ship offers three pools (two outdoor), four hot tubs, three restaurants and 1,275 staterooms and suites (275 of which are interior and a thousand of which are exterior). There are 987 crew members.

  • Entered service: April 2008
  • Gross tonnage: 92,627
  • Passenger capacity: 3,223
  • Length: 964 ft. 

MSC Orchestra (92,409 GT)

MSC Orchestra Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: Vytautas Kielaitis / Shutterstock.com

Even smaller, the second Musica-class ship, MSC Orchestra, was built in 2006 by STX Europe. While it is just a tiny bit smaller than MSC Poesia, though, it can still accommodate the same number of cruisers. The ship has 940 crew members, and 1,275 staterooms and suites, including 17 accessible staterooms for those with disabilities.

  • Entered service: May 2007
  • Gross tonnage: 92,409
  • Passenger capacity: 3,223
  • Length: 964 ft. 

MSC Musica (92,409 GT)

MSC Musica Cruise Ship
MSC Musica Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: byvalet)

Yet another MSC Cruises ship that’s considered tiny today, MSC Musica made waves for its size when it entered service in 2006. At that time, it was the largest cruise ship MSC Cruises had ever launched (and even today, the ship was recently considered the largest ship to sail from Israel). 

Built by STX Europe with construction starting in 2005, MSC Musica is the lead ship in the Musica class. It contains 1,275 staterooms, including 17 accessible cabins. There are 16 decks and 1,014 crew members.  

  • Entered service: July 2006
  • Gross tonnage: 92,409
  • Passenger capacity: 3,223 
  • Length: 964 ft. 

MSC Opera (65,591 GT)

MSC Opera Cruise Ship
MSC Opera Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: CeltStudio)

Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2004, MSC Opera is a member of MSC Cruises’ smallest and oldest cruise ship class, the Lirica class. The Lirica-class ship has just over a thousand staterooms (only five of which are accessible) and just over 700 crew members. There are 13 decks. 

  • Entered service: June 2004
  • Gross tonnage: 65,591
  • Passenger capacity: 2,658
  • Length: 902 ft. 

MSC Lirica (65,591 GT)

MSC Lirica Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: Mummert-und-Ibold / Shutterstock

The first new-build cruise ship for MSC Cruises, MSC Lirica was built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2002. The 14-deck ship is pretty small in pretty much every way. There are only three dining options, including main dining rooms.

The theater can only hold about 700 people. Some of the bars can only hold about a hundred people. There are fewer than a thousand staterooms and suites. There are fewer than 800 crew members. Still, when the ship was refurbished in 2015, MSC Cruises somehow found space to add a water park. 

  • Entered service: March 2003
  • Gross tonnage: 65,591
  • Passenger capacity: 2,648
  • Length: 902 ft. 

MSC Sinfonia (65,591 GT)

MSC Sinfonia
MSC Sinfonia (Photo Credit: Roger Utting)

While this ship was built in 2002 at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, it wasn’t originally built for MSC Cruises. Instead, it was built for Festival Cruises, until that now-defunct Greek cruise line declared bankruptcy, and MSC Cruises purchased the ship, renaming it MSC Sinfonia and adding it to its Lirica class. 

The ship’s nine decks include just over 350 interior cabins and just over 600 exterior cabins. There are around 700 crew members, three dining options and only a handful of entertainment venues.

  • Entered service (for MSC Cruises): March 2005
  • Gross tonnage: 65,591
  • Passenger capacity: 2,646
  • Length: 902 ft. 

MSC Armonia (65,542 GT)

MSC Armonia Cruise Ship
MSC Armonia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Stefan Lambauer)

Last of all, the Lirica-class ship MSC Armonia is both the smallest and the oldest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, at just slightly smaller than MSC Sinfonia in terms of gross tonnage.

Like MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia was originally a Festival Cruises cruise ship, until MSC Cruises purchased the ship and added it to the fleet. Much like MSC Sinfonia, MSC Armonia has under a thousand cabins, and only a handful of dining and entertainment options.

  • Entered service (for MSC Cruises): 2004
  • Gross tonnage: 65,542
  • Passenger capacity: 2,620
  • Length: 902 ft.

Carnival Offers Rare Insight Into Onboard Scheduling

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Offers Rare Insight Into Onboard Scheduling

A packed schedule of activities is one of the greatest things to enjoy about a cruise, with games, contests, shows, lectures, crafts, and more offering something for everyone.

But who exactly makes that schedule? Carnival Cruise Line has offered a bit of insight into just how complex the process can be.

Official Brand Ambassador John Heald frequently responds to guest inquiries, comments, and questions through his Facebook page, assisting travelers with all types of issues, from dining room seating assignments to ashes scattering ceremonies to celebrating special occasions.

At times, he even offers unique insights into how Carnival Cruise Line operates. This could be from a behind-the-scenes video, as he did recently while explaining how lost items are processed, or his famous “walkies” around the Carnival ships he visits.

Recently, one guest asked about which activities are scheduled onboard different ships, which gave Heald the opportunity to show just who is responsible for different scheduling.

