Princess Cruises has introduced a new dining venue onboard Sun Princess that takes the line’s “Love Boat” theme to new heights.
The specialty restaurant called Love by Britto mixes the artistry of Romero Britto with the culinary creations of Master Chef Rudi Sodamin to create a seven-course dinner in a romantic setting.
The 68-seat venue on Deck 17 is adorned with Britto’s colorful and upbeat artwork and illustrations that blend pop art with Cubism, the early 20th-century avant-garde art movement pioneered by artistic giants like Pablo Picasso.
Love by Britto High-End Specialty Restaurant
Britto is a celebrated global artist whose works are displayed in museums and galleries in more than 100 countries. The founder of the Happy Art Movement, Britto is known for creating public art installations, including the amazing sculpture of Tutankhamun’s Pyramid in Hyde Park, London.
Guests dining at Love by Britto will pay a cover charge of $79 per person to indulge in romantic appetizers such as Oysters with Lemongrass Kafir, and heart-shaped entrees like Succulent Beef Tenderloin and Truffle Jus and Tail of Lobster Thermidor, plus desserts including Chocolate Lava Cake. Even the dinner napkins are heart-shaped.
Chef Sodamin, who has his own seafood dining venue on Princess Cruises’ ships, The Catch by Rudi, created the gala menu.
“The art of Romero Britto makes people happy with his unique expression of the universal language of love and his creative inspiration blends with my culinary passion to deliver a high-end, meticulously curated menu that guests full of memories overflowing with love was a transformative experience,” said Rudi Sodamin, head of culinary arts for Princess Cruises.
“We’re both proud to see Love by Britto come to life with Sun Princess guests celebrating this exclusive dining event, showcasing the harmony between food, art and love,” Sodamin added.
Besides the delectable dishes at Love by Britto, the venue also features specialty, love-themed cocktails such as Strawberry Love Potion, with Tequila Rose, Disaronno Amaretto, Chambord, and Strawberries; Expresso My Love, made of Jameson, OM Chocolate Liqueur, Disaronno Amaretto, Demerara, Chocolate Bitters, and Espresso; and Britto Coupe, with Grey Goose Strawberry and Lemongrass, Aperol, Cointreau, Lime, and Strawberries.
Other Features Guests Will Find Aboard Sun Princess
Sun Princess, the first of the cruise line’s Sphere class and the first in the Princess Cruises’ fleet to be powered by liquified natural gas, entered service in February 2024 with an inaugural cruise from Rome.
The ship, with a gross tonnage of 177,882 and the capacity to accommodate 4,300 guests, features as its centerpiece a glass-enclosed space called The Dome, a multilevel and multipurpose area inspired by the terraces of Santorini, Greece. Guests can relax poolside in The Dome during the day and at night the space hosts entertainment such as Cirque Éloize performances.
Sun Princess Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Vintagepix)
Besides Love by Britto and The Catch by Rudi, Sun Princess offers many additional dining and lounge spaces, including Spellbound by Magic Castle, a venue that combines magic with food and drink; Makoto Ocean, serving Japanese specialties; The Butcher’s Block by Dario, a pop-up eatery from Dario Cecchini; and Good Spirits at Sea with Rob Floyd, serving unique cocktails created by mixologist Rob Floyd.
Sun Princess is sailing 7 to 21-night Mediterranean cruises until September 14, 2024, when she will cruise to Southampton to operate an Iberian coast itinerary before deploying to her new homeport of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The ship will spend the winter 2024/25 season cruising the Eastern and Western Caribbean.
Love by Britto is not the last innovation that will be added to Sun Princess. The line announced in April 2024 that it will debut a luxury ship-within-a-ship area, called The Sanctuary Collection, starting in October. The adult-only space will offer private cabanas, a pool, and high-end amenities and services.
The space also will be offered on Star Princess, a sister ship to Sun Princess that is under construction and due to launch in 2025.
Royal Caribbean International has reached out to guests booked on several sailings of Brilliance of the Seas in April and May 2025 to alert them to cancellations due to dry dock schedule changes.
The 22-year-old vessel is scheduled for a significant update at that time, but will now be entering dry dock earlier than planned. This means several voyages must be cancelled to accommodate the schedule change.
The most popular voyage impacted is the ship’s transatlantic sailing departing Miami, Florida on April 12, 2025.
That 15-night, one-way cruise was to have visited the Bahamas, Bermuda, the Azores, Portugal, and Spain before arriving in Portsmouth, UK on April 27, ahead of the ship’s removal from service. Royal Caribbean is offering several options to booked guests due to the unfortunate cancellation.
“The time and effort you took to plan your cruise is important to us, and we apologize for the inconvenience,”the email notification read. “Every aspect of your time with us should be enjoyable, so we’ve put together some alternative options that we hope will work for you and those in your party.”
Travelers may rebook on Brilliance of the Seas‘ new transatlantic voyage that will now depart Miami on April 7. The sailing is 14 nights rather than 15, and does not have the stops in the Bahamas or Bermuda.
