Ending less than two years of construction, TUI Cruises has officially expanded its fleet with the addition of the Mein Schiff 7. The vessel was officially handed over in a ceremony at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland on June 10, 2024.
“On June 14, 2022, the steel cutting for Mein Schiff 7 took place at our shipyard. We are very proud that today, less than two years later, we can hand over the Mein Schiff 7 to TUI Cruises,” said Meyer Turku’s CEO Tim Meyer as the handover took place.
TUI Cruises’ CEO Wybcke Meieraccepted the handover, saying, “Ten years ago, we picked up our first ship of the Blu Motion class here in Turku. Mein Schiff 3 was the first new build for TUI Cruises, and by 2019, we had built a total of six ships. We thank the Meyer Turku shipyard for the excellent cooperation and the development of our ‘feel-good’ fleet.”
Mein Schiff 7 Delivery Ceremony
Mein Schiff 7, which will be based in Kiel, Germany, is set to depart on a 2-night roundtrip christening voyage in the Bay of Kiel in the Danish Sea on June 12.
It will then sail on a 5-night “anticipation” journey from Kiel to Aarhus and Copenhagen, Denmark, and Oslo, Norway, on June 16 before launching fully into its inaugural season.
Cruises for the 2,896-passenger and 1,000-crew ship will range from 8 to 17 days and explore Northern Europe, visiting Norway, Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia, Finland, Poland, Denmark, and other ports in Germany.
The seventh ship in the Mein Schiff fleet and the first constructed for TUI Cruises since 2019, Mein Schiff 7 is a sister ship to Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2. “It offers many features that our guests appreciate, along with numerous new highlights based on guest feedback,” said Meier.
The new highlights include a new design, additional cabin categories, and 12 restaurants and bistros across its 16 decks.
TUI Cruises Expands Fleet with Focus on Sustainability
Mein Schiff 7 will be the first ship in the fleet to be operated exclusively with low-emission marine diesel and is equipped with catalysts and a shore power connection. The ship was built to run on methanol, including green methanol in the future, which will make the ship’s propulsion almost carbon neutral.
TUI Cruises is currently developing the methanol propulsion of four-stroke engines, as it yet exists, and plans to equip the new ship with them by 2026. It would be the first cruise ship powered by methanol propulsion.
Mein Schiff 7 at Meyer Turku
Designed to meet demands for sustainability and efficiency, Mein Schiff 7 has also been equipped with an innovative waste processing system that thermally treats organic waste, shredding it and preparing it for further use on land.
Called “HydroTreat,” the process uses heat and pressure to separate the liquid parts of the waste, which are then directed to the ship’s own wastewater treatment system. The solid waste parts are converted into so-called BioChar, which is considered versatile in agriculture for soil improvement or as a feed additive.
TUI Cruises is further expanding its Mein Schiff fleet with the addition of two new ships: the 160,000-gross-ton Mein Schiff Relax and Mein Schiff 9. These vessels are currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and are scheduled to debut in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
The internet is full of so-called travel hacks and ways around cruise ship guidelines and restrictions, but Carnival Cruise Line has responded swiftly and severely to one poor maneuver for a guest who claims to regularly smoke on their stateroom balcony. To be clear and concise – this behavior and flagrant disregard for onboard safety is never tolerated.
“I have been on 30 cruises. I smoke on the balcony. I paid for the cruise. The steward always brings an ashtray with $50 tip,”an unidentified guest messaged John Heald.
Heald is Carnival Cruise Line’s official brand ambassador. He answers hundreds of questions each day from cruise fans and eager travelers via his popular Facebook page, and often addresses a wide variety of concerns with grace and humor.
No Smoking Sign on Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Kaptures By K)
This obvious circumvention of the rules and disregard for safety, however, raises Heald’s ire, with good reason. Not only is it a safety violation, but it also reflects poorly – and Heald feels, inaccurately – on the cruise line’s cabin attendants.
“I know the cabin attendants, I know them well, better than most having spent so many years working alongside them,”Heald explained.“I know that none of them would never jeopardise their job, a job that helps and provides for their families at home, for an extra tip $50 just to provide a guest with an ashtray. If they were caught , they would be going home, their job would be over.”
Smoking is never permitted on stateroom balconies, a policy which is clearly outlined in Carnival Cruise Line’s Cruise Ticket Contract, Section 9(b):
“Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Guest agrees to refrain from smoking in non-designated areas and agrees that Carnival has the right to assess up to a $500 charge, per violation, and to disembark the Guest … with no refund.”
Furthermore, the policy explicitly addresses smoking on stateroom balconies. For the purposes of Carnival’s smoking policy, all types of smoking – cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaporizers, and electronic cigarettes – are included in the prohibition.
“All staterooms and suite accommodations, including the outside balconies, are NON-SMOKING,”the policy reads.“Any evidence of smoking in a stateroom or balcony, e.g.; smoke smell/residue, butts, ashes, upholstery/furniture burns, tampering of the smoke alarm, will constitute a violation.”
Heald emphasizes this policy as well as its consequences. The cruise line does not pull any punches with such safety violations, as even a small fire could have a catastrophic result at sea.
“Anyone caught smoking on the balcony will face serious consequences also. If we catch someone doing so or find ash or anything smoking related on the balcony there will be a $500 fine and the serious possibility of not being allowed to cruise with us again,”Heald said.
Heald also confirmed that the individual who made the original claim of tipping their cabin attendant $50 to bring an ashtray has already been banned from sailing with Carnival Cruise Line, while urging others not to follow their irresponsible example.
“Speaking as sailor and a human being. Smoking on your balcony is selfish, truly selfish. It is wrong and it is dangerous so please, do not do it,”he said.
What If You Witness Smoking?
Anyone who sees other travelers smoking outside designated areas, especially on stateroom balconies, is urged to alert the ship’s Security or Guest Services department. While it may seem like tattling, it is a safety issue and a great concern for everyone aboard.