“I’ve noticed how wildly different the schedule has been for each cruise I’ve been on,” the guest explains. “I’m assuming the cruise director creates the schedule, but I wonder what factors go into it.”

The guest goes on to explain some differences they noted on their own recent sailings aboard Carnival Elation under different cruise directors. They even noted that there was the occasional “bored” feeling from what seemed to be a lack of activities.

As a former cruise director himself, Heald is very familiar with how activity schedules are created and approved.

“Well, it’s actually created by the entertainment director [and] the cruise director and then signed off by the hotel director,” Heald explained. “Yes, it is different from ship to ship and from the different classes of ship as well.”

carnival cruise director
Carnival Cruise Line Cruise Director (Photo Credit: Carnival Cruise Line)

It makes perfect sense that both the ship’s entertainment director and the cruise director would need to collaborate to create activity schedules.

The entertainment director is in charge of Playlist Production shows as well as the onboard guest comedians, live music, and any other acts for each sailing, such as magicians, jugglers, or soloists who may be brought onboard for Carnival Journeys cruises.

The cruise director, on the other hand, oversees the Fun Squad and trivia contests, game shows, and top events like the ever-popular Welcome Aboard and Love & Marriage shows, as well as activities such as the Groove for St. Jude fundraiser.

By coordinating their individual scheduling needs, the entertainment director and cruise director can work together to ensure that the most popular events do not cause scheduling conflicts. This way, all guests onboard have the opportunity to enjoy them.

Being Bored on Carnival Cruise Ships

Heald was dismayed, however, to learn that the guest felt bored on occasion.

“It’s very rare that I ever see anybody write to me saying they were bored during the cruise,” he said. “If you’d like to be a little bit more specific about perhaps some of the things that we’re missing and which ship you are on I promise to make sure they will be seen by the right people, as we only ever want you to be having fun.”

It is important to note that even with a full roster of activities to choose from it is possible that no options might appeal to some travelers.

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

For example, I myself have been onboard Carnival cruises when a “Friends” trivia, Thriller dance lesson, wine tasting class, Build-a-Bear workshop, and Ladies Pamper Party are all held within the same hour – none of which appeal to me.

Read Also: What to Do on the Last Sea Day of a Carnival Cruise

This does not mean, however, that these activities are necessarily boring to other guests, simply that it’s up to me to go find something else to enjoy at that time. I might take a stroll around the Lido deck, grab a slice of pizza, read a book in Serenity, or take a swing at mini-golf instead.

Now, if the schedule included a “Game of Thrones” trivia, country line dance class, chocolate tasting class, LEGO building workshop, and burn-calories-without-working-out-or-changing-your-diet party were all held at once, I wouldn’t know which one to pick!

Carnival Cruise Itinerary Change Upsets Sports Fans

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Itinerary Change Upsets Sports Fans

Carnival Cruise Line has made an itinerary change to Carnival Firenze on one particular cruise in February 2025 (and February 2026) that may be upsetting to sports fans.

While the ship will still be sailing to the planned ports of call, the day of the port visits has been changed and will now conflict with Super Bowl Sunday on her February 6, 2025 and February 5, 2026 departures.

Booked guests were notified of the change less than a month before the ship’s 2025 departure date. Savvy travelers noted that the change – moving the call on Ensenada, Mexico from Saturday, February 8 to Sunday, February 9 – now means Carnival Firenze will be in port on game day.

“We have made an adjustment to the itinerary for your cruise – changed day of port visit for Ensenada,” the notification read.

No further explanation was offered for why the port visit date has been changed, though any pre-purchased Carnival shore excursions will be moved to the new date if possible. If adjusting tours is not possible, those tours will be cancelled and refunded.

Port congestion is a common reason for such changes, but on both February 8 and February 9, 2025, Carnival Firenze would be docked in Ensenada with just one other vessel. Carnival Radiance is visiting on Saturday, while Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas is visiting on Sunday.

For comparison, Carnival Radiance can welcome 2,984 travelers, while Navigator of the Seas can welcome 3,376 guests. This means that Carnival Firenze – with the largest passenger capacity at 4,208 guests – will now be visiting Ensenada on a day when even more travelers will likely be in port.

The change is the same for Carnival Firenze‘s February 5, 2026 departure. The visit to Ensenada has been moved to Sunday, while Saturday will be a day at sea. For both sailings, the time in the popular Mexican port remains as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Super Bowl begins at 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time. With pre-game specials and analysis beginning hours before, travelers may now have conflicts with shore tours if they had hoped to watch the game onboard.

Admittedly, guests booked on the ship’s 2026 departure still have plenty of time to cancel or change their cruise date if they prefer. This is not necessarily an option for the 2025 departure, as travelers would lose 75% of their cruise fare as a cancellation penalty at this point in time.

Watching the Super Bowl at Sea

Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has confirmed that the Super Bowl will be broadcast onboard Carnival ships. Several guests have inquired about the game, and Heald has been positive about his answers.

“Yes, we will be playing it on the big screens,” he confirmed. “It certainly is a wonderful, wonderful event.”

This gives Carnival guests the unique opportunity to cheer on the biggest sporting event of the year with a passionate, enthusiastic crowd, while at the same time enjoying Carnival’s amazing service and hospitality.