While the ship will still be visiting Ponta Delgada in the Azores, the calls in Portugal and Spain are different. Furthermore, the voyage will end in Barcelona rather than Portsmouth.
If that option does not work, guests may also choose transatlantic options from Miami to Barcelona aboard either Allure of the Seas (departing February 10) or Explorer of the Seas (departing April 30).
Impacted guests can also opt to rebook on any other Royal Caribbean International sailing without any deposit change fees or other penalties.
Exact details of other compensation, including onboard credit, fare price protection, and additional options are being provided to guests and vary based on which cruise they were originally booked on and what type of stateroom had been reserved.
In addition to the transatlantic sailing that is being shifted a week earlier, the prior cruise – a 5-night Western Caribbean itinerary from New Orleans – will also likely need adjustment, as it was not scheduled to return to Louisiana until April 10.
After the ship’s time in dry dock, sailings departing on May 13 and May 21 have also been cancelled, with guests offered similar options and alternatives.
Why the Dry Dock Change?
Royal Caribbean International has not offered details about why the ship’s dry dock dates have been moved up.
“We’re taking Brilliance of the Seas into dry dock for routine maintenance and exciting improvements,”the email said with no further explanation.
Brilliance of the Seas
The 90,090-gross-ton, Radiance-class ship has recently suffered propulsion issues while sailing in the South Pacific, which resulted in a cancelled sailing at that time. While repairs were made successfully, it is possible that a more permanent repair is now planned for the ship’s time in dry dock.
Shipyard operations, other fleet changes, labor and supply availability, and other factors can all influence dry dock schedules. Many of those considerations are out of the cruise line’s control.
The exact updates planned for Brilliance of the Seas have not yet been announced. The ship’s last major dry dock refit was in 2013, though the vessel has undergone regularly scheduled maintenance updates in the years since.
The ship first debuted in 2002, and can welcome 2,140 guests at double occupancy or up to 2,543 travelers when fully booked.
As the home to one of the biggest cruise ports in the country, the Port of Los Angeles is preparing for the future – and this future includes the rise of mega cruise ships.
Throughout its decades of service, the Los Angeles World Cruise Center – which is located within the port – has welcomed ships from mainstream cruise brands since 1907.
Most of these ships are more modestly sized – with the average vessel carrying around 3,000 passengers. The increasingly popular mega-ships can host over 4,000 cruisers at a time.
The current largest cruise ship in the world – Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas – can accommodate 7,600 guests at maximum capacity.
The San Pedro-based cruise port needs to prepare for an expected increase in calls by mega-cruise ships with changes to its infrastructure – and the port has issued a request for proposals from vendors who are up to the task.
The first part of the plan is to redevelop the existing World Cruise Center, which currently has two cruise berths, two terminal buildings, and a baggage handling structure that is shared by multiple cruise lines.
As part of a recently approved San Pedro Waterfront Connectivity Plan, the port is also looking for proposals to build a new Outer Harbor Cruise Terminal, which will come with Berths 46 to 50 in San Pedro Bay.
The proposed location also includes access to 20 acres of land that could easily be developed into a parking structure with more than 2,000 spaces.
“Over the past 20 years, our Port has invested over $1 billion in enhancing, operating and programming LA Waterfront infrastructure,”said Mike Galvin, the Port’s Director of Waterfront and Commercial Real Estate Development.
“These two proposed cruise terminal projects represent the next stage of that investment, and the continued transformation of the waterfront into a dynamic and multi-use visitor destination,” continued Gavin.
It’s unclear when a vendor will be chosen or when the work will be completed, although proposals from interested firms are due by November 12, 2024.
Demand For Cruises Out Of Los Angeles Is Growing
The Port of Los Angeles, which is located about 20 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, is arguably the more popular of the two major cruise ports in LA. The Port of Long Beach, which is only about 5 miles away, is often referred to as San Pedro’s sister port.
In the past two years, the World Cruise Center has welcomed more than 200 cruise ships – with each vessel’s arrival generating more than $1 million in local economic activity – and a record number of cruise guests.
Cruise Ship at Port of Los Angeles (Photo Credit: Underawesternsky / Shutterstock)
“We have seen increased demand for cruises out of the LA Waterfront over the last several years, with a record 1.3 million cruise passengers in 2023,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka.
Of the two major ports serving the LA area, San Pedro is arguably the more popular option, likely because it seems to be a gateway to more destinations.
While cruises out of Long Beach primarily sail to the Mexican Riviera, the World Cruise Center is the starting point for voyages to destinations like the Pacific Coast, the South Pacific, Alaska, the Panama Canal, and Europe, as well as Mexico.
The other factor is that Long Beach primarily services Carnival Cruise Line, and occasionally ships operated by Carnival’s sister brands, while The Los Angeles World Cruise Center welcomes more of the major players in the cruise industry.
Celebrity Cruise Line, Costa Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Disney Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Viking Cruises, and Royal Caribbean all sail out of San Pedro.
Despite St. Lucia’s small size, it is one of the most popular ports of call in the entire Caribbean. If you are taking a cruise around the Eastern Caribbean, there is a good chance you will visit St. Lucia for yourself.
