It’s kind of ironic to be on a ship, surrounded by water, but not have access to water to drink or use in the bathroom.
But guests boarding Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas on August 19, 2024, found themselves in this very predicament.
The round trip sailing, which is based out of Athens, Greece, is slated to call on Istanbul, Turkey; Kusadasi, Turkey; Santorini, Greece; and Mykonos, Greece, over the course of seven days.
But on embarkation day, at least one guest, who posted about the situation on Reddit, was disappointed to find that there was no water anywhere on the nearly 25-year-old ship due to an unspecified plumbing issue.
“We boarded a couple hours ago and since boarding the ship has had no running water. But we hadn’t understood as they haven’t closed off or marked anything. So as you’re at the buffet to get a drink the machines just have syrup coming out. We assumed it was a buffet issue,”a current passenger shared on Reddit.
As the anonymous cruiser explored the Voyager-class vessel, they found that the situation was indeed a ship-wide issue – with the lack of water impacting both public bathrooms and the 1,708 staterooms.
“But then then you go to the bathroom and you can’t flush or wash your hands and there is no sanitizer…the stalls in the bathroom just have poop in them…Finally wanted to wash my hands in the room but to find the rooms have no water either,” continued the Redditor.
Thankfully, the plumbing crisis was resolved on the same day – and the 3,602-passenger ship was able to embark without delay.
Although Voyager of the Seas has been in service since the end of 1999, the vessel is not known for frequent maintenance issues. Royal Caribbean works hard to maintain its vessels, and the ship’s most recent refurbishment was in 2019.
A Lack of Communication Frustrates Voyager’s Passengers
While widespread plumbing issues pose a huge inconvenience, what really irked this guest was the lack of proactive communication from the approximately 1,200 crew members onboard.
The passenger did not hear any announcements made about the situation, and didn’t feel that the employees took action to help keep the ship sanitary for guests while it was being resolved, such as by making hand sanitizer readily available in bathrooms.
The only update this passenger claims to have received was when he personally took the initiative to inquire with guest services.
“I called guest services and asked if there was water and they said ‘no not right now.’ I asked if there was anywhere I could wash my hands and she said, ‘sorry, not right now sir’. I asked when they expected it to be working and they said they will be repairing for at least another hour,”the Redditor explained.
“I’ve cruised many many times but haven’t experienced this before. I guess I just expected an announcement and some instructions. They’ve still been boarding people for hours without telling anyone…I just figured they would be much better at handling a situation like this,” concluded the original poster.
Royal Caribbean Cruise Deck (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)
Even when the water was turned back on, the Redditor alleges that the guests were left to find out via word of mouth from other passengers.
Royal Caribbean has not specified what the plumbing issue was or released an official statement. But rest assured, the cruise lines do comment when these events are significant enough.
The disposable wipes can result in messy sewage overflowing into staterooms or public restrooms when not disposed of properly – and have caused enough of an issue fleet-wide for Heald to speak out.
Earlier this year, in March of 2024, a broken pipe caused floodingin the central atrium of Seabourn Sojourn – which made guests and crew alike realize what happens where this is too much water (in contrast to the events onboard Voyager of the Seas).
With the water inundating multiple decks, crew members had to work quickly to repair the burst pipe and clean up the flooding to ensure guests were safe and to prevent slip hazards.
The incident, which was confined to deck 7, was dealt with quickly. But when water isn’t cleaned up properly, it can soak into the walls and carpet, leading to mold, mildew, and a disgusting aroma.
There are some amenities, activities and venues that are just commonplace on cruise ships. Just about every cruise ship has a spa, casino, lounges and theater. Everyone has a sports court with basketball courts or bumper cars.
However, more and more, cruise lines are looking to wow guests and make their ships stand out with “first at sea” features that go above and beyond the average — and, out of them all, these are the incredible cruise ship amenities you really need to experience.
The first-ever roller coaster at sea debuted in 2021, on Carnival’s Mardi Gras cruise ship. Since, Carnival has added this feature — dubbed BOLT — to Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee as well.
An all-electric coaster, BOLT features two-person cars, traveling at up to 40 miles per hour, on an 800-foot track. The track twists, turns and drops its way along the deck, also taking cruisers nearly 200 feet out above the water line.
BOLT has been extremely successful since it launched, and has won numerous industry awards, including being named best cruise ship feature in the Cruise Hive Awards, multiple years in a row.
Carnival Jubilee BOLT Roller Coaster
So how does this roller coaster stand up to the experiences you could expect on a traditional roller coaster?
According to cruisers who’ve tried this entertainment option out for themselves, and reported back on Reddit, BOLT is not only a unique experience, but also offers great views. While the coaster isn’t as fast as a traditional coaster, the ocean breeze coming off the water make the journey feel faster than it is, and you get to go around the track twice.
Go-Karts
For more thrills, some cruise ships, namely those from Norwegian Cruise Line, now feature go-kart tracks. You can find this amenity on Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Bliss.
The biggest of these go-kart tracks can be found on Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, where the tracks stretch over three decks and 1,400 feet.
Norwegian Cruise Line Go-Kart Track Speedway (Photo Credit: ackats)
An activity that’s hardly just for kids, you’ll take to the track at up to 40 miles per hour, for a truly heart-pounding experience! The track overlooks the ocean, features all sorts of twists and turns, and altogether is sure to test your mettle.
Unfortunately, this feature isn’t free. You’ll pay $15 to start, for each ride, with extra fees for private use of the track or luxury unlimited rides throughout your cruise. Each ride is eight laps.
The Magic Carpet
A feature exclusive to Celebrity Cruises’ Edge-class ships, which include Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent), the Magic Carpet is like nothing you’ve ever really experienced.
While you could easily find a go-kart track on land, or a roller coaster at a nearby traditional amusement park, the Magic Carpet is in its own league. So what is it?
The Magic Carpet is the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform. It basically hangs over the ship’s side and provides passengers with an extra space where you can dine, drink and soak in the views, all while sitting 13 stories above sea level.
Whether it’s being used for relaxation or as one of the specialty restaurants’ dining options, It’s truly a one-of-a-kind space where you’ll feel as if you’re floating above the ocean.
The Magic Carpet can fit about a hundred or so people and can be rented out for private events.
Skydiving
Certain Royal Caribbean ships — including Ovation of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas andOdyssey of the Seas — are home to Ripcord by iFLY skydiving simulators.