Cruise Passengers On Ship During Port Day
Cruise Passengers On Ship During Port Day (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)

Read Also: What Is the Carnival CHEERS! Package?

If one’s cruise ship is in port that day, however, shore excursions may take up most of the pre-game part of the day, while cleaning up afterward and going to dinner would conflict with gametime.

Many experienced travelers may recommend that sports fans not book a cruise at all over Super Bowl weekend if watching the game is that important. However, being able to watch the game at sea with a group of friends may be exactly what guests had hoped for in booking an itinerary when Super Bowl Sunday is a day at sea.

Cruise lines have the right to adjust ship itineraries at any time and for any reason, without offering compensation to travelers. Unfortunately, this may mean that guests on Carnival Firenze hoping to watch Super Bowl LIX could miss out if they planned to explore Ensenada.

It is always an option for guests to cancel their shore tours, which are fully refundable up to the time of sailing (if tours have been pre-purchased). This could open up the day and permit plenty of time to enjoy Ensenada in the morning while still being ready for kickoff.

Norwegian Cruise Line is Waiving Cancellation Penalties for Wildfire Victims

Lissa Poirot
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Norwegian Cruise Line is Waiving Cancellation Penalties for Wildfire Victims

As wildfires continue to wreak havoc across Los Angeles County, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is offering assistance to affected passengers and contributing to community relief efforts.

The fires, which have been particularly severe in areas like Pacific Palisades and Pasadena, prompted NCL to take action to support its guests and the wider community during this challenging time.

John Chernesky, senior vice president of North American sales at NCL, expressed his concerns for the victims, noting that he, himself, lives just 5 miles from the Hurst Fire that as of January 11, 2025, is forcing evacuations and destroying properties.

“The fires that have impacted Los Angeles are nothing short of devastating, and all of us at NCL are heartbroken at the loss of life and the destruction that has occurred,” he said.

To support its guests, Chernesky announced that the cruise line is waiving all cancellation penalties for January and February cruises from any location for anyone who resides in areas affected by the fires.

Read Also: How to Enjoy a Cruise Vacation in Uncertain Times

Additionally, NCL is offering a 100 percent future cruise credit (FCC) for the total price of their cruise for passengers who are unable to sail as planned due to the horrific fires.

Typically, FCCs are good up to one year from the date of issue, so guests can rebook a future cruise when it’s more convenient for them to steal away.

To further aid recovery efforts, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, NCL’s parent company, which also operates Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, is donating $50,000 to the Red Cross.

“All of us at NCLH are very proud to be part of an industry that rallies together in times of crisis and need,” said Chernesky. “It’s heartwarming to see the actions being taken at every level, from agencies to individual advisors, to assist those in need.”

Cruise Lines Respond to LA Wildfires

The wildfires spreading quickly across Los Angeles first ignited on January 7, 2025, fanned by the Santa Ana hurricane-force winds with speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

The Palisades and Eaton fires, which encompass the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and Pasadena, were among the first reported, causing significant destruction.

As of January 11, the fires have led to at least 11 deaths, destroyed more than 12,300 homes and buildings, and have left over 150,000 thousand residents displaced.

The situation remains critical, with the new Hurst fire erupting near the San Fernando Valley and the Kenneth fire in Bell Canyon.

Efforts to contain the fires are ongoing, with containment levels low. The Palisades Fire is currently only 8 percent contained and the Eaton Fire is only 3 percent contained.

In addition to Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises is also offering flexible cancellation options to passengers affected by the wildfires. 

The cruise line, which is based in Los Angeles, is allowing for free cancellation of any of the five cruises scheduled to depart from Los Angeles in January, with a future credit at full price good for one year.

Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles
Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles (Photo Credit: Pedro.Fonoff23)

In a statement to Cruise Hive, representatives from Princess Cruises said, “Princess Cruises, Los Angeles’ hometown cruise line, is deeply saddened by the devastation caused by the Palisades and Eaton fires. Our hearts go out to all those affected during this challenging time.”

Carnival Cruise Line, which homeports ships in the nearby Port of Long Beach and, like Princess Cruises, is owned by Carnival Corporation, has not announced any similar offerings for its passengers. 

Cruise Hive reached out to Royal Caribbean, which currently homeports Navigator of the Seas in LA, about any offer it may have for those affected by the wildfires but did not receive a response.

Both the Port of Long Beach and LA’s World Cruise Center, just south of the city, remain open, despite the nearby emergency.

Carnival Not Expanding Menu Offering at Popular Venue

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Not Expanding Menu Offering at Popular Venue

Social media is often filled with rumors which can spread rapidly and seem to be factual. Reaching out to an authority and properly looking into the background of an issue can often reveal something quite different, however.

Such is the case with a recent rumor surrounding a very popular, award-winning dining venue beloved aboard Carnival cruise ships – Guy’s Burger Joint.

Images of a supposedly “new” breakfast menu have been circulating in recent days. Many eager guests have reached out to Carnival Cruise Line’s official Brand Ambassador, John Heald, about whether or not the menu will be spread across the fleet.