To help you enjoy a stress-free visit to this tropical paradise, we have created this comprehensive guide to the St. Lucia Cruise Port. We’ll also cover nearby attractions and activities so you can make the most out of your stay in sunny St. Lucia!
St. Lucia Cruise Port is strategically situated on the edge of Castries, the island’s capital city. This offers visitors easy access to many of the island nation’s most iconic attractions.
Castries itself centers around a picturesque bay bordered by lush hillsides. This means that visiting cruise passengers are immediately struck by St. Lucia’s stunning beauty.
While it may sound somewhat confusing, St. Lucia Cruise Port actually consists of two distinct terminals:
Pointe Seraphine Cruise Terminal is a 20-minute walk from the downtown core of Castries— 2273 QW8, Castries, Saint Lucia.
La Place Carenage Cruise Terminal is located directly on the edge of downtown. Its address is 4B Bridge Street, Castries, Saint Lucia.
St. Lucia Cruise Terminal Locations
The two cruise terminals can both handle full-sized cruise ships, but Pointe Seraphine tends to be the most commonly used of the two. Each of the two terminals features a single pier, meaning there is one pier on each side of the bay.
There is also an industrial port within the bay, but that is not used for cruise ships. Pointe Seraphine’s single pier has two berths for cruise ships, while La Place Carenage Cruise Terminal’s single pier can only handle one ship at a time.
While La Place Carenage Cruise Terminal is more convenient for those looking to explore the city, those docking at Pointe Seraphine Cruise Terminal can easily access Castries by taking a short and affordable taxi or a 20-minute walk along the harbor footpath.
There are also some small tendering ports on the city’s edge and the island’s north side, but these are only used during the busy season.
Cruise Lines that Visit St. Lucia Cruise Port
As mentioned, St. Lucia is one of the most popular ports of call in all of the Caribbean, so it is no surprise that it is visited by some of the most recognizable cruise lines in the world.
La Place Carenage Cruise Pier (Photo Credit: Luciavonu)
The following are just some of the many with regular cruise itineraries that visit the country’s cruise port:
Carnival Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
Princess Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Holland America
MSC Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
Distance and Directions from the Airport
Travelers arriving at St. Lucia’s primary airport, Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in View Fort, take roughly 75 minutes to drive by road. While this may seem fairly lengthy, the journey is incredibly scenic.
It’s also worth mentioning that there is a smaller airport in Castries called the George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU). In some cases, visitors will take a smaller plane from UVF to SLU to avoid the drive.
Hewanorra International Airport. St. Lucia (Photo Credit: Galina Savina)
Taxis and private shuttle services are readily available at the airport, while some larger cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, offer complimentary shuttle services.
If you find yourself driving the 35-mile journey yourself, these straightforward directions will get you from the airport to the Point Seraphine Cruise Terminal:
Exit the airport onto Micoud Hwy and head South for 29 miles.
When you see signs for Castries, turn right onto John Compton Hwy.
From John Compton Hwy, you will see a roundabout exit for Point Seraphine Cruise Terminal. Take the first exit and arrive at your destination.
Terminal Facilities and Services
Both main terminals in St. Lucia offer modern facilities that ensure a comfortable embarkation and disembarkation process for visiting cruise passengers.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at both terminals, but connecting can be somewhat difficult, especially if the port is busy during your visit. If you are struggling to connect, there are a number of cafés and restaurants in Castries that offer free Wi-Fi for customers.
Port Castries, Saint Lucia (Photo Credit: Nancy Pauwels)
The terminals also offer clean and accessible restrooms and comfortable seating areas for waiting to board your ship. They are wheelchair-friendly, with ramps ensuring all visitors can navigate the terminals with ease.
The terminals’ comfort reflects the importance of visiting cruise passengers to the Saint Lucian economy. The tourism sector accounts for over 33% of the nation’s GDP, and Carnival and Royal Caribbean have both invested significant funds in the port.
Transportation Options
From either of the main terminal buildings that make up the St. Lucia Cruise Port, visitors can walk into the downtown Castries. With that said, several transportation options can be used to explore the island’s more distant attractions:
Taxis
Government-regulated taxis are readily available outside of each terminal, offering convenient, affordable, and safe transportation to all of the island’s landmarks, beaches, and attractions. Ask about a flat rate if you are traveling to a particular attraction.
There is no need to hail a cab, as both terminals have designated taxi pickup lines directly outside. All you have to do is get in line and tell your driver where you want to go.
Shuttle Buses
While St. Lucia does not offer a free shuttle from its port, as some of the other Caribbean nations do, there is a paid shuttle called the St. Lucia Shuttle, which can be booked ahead of time.
It is a good option for larger groups looking for an affordable, stress-free way to get anywhere in the country. With fixed rates and free cancellation, it’s a really useful option.
Excursion Shuttles
If you have booked an excursion for your time in St. Lucia, it’s worth noting that they will include free transportation from the port. Most use air-conditioned mini buses and vans, so the ride is fairly comfortable.