“Please, if anyone sees someone smoking on the balcony, call 7777 or 8000 immediately,”Heald said.“Don’t wait, please report it. Be a tell tale tit because it is the right thing to do to protect the ship from the dangers of fire that smoking on a balcony has caused in the past.”
Several cruise ships under the Carnival Corporation & plc umbrella have have fire incidents that may have been caused by smoking.
Photo Credit: Filistra / Shutterstock
For example, in May 2023, P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Adventure had a fire at night, impacting several balcony staterooms and causing an evacuation to muster stations. In 2006, the then Star Princess of Princess Cruises – now P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Encounter – had a devastating fire that damaged more than 200 cabins and caused the death of a passenger.
It is only coincidental that these two tragic incidents both involved ships now sailing with P&O Cruises Australia. It was announced just days ago that Carnival Cruise Line will be absorbing P&O Cruises Australia as the brand is dissolved in early 2025. Both Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will be rebranded as Carnival cruise ships but will continue to sail from Australia after their renovations.
Undoubtedly, smoking will continue to be prohibited outside designated areas on both ships, regardless of which cruise line they sail with.
After two years of construction and much anticipation, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point officially opened on June 10 to welcome Disney Cruise Line (DCL) passengers.
The occasion was marked by the inaugural arrival of the 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy, the first ship to officially bring guests to the new retreat following a preview cruise that arrived on June 7.
After departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, on June 8, the nearly 130,000-gross-ton Disney Fantasy arrived at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point as the first call on a 7-night cruise that will also visit Disney’s original private destination, Castaway Cay.
Aerial View of Lookout Cay
Before returning to Port Canaveral, guests will be treated to a second visit to Disney Lookout Cay on June 13, as the cruise line proudly shows off its newest offering, which cost more than $250 million to create.
Early reports from the preview cruise that took place aboard Disney Magic featured rave reviews, including Tracie M., a planDisney Panelist, who shared her excitement about the island on the Disney Parks Blog.
“From the moment we arrived, I was captivated by the landscape and rolling hills, with swaying palm trees and vibrant greenery stretching as far as the eye could see. The unique trestle pier seemed to float above the water, designed to protect the coral reefs below – just one of the many efforts Disney Cruise Line is taking to preserve the island’s natural beauty,” she said.
Disney Magic, which accommodates 2,400 passengers and is DCL’s oldest ship, will arrive at the destination again for its first official cruise on June 14. Like Disney Fantasy, it will call on Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point twice and visit Castaway Cay during its 5-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale.
In fact, as Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy spend their summers running 3- to 5-night cruises to the Bahamas, the majority of calls will spotlight Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with longer cruises also visiting Nassau.
— Theme Park Express (@ThemeParkExpres) June 10, 2024
The 4,000-passenger Disney Dream will make its inaugural call at the new destination when it returns from its summer in Europe and calls on Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on November 1 on a repositioning cruise to Fort Lauderdale.
The ship will replace Disney Magic as that ship repositions to Galveston in November. It joins Disney Fantasy to ensure two Disney Cruise Line ships are regularly scheduled to call on Lighthouse Point throughout the 2024 to 2025 winter season.
What to Expect on Disney’s Second Private Destination
Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, located on 700 acres on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas, offers a comprehensive range of activities and amenities. One of the first stops for many guests is the Goombay Cultural Center, where visitors can immerse themselves in Bahamian culture.
The center hosts a traditional Bahamian Junkanoo Celebration with colorful parades, rhythmic drumming, and lively dancing. Guests can learn about the history of Junkanoo, craft their own headdresses, and participate in the parade alongside local entertainers and Disney characters wearing equally colorful costumes designed by Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett.
Disney’s Under Construction Private Destination
The Play-Play Pavilion is also a hub of activity, offering a variety of beach games and interactive experiences. Here, guests can join the Disney Fun in the Sun Beach Bash, featuring tabletop and beach games accompanied by Bahamian renditions of Disney tunes.
The family beach at Lookout Cay is equipped with an abundance of beach chairs and umbrellas, ensuring ample space for relaxation, exemplified by the fact DCL will only dock one ship per day at Lighthouse Point. The beach also features convenient amenities like towel stations, easy access to restrooms, and cabana rentals.
For families with young children, the Rush Out Gush Out Water Play area is a highlight. The splash zone features slides, dump buckets, sprinklers, and a smaller splash pad for younger children. Surrounding the play area are beach chairs, bathrooms, and nearby refreshment stands.
With its vast space, guests can explore the destination’s Nature Trail, a sandy path that winds past impressive rock formations and native wildlife. QR codes are found along the trail to provide educational information about the local flora and fauna, with water stations also situated along the trail to keep guests hydrated.
Of course, the destination is filled with shops and dining, all with Bahamian flair. Beyond the destination, Disney Lookout Cay offers a variety of Port Adventures that allow guests to explore Eleuthera.
Earlier this year, a viral video circulated of a Carnival cruise passenger tampering with large water bottles in her stateroom, refilling and resealing the bottles as savings “hack” to avoid paying for the bottles. Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, has now confirmed the consequences of that ludicrous behavior.
While the short video – just a few seconds long – never identified the exact ship or when the video was filmed, it clearly took place onboard a Carnival cruise ship.
The tag on the water bottle said “Carnival” and one of the cruise line’s Snoozin’ door signs was briefly visible in the background. Carnival offers 1.5-liter bottles of Crystal Geyser water in guest staterooms for convenient purchases.
Cruise Passenger Tampers With cabin Water Bottle
The woman in the video refilled one of those large water bottles from her bathroom tap, then used a small bottle of glue to reseal the cap. She then replaced the cardboard sales tag on the bottle and even gave a thumbs-up for her cleverness at the end of the video. To date, the video has been viewed more than 260,000 times.
The video sparked great concern among cruisers about the safety of bottled water onboard ships and how easy tampering with the bottles may or may not be, as well as what consequences should be brought against travelers stealing in this way. Now, Carnival Cruise Line has responded to the incident.