Heald has responded to the inquiries – he answers hundreds of comments, questions, and requests every week on his popular Facebook page – noting that the menu is only offered on one ship at this time.

“I see on social media (questionable source, I know) that Guy’s Burgers is now serving breakfast,” one guest wrote recently. “Great if it’s true! Which ships are doing this, and are there plans and a schedule to roll this out fleetwide?”

This guest rightfully acknowledges that social media resources are not always the most reliable, and notes that the rumor of the breakfast menu may not be true. By asking Heald, they’ve attempted to go to the most reliable source of information about all things Carnival Cruise Line.

Heald does respond, but does not have the news the guest might wish he did.

“Carnival Sunrise is currently the only ship doing this,” Heald noted. “If we had any further ships, I will of course let you know.”

Interestingly, Heald answered this question slightly differently a few days earlier.

“Good morning, John! Does the Jubilee have the new Guy’s Burgers breakfast offerings?” another guest asked.

This guest obviously believes the breakfast options at Guy’s Burger Joint are a new addition to the menu selection. Heald’s answer, however, gives a different impression.

“You know, we tried that, but with so many other breakfast choices it wasn’t very popular so no, at the moment we don’t serve breakfast from there,” Heald explained.

While there is no indication that the breakfast menu will be removed from Carnival Sunrise, it’s clear that it won’t likely be expanded to additional ships.

Furthermore, the breakfast menu is not a “new” offering at all – it first appeared aboard Carnival Sunrise in December 2019.

Guy's Burger Joint, Carnival Cruise Line
Guy’s Burger Joint, Carnival Cruise Line

The breakfast menu includes different burgers topped with fried eggs, maple aioli, hashbrown patties, a French toast bun, turkey breakfast sausage, and more, depending on which burger a guest orders. All breakfast burgers are still served with fries.

Carnival Sunrise is homeported year-round from Miami, Florida, offering diverse itineraries to the Bahamas, the Eastern Caribbean, and the Western Caribbean, depending on departure date.

Could the Menu Change?

Of course, it isn’t unusual for cruise lines to beta test new menus on a single ship or just a few ships to gauge responses and gather feedback before deciding whether or not to roll out changes to the entire fleet.

Because the Guy’s Burger Joint breakfast menu is still available aboard Carnival Sunrise, it is possible the offering is continuing to be considered for expansion, perhaps with tweaks or updates.

Read Also: Free Carnival Cruise Dining Options You’ll Want to Know (With Menus!)

It is also possible that it is being kept aboard the ship as a unique offering just for that vessel, similar to the Italian-style burgers with pepperoni and mozzarella only available on Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze.

In the meantime, guests aboard other ships in the Carnival fleet have a wide range of delicious breakfast options to enjoy. These include service in their staterooms, the expansive Lido Marketplace buffet, the popular Seaday Brunch or the whimsical Thing 1 & Thing 2 Birthday Breakfast, and various other tasty choices.

How to Enjoy a Romantic Valentine’s Day Cruise

Emrys Thakkar
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How to Enjoy a Romantic Valentine’s Day Cruise

If you were to ask me the best way to spend Valentine’s Day, I’d recommend going on a cruise, hands-down.

Whether you go with a luxury cruise line, all-inclusive line or just a family-friendly line that offers something for everyone in your crew (including opportunities to get alone for Mom and Dad), a cruise ship’s many amenities, from fine dining to romantic spa treatments, lend themselves well to a Valentine’s Day getaway.

Here’s how I’d recommend you plan the most romantic Valentine’s Day possible.

In This Article:

1. Book the Right Itinerary and the Right Cabin

Planning a romantic Valentine’s Day cruise starts with picking the right itinerary and the right cabin, at the time of booking, as you peruse the variety of cruises available. No matter what cruise line you choose, some itineraries and cabins just lend themselves to romance more than others.

For example, if you decide to head out from Miami on a Caribbean cruise, I’d recommend choosing an itinerary that takes you to some of the smaller, less crowded and more luxurious and intimate islands throughout the region. Personal favorites include St. Barts and St. Lucia.

Cruise Ship in Port
Cruise Ship in Port (Photo Credit: Elena_Alex_Ferns)

Destinations like these may feel a little less crowded and hectic (and thus less stress-inducing) compared to super-busy cruise ports like San Juan or those in the Bahamas or Mexico, or cruise line’s private islands like Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay. 

You’ll also want to consider the best cabin for your itinerary. If you’re going to be spending a good chunk of time in your cabin (it is a romantic trip, after all), consider splurging a bit on a more luxurious cabin.

This doesn’t mean you need to book an expansive penthouse suite, but it might mean upgrading to a stateroom that does come with extra perks and services. 

For an upgrade that offers the most value for your dollar, I like booking a stateroom within cruise lines’ exclusive, suite guest-only areas, which often come with access to a private lounge, restaurant, sun deck and sometimes even a pool. Favorites include Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven and MSC Cruises’ Yacht Club.

Even if you don’t book one of these staterooms, though, at least consider a balcony stateroom or similar stateroom with outdoor space.

There’s nothing quite like sitting on your balcony with a cup of coffee right after you’ve woken up, watching the sun come up over the horizon, or stargazing at night with a glass of wine.