Ride-Share Apps
Uber is the only ride-sharing app currently operating in St. Lucia. The app can be a useful option if you want the flexibility of being picked up at a specific location.
What Is the Best Time to Visit St. Lucia?
St. Lucia enjoys a warm and tropical climate throughout the entire year, making it the ideal year-round cruise destination. Although you can visit any month of the year, peak tourist season typically runs from December to April.
MSC Cruise Ship Docked in St. Lucia (Photo Credit: Nancy Pauwels)
These are generally considered to be the best time to visit, as you get the same sunny skies as the summer months, but you avoid the rain and the oppressive heat and humidity of the summer months. Plus, there tends to be far less rainfall in the winter and spring than during the summer and fall months.
Still, some people prefer to travel to St. Lucia between June and November, as these months can provide a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds. Booking during these less popular months can also mean lower prices.
Seasonal Weather Conditions
Like many places in the Caribbean, St. Lucia experiences two informal seasons: the “dry season” (December to May) and the “wet season” (June to November). As the names imply, each season is characterized by the amount of rainfall the island receives.
While the drier months are certainly more popular for tourism, even the wetter months offer their own charm, with the country coming alive with vibrant foliage.
Beaches Near the Port
Part of the reason St. Lucia is such a popular island to visit is the sheer number of pristine beaches surrounding its coastline. While you can certainly find more secluded beaches if you are willing to travel, there are nearby options for those with limited time on the island:
Vigie Beach
Located roughly two miles north of Pointe Seraphine Cruise Port, Vigie Beach offers white sand, shady palm trees, and a laidback atmosphere. Thanks to the fact that the beach surrounds a calm bay, it really has that tropical paradise feel that many people are looking for when they travel to St. Lucia.
Vigie beach (Photo Credit: avilledorsa)
The beach sits adjacent to the Castries airport, so beachgoers can sit back and enjoy plane spotting from the sandy shores. There are also plenty of snack vendors and beach bars to choose from. Given that it can be reached within a 25-minute walk from the port, it is a good option for those with limited time.
La Toc Beach
Situated three miles south of the port, La Toc Beach lies roughly the same distance but in the opposite direction. The beach offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and is a popular option for snorkeling. It is more challenging to reach than Vigie Beach, but this helps keep the crowds to a minimum.
La Toc Beach (Photo Credit: Sherry Talbot)
Unfortunately, most of the beach is privately owned by Sandals Resort, so public space is limited. If you choose to visit, you can also take some time to visit La Toc Battery, a historical landmark once a British artillery battery used to protect Castries from invasion.
Day Passes to Beaches in St. Lucia
Since many of St. Lucia’s most beautiful volcanic beaches are owned by the resorts, some visiting cruise passengers will purchase day passes. These day passes provide temporary access to these stunning beaches and grant the holder access to various resort amenities, including pools, swim-up bars, restaurants, and more.
Sugar Beach, Saint Lucia (Photo Credit: fokke baarssen)
While prices vary depending on the resort, you can expect to pay roughly $100 per person. While it may sound steep to use a beach, it isn’t a bad price when you consider that this also provides you with access to all of the resort’s amenities and dining options, as well as Wi-Fi.
Amenities Within Walking Distance
If beaches aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other attractions that are within walking distance of the port:
Castries Market
Located less than a mile from both port terminals and just a 3-minute walk from La Place Carenage Cruise Port, Castries Market is a must-see.
Castries Market (Photo Credit: fokke baarssen)
With fresh produce, handmade crafts, and various vendors selling one-of-a-kind souvenirs, the market will give you an authentic feel for what life is like for locals. Plenty of food vendors will offer local delicacies, so it’s a great place to stop for a casual lunch.
The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
One of the most well-known structures on the island, the Cathedral allows visitors to view the Saint Lucian icon up close. Not only is the historical structure stunning, but it is just 0.3 miles from La Place Carenage and 0.9 miles from Pointe Seraphine Cruise Port, making it incredibly easy to reach.
The Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Photo Credit: Studiof20)
Given that the two cruise terminals are located close to downtown Castries, you also don’t need much of a plan. Simply walk or take a taxi ride to Castries Market, then explore the city’s vibrant streets for yourself.
Distance to Popular Attractions
If you have more time on your hands and want to explore more of what St. Lucia has to offer, we suggest booking an excursion or simply taking a registered taxi to one of the following attractions:
Pitons
Sitting roughly 20 miles southwest of the port terminals, the Pitons are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic symbols of St. Lucia. These towering natural peaks are former volcanic spires. The two spires reach nearly half a mile in height and are fully covered in lush plant life.
Pitons (Photo Credit: C.J Rossi)
Visitors can take a 3.2-mile hike to the top of Gros Piton, the larger of the two. However, if you’re not up for the hike, you can still enjoy the stunning view of the Pitons rising from the waters of nearby Sugar Beach.
Sulphur Springs
Located approximately 15 miles south of the port, Sulphur Springs is another geological wonder and iconic symbol of the island. These waters are known for their therapeutic properties, so many visitors enjoy splashing around and rubbing silt on their skin in a mud bath.