RipCord by iFly
These skydiving simulators provide a safe and expert-overseen environment in which you can feel all the thrills of skydiving, without actually facing any of the scary heights or that heart-pounding leap out of a tiny airplane.
All you have to do is suit up and step inside, and you’ll be on your way, with the wind in your face. The experience only lasts about a minute or so, but past cruisers who have tried the experience out say that this is entirely enough time. Plus, the experience is free for your first try.
Robotic Bartenders
This is one of the few unique cruise ship features that’s actually available on multiple cruise lines. Both Royal Caribbean and MSC have discovered that there’s just something fun about watching a robot mix up your drink or pour you a beer.
On Royal Caribbean, you’ll find the cruise line’s robotic bartenders at the aptly named Bionic Bar. There, in a futuristic, glitzy setting, multiple robotic arms twist and turn to produce your drink of choice, chosen from a touch screen menu.
You can order both classic cocktails or your own bar favorites (so long as you know how to make that favorite — you’ll have to tell the robot the ingredients to use!).
Rob the Robot Bartender on MSC Virtuosa (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
Currently, the Bionic Bar can be found on Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas.
MSC Cruises offers its robot bartender on MSC Virtuosa, in a relatively new venue called Starship Club. There, the robot bartender, Rob, looks a little more humanoid versus being just a robotic arm.
The Starship Club overall looks like something out of a child’s sci-fi movie, with 3D holograms, digital art and interactive furnishings. Rob can mix up your drink, make small talk and act as much like a human as possible — for a robot.
F1 Simulators
Some of the larger MSC cruise ships featured an F1 Simulator where guests can feel what it’s like to drive a complicated car, which even has large screens on a simulated F1 track. This feature connects the cruise line well as an official sponsor of the popular motor sport.
F1 Simulator on MSC Virtuosa (Photo Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
MSC Cruises has F1 racing simulators on MSC Divina, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seascape and MSC Seashore. Norwegian Cruise Line likewise has them on Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy.
Planetariums
Explore the cosmos in comfort, when you kick back and stare the ceiling, in a cruise ship planetarium. While you won’t find this unique feature on some of the more family-friendly cruise ships out there, you will find it on some cruise lines that typically cater to older travelers who may want a more educational slant to their trips.
Queen Mary 2 Planetarium
Viking Cruises has several ships with planetariums, including Viking Orion, Viking Jupiter, Viking Mars and Viking Neptune. Viking Orion’s planetarium was noted as the highest-definition 7K planetarium in the world when it debuted in 2018.
Before Viking added planetariums to its ships, though, Cunard had a planetarium on the Queen Mary 2, where it maintained status as the only planetarium at sea for years.
Cunard still claims that, while the Queen Mary 2’s planetarium might not be the only planetarium at sea these days, it is still the largest planetarium at sea.
Surfing Simulators
Surfing simulators have grown in popularity as a fun amenity at resorts, water parks and, yes, on cruise ships. Royal Caribbean ships have long featured the FlowRider surfing simulator, which offers about 40 feet of manmade waves, which cruisers then attempt to take on while riding small boards.
How exactly does it work?
Essentially, the FlowRider produces what’s known as a sheet wave — a sheet of water pumped continuously into a wave. The water is only a few inches deep and the wave is constant.
FlowRider on Royal Caribbean (Photo Credit: Serge Yatunin / Shutterstock)
As such, you can feasibly surf as long as you like, without a break — so long as you can find your footing. Surfing on the simulator is harder than it looks, which is why many choose to experience the simulator on their bellies, lying down on the board before jumping against the wave.
You’ll find at least one (some ships have two!) FlowRider surfing simulators on the following Royal Caribbean ships:
Adventure of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
SkyRide
SkyRide is an interesting feature on select Carnival Cruise Lines ships. It’s a good fit for those who think they’d like the view of the ocean and top-deck ride of a cruise ship roller coaster, but who want something a little more low-key and slow.
Described as “the cruise industry’s first pedal-powered open-air aerial attraction,” SkyRide is a human-powered ride (so you can control how fast you want to go) that allows you to basically pedal your way around a course.
The two-lane suspended course hangs over the deck and ocean, for exclusive access to amazing, panoramic views you really won’t be able to get anywhere else. The course is about 800 feet long, and sits about 150 feet above the water line. There are four single-rider “bikes” on each SkyRide.
Currently, SkyRide is available on Carnival Vista, Carnival Panorama and Carnival Horizon.
Snow and Ice Venues
If you’re trying to cool down during a cruise to a series of sunny and tropical ports of call, there’s no need to stay in your cabin, soaking up the AC. These cruise ships are here to delight with their snow and ice venues.
There are, of course, cruise ships that offer ice skating rinks, where you can both skate on your own or come by to watch a professional ice skating show.
Ice-Skating Rink
These are quite popular on Royal Caribbean ships, including Adventure of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas.
For the adults in your party, though, some cruise ships offer a different kind of frozen attraction: ice bars. This is the case on select Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
Norwegian Breakaway, for example, has its Svedka ICE Bar, where a below-freezing room filled with ice sculptures serves up frozen drinks. Similarly, Norwegian Getaway is home to the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar, where everything, from the bar to the seats, is made from layers of ice.
Bowling
Myriad cruise ships from myriad cruise lines are home to bowling lanes or full-blown bowling alleys, both big and small.
With Norwegian Cruise Line, you can find bowling onNorwegian Epic and Norwegian Pearl, as well as mini bowling on Norwegian Bliss. The two-lane bowling on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Pearloffers an experience similar to neon bowling events you may’ve attended at traditional bowling alleys, with neon balls and funky lighting.
Bowling on MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship (Credit: Emrys Thakkar)
Carnival Vista has a 10-lane bowling alley within the broader SportsSquare complex.
MSC Cruises has bowling lanes on both its Meraviglia and Seaside-class ships, which include MSC Meraviglia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seascape and MSC Seashore. Each ship offers two lanes (shorter than your average bowling lanes), with 10 full-sized pins each. Bowling starts at $25 for a half-hour lane rental, plus shoe rentals for $2 per person.
Free Fall Slides
A lot of cruise ships have water slides, but what about free fall slides? Not for the faint of heart, these water slides feature straight drops down, so you actually spend time in a free fall, before you hit the water.
Free-Fall Slide on Norwegian Prima (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia)
You can find these thrilling sides on Norwegian’s Prima-class ships, including Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva (and likely on upcoming Prima-class ships that are due to debut in the coming years).