“The lady who was also on [TikTok] showing how to drink water from the bottles in the cabin without breaking the seal [has] been banned from cruising with us ever again,”confirmed John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line Brand Ambassador.
It is a relief to learn that Carnival Cruise Line takes this type of incident seriously. The concern about contaminated water, which could potentially be laced with toxins or other substances, is a real one for many travelers after seeing this video.
To be clear, there are many similar videos available with nearly identical “hacks” for resealing different types of bottles, but this is always considered theft. Cruise Hive in no way endorses such actions or any such technique.
What is still unknown is whether or not Carnival’s cabin attendants might examine any bottles remaining in each stateroom at the end of a cruise for any signs of tampering.
To be safe, passengers should always closely examine the bottles in their cabin when they arrive. When in doubt, requesting fresh bottles from the cabin attendant or purchasing bottles from one of the bars onboard are other options.
Saving Money on Water
Some viewers may consider this unethical hack as an opportunity to save a few bucks on their cruise beverages. It should be noted, however, that tap water onboard cruise ships is perfectly safe to drink. Guests can also get water from self-serve beverage stations, but should be courteous about refilling bottles or otherwise holding up the lines when other passengers are waiting to get their own drinks.
Carnival Cruise Line has come under fire in recent weeks about changes in bottled water prices. In just 17 months, the cruise line increased the price of its bottled water three times, an all-together 202% price hike on the 12-pack of 16.9-ounce bottles. Initially, the cost was just $4.95, but now it is $14.95.
While this is just $1.25 per bottle – still less expensive than bottles of water that might be bought from an airport, theme park, or street vendor – it is quite a shocking increase from the original cost of $.41 per bottle, especially in such a relatively short time period.
Still, even such a dramatic price increase is no excuse for theft, deception, and tampering. It is a credit to Carnival Cruise Line that they investigated the video so thoroughly in order to identify the guest and take the appropriate action to ensure she will never be refilling Carnival water bottles illegally again.
Suppose you’re planning on taking an upcoming cruise. In that case, chances are likely that you’ve thought about all the things you should or shouldn’t do while on the cruise ship (things like definitely checking out the cruise line’s list of daily activities, from bingo to trivia, or definitely not buying an overpriced shore excursion) — but what about the things you should or shouldn’t do near a cruise ship?
Whether you’re traveling on a cruise or just to a destination where cruise ships are often at port, these are the top things you should never do near a cruise ship, if you want to avoid fines, injury or other dangers.
Many cruise lines, from Carnival to Princess, offer jet ski excursions so that you can take to the waters while the ship is in port, and see your island locale from a different viewpoint.
However, while jet skiing can be an incredibly fun experience to add to your cruise itinerary, it’s important that you’re careful to only jet ski in approved areas and you should never jet ski near a cruise ship.
While you might be confident in your jet skiing skills, cruise ships can pose a big risk to your safety. There are numerous news reports where travelers have jet skied too closely to ships and narrowly escaped disaster.
In 2018, a video went viral when a jet skier steered too closely to a container ship. After the skier skims the side of the ship, they’re sucked underneath the water (thankfully, the skier survived).
In 2017, two jet skiers exploring the harbor in Cape Canaveral faced the oncoming Carnival Magic; they had fallen off their jet ski and they were in the water in a case of wrong place, wrong time. The two would’ve been hit by the ship had they not been rescued by a sheriff’s department boat at just the right moment. The ship did hit the skiers’ jet ski.
Smoking While the Ship is Refueling
Most cruise ships offer travelers very specific places where they can smoke, whether that’s a public shared space or just on their balconies (a select few cruise lines allow you to smoke in your private cabin, such as Seabourn, which allows cruisers to smoke e-cigarettes in their suites). However, no matter where you plan to light up, you should avoid smoking on the ship while the ship is refueling.
Cruise Ship Refueling (Photon Credit: Wojciech Wrzesien)
Refueling occurs on embarkation and debarkation days and cruise lines prohibit all smoking on the ship during this time. Just like smoking while pumping gasoline comes with a fire risk, so does smoking while the ship is refueling.
If you find that this will be an inconvenience for you, some cruise lines, like Carnival, suggest you pick a late arrival appointment, so that you can smoke ahead of arriving at the cruise ship.
You can then have less time to wait until the ship is on its way, and smoking is permitted again (an announcement will be made when this is the case).
Messing with the Mooring Lines
After a ship docks, mooring lines are used to keep the ship in place during the ship’s visit to a port of call, allowing cruisers to safely disembark. It’s very important that passengers do not touch or mess with these mooring lines.
If the mooring lines break or if the ship is freed from the mooring lines for some reason, it can cause significant damage or injury, as this allows the ship to essentially drift away (not to mention smaller, less significant issues, such as itinerary delays).
Cruise Ship Mooring Lines (Photo Credit: byvalet)
Ships breaking from their mooring lines have occurred for multiple reasons, not just because of curious passengers. In January 2024, Norwegian Prima broke free from her mooring lines while passengers were debarking in Galveston, Texas. While this case, which was caused by strong winds, didn’t cause any injuries, it did cause gangway closures and delays.
Similarly, also in January 2024, MSC Sinfonia broke free from her mooring lines due to high winds and the ship drifted away from its dock in Sicily, causing damage to the docks and other, nearby ships.
Swimming Near the Ship
Just like you shouldn’t drive a jet ski too close to a cruise ship, as it causes a serious risk of injury or even death, you should also never swim near a cruise ship or too close to the edge of the pier.
Regarding piers, the National Weather Service warns against swimming near any piers or pilings, as dangers abound. Rip currents, other strong currents and chaotic waves are more likely near these structures, and the structures themselves are often covered in items that could cause injury, such as sharp barnacles.