Sulphur Springs (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
You can enjoy a full spa treatment, take a tour of the area, and learn about its volcanic past. Entry to the spa area is just $11 for adults, so it’s an affordable and fun activity.
Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens and Mineral Baths
The Diamond Botanical Gardens are home to the stunning Diamond Waterfall and the nation’s oldest botanical garden. Located within the town of Soufriere, the gardens are about 25 miles from port, so they are easiest to reach by taxi.
Diamond Water Falls (Photo Credit: Alleyn Ross)
The six-acre property showcases the best of the island’s tropical flora and fauna. Not only are the gardens beautiful and a photographer’s dream, but you can also relax in the warm and soothing waters of several mineral baths.
Visiting will also allow you to learn about the property’s history, including the fact that King Louis XIV of France gifted it to three brothers in 1713.
Dining Near St. Lucia Cruise Port
The port terminals are located on the edge of Castries, so finding delicious and authentic Caribbean cuisine couldn’t be easier. Thanks to the country’s unique French and English colonial past and the seemingly boundless supply of fresh ingredients, Saint Lucian cuisine is delicious.
Dining in St. Lucia (Photo Credit: Rafa E)
If you want to sample as much as possible, head to the market around lunchtime. Numerous food stalls serve up local favorites, like lambi, bouyon, pepper pots, and callaloo soup, so you’ll have no shortage of unique options to try. Plenty of food vendors line the city’s most popular beaches, so a beachside lunch consisting of local dishes is also a great option.
If you don’t have time to wander around the market and would prefer to have a sit-down meal, you can always head to The Pink Plantation House for delicious Caribbean cuisine.
Although it is nearly four miles from the port, it is one of the most famous restaurants in St. Lucia, and it rarely disappoints. The Coal Pot is slightly more casual but also offers delicious food in a stunning setting.
Shopping Near St. Lucia Cruise Port
Castries’ shopping scene also reflects the city’s popularity as a tourist destination. With numerous duty-free shops outside of the two port terminals, you will have no trouble finding them.
You can also venture to Cheers Boutique or Scott’s Underground Boutique near the harbor side of Castries if you want clothing and small gifts. There are also plenty of places for duty-free shopping in Castries, so you don’t have to feel constrained by the port.
Cruise Passengers in St. Lucia (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)
For those looking for more unique, handmade souvenirs, the Castries Market is your best bet. With plenty of vendors selling local artwork, rum cocktail ingredients, handcrafted pottery, unique hot sauces, local honey, and wood carvings, you’ll be sure to find a fitting souvenir.
Keep in mind that the official currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but many of the vendors will accept the US Dollar. Just don’t expect favorable rates if you are paying in US dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How far is the beach from the cruise port in St. Lucia?
Vigie Beach, one of the closest beaches to the port, is approximately 2 miles north of Castries, while La Toc Beach is located 3 miles south of the port.
Can you walk around Castries?
Yes, you can walk around Castries and explore its attractions and landmarks on foot. The city center is easily accessible from the St. Lucia Cruise Port, and the city is relatively safe by Caribbean standards.
Can you swim in St. Lucia?
Yes, swimming is a popular activity in St. Lucia, thanks to its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Remember, not all public beaches have lifeguards, so you should always follow local warnings and only go deep if you are a strong swimmer.
The city of Amsterdam, Netherlands, has agreed that cruise ship visits will be nearly cut in half for 2026 and beyond, with additional limitations in effect as work is done to remove the cruise terminal from its current downtown location by 2035. The move does not come as a surprise, as Amsterdam has been exploring such limits for some time.
In fact, the number of river cruise visits has already been slashed to a maximum of 1,150 calls annually by 2028, a decision that was announced in April. The limits on ocean ships, however, will be far more strict.
NCL Cruise Ship in Amsterdam (Photo Credit: Bert e Boer / Shutterstock)
At the moment, the Passengers Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) receives 190 cruise ship visits per year, but that will be reduced to no more than 100 per year beginning in 2026. Furthermore, only one berth will be used at a time to reduce overall congestion, and ships will be required to use shore power by 2027.
The reasoning for these limitations is due to a desire to minimize pollutants and promote sustainability. The Netherlands is a very politically liberal country, with a keen focus on climate change and environmentalism as befits the capital city, known for its extensive canals and vulnerability to sea level changes.
Analysis and input were sought from city, regional, and national stakeholders, as well as cruise lines, before this restriction was finalized.
“The city council wants a liveable, clean, and sustainable city. Sea cruise is a polluting form of tourism and contributes to crowds and emissions in the city,”said Alderman Hester van Buren.“By limiting sea cruises, requiring shore power, and aiming for the cruise terminal (PTA) to move from its current location in 2035, the council is responsibly implementing the council’s proposal to stop sea cruises.”
Ships from a variety of cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, P&O Cruises, Seabourn Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises regularly visit Amsterdam.