You can also find free fall slides on Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway. On these ships, the free fall slide is literally called “The Free Fall,” and it’s one of the fastest drop slides at sea.
The North Star
Much like The Magic Carpet, The North Star is a Royal Caribbean feature that offers stellar 360-degree views.
Available on Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas, the North Star is a glass-enclosed pod on a mechanical arm that can lift you up and over the deck before taking you out over the side of the ship, over 300 feet above sea level.
Ovation of the Seas North Star
Technically considered a ride and honored in the Guinness Book of World Records as the Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship, the North Star isn’t as adrenaline-pumping as some of the other unique cruise ship amenities on this list, but it is still pretty cool.
As an added convenience (and shorter lines), it also operates both while you’re at sea and while you’re in port.
Multi-Story Dry Slides
It’s not just free-fall water slides that steal the show on cruise ships. Dry slides are also becoming more popular, allowing cruisers to enjoy a speedy ride across multiple decks or stories, but without the need to don your swimsuit or get your hair wet.
Aft Dry Slide on MSC World Europa (Photo Credit: lara-sh)
You can find dry slides, called the Ultimate Abyss Slide, on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, including Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seasand Utopia of the Seas. The Utopia of the Seas dry slide is the longest at sea, at more than 250 feet long. On most ships, the Ultimate Abyss Slide is 10-stories tall and cruisers who give it a go can reach speeds of up to nine miles per hour.
Dry slides are also featured on MSC Cruises’ World-class ships, including MSC World Europa and MSC World America. On both, the dry slide is dubbed Venom Drop and it’s 11-stories tall.
Final Thoughts
It’s no secret. Cruise lines are constantly trying to outdo one another, unveiling new and exciting “first at sea” or “biggest at sea” features. While the above amenities and attractions are certainly cool, there’s no doubt that we’ll see even bigger and better attractions in the years ahead.
For now, though, be sure to get your fill of at-sea thrills with these slides, rides and more. Even if you just try them out once, and just to say that you did, it’s sure to lead to fun vacation memories you won’t soon forget.
On August 18, 2024, environmental activists from Extinction Rebellion prevented Royal Caribbean International’s Serenade of the Seas from entering the IJmuiden locks near Amsterdam.
The protestors positioned themselves at the port’s locks, delaying the ship’s entry for several hours, and disrupting the itinerary of the 2,100 passengers aboard.
According to passengers aboard the ship that departed on from Copenhagen to Amsterdam on August 10, Serenade of the Seas was originally scheduled to dock in Bergen, Norway, but cancelled the call in an attempt to reach Amsterdam ahead of the protestors.
The 90,090-gross-ton vessel was able to conclude its voyage after police removed the activists around 5 p.m., local time, with no arrests made.
The event marks the latest in a series of protests in the region as activists continue to challenge the cruise industry over its contribution to climate change.
“Extinction Rebellion calls for an immediate termination of the cruise industry due to the urgent and rapidly escalating climate and environmental crisis,” the organization wrote on its website. “Several studies show time and time again that cruises are still a significant source of pollution for air, water, and land.”
Serenade of the Seas is currently on the final segment of its 274-night world cruise that departed Miami, Florida, in December 2023. The ship, which has gained a huge following on TikTok, will end the hugely popular voyage in Miami on September 10, 2024.
This protest follows closely on the heels of similar actions earlier in the month, marking the second time protestors have interrupted a Royal Caribbean International ship. On August 10, 2024, Serenade of the Seas’ sister Radiance-class ship, the Jewel of the Seas, was blocked from entering Amsterdam, forcing the ship to divert to IJmuiden.
Passengers faced delays and a rerouting of planned excursions via busses that had to travel an extra 40 minutes between the ports.
The next day, August 11, Extinction Rebellion blocked Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 700-passenger Seven Seas Mariner from entering the port of IJmuiden, causing a delay of over four hours.
The ongoing protests have also affected other cruise lines, On August 16, 2024, Ambassador Cruise Line had to redirect its vessel, Ambition, to IJmuiden instead of Amsterdam after being informed of planned protests.
Royal Caribbean’s Environmental Record
Extinction Rebellion’s concern over the environmental impact of the cruise industry often references the 2022 report card from Friends of the Earth. According to the report, Royal Caribbean International received an overall grade of “F.”
While all ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet have advanced sewage treatment systems, earning a “C” in that category, the company received an “F” for air pollution due to limited shore power capability and the extensive use of scrubbers.
Protesters Meet Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas (Credit: Extinction Rebellion)
The scrubbers, installed on 23 ships, convert air pollution into toxic water pollution, further impacting water quality and contributing to the company’s “F” grade for water quality, said Friends of the Earth.
In response to growing scrutiny, Royal Caribbean has invested in several sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint. According to its 2024 Community Impact Report, the cruise line has achieved a 35 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per available passenger cruise day since 2005.
It is also targeting net-zero emissions by 2050 with interim goals to reduce emissions by 25 percent by 2025 and 50 percent by 2030.
In pollution control, the cruise line says its installation of advanced wastewater purification systems on over 60 percent of its fleet treats sewage and greywater to standards higher than required international regulations.
The company also says it has reduced sulfur content in its fuel by 85 percent through the use of its scrubbers.
PortMiami, the “Cruise Capital of the World,” handles over 7.2 million passengers annually. With investments of over $1.5 billion in its terminals and facilities, it’s not surprising that it regularly holds the title of busiest cruise port in the world. Learn everything about the port and its surroundings with this guide.
PortMiami is conveniently located on Dodge Island in Biscayne Bay, just east of downtown Miami, Florida, and just a bit south of the iconic coastal resort city of Miami Beach.
Not only does this strategic location enable cruise ships to easily set off on voyages to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Mexico, Key West, South American coastline, and beyond, but it provides visiting cruise passengers with easy access to Miami’s world-renowned beaches, shopping districts, and other attractions.
PortMiami holds the title of the largest passenger port in the world. It also happens to be one of the busiest, regularly serving over 7.2 million cruise passengers every year.
Map of PortMiami
As mentioned, the port is located on Dodge, which was once one of three islands immediately off the coast of Miami but has since been combined into a single island to turn it into a major passenger and cargo port. The island is connected to downtown Miami via a causeway over the waterway and to nearby Watson Island via the PortMiami Tunnel.