Passengers Swimming Near Docked Cruise Ships (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
As for swimming too close to a cruise ship, the same dangers exist as when you jet ski too closely to a cruise ship. You could easily be sucked underneath the water and the ship; additionally, the ship’s movement can cause unpredictable waves and water swells.
Numerous incidences have been reported of swimmers dying after swimming too close to a cruise ship. For example, in 2022, a Miami man in Alaska swam in front of the bow of a docked cruise ship (Norwegian Jewel) and was seen to be struggling once he neared the cruise ship, before he disappeared under the water. His body was recovered sometime later.
Even just the much smaller tenders can cause issues for swimmers, as has been reported in Hawaii, where swimmers have needed rescue after encountering strong underwater currents created by the boats.
Flying a Drone Too Close to the Cruise Ship
Whether you’re standing ashore and flying your drone over a port or traveling on a cruise ship and want to break out your drone to get some cool footage of your cruise ship from the skies, think twice before you do so.
Drone During Travel (Photo Credit: Lucigerma)
Most cruise lines outright ban bringing a drone onboard. Only Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean allow you to bring drones onboard, but you’re not allowed to actually use the drone while you’re on the ship.
Carnival said that this was due to multiple reasons, including the risk that you might accidentally fly the drone into another cruiser, causing injury, or fly the drone into the ship, damaging it. You have to wait until you’ve left the ship and are ashore.
Even then, you may not be able to use your drone, depending on the destination. Many destinations have guidelines around where you can and can’t fly drones, with specific guidelines for ports, and some even require that you register for a drone-flying permit. For example, Galveston doesn’t allow you to fly drones within a certain distance of the cruise terminal or ships.
The individual overboard from MSC Cruises’ MSC Euribia early on Thursday, June 6, 2024 has sadly succumbed to their injuries. While early reports did note that the individual – now identified as a male passenger from the cruise ship – was rescued from the water in less than an hour, he did not survive the incident.
According to Nettavisen, a variety of rescue assets were used in the operation, including a helicopter, air ambulance, civilian boats, an ambulance boat, and a fire boat.
The man was pulled from the water and transported to Haukeland Hospital in Bergen, approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of the area of Sognefjord where the incident was reported.
Unfortunately, the man was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The exact cause of death has not been released, and it is unknown whether other medical conditions or unusual circumstances contributed to the overboard.
The incident has been labeled as “suspicious” but that could indicate an intentional overboard, a domestic dispute, a criminal act, an accident, or other unknown circumstances.
Water temperatures in Sognefjord are currently in the mid-50s Fahrenheit (13-14 Celsius). At that temperature, an individual in reasonably good health should be able to survive for 1-6 hours without extreme risk of hypothermia, but general health, protective gear, and physical abilities do factor into overall survival times.
Very few details about the man have been released, other than that yes, he was a passenger on MSC Euribia rather than a crew member, he is not a Norwegian citizen, and he was traveling with his spouse on the cruise ship. Local reports have noted the man was in his “late 50s.” No other passengers or crew members have been reported missing from the vessel.
Cruise lines do not often release extensive details in these situations. This lack of information is to safeguard the privacy of the individual, their family members and traveling companions, and others impacted by the incident.
Support may be made available to crew members and others onboard MSC Euribia who are affected by the situation. It can be very difficult to adapt to such a tragic incident during what should have been a happy cruise vacation.
MSC Euribia Sailings Continue
MSC Euribia was sailing a 7-night Northern Europe itinerary roundtrip from Kiel, Germany, with calls to various Norwegian ports, and the time of the overboard. That cruise ended on Saturday, June 8, and the ship has already continued on her next voyage.
MSC Euribia Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Studio Porto Sabbia)
While local authorities will undoubtedly conduct a full investigation into the incident – as is customary with any overboard situation. Part of the investigation will include interviews with crew members, a review of onboard surveillance and security footage, and an autopsy of the deceased. The ship does not have to pause operations while that investigation is ongoing.
The 184,011-gross-ton, Meraviglia-Plus-class MSC Euribia can welcome a total of 6,327 guests at full capacity, and has an international crew of approximately 1,700 team members.
The ship is currently sailing a variety of Northern Europe itineraries through mid-October, with departures from both Kiel and Copenhagen. After that, the ship will relocated to offer Middle East sailings in the Arabian Gulf, with departures from Dubai and Abu Dhabi and visits to the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain. MSC Euribia will remain in the Middle East through April 2025.
While you might think of cruise vacations as the perfect time to indulge (and they are, to an extent!), if you’re worried about what the never-ending food at the buffet and your endless drink package will do to your waistline, there’s good news: It is possible to stay fit and continue to adhere to your health and wellness goals, even while on a cruise.
That said, there are some cruise lines that are more inclined to promote fitness than others. While, sure, most cruise ships will offer, at minimum, a fitness center and maybe a jogging track, some cruise lines really go over the top to ensure that you can work out just as hard as you play, during your cruise.
Plus, some offer other great health and wellness perks that are above and beyond mere workout equipment and a few standard fitness classes. Think sunrise yoga on the top deck, sustainably sourced food on the menu and unique hydrotherapy options.
Need to know more? Here are some of the best cruise lines to consider, if you want to book a cruise that makes sticking to your fitness regimen easy, even while on vacation. You’ll leave your cruise feeling better than ever, both body and mind.
On Princess Cruises, the fitness centers are outfitted with all the equipment you could need, such as weights, treadmills and more — and, of course, they offer ocean views, so you can take in all the scenery as you get in your miles or reps.
Fitness classes include spinning courses and your run-of-the-mill group classes. However, Princess Cruises stands out with its fitness classes that have been specifically curated for the cruise line and its guests, with offerings from Pure Barre, YogaSix and Stretch Lab.
Photo Courtesy: Princess Cruises
When you’re finished with your workout, be sure to visit the Princess Lotus Spa, which has been named one of the best cruise line spas in the industry, and which offers a variety of classic spa treatments.