2. Book Select Experiences Ahead of Time

Carnival Cruise Line's Steakhouse
Carnival Cruise Line’s Steakhouse (Photo Credit: Jonathan C Wear)

The last thing that you want to happen when you get on your cruise? To find out that all of the activities and experiences that you and your sweetheart had looked forward to most are already booked up for your cruise’s select dates. 

Remember — this is a Valentine’s Day cruise. You’re not the only one that’s going to be celebrating something special. Other couples on the cruise are likewise going to be vying for those fine dining reservations and spa treatments. Book whatever activities you have your heart set on, as soon as you can, so you’re not disappointed. 

3. Plan a Romantic Cruise that Fits You and Your Significant Other’s Style

Celebrity Cruises Deck
Celebrity Cruises Deck (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)

One thing to remember when planning a romantic cruise is that romance is not one size fits all. What I might think of as a perfect date night could be a total snooze-fest for you and your significant other.

So, before you rush to book that couple’s massage or chef-led dinner experience, think about what you and your significant other would actually enjoy. Whatever your preferences, you’ll likely find plenty of opportunities for romance on a cruise ship. 

If you’re a foodie couple that savors a fine-dining experience, I’d suggest considering a cruise line known for its fine dining, such as Oceania Cruises, with its Jacques Pépin-directed culinary program, or Silversea Cruises. 

If a luxury cruise line is out of your budget, I’ve found the fine dining on mainstream cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises to be quite nice, such as at the cruise line’s Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud restaurant, which is featured on Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond.

Maybe you and your significant other are more adrenaline junkies than anything, though, and your idea of romance includes some blood-pumping activities.

Book shore excursions to that effect and choose a cruise ship with plenty of unique on-board features like jaw-dropping waterparks (Royal Caribbean’s newer ships are a good choice for this).

If you do book shore excursions, regardless of the type you book, consider booking private excursions versus group excursions. You’ll appreciate the privacy and personalized attention. 

But maybe you just want to stay on the ship the entire time and your preferences are simple; maybe you want to share a beer while you watch the sunset, or hit up the steakhouse. 

The point? Plan cruise activities catered to your idea of romance, not mine or any other cruiser’s.

4. Take Advantage of Adults-Only Spaces

Adults-Only Serenity Area
Adults-Only Serenity Area (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin / Shutterstock)

If you’re not cruising on an adults-only cruise line like Virgin Voyages or Viking, you may find that the poolside environment isn’t quite romantic.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some fun in the sun with your sweetheart. If you’re looking for a quieter space, try your ship’s adults-only pool or outdoor decks. 

Read Also: Is Deck 1 on a Cruise Ship Bad – Pros and Cons

On Carnival Cruise Line, that space is the Serenity Retreat. On Royal Caribbean, it’s the Solarium. MSC Cruises likewise has an adults-only solarium. Princess Cruises has its adults-only Sanctuary.

Even Disney Cruise Line has an adults-only space, with its Satellite sun decks. For an adults-only space with a beach club vibe, you’ll find it on Norwegian Cruise Line, with the line’s Posh, Vibe and Spice H20 areas. 

Do note that some adults-only areas, like those on Norwegian Cruise Line, may come with an extra admission fee.

5. Check Out the Cruise Line’s Lineup of Valentine’s Day Activities

Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal
Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal

As you plan out your cruise itinerary, check out the various Valentine’s Day-related activities that may be on offer as part of the ship’s daily programming.

For example, I’ve been on Carnival sailings in the past that have incorporated Valentine’s Day themes into their daily activities, with options like Valentine’s Day trivia, romantic poetry and love song competitions and romantic movie showings.

These activities can be fun and, better yet, free!

6. Surprise Your Sweetheart With a Special Gift

Royal Caribbean Wine
Photo Credit: Joni Hanebutt / Shutterstock

While some cruise lines will allow you to have flowers from local florists delivered to your stateroom at your embarkation port, you have other options for surprising your sweetheart with a unique gift, courtesy of your cruise line.

Whatever your chosen cruise, you should be able to order certain room décor and special surprises to be delivered to your stateroom ahead of boarding.

For example, Royal Caribbean will deliver chocolate covered strawberries, bottles of Champagne, chocolate truffles and other romantic gifts to a stateroom or suite, to help cruisers celebrate special occasions ranging from Valentine’s Day to anniversaries to a birthday.  

Want to find the most perfect gift but really unsure what your significant other would like? Consider gift certificates to the cruise ship’s spa or salon. 

7. Considering Renewing Your Vows

Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal
Carnival Cruise Line Fleetwide Vow Renewal

What could be more romantic than renewing your vows? If it’s been a while since you and your honey said “I do,” consider renewing your vows during your Valentine’s Day cruise.

There are several cruise lines that offer vow renewal packages that come with not just your ceremony, but also extras, bundling together items and services like photography, music, flowers and Champagne. These cruise lines include Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, P&O Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line and more. 

Not really one for formal services? If you’d like to mark the occasion in a big way, but without the fanfare of a special event, you might take a look around the ship’s duty-free shops, particularly the jewelry boutiques.