Currently, nine passenger terminals make up PortMiami’s cruise facilities: Terminals A, B, C, D, E, F, G, J, and V. Three of these were built for specific cruise lines; the others are shared terminals that can be used by various cruise lines.
Miami Cruise Port Address:
PortMiami, 1015 North America Way, Miami, Florida 33132
Which Cruise Lines Use the Terminals?
As the world’s busiest cruise port, it’s not surprising that PortMiami is a destination for many of the world’s top cruise lines. The following cruise lines regularly use the port’s terminals:
Terminal A: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises
Terminal B: Norwegian Cruise Line
Terminal C: MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line
Terminal D: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line
Terminal E: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises
The fact that PortMiami operates nine distinct cruise terminals may sound a bit confusing to cruise passengers who are used to the smaller ports found elsewhere.
The port is fairly easy to navigate, given the simple letter-based naming system and the fact that certain cruise lines have dedicated terminal facilities. Here is a basic breakdown of the terminals and which cruise lines operate out of them:
Terminal A
Cruise Lines: Royal Caribbean International
Address: 1015 North Cruise Blvd
Nicknamed “The Crown of Miami,” Terminal A is one of the newer and more advanced terminals at Miami Cruise Port. It is built around a modern terminal building that handles roughly 2 million cruise passengers per year.
The entire facility is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and escalators, making it easy for all passengers to navigate. It also features an expedited security check-in area for international guests, as well as spacious waiting areas and a luggage drop-off area.
Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz
Like all of the terminals at PortMiami, Wi-Fi is fast and completely complimentary. The MIA-WiFi Network provides free coverage to all indoor areas throughout the port, with the signal even being strong enough to cover some of the parking lots. Another feature that applies to each terminal building is the fact that it is fully air-conditioned.
Exclusively serves cruise lines under the Royal Caribbean Group, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Royal Caribbean Group funded the redevelopment of the terminal in June of 2016, which is why it exclusively serves their ships.
As the port’s largest terminal, the 200,000-square-foot facility can serve some of the largest vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet, including its Oasis-class cruise ships.
Terminal B
Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Address: 1751 North Cruise Blvd
Reopened in 2020, Terminal B has modern waiting areas and food and beverage options, including a large waiting lounge with full bar service.
Efficient check-in and information desks are also found near the boarding areas. As part of the renovation process, new restrooms and elevators were added to the futuristic-looking terminal building.
Norwegian Cruise Line Terminal (Photo Credit: 4kclips / Shutterstock)
The terminal exclusively serves cruise ships operated by Norwegian Cruise Line. The redevelopment of the terminal began in March of 2018 and was completed in August 2021 as a result of COVID-19-related construction delays.
Informally dubbed “Pearl of Miami,” this 166,000 square-foot terminal facility can handle the largest ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, like its Breakaway Plus-Class vessels.
Terminal C
Cruise Lines: MSC Cruises and occasionally Carnival Cruise Line
Address: 1741 North Cruise Blvd
Terminal C features one of the more modest terminal buildings, but it still has the same air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi coverage as the other buildings. It also has ample seating and accessibility features, as well as efficient check-in and information counters.
Terminal C at PortMiami (Photo Credit: Anna Kraynova)
Like the other terminals, there is also an airport-style drop-off and pick up zone for taxis and other vehicles directly in front of the building.
The terminal primarily, but not exclusively, serves cruise ships belonging to MSC Cruises. MSC Cruises has plans to fund the construction of a new $300 million cruise terminal and facility in the future, which will replace the existing Terminal C facilities.
Terminal D
Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line
Address: 1435 North Cruise Blvd
One of the largest terminals, the newly renovated Terminal D building features a comfortable seating area, several eateries, a lounge bar, and a large check-in area.
The building is really impressive and the outdoor space is lined with palm trees and benches. The terminal also features brand-new passenger boarding bridges, making the boarding process even more pleasant for those embarking or disembarking at Terminal D.
PortMiami Terminal D (Photo Credit: YES Market Media)
The terminal primarily serves cruise lines that belong to Carnival Corporation, including Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Cunard Line. Carnival Corporation does not have exclusive rights to Terminal D, so other cruise lines do occasionally operate out of it when necessary.
Terminal E
Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Cunard Line
Address: 1265 West Cruise Blvd
While the areas are somewhat divided, Terminal E shares the same building as Terminal D. It also has all the same facilities, making the experience similar no matter which of the two Carnival terminals your cruise ship is using.
Terminal E at PortMiami (Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas)
With that said, Terminal E has a unique VIP lounge, which is available for certain visiting passengers, like those who have booked a suite.
Located directly beside Terminal D, Terminal E is another that primarily serves cruise lines sailing under the Carnival Corporation’s banner. An $8 million renovation project is scheduled for Terminal E that should help modernize the passenger processing facilities.
Terminal F
Cruise Lines: Carnival Cruise Line
Address: 1103 North Cruise Blvd
After a multi-million-dollar renovation by Lemartec, Terminal F and its passenger processing building are designed to ensure passengers enjoy a seamless experience.
Terminal F almost exclusively serves Carnival Cruise Line and became the third terminal for Carnival operations when it was completed in 2022. However, MSC Cruises has used the terminal at times, too.
The 471,000-square-foot facility offers a modern check-in experience for passengers, with photo booth opportunities and the capacity to cater to the cruise line’s large Excel-class ships.
Terminal G
Cruise Lines: Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and occasionally Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Address: 1055 North Cruise Blvd
The rooftop of the Terminal G building features tent-like sails, which give the building an iconic look that can be seen from afar. The interior has all of the basic passenger amenities as the other cruise terminals, but it is expected to become one of the most impressive once the renovation and redevelopment project has been completed.
Terminal G at PortMiami (Photo Credit: mariakray)
Like Terminal A, Terminal G primarily serves cruise lines that are part of Royal Caribbean Group. Royal Caribbean Group has actually announced plans to redevelop and increase the size of Terminal G, with the project scheduled for completion in early 2027.
Terminal J
Cruise Lines: Azamara, Crystal Cruises, Seabourn, Oceania Cruises, and other smaller cruise lines
Address: 1120 Caribbean Way
As a terminal designed specifically for smaller vessels, the interior of the building has a more luxury-themed appearance, including two VIP areas, high-end restroom facilities, and several check-in booths.
Terminal J at Miami Cruise Port (Photo Credit: PortMiami)
Terminal J is the smallest of the nine terminals, and it serves smaller vessels from more boutique cruise lines, like Oceania Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Azamara, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
It is currently undergoing a $3 million refurbishment project to improve the restroom facilities and provide additional escalators and elevators for better accessibility.