Because cruise lines typically set their schedules a couple of years in advance, these new restrictions are unlikely to impact many existing itineraries already available for booking. Cruise lines may need to reconsider future itinerary plans, however, as new sailings are released.
Where Will Cruises Go?
Rather than calling in Amsterdam, many cruise lines will likely relocate their port of call visits to Rotterdam. The two ports are only 40 miles (64 kilometers) apart. This means that many of the same shore excursions and other experiences can be preserved for cruise guests.
“Rotterdam can take over 40 sea cruises that will no longer be allowed to dock in Amsterdam starting 2026,”the port analysis read.
Holland America Ship in Amsterdam (Photo Credit: rawf8 / Shutterstock)
This will create a significant economic loss for Amsterdam, with fewer tourist taxes collected, less passenger spending, and fewer payments from cruise lines. The city will consider budget adjustments as necessary to compensate for this loss.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) estimates that cruise tourism contributes roughly 105 million Euros (approximately $112.5 million USD) to Amsterdam annually.
So far, there is no confirmed relocation point for the PTA to be rebuilt in a new location, though the Coenhaven area – northwest of the current location and outside downtown – may be considered.
Financial and legal feasibility studies for the relocation must still be completed, and it is possible the timeline for relocating the cruise terminal may be adjusted.
It should be noted that the limits on cruise stops and the relocation of the cruise terminal are just two of more than 100 different initiatives being considered to create better sustainability within the city. Tourist crowds, polluting emissions, noise pollution, and other factors are all part of the overall consideration.
Costa Cruises has debuted new programming on June 27, 2024, designed specifically for families on its Mediterranean cruises. The new offerings include family-focused shore excursions and a variety of onboard entertainment and activities inspired by the itinerary.
The new program features two main options for shore excursions with one for children aged 3 to 13, accompanied by their families. The other is for teens aged 14 to 17, who can tour independently under the supervision of Costa staff.
Costa Cruises observatory (Photo Credit: Costa Cruises)
The exclusive shore excursions will be available in select western Mediterranean ports, including Savona, Genoa, Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples, Palermo, and Cagliari in Italy; Barcelona and Valencia in Spain; and Marseille in France.
In Palermo, for instance, families can visit iconic markets to gather ingredients for the Sicilian dessert, Cannolo, followed by a cooking class onboard. In Marseille, children can learn about the game of Petanque and traditional soap-making, while in Genoa, they can ride the historic Righi funicular railway and visit the observatory.
For teens, the program emphasizes adventure and independence. Under Costa staff supervision, teens can participate in photography tours to explore street art in Marseille or engage in water sports like surfing and paddle boarding along Cagliari’s coast.
Other activities include exploring Instagrammable spots in Naples, trekking to the Grotta dei Falsari near Savona, and learning sailing basics on the Lisca Bianca in Palermo.
The excursions are complemented by pre- and post-excursion activities onboard, curated by the “Squok Club” and the Teens Zone. Named after the mascot Squok, the Squeak Club serves younger children ages 3 to 6 in the mini club and ages 7 to 11 in the maxi club. Teenagers have their own space, divided into the Teens Zone Junior for ages 12 to 14 and the Teen Zone for ages 15 to 17.
Special programming does not extend to the Baby Squok Club, which is designed for children from 1 to 3, but parents are welcome to participate in excursions and leave children onboard with 24-hour advanced notice.
A Summer Season in the Mediterranean
Costa Cruises currently has several ships sailing in the Mediterranean for the summer season that will include the excursion programming. Costa Pacifica, which can accommodate 3,000-passengers, is currently ending a 3-night cruise on June 27 and relaunching on a similar 4-day voyage on June 28. It will continue to offer shorter cruises for families on time constraints.
The 6,554-passenger Costa Smeralda and 6,600-passenger Costa Toscana each embark on a 7-night voyage on June 27, ready to provide a good time to even the smallest of guests. Costa Deliziosa, holding 2,826 passengers, and Costa Fascinosa, accommodating 3,800 guests, launch on their 7-day voyages on June 29. Each ship will offer multiple dates to enjoy the adventures.
Costa Toscana (Photo Credit: Costa Cruises)
The ships will remain on their routes through the end of summer, so kids and families can enjoy the new programming before school resumes.
Additionally, Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda will feature one day of each cruise entirely dedicated to families. Sqouk the mascot will lead the day-long festivities that culminates with an evening show at the Colosseo.
The two ships also debuted a new partnership that brings the popular animated character Bing Bunny to life this summer. The ships will offer meet and greets, themed parades, and parties, all with a Bing Bunny theme.
The Squok Club and Teen Zone will continue to offer its traditional programming, as well. Activities at the Squok Club, which operates from 9 a.m. to midnight, include games, arts and crafts, treasure hunts, sports tournaments, dance and karaoke contests, costume parades, and themed parties.
Meanwhile, teens can enjoy video games, graffiti, dance and music classes, karaoke, sports competitions, pool parties with midnight swims, games at the disco, and themed dinners.
Disney Cruise Line has announced an array of outstanding dining options to be found aboard the upcoming Disney Treasure when the new Wish-class vessel debuts in December.