A Valentine’s Day cruise is the perfect time to upgrade your wedding bands or engagement ring. 

8. Dress Up For a Special Date Night

Formal Night Photos on Royal Caribbean Cruise
Formal Night Photos on Royal Caribbean Cruise (Photo Credit: Solarisys)

Whatever your preferred specific date night activity, look your best. Beyond going to the spa, considering going to the on-ship salon as well. In addition to basic services like haircuts and styling, some also offer waxing, teeth whitening, lash and brow services and more.  

Once you’re all spiffed up, break out your favorite date night attire. Even if you’re not going to one of the ship’s fine dining specialty restaurants, I find that more formal attire isn’t necessarily out of place in many ships’ main dining rooms.

If you’re worried about sticking out, attend the main dining room’s “formal night.” Usually occurring once or twice during the cruise, depending on cruise length, the main dining room’s formal night requires a more elegant dress code and usually encompasses a slightly elevated menu to match, from the salads course to the desserts. 

Cruise lines with formal nights include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Princess Cruises, and Cunard, and the level of formality differs according to the line you choose.

Read Also: How to Dress for Royal Caribbean Formal Night and What It’s All About

As a more budget-friendly cruise line, the formal dress code on Carnival Cruise Line is less strict than the dress code on Princess Cruises, where I’ve seen full tuxedos and gowns.

Just note that if you do have your date night in the main dining room, you won’t have the privacy that you’d have in one of the specialty restaurants, as you’ll be seated at a table with other cruisers.

9. Stay in and Order Room Service

Cruise Room Service Breakfast
Photo Credit: CathyRL / Shutterstock

There’s no need to dress up and go out for date night, though, if your preferred attire is a bathrobe. Kick up your feet and order room service. Better yet, cruise with a line that offers multi-course, in-room dining. 

If you’re sailing with a luxury cruise line like Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas or Princess Cruises, you can enjoy high-end dining served right in your suite or on your balcony, for a more private experience that allows you to fully enjoy your upgraded stateroom.

Worth Reading: What Does a Cruise Ship Butler Do?

Even if you’re not sailing with a luxury cruise line that offers this service, don’t forget about room service come morning. I’m partial to ordering room service breakfast at least once during a cruise.

It’s the perfect way to kick off the day on a relaxed note (and without fighting the crowds at the breakfast buffet!). 

10. Experience the Ship’s Nightlife

Virgin Voyages Party
Virgin Voyages Party (Photo Credit: AVOXY)

Your romantic date night doesn’t just have to be dinner. Plan to enjoy the ship’s nightlife as well, whether that means heading to a show after dinner or going out to one of the ship’s clubs or music venues. 

There’s typically a range of nightlife options on every ship, so you can find something to fit your and your significant others’ preferences. Beyond theater shows and clubs, you can also find comedy sets, film screenings, karaoke and more.

11. Make Sure to Get Lots of Photos

Couple Taking Photo on Cruise Ship
Couple Taking Photo on Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Nazar Skladanyi)

You can work with one of the ship’s professional photographers to get photos of all your favorite moments during your cruise, but this comes with its pros and cons.

The major pro is that you don’t have to even think about it. They show up, take the photos and you just worry about having a great time. The major con is that these professional photos come with an added cost, so you might prefer to bring your own camera. 

Whatever you choose, be sure to get lots of photos of every memorable moment. Those photo souvenirs will be the best keepsake that you could give yourself. 

12. Don’t Stress Over It

Couple Enjoying Cruise
Couple Enjoying Cruise (Photo Credit: ReganP)

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of cruising, it’s that you should prepare and plan for your cruise as much as possible ahead of time — but then once you’re onboard the ship, it’s ideal to focus on enjoying yourself and not on making sure every small detail is 100% perfect.

If you’ve put in the right amount of research and planning, your cruise will be just as relaxing and romantic as you hoped, so settle back and focus on spending time with your loved one.

It’ll be a Valentine’s Day to remember (and you might just find that a Valentine’s Day cruise becomes an annual tradition!).

Princess Cruises’ Captains Take Coffee Meetup to New Heights—Literally!

Lissa Poirot
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Princess Cruises’ Captains Take Coffee Meetup to New Heights—Literally!

Taking “let’s meet up for coffee” to a whole new level, the captains of two Princess Cruises vessels grabbed a coffee together with Sydney Harbor as a picturesque backdrop when the ships were crossing paths Down Under.

Captain Mario Consentino of the Crown Princess and Captain Michele Bartolomei of the Diamond Princess shared a cup of Joe on January 11, 2025, providing a rare photo opportunity that celebrated the cruise line’s adventures in Australia.

The meetup occurred when the 113,561-gross-ton Crown Princess was departing from her homeport of Sydney on a 14-night roundtrip journey to New Zealand, just as the 115,906-gross-ton Diamond Princess was moored at Athol Bay during a call on a 10-night roundtrip sailing from its homeport in Brisbane, Australia.

Up to 2,670 passengers aboard Diamond Princess had departed from Brisbane on January 3, visiting Eden, Australia, and Port Arthur and Hobart, Tasmania, before arriving in Sydney at 7 a.m. for a 12-hour visit.