Terminal V
Cruise Lines: Virgin Voyages
Address: 897 South Cruise Blvd
The newest of the nine terminals, Terminal V, now exclusively serves ships that belong to Virgin Voyages. When it was first added in November of 2018, it was named Terminal H.
Virgin Voyages Miami Terminal
However, a $150 million contract with Virgin Voyages meant the terminal would be redeveloped and renamed to function as a designated home port for their vessels. The project was completed in February of 2022.
Nicknamed “Virgin Voyages Palm Grove,” this tropical-themed cruise port is surrounded by palm trees and features lush indoor gardens. The impressive interior features several restaurants and bars, comfortable waiting areas, and all of the other amenities you would expect from a brand-new, state-of-the-art terminal.
Plans for Future Cruise Terminals
There are plans for Terminals AA/AAA and Terminal K to be added to PortMiami, with Terminal AA/AAA being a double-berth terminal funded by MSC Cruises.
New MSC Cruise Terminal in Miami
Disney Cruise Line is partnering with Miami-Dade County to add Terminal K on the southern side of PortMiami. The construction of both terminals was delayed due to COVID-19, but they are expected to be completed in the near future.
Parking at Miami Cruise Port
PortMiami has numerous parking options for those planning to drive. While each terminal has a drop-off and pick up zone directly outside its respective terminal building, many terminals also have overnight, multi-level parking garages and lots located within a short walking distance of the building. Here are the main parking options located within PortMiami itself:
Northside Parking
Parking Garage A: Serves Terminal A
Parking Garage B: Serves Terminal B
Parking Garage C: Serves Terminal C
Parking Garage D: Serves Terminals D and E
Surface Parking Lot D: Serves Terminal D
Surface Parking Lot E: Serves Terminal E
Parking Garage G: Serves Terminals F, G, and V
Southside Parking
Parking Garage J: Serves Terminal J
Parking Rates
Except for parking Garage J, all the parking garages outlined above charge a flat $22 per day rate for regular-sized vehicles. For short-term parking, guests can pay an $8 rate, which covers the first two hours.
After the first two hours, you will need to pay the full $22 overnight rate. Oversized vehicles must park in Surface Lot E and pay an increased rate of $44 per day.
Photo Credit: pisaphotography / Shutterstock.com
The lots are pay and display, with ticket machines accepting cash or credit cards. Miami’s SunPass Plus Parking transponder will even work in Parking Garages D and G. Parking Garage J requires pre-booking and payment online due to the size limitations of the garage.
Every parking garage and lot in the cruise port also offers disabled parking.
Other Parking Options
In addition to PortMiami’s official parking lots and garages, several off-site parking facilities offer competitive rates and offer complimentary shuttle services to the port’s various terminals. The following are just a few of the more popular options:
Premier Cruise Parking
Located 1.8 miles away, this public parking lot allows cruise passengers to pre-book a parking spot online. They also advertise themselves as being 50% cheaper than parking at PortMiami and include complimentary shuttles to each of the nine terminals.
Safe Cruise Parking
Just 1.5 miles away on 189 NE 2nd Street, this popular underground parking garage also charges half the price of PortMiami for overnight parking. They also allow visitors to book ahead, so you can guarantee your spot. Like the other parking lot, they offer a complimentary shuttle, which runs every 45 minutes.
Traveling from Nearby Airports to PortMiami
Part of the reason why PortMiami is such a popular cruise port is the simple fact that it is in such a convenient location for those traveling from outside of Florida.
This is because there are two international airports in close proximity to the cruise port. Here are basic directions and travel options if you are flying into Miami prior to boarding your cruise:
Miami International Airport (MIA)
Located roughly 8.7 miles from the cruise port, traveling from Miami International Airport is incredibly easy. With taxis taking roughly 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and rates between $27 and $33, depending on the terminal you are traveling to, travel is convenient and affordable.
Miami International Airport (Photo Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky)
Many cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle services, but you will need to check with your cruise line ahead of time. If you want to save some money and travel via public transit, Miami-Dade Transit’s Metrorail Orange Line runs from the airport to Government Center Station, where you can transfer to the Metromover monorail system to the port.
Here are the step-by-step driving directions from Miami International Airport to PortMiami:
From the airport, get on FL-836
After 2.5 miles use the right lane to take the State Route 836 ramp
Merge onto NE 2nd Ave and follow for 4.8 miles
Continue on NE 2nd Ave until you see signs for PortMiami
Turn left onto Port Blvd, then follow signs for your terminal
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)
A bit further, FLL is located roughly 25.9 miles north of PortMiami. For those flying into Fort Lauderdale, taxis usually take between 45 minutes and a bit over an hour, with the duration depending on traffic at the time of arrival. Fortunately, most taxi companies offer flat rates between $50 and $60 to travel between the airport and cruise port.
Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (Photo Credit: YES Market Media)
You can also take the Tri-Rail service, which connects the airport to downtown Miami. From there, you can take the same Metromover to the cruise port. Unfortunately, few cruise lines offer complimentary shuttles from this airport.
Here are the step-by-step driving directions from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Airport to PortMiami:
Travel west on FL-818 for roughly 2 miles, then use the left two lanes to merge onto the I-95 South
Drive on the I-95 South for 21 miles before taking Exit 2B to NE 2nd Ave
Turn left onto Port Blvd and follow the signs for your terminal
Traveling from South Beach to Miami Cruise Port
South Beach is roughly 4 miles from PortMiami. Given that this iconic neighborhood is popular with tourists, many cruise passengers will spend time there before traveling to the cruise port.
Sign for Miami Beach (Photo Credit: 4kclips)
If you plan on doing so, you can get there using the following transportation options:
By Taxi or Rideshare Vehicle
Taxis are the most convenient option, with travel time usually only running about 15 to 20 minutes via the MacArthur Causeway. Rates vary, but most people pay between $20 and $25.
Rideshare services, like Uber and Lyft, can be more affordable and offer the flexibility of being picked up exactly where you are; just be aware of surge rates if you are traveling in the afternoon.
By Public Transit
You can take the Miami Beach Airport Express Bus (Route 150), which connects South Beach to the downtown of Miami. From there, the Metromover offers rapid access to the cruise port.
