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Grand Turk Cruise Port: Pier, Facilities and What’s Nearby

Emrys Thakkar
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Grand Turk Cruise Port: Pier, Facilities and What’s Nearby

As the only cruise port in the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Grand Turk Cruise Center is considered the gateway to this Caribbean paradise. The massive port and complex offer visitors a wide array of amenities and entertainment options directly at the port.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about the port, from location details to facilities and nearby attractions. We’ll help you know what to expect, and how to get the most out of your visit.

Whether you want to lounge on the beach or dive into the island’s unique history and culture, it’s time to plan your visit and prepare to discover the charm of the Turks and Caicos Islands!

In This Article:

Grand Turk Cruise Port Location and Address

Grand Turk Cruise Center, also known as Grand Turk Cruise Resort, is a massive cruise port and entertainment complex conveniently located on the southern end of Grand Turk, the most populous island in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the home of the territory’s capital city, Cockburn Town. 

The dedicated cruise port and surrounding facilities were opened in 2006, following a significant investment from the Turks and Caicos Tourism Board and Carnival Cruise Line. 

The port and its facilities can be found at the following address: Grand Turk Cruise Center, TKCA 1ZZ, Turks & Caicos Islands 

Grand Turk Terminals and Piers

Despite the vast array of amenities, the Grand Turk Cruise Resort’s actual port side only features a single pier. This pier stretches from the middle of the complex and leads towards a large indoor cruise terminal.

Grand Turk Cruise Dock
Photo Credit: SF photo / Shutterstock

The pier stretches 1,033 feet, allowing it to act as a two-berth for full-sized cruise ships. When cruise ship passengers disembark, they are led along the pier to the terminal, which features all the basic terminal facilities you would expect from a major cruise port. 

After exiting the terminal building, passengers are welcomed to a 13-acre complex that offers a wide range of entertainment options, restaurants, shops, and more. 

Which Cruise Lines Use Grand Turk Port? 

Since the Grand Turk Cruise Port revolves around a single pier, individual cruise lines are not given a specific berth. Instead, cruise ships are directed to whichever of the two berths is available. All cruise passengers are then directed to the same terminal building, which cannot be bypassed, as the pier leads directly into it.

You can take a look at the official port schedule of when cruise ships will visit right here.

Cruise Ships Docked in Grand Turk
Cruise Ships Docked in Grand Turk (Photo Credit: Chris Bradshaw / Shutterstock)

The following cruise lines regularly host itineraries that visit the Grand Turk Cruise Center: 

  • Carnival Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Costa Cruises
  • Holland America Cruise Line
  • Marella Cruises
  • Princess Cruises
  • Silversea
  • Virgin Voyages
  • Windstar Cruises 

As mentioned, Carnival Cruise Line invested heavily in constructing the complex to retain its prominent presence. As part of the investment agreement, its ships have priority access to the pier, and the company even maintains 75% of all seaport taxes the port collects from other cruise lines. 

Terminal Facilities and Services 

The terminal building offers all the basic services you would expect of a Caribbean cruise terminal. It has numerous bathrooms, an air-conditioned interior, currency exchange booths, a tourist information counter, and help desks for each major cruise line operating out of the port.

Grand Turk Cruise Center Terminal
Grand Turk Cruise Center Terminal (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin)

Unfortunately, the terminal building does not offer free public Wi-FI; however, Wi-Fi is available in some restaurants and cafés within the complex on the other side of the terminal building. In fact, the Grand Turk Cruise Center is home to the only Starbucks in all of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and it provides free Wi-Fi to paying customers. 

The terminal building and the pier leading to it are both highly accessible. The single-floor building is completely wheelchair accessible, and there are even wheelchair-friendly bathrooms. If you need mobility assistance, you can also communicate your needs with your cruise line, and they will make the appropriate arrangements.   

The Grand Turk Cruise Center Amenities

At just under 400 feet beyond the pier, visitors will walk through the entrance to the main attraction of the Grand Turk Cruise Center – the enormous entertainment and relaxation complex.

Grand Turk Cruise Center
Grand Turk Cruise Center (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)

The entire complex cost $50 million, which is an enormous sum for such a small British Overseas Territory. The result of this investment is a beachfront multi-purpose facility surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds.

Read Also: St. Thomas Cruise Port – Piers, Overview and What to Do

The fact that some cruise passengers feel they don’t need to leave the Grand Turk Cruise Center to enjoy their time on the island is a testament to how much it has to offer. The following are just some of the amenities open to visitors: 

Freeform Swimming Pool

Just beyond the terminal building, guests can swim for free in one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean. The pool also features complimentary chaise lounge chairs, or visitors can pay extra to rent a private poolside cabana for the day. 

FlowRider Artificial Surfing

Across from the pool, visitors can find one of the most exciting attractions in the port – the Grand Turk FlowRider. FlowRider uses high-pressure jets to simulate perfect surf waves. Participants can surf belly-down on bodyboards or try to get up on an actual surfboard. Even watching from a distance is fun, as many first-time surfers wipe out. 

Flowrider
Pool and Flowrider at Grand Turk Cruise Port

If you want to try the FlowRider, we recommend purchasing tickets ahead of time, as demand is high. Some cruise ships visiting the port allow you to buy tickets while you are on board. 

Cruise Center Beach

To the immediate left of the cruise terminal building, visitors will see Cruise Center Beach, one of the nicest cruise port beaches in the world. Guests can swim in the sparkling waters, stroll along the beach, or relax on one of the many beach chairs.