Read Also: 10 Cruise Packing Hacks You Need to Know

As Diamond Princess was enjoying a day in Sydney, Crown Princess was departing on its voyage to New Zealand that included Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Auckland.

(It had arrived earlier in the day from a 13-night roundtrip cruise from Fiji that had departed on December 29, 2024.)

The two ships greeted one another with various horns while passengers hit the decks to wave to fellow cruisers. Some shared their own images from their vantage points on social media.

“This was one of the greatest experiences I’ve had while cruising,” said one passenger. “Thank you so much Princess Cruises for organizing this event. I’ll never forget it.”

Guests onboard Crown Princess – up to 3,080 – reported being slightly delayed, which may have been due to the meeting of the captains for a cup of espresso.

“We’re delighted to be in Sydney today with our sister ship, Diamond Princess, in this beautiful city,” said Captain Consentino.

“It’s the first time our ships are together in Sydney and it’s also the first time I’ll see my colleague Diamond Princess’ Captain Bartolomei in almost 10 years,” he continued.

Discover Princess Captain Michele Bartolomei (left) and Crown Princess Captain Mario Consentino (right) meet for coffee in Sydney. (Photo Credit: Princess Cruises)

The ships’ photo op aligned with Crown Princess leaving the White Bay Cruise Terminal and passing the moored Diamond Princess, which wasn’t set to leave the harbor until 7 p.m.

After departing, Diamond Princess sailed back to Brisbane to conclude her voyage on January 13.

Princess Anchors Growth in Australia’s Thriving Cruise Market

Princess Cruises Australia currently operates three ships in Australia, including the 3,560-passenger, 142,714-gross-ton Royal Princess, which was sailing in New Zealand when her sister ships converged.

Owned by Carnival Corporation, which is absorbing its P&O Cruises Australia into its Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises is one of several of the company’s Australian operators. Cunard, Holland America Line, and Seabourn also regularly sail in the region.

The two ships showcased the popularity of Australia for cruise lines, with the tourism board anticipating 1.2 million passengers and crew member visits in New South Wales, Australia – including Port Sydney, Port Eden, Port of Newcastle, Port Botany, Port Jackson, and Port Kembla – during its 2024-25 summer season.

Last year, New South Wales celebrated a $4.4-billion cruise industry – its largest to date and a 22% increase over its pre-pandemic highs.

Princess Cruises docks at White Bay Cruise Terminal or the Overseas Passenger Terminal (Circular Quay West) when in Sydney, if not mooring due to congestion.

Princess Cruises Teams Up to Showcase Rising Country Music Stars

Lissa Poirot
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Princess Cruises Teams Up to Showcase Rising Country Music Stars

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the country music scene. And starting in February, one vessel sailing from Galveston, Texas, will feature a host of musical performances to bring a splash of country tunes to the Caribbean.

Taking place on Princess Cruises’ 3,560-passenger Regal Princess, which recently completed emergency repairs that forced several cancellations at the end of 2024, the special series is offered in collaboration with the Academy of Country Music (ACM).

“ACM Live from the Red Barrel Lounge” will be featured on six Caribbean voyages departing from the Gulf of Mexico port between February 9 and March 17, 2025, and will bring some of country’s music brightest emerging stars to the high seas.

The artists will offer two 45-minute shows in the intimate setting of the state-of-the-art Princess Theater, located on the vessel’s Fiesta Deck and accommodating just under 1,000 guests.

Each artist will also participate in Meet & Greet sessions, offering passengers closer connection to the music they love.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Academy of Country Music to showcase the incredible talent of these rising stars,” said Princess Cruises’ Head of Global Entertainment Becky Thomson Foley.

“Many of our guests are passionate about country music, and this unique experience featuring intimate performances and meet-and-greet opportunities, promises to make their cruise vacation unforgettable,” she said.

Country Roots at Sea

The Red Barrel Lounge is a nod to the historic Red Barrel Niteclub, where the first So-Cal Country Music Awards Banquet, the precursor to the Academy of Country Music’s Awards, was hosted in 1963.

Today, the ACM is headquartered in Nashville and still features the Red Barrel Lounge as a platform for established and emerging artists.

The concert series aboard the 142,229-gross-ton Regal Princess – the largest Princess Cruises’ vessel to sail from Galveston – will honor the legacy of ACM by providing passengers with unique personal interactions and live entertainment. 

Performances will take place on two roundtrip itinerary options.

The longest, an 8-night Western Caribbean sailing, stops in Belize City, Belize; Roatan, Honduras; and Mexico’s Costa Maya and Cozumel, interspersed with three days at sea. The shorter voyage, at 6 nights in length, calls in Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Roatan.

Kicking off the series, Drew Baldridge, known for his viral hit “She’s Somebody’s Daughter,” will take the stage from February 9 to 17, 2025.

Princess Cruises Country Music
Princess Cruises and Academy of Country Music Show

Following Baldridge, the trio Chapel Hart, who made their mark on America’s Got Talent, will bring their blend of Mississippi roots and Louisiana spunk to Regal Princess. 