How to Get to Miami Cruise Port
No matter where you are coming from in Miami, it is fairly simple to get to Miami cruise port. As one of the city’s main attractions, it is a regular destination for taxis, shuttles, and even Miami’s public transit system:
Miami Cruise Port Road Signs (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze)
By Taxi
Taxis are everywhere in Miami, including at the airport, in front of hotels, and along all of the popular tourist streets. Almost any taxi will provide you with direct access to PortMiami.
Meter rates in Miami are $0.85 per ¼ mile, but we recommend enquiring about an upfront flat rate to the port. Most taxi drivers will offer one, as they can usually pick up a fare from PortMiami, so it makes it a worthwhile journey for them.
By Shuttle Service
While not as popular as taxis, plenty of independent shuttle services operate in Miami. Almost all of them will allow you to pre-book travel from a location of your choice to the cruise port. These are ideal for larger groups, or those traveling with a significant amount of luggage.
Express Shuttle of Miami is one of the more popular options, as they offer direct transit to and from the cruise port for reasonable rates.
By Public Transit
The Miami-Dade Public Transit System is really impressive, with several major routes providing connections to the port. While which route you take will depend on where you are coming from in the city, you will find that the Metrorail and Metromover systems are both really helpful when trying to get to PortMiami from different parts of the city.
By Driving
Whether you have rented a vehicle or are driving to the port from outside of the city, getting to PortMiami is straightforward. There are plenty of signs directing traffic to the cruise port and, as we discussed, the port has plenty of options for overnight parking.
Miami is a foodie’s paradise, with a world-renowned culinary scene. Each terminal has its own lounge where you can purchase light snacks and drinks, but if you are looking for other options close to the port, we recommend the following:
Dining at Bayside (Photo Credit: 4kclips)
Bayside Dining
If you follow Port Blvd west for almost exactly one mile, you can walk to Bayside Marketplace. This bustling market is packed with a wide variety of dining options, so even the pickiest eaters will find something that appeals to them. Ben’s Pizza, Bacon B*tch, LandShark Bar & Grill, and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville are just some of the many highlights.
Toro Toro
If you’re looking for something a little bit more upscale, Toro Toro is just 1.8 miles from the port. Not only does this exciting Latin steakhouse and bar provide an enjoyable atmosphere, the food pays homage to Miami’s significant Latin American population, so you can enjoy some local flavors without having to go far.
Friend’s Market & Bistro
This simple bistro has a diverse menu that features Venezuelan foods, as well as American favorites, like house-made pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. Friend’s Market & Bistro is also just 2.2 miles from port, making for a simple journey from your terminal.
Shopping Near PortMiami
While some terminals have small souvenir stores, most visitors prefer to head to Downtown Miami for their shopping needs. If you would like to pick up a few items during your visit, we recommend the following:
Shopping at Bayside (Photo Credit: Kamira)
Bayside Marketplace
Not only does Bayside Marketplace offer a wide range of restaurants and bars, but you’ll find plenty of stores and boutiques carrying international brands, as well as some vendors carrying more unique local items. Since it’s only a mile from most of the terminals, it is a must-stop destination for shopping.
Brickell City Center
This luxury shopping mall can be found in downtown Miami, roughly 2.3 miles from the port. While exploring this enormous open-air shopping center, you’ll find four floors worth of luxury retailers and restaurants. It’s another must-stop for shopping enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Miami for a Cruise Departure
Miami has a tropical climate that makes it a year-round tourist destination, but the winter and spring months are by far the most popular for cruising.
Peak cruise season runs between late November and mid-April, where temperatures are pleasant and humidity levels are relatively low. Many of the cruise lines reroute their cruise ships from Europe to PortMiami during these months, so you will notice more cruise options available if you book during peak season.
Conversely, the crowds tend to die down during the summer and fall months due to less favorable weather. July and August can be particularly hot and humid, while September to early November mark the Hurricane season, where storms and rainfall increase dramatically.
Miami is also a lively city that hosts numerous festivals and events, so crowds can flare up during certain times of the year. Ultra Music Festival runs in late March, and it is one of the city’s busiest, while the Miami Open tennis tournament also draws major crowds between March 16th to the 30th. For this reason, some people hoping to avoid crowds before their cruise will avoid the month of March.
Port St. Maarten Group (PSG) is forecasting a substantial increase in cruise passenger arrivals, with more than 1.5 million expected in 2025. The projection reflects a strong rebound in the cruise industry post-pandemic.
“We are on track of growth as international cruise industry figures show that cruise tourism is resilient and rebounding faster than other forms of travel and tourism,”said PSG CEO Alexander Gumbs.
Despite the promising numbers, St. Maarten still falls short of its pre-pandemic numbers of 1.63 million cruise passengers in 2019, and its peak of 1.66 million in 2016. Following that surge, the island experienced devastation as Hurricane Irma struck on September 6, 2017, forcing the island to rebuild.
Still, in 2023, St. Maarten recorded a steady increase in both cruise and stay-over tourist arrivals. More than 1.3 million cruise passengers arrived in 2023 with a total of 491 cruise calls made to the island in the first half of the year. That number was up from 451 from the same period of 2022 and 190 in 2021.
Gumbs added, “Since the pandemic, our cruise numbers have been growing annually and this is a great rebound. It shows confidence that the cruise industry has in us as a destination.”
Minister of Tourism, Grisha Heyliger-Marten, echoed the sentiments and emphasized the importance of revitalizing and enhancing St. Maarten’s tourism offerings.
“As a cruise destination, we need to continue to offer new services and revitalize and enhance the product on a continuous basis,” she said. “We are strengthening the relationship between public and private sectors to keep ahead of our competitors.”
Projected Growth Aligns with Global Industry Trends
The projected growth in St. Maarten aligns with broader trends in the global cruise industry, which saw a significant rebound in 2023 with 31.7 million passengers. This number surpassed 2019 levels by 7 percent.
Looking ahead, the industry is forecasted to continue expanding, with cruise capacity expected to grow by 10 percent from 2024 through 2028. By 2027, the global cruise passenger volume is projected to reach nearly 40 million annually.
St. Maarten Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Multiverse)
For St. Maarten, the upcoming Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Cruise Conference & Trade Show is set to take place in October and will be a crucial event for the island.
Providing a platform to showcase the destination’s offerings to approximately 800 industry representatives, the event is expected to further solidify the nation’s position in the global cruise industry.