All of the gym classes on each cruise are totally free, so you don’t have to worry about paying extra for a new-to-you class you may or may not enjoy. You’re quite literally free to explore your options! You can find a range of classes, from beginner courses to advanced.
There’s a juice bar right by the gym, serving up nutritious pre- or post-workout beverages. The classes really run the gamete, too, from cycling to bungee to barre to boxing.
Photo Courtesy: Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages gyms have been dubbed the B-Complex, and they’re split into two sections. There’s a multipurpose fitness studio, and then there’s a training camp where you can enjoy group and solo classes (solo classes are provided via a fitness-on-demand app that’s unique to the cruise line).
A jogging track is also available, and, of course, there’s a spa with a thermal suite and cool amenities like the first quartz bed at sea (for those who aren’t in the know, a quartz bed basically allows you to lie in a bed of small quartz crystals that feel similar to sand, and enjoy a micro-massaging sensation that’s purported to also offer mental, emotional and spiritual benefits). Medi-spa services are also available, such as Botox and IV therapy.
If you really prefer to get active with a fun activity that’s not your average workout, visit The Athletic Club, for adult-sized games and fun, from basketball to playground equipment.
Seabourn
Seabourn takes an ultra-luxury approach to everything that it offers its guests, so you can expect that same luxury when it comes to the cruise line’s wellness programs.
Photo Credit: Roger Utting / Shutterstock
Thanks to a partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil, Seabourn offers mindful wellness options, in case your average workout looks a little more like yoga and a lot less like running on a treadmill.
In addition to complimentary meditation and yoga sessions, you can enjoy educational seminars that further enhance your wellness experience, with focuses on topics like Eastern and Western wellness. Each ship also has a Wellness Guide on staff, who can help you form a personal wellness program.
Blue World Voyages
An up-and-coming cruise line, Blue World is intended to be the first cruise line that is all about fitness and health. As such, ships are equipped with entire decks dedicated to just sports and fitness, as well as additional decks dedicated just to spa and wellness experiences.
Suites focus on wellness, too, with features such as vitamin-infused rainfall showers, air filtration systems and circadian lighting. Plus, all itineraries are focused on staying active in the destinations you visit. For the cruise line to visit a destination, it must offer an opportunity to hike, cycle, golf and enjoy water sports, as well as provide cultural opportunities.
Avalon Waterways
In a similar manner, Avalon Waterways makes it easy for cruisers to take their fitness off the ship and enjoy fitness-related activities while exploring their ports of call. On European river cruises, travelers can specifically seek out “active” excursions, which range from jogging tours to hiking tours.
Not interested in a formal excursion? Avalon guests enjoy access to complimentary bike rentals at every port (as well as walking sticks and kayaks, in some cases), so you can explore at your own speed, while staying in motion.
On each ship, Avalon, of course, offers the requisite fitness center, but also daily yoga sessions and, if you visit the Adventure Center in the ships’ lobbies, you can find fitness equipment that you can rent for the duration of your trip, from yoga mats to stretch bands to FitBit health and fitness trackers.
The dining program takes a wellness approach, too, with a mocktail menu, and dining menus that can cater to specific health needs, such as low-carb or low-sodium.
Celebrity Cruises
You don’t have to take a luxury cruise or a small-ship cruise in order to enjoy a nice range of health, wellness and fitness amenities. On Celebrity Cruises cruise ships, for example, you’ll find F45 training studios (on select ships), as well as equipment from Peloton, and classes that take advantage of the latest trends in fitness, like Ryde spin classes and HIIT training.
Jogging Track on Celebrity Cruises Ship (Photo Credit: Chiyacat)
Unique class options include boxing, barre and bungee. For fitness options that are a little more low-key, try yoga, guided meditation or breathing classes. Celebrity’s Body in Motion program offers further amenities and services, such as body composition analyses, nutritional consultations and personal training.
After you’ve enjoyed it all, you can head over to the spa café for a fresh juice, and then go enjoy the spa-related amenities in your AquaClass suite.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Similarly, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a nice mix of wellness and fitness amenities. You can book a personal training session that will include a body composition analysis, after which the personal trainer will design a personalized workout routine for you, as well as a nutrition and detox plan, if needed.
A range of group fitness experiences are available, such as TRX Suspension Training, HIIT45 and Ryde cycling classes. Yoga classes, row classes and total body conditioning classes are also available.
Of course, if you just want to go it on your own, you can also just head to the general fitness area to take advantage of the state-of-the-art equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, bikes and weights.
Uniworld
Another river cruises cruise line, Uniworld hires experienced wellness professionals to lead a variety of wellness programs during each cruise, from sunrise yoga sessions to more intense workouts.
Uniworld Vessel
When you’re out at port, you can take one of your ship’s bicycles out to explore on two wheels, or grab some walking sticks for a bit of trekking. Excursions are specifically available that focus on staying active, whether you want to hike, cycle, golf or kayak.
The ship’s dining program also offers a Traveling Lite menu, which helps to adjust the existing ships’ menus for those who are trying to watch their caloric intake.
Amadeus River Cruises
Similarly, Amadeus River Cruises offers a mix of on-board and onshore fitness experiences. The fitness centers on each of the cruise line’s ships are open 24 hours, and yoga classes are offered each morning on the sun deck.
The dining programs also offer regional, fresh and light dining alternatives. When it’s time to step ashore, you can choose from an array of guided fitness-focused excursions that are available for a variety of fitness levels.
Oceania Cruises
On Oceania Cruises, the Aquamar Spa & Vitality center on each ship offers a broad mix of high-end amenities and experiences. The fitness center provides complimentary fitness classes that touch on a plethora of areas of interest, from yoga to core conditioning.
You can take advantage of one-on-one personal training, as well as the various exercise equipment; certain ships are outfitted with Kinesis exercise walls.
Allura Pool Deck Render (Image Credit: Oceania Cruises)
After you’re done with your workout, explore the offerings in the spa, which also includes thermal environments and offers medi-spa services.