The ship will feature the cruise line’s first-ever venue themed for the classic “The Aristocats” animated film, as well as “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Zootopia,” and “Coco”-inspired options.
Released in 1970, the animated classic “The Aristocats” will see new life aboard Disney Treasure at the Scat Cat Lounge, bringing a more mature vibe to the furry favorite.
The lounge’s music will include a a reinterpretation performance of “Ev’erybody Wands to Be a Cat” along with stunning feline-inspired decor, such as a pawprint-adorned piano. Hidden nods to the film can be found throughout the lounge as well.
Exclusive cocktails will be offered in the Scat Cat Lounge. The Creme de la Creme Martini dessert drink blends chocolate and cognac, and the Cat Drink balances clarified bourbon, amaro, Aperol, and lemon in a stunning near-translucent beverage served in hand-crafted, cat-themed drinkware.
Because the Scat Cat Lounge will be positioned off the ship’s Grand Hall, it will also blend the “Aladdin” theme of the ship’s atrium characters. The lounge will have Agrabah-inspired architecture and a special Turkish Tea Experience for guests to enjoy, complete with a bejeweled tea pot (but no magic genie if you rub the pot!).
Comic fans sailing on Disney Treasure will love the Worlds of Marvel dining room, which will honor superheroes with the “Marvel Celebration of Heroes: Groot Remix” party, with hit songs and Marvel-themed activities throughout the meal.
Guests will enjoy that dining room twice on each voyage, with the other night featuring the “Avengers: Quantum Encounter” dining adventure with Ant-Man and The Wasp.
Another main dining venue, Plaza de Coco, is a colorful and vibrant visit to the 2017 film, with Mexican-inspired dishes to create a true culinary journey filled with music and flavor.
Jumbeaux’s Sweets
From Shrimp Diabla and Chorizo Street Croquettes to Luisa’s Pollo Asado, Enrique’s Port Wine Braised Center Cut Beef Short Rib, and Red Capsicum and Green Parsley Grilled Snapper, guests will have a full palette of flavors to enjoy.
Don’t miss dessert, either, for the Margarita Lime Cheesecake, Mexican Chocolate Tart, or the Warm Coconut Tre Leches cake.
If those desserts aren’t enough (NEVER enough dessert on a cruise!), guests can head to Jumbeaux’s Sweets to get the most delicious treats “Zootopia” (2016) has to offer.
If the 35 flavors of gelato aren’t tempting, consider a Judy Hopps Carrot Cupcake, the Nick Wilde Raspberry ‘n Cream Cupcake, the Mango Leopard Cakesicle, or the iconic Paw Shortbread Sandwich designed after the “pawpcicles” that bring Judy and Nick together.
Sailing aboard Disney Treasure
The 144,000-gross ton Disney Treasure, sister ship to the immensely popular Disney Wish, is currently under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. She was first floated out at the end of March.
The ship’s maiden voyage is scheduled for December 21, 2024, and she will be homeported from Port Canaveral. Her first sailing will be a special Christmas cruise, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary visiting Tortola, St. Thomas, and Disney Cruise Line’s private island, Castaway Cay.
Disney Treasure Cruise Ship
The ship will offer both Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, visiting other top destinations such as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and San Juan, depending on the departure date.
While every sailing will visit Castaway Cay, Disney Treasure is not yet scheduled to visit Disney Cruise Line’s newest private destination in The Bahamas, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, which just welcomed its first guests earlier this month.
Disney Treasure will be able to welcome 4,000 guests onboard for each sailing, providing each one with a treasure trove of Disney magic and memories.
Princess Cruises has launched a new program that will provide guests with the best possible rates for its 2025 and 2026 cruises. The new “Better than Best Price Guarantee” ensures that if a guest finds a lower price for the same cruise, stateroom category, and sail date before their final payment, Princess Cruises will match the lower rate.
In addition, Princess Cruises will provide 120 percent of the difference to passengers in the form of onboard credit. The guarantee is available for bookings made between July 1 and September 2, 2024.
“Our new guarantee underscores the Princess commitment to offering unparalleled value and exceptional service to guests… value that is unmatched by land-based vacations,”said Terry Thornton, chief commercial officer of Princess Cruises.
Thornton also noted the importance of booking early as the demand for 2025 voyages is already nearly 30 percent higher than usual at this stage in the booking cycle.
“This offer not only guarantees the best rates, but also ensures guests can choose their preferred dates and destinations,” he continued.
The guarantee covers all 16 ships in the Princess fleet and includes inclusive packages like Princess Plus and Princess Premier. These packages include amenities such as Wi-Fi, beverages, desserts, fitness classes, and crew gratuities and save guests up to 65 percent compared to buying them separately.
Guests who find a lower price for the same Princess cruise, stateroom category, and sail date before their final payment must submit a Guarantee Claim Form to receive the “Better than Best Price Guarantee.”
Extensive Seasons Around the World
Princess Cruises will sail its largest-ever Americas season in 2025-2026 with 278 cruises departing from San Francisco and Los Angeles, California; Galveston, Texas; Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral, Florida; New York City, and Vancouver, Canada.