Read Also: Who Owns Princess Cruises? Behind the Company

Performances by the group consisting of Danica and Devynn Hart alongside Trea Swindle will include the band’s hit “You Can Have Him Jolene,” and will be the feature of the vessel’s February 17 through 23 voyage.

Kentucky-native, Hannah Ellis, recognized by Rolling Stone Country as an “Artist to Watch,” will join the ship’s February 23 to March 3 journey, where passengers will get to hear hits from her acclaimed debut album, “That Girl.”

The ACM New Vocal Duo or Group of the Year sister duo, Tigirlily Gold, hailing from North Dakota and known for “I Tried a Ring On,” will perform during the subsequent March 3 to 9 cruise. 

They will be followed by Kentucky’s own Kelsey Hart, who will bring gospel-inspired tunes to the March 9 to 17 sailing.

The concert series will close on the March 9 to 17 adventure, with Kameron Marlowe performing his soulful tunes, including the gold certified “Giving You Up.” 

Popular Carnival Crew Member Moving Up to New Position

Melissa Mayntz
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Popular Carnival Crew Member Moving Up to New Position

One of Carnival Cruise Line’s top Fun Squad members is moving up in the world and sailing into new adventures as the cruise line’s newest Cruise Director.

Elizabeth “Lizzie” Clough has officially been promoted to cruise director, though she’s already been serving in the position for nearly a year. She is currently the CD aboard Carnival Valor, and her next assignment is to Carnival Miracle, beginning on February 9, 2025.

The promotion was announced by Kyndall “Fire” Magyar, the current cruise director aboard the Excel-class ship, as well as by Clough herself. Magyar was especially ecstatic for her co-worker, as they’ve worked together extensively and Magyar is very familiar with Clough’s enthusiasm and dedication to amazing guest experiences.

“Please join me in celebrating Lizzie, one of the Inaugural Lonestar Fun Squad, on her exciting and well deserved promotion to Cruise Director!” Magyar posted on her Facebook page. “So so proud of this young lady, and can’t wait to see all she accomplishes in the future!”

Clough, a UK native, has been with Carnival Cruise Line since July 2018. She was one of the first Fun Squad members aboard Carnival Jubilee when the fleet flagship debuted in December 2023, and her boundless energy has thrilled thousands of guests.

In addition to her service onboard Carnival Jubilee, Clough has hosted the fun aboard Carnival Freedom, Carnival Sunshine, and more.

“To say I’m proud is an understatement,” Clough said of her promotion. “Lizzie from 6 years ago wouldn’t believe how far she has come. From putting on that red uniform and Fun squad name tag for the first time to now, emotions are definitely running high.”

Hundreds of guests have chimed in to offer their congratulations and share fond memories of sailing with Clough, noting that she also had a great mentor with Kyndall Magyar, a sentiment Clough herself agrees with.

“Having the opportunity to work with the most incredible leaders and mentors to having my own teams who have supported my journey,” Clough explained. “I have no words to explain how grateful I am for all the love and support I have received over the years from my loved ones to my carnival family.”

Clough maintains an active page on Facebook with more than 2,000 followers, a number that is sure to grow now that she is a full-fledged cruise director.

Many of her fans have joined in with congratulations as well.

One Carnival cruiser commented, “I know exactly why they promoted you!!! You are INCREDIBLE!!! Not only did you help create an environment for my whole family to have an amazing first cruise experience but you made my little feel so special and loved the whole cruise. Thank you for your generosity, positivity and kindness. We will never forget our first experience. We hope to cruise with you again!!“

Another said, “Congratulations Lizzie Clough. I am so happy for you! I remember you on the Fantasy when you wore the red on the Fun Squad. I went on a tour of the ship with you. It had been a pleasure watching your adventures through the years. Thank you for sharing. I hope to see you on a cruise again soon.“

These are just a few of the sentiments guests share about setting sail with Clough, often sharing selfies they snapped with the vibrant young woman and her happy smile.

Setting Sail with Lizzie Clough

Clough is currently aboard Carnival Valor, having signed on to the ship in mid-November, but her contract ends in a matter of days. Up next will be Carnival Miracle, where she will arrive – for the first time as a full-fledged cruise director – on February 9, 2025.

From that point, Clough will be full speed ahead with all the duties of a cruise director, including collaborating on each day’s activity schedule, hosting game shows, welcoming guests, and so much more.

New Carnival Cruise Director
New Carnival Cruise Director (Photo Credit: Lizzie Clough)

Clough’s favorite activity to host onboard any Carnival ship is Bingo, which she does several times on each sailing.

“There’s nothing quite like seeing someone’s face when they realize they’ve won a Bingo game and getting to share that excitement and of course sharing all my bad Bingo jokes, that’s a plus!” she discussed of the game, long before being named as a cruise director.

Read Also: Carnival Cruise Director Schedule for 2025

In fact, becoming a CD has been one of Clough’s goals from the very beginning.

“My ultimate goal is to become a Cruise Director, a position I would love to achieve in my career at sea,” Clough said when beginning her service aboard Carnival Jubilee.

Cruise Hive congratulates Clough on her achievement, and wishes her smooth sailings and happy crowds on every cruise to come!

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