If you want to take your wellness and fitness experiences off the ship, you’ll find that Oceania provides wellness discovery tours in several destinations.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises ships are outfitted with fitness centers that feature TechnoGym equipment. However, in addition to the normal gym with its ocean views, ships also offer areas where you can get in a workout in other ways, such as a tennis court and a squash court. There’s also a power walking track.
Scenic
Scenic offers a traditional gym, dedicated yoga studio and dedicated pilates studio. The cruise line also offers a very unique class option that you won’t find on a lot of the other cruise lines on this list: aerial fitness classes. Personal training sessions are available, as are group training sessions, and the gym is outfitted with modern equipment in an airy environment.
Scenic Eclipse (Photo Credit: The Scenic Group)
When you’re done with your workout, you can check out the salt therapy lounge, vitality pools, therapeutic showers and/or infrared sauna (depending on the ship you’re sailing on).
Scenic also offers a variety of alternative spa treatments, for something a little out of the unusual, including reflexology, sound treatments, ayurvedic massage and more.
SeaDream Yacht Club
When you’re living the high life during a SeaDream Yacht Club cruise, you’ll enjoy a bevy of fitness-related amenities and services.
Photo Courtesy: SeaDream Yacht Club
There’s a fitness center, equipped with its own sauna and steam room, but also fitness classes located elsewhere on the ship, such as daily sunrise yoga and tai chi sessions, on the top deck. There’s a walking and running track, and the SeaDream Spa even includes its own outdoor treatment area.
The line also takes a wellness-focused approach to its cuisine, offering plant-based options and sustainably sourcing ingredients where it can, including from local farmers markets, at the various destinations along an itinerary.
Cruise vacations are typically associated with kicking back and relaxing, but expedition cruising offers an entirely new and thrilling way to explore the world’s waterways. Rather than voyage to major tourist regions, like the Caribbean Islands and the Mediterranean Sea, an expedition cruise takes passengers to explore some of the most remote and untouched regions.
Removed from the typical glitz and luxury of a traditional cruise, expedition cruises focus on providing authentic travel experiences and memorable encounters with nature. If you are an adventurous traveler looking for a way to turn a cruise vacation into a character-building journey that can broaden the mind, an expedition cruise might be perfect for you.
With this complete guide to expedition cruising, we will explain the basics of what an expedition cruise is, what passengers can expect, and how to make the most out of this extraordinary form of travel.
As the name suggests, an expedition cruise is a unique type of cruise vacation that involves taking passengers to less accessible and remote destinations.
Unlike a traditional cruise, where the focus is onboard entertainment, gourmet dining, and visits to popular tourist destinations, expedition cruises prioritize nature and wildlife and offer passengers an experience where the destination is more immersive than what can be offered on board the ship.
Unlike the mind-blowing proportions and amenities you get with the world’s largest cruise ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class cruise ships, expedition cruise ships are relatively small vessels, accommodating anywhere from 10 to 200 passengers.
Not only does this allow the ship to traverse waterways that would be impossible for a full-sized cruise ship, but it also means the onboard experience can be far more personalized and intimate for guests.
Major Differences Between Regular and Expedition Cruises
The main differences between the two types of cruises fall into three categories – what type of ship is used, where the ship visits, and what the overall passenger experience is like:
Ship Size and Type
Expedition ships are significantly smaller vessels than typical cruise ships. While reduced demand is partially responsible for this, the main reason these smaller and more intimate ships are used is that they can travel to more remote locations.
Small Expedition Vessel in Antarctica (Photo Credit: Angela N Perryman)
A smaller ship is also significantly more flexible than an enormous cruise ship, which is important when the voyage is based on wildlife sightings and visiting areas with less stable weather conditions. When larger cruise ships follow rigid schedules with exact itineraries, an expedition ship can react to situations in the moment.
Plus, many expedition vessels have features that allow them to navigate harsh waters, like an ice-strengthened hull for the icy waters of the poles or powerful engines to traverse rugged seas and strong currents.
Destination Differences
As mentioned, traditional cruises are based around visiting popular tourist destinations that offer pleasant weather, whereas expedition cruises visit remote, less traveled regions, like the Arctic, Antarctic, Svalbard, and Greenland.
Passenger Experience
An expedition cruise emphasizes exploration and educational experiences led by expert guides, whereas a traditional cruise focuses on relaxation and indulgence.
Cruise Passengers on Expedition Cruise (Photo Credit: tuzla)
Rather than spending afternoons lounging in the sun, visiting an onboard spa, or enjoying the ship’s waterslides, expedition cruise passengers spend their days spotting wildlife and viewing rugged, unexplored coastlines.
Average Cost and Pricing
Since expedition cruises are more of a niche experience than a traditional cruise, they tend to be significantly more expensive. This isn’t helped by the fact that the ships are drastically smaller, so operating costs need to be shared by fewer passengers.
Where it’s possible to get deals on traditional cruise ships that cost less than $1,000 for multiple days, an expedition cruise can cost about that per day. Average costs run about $1,000 to $1,500 per person per day, depending on the destination.
This is part of why expedition cruise passengers tend to view the voyage as more of a one-in-a-lifetime or bucket list experience than a relaxing vacation.
With that said, the cost of an expedition cruise is not exactly unreasonable when you consider that suite upgrades and onboard spending can easily bring the cost of a traditional cruise up to similar levels.
Typical Activities on an Expedition Cruise
The types of activities passengers experience on an expedition cruise can vary significantly based on the destination, but the following are all fairly typical:
Shore Hiking and Trekking
Since expedition cruises are based on activity and exploration, most incorporate some type of hiking or trekking into the experience.
Through guided hikes, passengers can venture through remote landscapes and wildlife habitats that would be incredibly difficult to reach by other means.