Meanwhile, mega cruise operators, including Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Holland America Line, are transporting eager guests to the Dutch island.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s 3,804-guest Norwegian Joy and Royal Caribbean International’s 5,734-passengerWonder of the seas each call on August 22 and follow with the 2,004-passenger Norwegian Sky and Icon of the Seas, the world’s biggest cruise ship with 5,610 passenger capacity, on August 26 and 27, respectively.
Another simultaneous day features Royal Caribbean’s 1,998-passenger Rhapsody of the Seas and Carnival Cruise Line’s 3,690-guest Carnival Magic and 3,934-passenger Carnival Vista arriving on August 28.
Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess rounds out the remainder of August with a visit scheduled on August 19.
Ambassador Cruise Line has made the decision to reroute its ship, Ambition, to the port of IJmuiden for its August 18, 2024, call in response to anticipated protests by the environmental group Extinction Rebellion.
The affected ship, which departed from Edinburgh, Scotland, on a 6-night voyage on August 15, is carrying up to 1,200 passengers as it sails to Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Antwerp, Belgium, before concluding in Newcastle, England, on August 21.
The protests, planned to take place in Amsterdam, come just a week after similar protests affected cruises operated by Royal Caribbean International and Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the area.
“We have been informed by our local port agents in Amsterdam that Extinction Rebellion are planning to do the same again this week and prevent Ambition from entering the locks for her passage to the Amsterdam cruise terminal,”Ambassador Cruise Line stated on its social media.
“As a precaution, we have decided with the Captain to amend our call and berth at IJmuiden. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your understanding,” it continued.
The decision to dock at IJmuiden, which is approximately an hour’s drive from Amsterdam, was taken as a precaution to avoid potential disruptions. Ambassador Cruise Line has assured passengers that complimentary transfer services will be provided for those wishing to visit Amsterdam.
Additionally, all destination experiences booked by passengers will continue as planned, although they will be extended to accommodate the extra travel time required to reach Amsterdam.
Environmental Protests and Sustainability Efforts
The decision by Ambassador Cruise Line to reroute the 48,123-gross-ton Ambition is the latest in a series of disruptions caused by environmental protests in Amsterdam.
Extinction Rebellion, an activist group known for its direct-action tactics, has targeted cruise ships in the city, arguing that the cruise industry contributes significantly to environmental degradation.
The ship, carrying 700 passengers and 445 crew members, was targeted by the group due to its environmental impact, as rated a C+ by environmental advocacy group, Friends of the Earth.
Extinction Rebellion protestors block the Seven Seas Mariner in IJmuiden, Netherlands. (Photo by: Extinction Rebellion)
Just a day earlier, on August 10, 2024, Royal Caribbean International’s 90,090-gross-ton Jewel of the Seas faced similar disruption when Extinction Rebellion protestors blocked the ship from entering Amsterdam. Like Ambition, Jewel of the Seas was forced to divert to IJmuiden.
Despite Extinction Rebellion’s protests, the British-operated Ambassador Cruise Line is actively pursuing sustainability through several initiatives. For example, the cruise line has committed to using only low-sulfur fuel, reducing sulfur oxide emissions by 80 percent.
It also has equipped its ships with Tier III engines, which reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 75 percent compared to older models. Ambassador also focuses on waste management, with a goal of achieving zero waste to landfill by 2025, and has reduced single-plastics by 95 percent.
Ambassador Cruise Line also operates the 70,285-gross-ton Ambience, which carries 1,400 passengers. It is slated to call in Amsterdam on August 26. Ambition does not have any further calls to Amsterdam scheduled until December 13, 2023.
All experienced cruisers know that Carnival Cruise Line is one of the top choices if you enjoy comedy acts onboard, as the signature Punchliner Comedy Club offers multiple shows and often multiple comedians on every sailing.
Those shows are not for everyone, however, and after regular complaints about comedy content, the cruise line has made an official request for some guests to stay away.
The new “instruction” – which is just a suggestion and not an official guideline or requirement of any sort – comes from Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald.
Each week, Heald responds to hundreds of questions, comments, and suggestions from guests and Carnival fans through his popular Facebook page. The subject of the Punchliner Comedy Club comes up regularly.
“Every week, every single week in the hundreds of questions that I answer, I always have somebody who writes and is not happy with the material the comedians use, doesn’t like the fact that an R-rated show is R-rated,”Heald explained.“All of that kind of thing I understand and I respect.”
Heald has regularly acknowledged that not every activity or amenity onboard the 27 ships in the Carnival fleet will appeal to everyone. That is the beauty of a cruise vacation, as there is always something different going on and passengers can choose what interests them the most.
“The one thing that does really drive me crazy,”Heald said,“Is if you think you’re going to be offended, if you’re not 100 percent certain you’re going to enjoy the show, don’t sit there.”
In the video, filmed in the Punchliner aboard the Excel-class Mardi Gras, Heald was pointing out the front row and even the first few rows of chairs. He noted that guests should not choose such visible, prime seating if they aren’t sure whether or not the comedic material will be right for them.
Instead, he recommends that uncertain comedy show guests should choose seats closer to the back and the entrance to the club. That way, if they find the show does not appeal to them, they will be more easily able to leave without disturbing others or attracting unwanted attention.
It should be noted that comedians often interact with show guests in the first few rows of seating. If travelers are not comfortable with that attention, which could turn even more uncomfortable if they choose to leave, it is best to select more out-of-the-way seats.
“Doing stand-up comedy these days is harder than ever because of the world of offense that we all live in,”Heald acknowledged.“If you’re not sure that you’re going to laugh out loud from beginning to end, do not sit there thinking this not for me, I’m offended at what he or she said.”
Instead, Heald explained, it’s best if guests leave to find something that will make them happy. An extra slice of pizza, a stroll through the retail shops, a soak in the hot tub, or even a contest of mini-golf – there is always something else to enjoy.
Carnival’s Onboard Comedy Shows
Carnival Cruise Line does offer both PG and R-rated comedy shows. Typically, the more adult-themed R-rated shows are later in the evening, while the PG shows are at earlier showtimes. The cruise line has considered earlier adult-themed shows, but they are not universally offered across the fleet.
Punchliner Comedy Club, Carnival Cruise
Material between the two performances may be similar, but the family-friendly versions do not have the “salty” language and may avoid the most controversial topics.
Unfortunately, with more and more topics in society today being considered controversial, it can be challenging for a comedian to develop appropriate material to appeal to a diverse crowd.