The season will be highlighted by the introduction of 175,500-gross-ton, 4,300-passenger Sun Princess, which will become the first Royal Class ship to homeport at Port Canaveral, offering Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
Overall, the Caribbean season will feature 10 ships visiting 29 destinations in 22 countries, with 178 departures covering 25 unique itineraries ranging from four to 20 days.
In addition to the Caribbean, the 2025 and 2026 seasons will feature a special 14-day Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Princess to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Princess Cruises.
Photo Credit: Logutenko / Shutterstock.com
In 2025 and 2026, the cruise line is also gearing up for an exciting Australia season with a robust lineup of voyages exploring the continent’s stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and unique natural wonders.
Highlights include sailings to iconic destinations such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Hobart, with special voyages to the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, and New Zealand.
The Australia season will begin in November 2025 on Discovery Princess, Crown Princess, and Grand Princess, covering 20 destinations across 11 countries.
Also in November 2025 through January 2026, Princess Cruises will enjoy a season in South America and Antarctica. The season will encompass 20 destinations across 11 countries, including a 17-day Antarctica Adventure cruise with four days of exploration in Antarctica and a 16-day Cape Horn & Strait of Magellan voyage.
Photo By: Princess Cruises
In Asia, Princess Cruises has extended its 2025-2026 season for Japan and Southeast Asia. The schedule will include 11 new voyages ranging from 9 to 22 days that visit 25 destinations in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.
Of course, European sailings are also included in 2025 and 2026 itineraries, with the cruise line planning for its largest-ever European season in 2026 featuring an array of journeys across five ships. Running from March through November 2026, the season features 222 cruises, visiting 101 destinations in 29 countries.
Two Sphere-class ships, Sun Princess and Star Princess, will headline the 2025 season in the Mediterranean as Princess Cruises celebrates its 40th anniversary in the famed European sea.
Eager travelers often turn to social media for answers, but it is important to note that those answers aren’t often correct, even from people who claim to be in-the-know or have behind-the-scenes connections to a particular cruise line.
Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador John Heald regularly has to debunk rumors and incorrect information to reassure anxious guests.
One of the most persistent rumors about cruising recently surrounds correct travel documents with popular summer sailings to Alaska.
“Over the last week or so I have been answering multiple questions on the subject of a alleged passport requirement for Alaska,”Heald said.“Someone had posted on [social media] that everyone must have a passport to cruise to Alaska and yep, many believed her. I responded over and over again to everyone saying this was not correct.”
Carnival Cruise Line’s website discusses travel documentation, and while it is recommended that all guests travel with a passport, most sailings from US homeports do not require it. Instead, passengers may use a US passport card, state enhanced driver’s license, a certificate of US naturalization, a Native American Indian card, or a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID.
While all Alaska cruises do include a stop in Canada to satisfy federal Jones Act requirements, US citizens do not need a passport to visit Canada. Citizens of other countries, however, may have different travel documentation requirements and should carefully investigate those guidelines to ensure they have the correct paperwork to set sail no matter where their Carnival ship is homeported.
All Carnival transatlantic and transpacific cruises, as well as voyages in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, or Asia, do require guests to have valid passports. If a cruise includes a port of call in either Colombia or Greenland, a passport is also required, regardless of the ship’s homeport or overall itinerary.
Other Recent Rumors
Heald has also dismissed other online rumors recently, involving onboard charges, menu items, and acceptable clothing.
For example, Carnival Cruise Line does NOT charge guests $5 for losing their Sail & Sign Card (room key). Replacement keys, whether lost or damaged, are easily gotten from the Guest Services desk onboard, without any fee – even if a traveler needs to replace their card more than once on the same cruise.
Similarly, meat is not being served on the cruise line’s new vegan menu. The cruise line has revamped its main dining room menus over the past two years, and in late 2023, rolled out new vegan options across the fleet. Plant-based meat substitutes are offered as appropriate proteins in the dishes, such as a grilled tofu steak and a Hawaiian salmon poke bowl.
Finally, guests will not be “thrown off the ship for wearing a t-shirt supporting a certain politician,”Heald confirmed.
Carnival Cruise Line does have a dress code to ensure respect, however, but it does not prohibit political endorsements. According to the cruise line’s website:
“All guests are expected to ensure their clothing and accessories are respectful to fellow guests. Specifically, items worn during the cruise should not contain any message that may be considered offensive or contain nudity, profanity, sexual innuendos/suggestions. In addition, clothing and accessories should not promote negative ethnic or racial, commentary, hatred, or violence in any form.”
The idea of “respectful” clothing is certainly open to interpretation. Simply expressing one’s own views or support (or lack thereof) for a specific politician or political candidate is not considered disrespectful, provided the clothing does not include profanity or other prohibited words or imagery.
Rather than relying on social media posts and rumors, guests should always seek out accurate information through the cruise line’s website and other reputable sources to ensure they are properly updated and informed before setting sail.