Zodiac Boat Journeys
These lightweight, inflatable boats are able to access shallow waters and take greater risks with rocks than metal and fiberglass boats. This makes them perfect for excursions along rocky shorelines, so they’re regularly used on expedition cruises for exploring coastal areas, narrow fjords, and rivers.
Some will also provide passengers with sea kayaks, which enable a quieter and more hands-on exploration opportunity.
Wildlife Spotting
While the type of wildlife you see on an expedition cruise will depend on where you go, most include opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
Cruise Passengers Along Side King Penguins (Photo Credit: Angela N Perryman)
If you want to view penguins, seals, whales, polar bears, sea turtles, marine iguanas, tropical birds, and so much more, an expedition cruise might be perfect for you.
Photography Tours
Many expedition cruise operators encourage passengers to photograph the stunning landscapes they explore. From photographing unique landscapes to capturing images of wildlife, an expedition cruise is the ideal type of vacation for aspiring photographers.
Photo Opportunity During Expedition Cruise Tour (Photo Credit: Sterling E)
In many cases, the crew will even offer advice on photographing the area in certain lighting conditions, so the photography tours can be an educational opportunity.
Onboard Lectures and Land-Based Workshops
Expert-led educational sessions conducted by expert naturalists, scientists, and historians are fairly common on expedition cruises.
Where many people take a traditional cruise to switch their brains off and relax, expedition cruise passengers want to learn and expand their understanding of the natural world.
What Are the Best Locations for Expedition Cruises?
While the ‘best’ location will depend on your preferences, they almost always offer a unique opportunity to explore notoriously inaccessible locations. The following destinations are amongst the most popular:
Antarctica
National Geographic Explorer in Antarctica (Photo Credit: Arne Beruldsen / Shutterstock)
This frozen landscape is considered one of the least hospitable on the planet, making completing Antarctica itineraries a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visiting and viewing the icebergs, glaciers, and penguins is on many people’s bucket list.
Arctic Circle and Greenland
Like Antarctica, the icy Arctic and the coast of Greenland are popular expedition cruise destinations. With a focus on spotting polar bears, walruses, and other iconic species native to the North Pole, these regions enable genuinely memorable experiences.
The Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands (Photo Credit: Peter Sobolev / Shutterstock)
The untamed and distinct ecology of the Galapagos Islands makes them a perfect destination for expedition cruises. With their rugged volcanic geology and the opportunity to view many of the same species that were once observed by Charles Darwin, visiting the Ecuadorian archipelago is hugely popular with adventurists and expedition cruisers.
The Amazon River Basin
The rainforests of the Amazon are perfect for spotting rare species, like sloths, toucans, and pink river dolphins. Many of these cruises will include a voyage down the Panama Canal, which is a memorable experience in its own right.
Amazon River Cruise (Photo Credit: Nestor Morales Moreno)
With the opportunity to also learn about Amazonian traditions and cuisine, it’s unsurprising that these South American expedition cruises are very popular.
Other popular destinations can include the remote coastlines of Iceland, the fjords of Norway, Alaska, and New Zealand.
Best Cruise Lines Offering Expedition Cruises
Most major cruise lines avoid focussing on expedition cruises, as there is a much smaller market for them than traditional cruises. This opens the door to specialized expedition cruise providers that focus on providing exceptional experiences that do not negatively impact the untouched environments they explore.
The following are just some of the leading expedition cruise lines today:
Lindblad Expeditions
Lindblad expedition cruises strongly focus on education, which is not surprising given their well-known partnership with National Geographic. The expert-led voyages usually travel to remote locations and provide up-close encounters by employing zodiac boats, kayaks, camera-equipped submarines, drones, and other exploration tools.
Photo Credit: Arild Lilleboe / Shutterstock
Most ships also travel with a National Geographic-certified photography instructor, so passengers with an eye for photography are particularly drawn to this cruise line.
Hurtigruten
The cruise line focuses on eco-friendly and sustainable voyages, with many venturing to the world’s frozen waters to view icebergs, glaciers, and the resilient animal species that can survive in these harsh climates.
Hurtigruten Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: LouieLea)
Ponant
Ponant offers more luxury-oriented expedition cruises, which explains why they tend to appeal to an older demographic that still wants to see wild parts of the world in a more comfortable setting.
Choosing the Right Expedition for You
Each person has unique preferences, so the first step is deciding which region or specific locations you would like to see. Once you have decided where you would like to go, you can choose a ship that matches what you are looking for. Smaller ships offer a more personalized and intimate experience, while the larger expedition ships can be more comfortable.
Two Seabourn Ships Meet in Antarctica
You should also read up on activities included in the itineraries of different voyages to ensure you enjoy what appeals to you the most. Finally, budget is important, as prices can vary depending on the cruise line, where it is traveling to, as well as the duration of the voyage.
Who Are Expedition Cruises Good For?
For the most part, expedition cruises tend to be adventure seekers who crave unique experiences. They also appeal to wildlife enthusiasts and those looking for a more eco-conscious alternative to a typical cruise.
How to Pack for an Expedition Cruise
Packing for an expedition cruise requires more consideration than a typical cruise vacation. You must bring the right clothing and gear for the destination and the activities you will participate in there. The correct clothing, like wind and waterproof clothing, can be essential, and the same can be said for sturdy footwear.
Guests Embarking Silver Wind (Photo Credit: John Bingham photography)
Packing extra adventure gear, like binoculars and high-powered camera lenses, can help you get the most out of your trip. Since you will be visiting remote locations, you must also focus on any medications and essential toiletries, as you can’t simply go into town if you forget something.
Your cruise line will send you an informative email with a customized packing list before departure, so make sure you go through it meticulously while you pack.
Preparing for an Expedition Cruise
In the buildup to your trip, focus on your fitness and physical health. The better shape you are in, the more enjoyable outdoor activities will be. Rather than huffing and puffing, you’ll be able to really embrace the moment.
We also recommend brushing up on the region you will be exploring so you will be aware of potential dangers, wildlife, and other interesting facts. While these trips are educational, having a basic understanding of the area before departure will help you build anticipation and get even more out of the experience.