Prior to the R-rated shows – which are only for guests 18 years and older – the comedy club host does typically offer warnings about the nature of the content and that the show is intended for adults only.
There are also automated announcements played in the time leading up to the show, ensuring that everyone is aware that it is R-rated. Signs are also posted at the door indicating the show is only for those 18 and older.
Do you enjoy comedy shows on Carnival cruises? Share your thoughts and your favorite comedians on the Cruise Hive boards!
Carnival Cruise Line has issued an advisory to its Diamond and Platinum level guests sailing on Carnival Splendor on August 24, 2024. The adjustments are in response to the unusually high number of VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) guests booked on the voyage.
The cruise line will not be able to offer priority embarkation or debarkation for the 16-night cruise from Singapore to Sydney, including at any ports of call, which include Jakarta and Lombok, Indonesia, and Darwin, Airlie Beach, and Moreton, Australia.
The cruise line has also indicated that Diamond guests may not have guaranteed access to main dining room seating.
Additionally, staterooms will not be available until after 1:30 p.m. on the day of embarkation. Once onboard, guests are encouraged to drop off any carry-on luggage in their staterooms before proceeding to lunch.
“The operational changes are consistent with other Carnival Journeys cruises where we have had a large number of Diamond and Platinum guests,”said Colleen Oliverio, vice president of guest services at Carnival Cruises. “We apologize for any disappointment and thank you for your understanding.”
This not the first time VIFP benefits have been altered. A transatlantic crossing on Carnival Freedom and Carnival Venezia’s Journeys’ voyage in the Caribbean, each in September 2023, had similar loyalty benefits suspended.
Exclusive Perks for high-tiered VIFPs
Carnival Cruise Line’s VIFP Club, which launched in 2012, is designed to reward loyal guests with a range of perks and privileges. Among the most prestigious tiers are the Diamond and Platinum levels, reserved for Carnival’s most frequent cruisers.
Platinum members who have sailed on 75 or more nights with Carnival typically receive perks such as priority check-in and boarding, complimentary beverage vouchers, and access to an exclusive onboard party. They also benefit for priority spa reservations and guaranteed main dining room seating.
Carnival Splendor Cruise Ship Docked in Sydney, Australia (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
Diamond members, the highest tier, are those who have sailed on 200 days or more with Carnival. In addition to all the benefits provided to Platinum members, Diamond members receive even more enhanced perks.
These include unlimited complimentary laundry service, a dedicated Diamond member phone line, a one-time complimentary meal at a specialty restaurant, an invitation to an exclusive cocktail reception with the captain, and guaranteed reservations for sold-out shore excursions.
Carnival Journeys, typically 9 to 16 days in length, are a collection of longer cruises designed to provide an immersive and unique vacation experience. As longer voyages, these are particularly appealing to members of the VIFP program to maintain their status, making it difficult for the cruise line to accommodate all benefits.
Despite the adjustments, Diamond and Platinum members aboard Carnival Splendor will still retain several of their core benefits, including priority spa reservations, Chocolate Delight delivered via room service, VIFP swag, and a complimentary beverage.
The beverage, a “thank you” to VIFP members, was recently adjusted in July 2024, and the cruise line has hinted for months that an overhaul to the VIFP program is forthcoming. Some changes have already been implemented, including the removal of a $25 FunPlay ship credit in the casino and a donation to St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital.
Cruising ducks may seem like a fun, innocent pastime onboard – hiding quirky rubber ducks for others to find – but what about when the game disembarks the ship in a port of call?
A recent incident has come to light on social media and started another debate about what should and should not be done with cruise-related ducks.
The idea of leaving ducks at cruise tour sites was first brought up on an NCL Reddit thread, and fans of ducks were quick to chime in with their thoughts on the situation when a duck was hidden in Naples, Italy.
“Just saw a post about someone leaving one of those stupid cruise ducks at a what looks to be an historic aqueduct in Naples, Italy,”the original poster explained.“I think it’s bad enough doing that on the actual ships, but to leave them at UNESCO heritage sites? … People that is pretty much littering. Just don’t!”
Obviously, the original poster is not a fan of cruising ducks even onboard ships where hundreds of passengers may join in the activity with themed ducks of all sizes, shapes, and colors.
Still, the idea of leaving ducks in locations off the ship has struck a nerve even with travelers who enjoy the game.
“I actually like a bit of ducks onboard but totally agree with you. Keep them on the ship or on you.”
“The ducks are for the ship. No where else.”
Some commenters wondered if perhaps the duck had simply been dropped, perhaps by a child carrying the toy during a tour. If that was the case, the accidental transgression could possibly be excused.
Further clarification was offered, however, that the individuals who hid the duck on land did so on purpose, delighting in extending the game off the ship.
The exact date or cruise line related to this incident has not been disclosed, though the location was mentioned as Naples, Italy.
Dozens of ships are visiting Naples this month alone, including vessels from MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard, Costa Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and more.
The original discussion post was in a Norwegian Cruise Line subthread. Just in the past two weeks, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, and Norwegian Viva have all visited Naples.
What’s the Harm?
Onboard a cruise ship, hiding, finding, and enjoying ducks may be an innocent and sometimes competitive game, but what’s the harm when the ducks take flight off the ship?
Different commenters have rightly pointed out that to leave a duck unattended in a public space in a port of call is littering, which is certainly a violation of local laws.
Furthermore, tour sites are not exclusively for the use of cruise guests, and therefore expanding the game is impinging on others’ visits to amazing locations.
Cruise guests who deliberately leave ducks off the ship may be held accountable for littering, including any fines or other penalties from local authorities.
Rubber Duck in Port (Photo Credit: Marina Kryuchina)
Cruise lines have, for the most part, remained tolerant of the activity onboard ships, as the general rules of cruising ducks try to keep the activity inclusive, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.
“According to our policy, guests are allowed to bring rubber ducks onboard,”Disney Cruise Line said earlier this year.“However, it’s important to note that pool toys, including rubber ducks, are not permitted to be used in the pools. Additionally, we kindly request that guests are not allowed to hide items such as rubber ducks in public areas or staterooms.”
Still, cruise guests should confine the activity to appropriate spaces onboard their cruise ship and not take ducks off the ship to hide locally in port.
Despite the best intentions for spreading the fun of the game, doing so is a clear instance of littering and can leave a negative impression of cruise travelers in local communities who so generously welcome visitors.