Cruise Ship Passenger Taking in the View (Photo Credit: Kirk Fisher)
Make sure you also purchase comprehensive and appropriate travel insurance. While these trips are safe, you do not want to be on the line for medical expenses or last-minute cancellation costs. Remember, these are rugged and unpredictable locations so delays can happen.
Wildlife Encounters
Encountering wildlife is one of the highlights of an expedition cruise, but it is important to respect it. Maintain a safe distance and listen to what your guides have to say.
You want to minimize your impact, so the focus should be on observing and learning rather than directly interacting with animals. Rely on your camera rather than direct interactions; always respect the natural environment.
Life Onboard an Expedition Cruise
Life onboard an expedition cruise can be surprisingly relaxing and comfortable, but you should not expect the same five-star experience you would get on a luxury cruise ship.
Cabins are usually private but have shared washroom facilities. Meals are enjoyed as a group and are often freshly prepared with local ingredients wherever possible.
Onboard entertainment tends to have an educational focus, with lectures, films, workshops, and discussions with expert guides being common. You’re also encouraged to interact with fellow passengers and discuss your shared passion for adventure and nature.
Ecotourism and Sustainable Practices for Expedition Cruises
Expedition cruises prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism, so every effort is taken to respect the environments the ships explore.
Environmentally-friendly practices, like waste reduction, recycling, and energy conservation, are pretty standard. Wildlife preservation is always strictly enforced so you will be instructed on proper wildlife viewing and interaction protocols.
Expedition cruises are usually led by highly trained and knowledgeable guides with expertise in relevant fields such as biology and geology. Beyond education, your guides are also safety experts trained to ensure your safety and well-being throughout the journey.
Photography Tips
Bring the right equipment! Invest in a high-quality camera and the right lenses and accessories to capture the amazing sights you will see. Before you leave, it’s worth taking a few basic photography lessons so you can learn techniques to capture the beauty of the destinations visited.
Taking Photo in Antarctica (Photo Credit: Sterling E)
Once you return home, you can use photo editing software to enhance and optimize your photographs, eliminating blur caused by fog, motion, precipitation, and other common issues when photographing rugged terrain from a ship deck.
Expedition Cruises for Singles and Families
Expedition cruises cater to all types of people. Singles and families are welcome. If you want to maximize the social aspect of sharing an adventure with total strangers, you can choose expedition cruises that focus more on social activities and group lectures.
For those with kids, check ahead to ensure you choose a family-friendly expedition rather than one designed exclusively for adults.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an expedition cruise?
An expedition cruise is a unique type of cruise that takes passengers to remote and difficult-to-reach destinations. The focus is usually on nature, wildlife, and adventure.
How long do expedition cruises last?
Depending on the destination and itinerary, expedition cruises can range from a few days to several weeks.
How much does a pole-to-pole cruise cost?
A pole-to-pole cruise can cost upwards of $30,000 per person. Given that these trips can take as long as 90 days to complete, the cost is unsurprising.
The second Disney Cruise Line (DCL) destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on the island of Eleuthera, The Bahamas, opened for a preview on June 7, welcoming guests to experience the new retreat ahead of its official debut on June 10, 2024.
The preview was offered to passengers aboard the 83,338-ton, 2,713-guest Disney Magic, sailing a 3-night round-trip preview cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Guests at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point were treated to a blend of Bahamian culture and Disney magic with a special Junkanoo Celebration parade, music by local Bahamian artists, and beach games hosted by Disney characters in tropical outfits designed by Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett.
Guests at Disney’s Lookout Cay
The Disney Parks Blog revealed that the first visitors arrived at the Goombay Cultural Center to celebrate with Mickey Mouse and friends. They were also treated to a Sun Beach Bash at the Play-Play Pavilion and kid-friendly activities like Goofy’s Good Day Limbo, Pluto’s Pineapple Ring Toss, and Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Water Brigade.
A new original song, “Ery’ting Cool,” produced in collaboration with Walt Disney Imagineering and two Bahamian producers, was also introduced at the Cay, which was designed to offer visitors an authentic Bahamian immersion filled with music, color, and culture.
Bloggers aboard the ship shared images of their arrival, including a first look at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point’s dock, which was reported to be about a quarter mile in length.
Disney Magic llegó hoy a Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, le nueva isla privada de @DisneyCruise en las Bahamas. Detalles durante el día y reportaje completo en #Elnuevodia. pic.twitter.com/n4MY0PondC
Constructed to meet government mandates to protect the environment, reports mentioned that Disney Cruise Line is working on solutions for guests who may find it difficult to walk the distance from the ship to the destination’s entrance.
Additional reports reveal the walk from the ship to the family beach is more than 1.5 miles. However, the good news is that only one ship per day will dock at Lighthouse Point to allow guests a better experience when calling on the new destination.
Disney Magic is First to Arrive at Lookout Cay
Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point will welcome its official inaugural visit on June 10 with the arrival of Disney Fantasy sailing out of Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Accommodating up to 4,000 passengers and weighing 129,750 gross tons, the ship will depart Port Canaveral on June 8 and make its first call at the destination before continuing to Nassau, The Bahamas, and visiting Disney Cruise Line’s additional private destination, Castaway Cay. It will return to Lighthouse Point on June 13 before returning to Florida.
Guests at Disney’s Lookout Cay
Disney Magic, DCL’s oldest ship, will take its first official passengers to Lighthouse Point during a 5-night roundtrip cruise from Fort Lauderdale that sets sail on June 14. The special Vacation Club cruise will also call on the destination twice, as well as visit Castaway Cay.
Throughout the summer Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy will offer an array of cruises varying from 3- to 7 -days that spend a day at the destination, which had been under construction since April 2022.
Disney Cruise Line leaders, the Bahamian Government, and local community members celebrated its competition with a special ceremony on May 30, 2024.