Keep in mind that these beach chairs and loungers can be challenging to get in the afternoons, but there are clamshell beach chairs available for rent.

Grand Turk Cruise Port Beach
Grand Turk Cruise Port Beach (Photo Credit: Claude Huot)

You can also rent floats and snorkeling equipment from the centrally located Beach Rental Hut. Those who choose to snorkel can discover actual 18th-century cannonballs, anchors, and many tropical fish.

If you want a more relaxed beach experience, the port’s South Beach is on the right side of the terminal. It has a more laid-back atmosphere since it does not feature beach chairs and is not maintained to the same degree as the main Cruise Center Beach. 

Restaurants and Bars

The port complex is home to Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, a tiki grill called Jack’s Shack Bar and Grill, and a beachside restaurant called The Beached Whale Bar & Grill. Each of the three options has a menu that features locally inspired dishes and drinks. Margaritaville even operates a swim-up bar in the main pool!

View of Margaritaville
View of Margaritaville in Grand Turk (Photo Credit: Meagan Marchant)

As mentioned, there is also a Starbucks within the Cruise Center, so you can easily enjoy an iced coffee and get your caffeine fix.

Shopping

The cruise center also includes a 45,000-square-foot shopping center with a large duty-free shop, several jewelers, a Ron Jon Surf Shop, numerous gift shops, and convenience stores that sell a wide variety of snacks and beverages.

Transportation Options from Grand Turk Cruise Port

Those looking to travel beyond the Grand Turk Cruise Center have several transportation options. 

For the most part, cruise passengers opt for taxis, which are available directly outside of the Cruise Center in a well-marked taxi line. This tends to be the most accessible and most affordable way to get around Grand Turk, as most taxis will offer a flat rate to the most popular sites on the island. 

There is also a car rental facility just outside of the Cruise Center. Advanced reservations are recommended, especially during peak tourist season in the winter months. If you choose to rent a car, you have two options – Island Auto Rental and Island View Rentals.

Buggy's at Grand Turk Cruise Port
Buggy’s at Grand Turk Cruise Port (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)

The first specializes in typical cars, while the second offers open-top Jeeps and golf carts. While golf carts aren’t recommended if you plan on traveling far, they are legal to operate in Cockburn Town and can be a fun way to get around. 

Both rental options have pickup and drop-off services besides the Cruise Center, making the process fairly seamless. 

Unfortunately, the only shuttle buses operating out of the cruise port are used for excursions, so you cannot take any form of public transit to navigate the island. That said, the area is very walkable, and there is very little traffic if you decide to drive yourself or take a taxi. 

Getting Between Grand Turk Cruise Port and the Airport 

JAGS McCartney International Airport (GDT) is just over a mile from the Cruise Center, so it is fairly easy to get to. Since there isn’t a shuttle service, most people will take a taxi, which is both quick and affordable. If you are just going directly to or from the airport, ask for a flat fare rather than paying the meter rate. It’s always cheaper.

Language and Currency

Given its status as a former British colony, the official language in Turks and Caicos is English. Despite the territory’s lasting connection to Britain, the U.S. Dollar (USD) is the sole official currency. ATMs in Grand Turk and elsewhere dispense U.S. Dollars.

Grand Turk Cruise Port Area
Grand Turk Cruise Port Area (Photo Credit: Mateus Andre)

Like other places in the Caribbean, tipping for good service is customary, so it’s a good idea to keep a few smaller bills on you for tipping cab drivers and servers. 

Nearby Amenities 

While the Cruise Center offers plenty of amenities, there is also plenty to do just outside of it: 

  • Snorkel at Boaby Rock Point: Located a 23-minute walk from the cruise port, this secluded white sandy beach is the southernmost point of Grand Turk. When conditions are calm, the turquoise waters offer some of the best snorkeling anywhere on Grand Turk. This is because the relatively shallow waters are home to two coral reefs. 
  • Relax on White Sands Beach: For cruise ship visitors wanting to escape the crowds of the Cruise Center Beach, White Sands Beach is located roughly 1.5 miles from the port. The shallow water might not be the best for swimming, but the beach is very peaceful. Plus, you can walk to the top of the sand bar to see the remains of Gun Hill – a light British cannon fortification that was once used to protect the island from invaders. 
  • Take an Island Tram Tour: The pickup station for the unique historical sightseeing tours is just outside the Cruise Center. These informative, open-air tram tours take roughly two hours. Enjoying a narrated adventure around the entire island is one of the easiest ways to get the most out of your stay if you are limited on time. 

Things to Do in Grand Turk 

For those with more time on their hands, the island of Grand Turk has plenty to offer. We highly recommend going beyond the Cruise Center and exploring the following: 

Explore the Colonial History of Cockburn Town

The downtown core of Cockburn Town is about 3.5 miles away, so many visitors will take a cab into town. The territory’s capital city offers plenty of stores and restaurants worth visiting, and it is filled with historical landmarks and colonial-era architecture.

Cockburn Town
Cockburn Town (Photo Credit: Ramunas Bruzas)

Both Due and Front Streets are home to many surviving examples of British and Bermudian-style buildings. Just by taking a casual stroll down these streets, you’ll see the H.M. Prison, Victoria Library, and St. Mary’s Church. All three retain a historical charm that will make you feel like you have traveled back in time. 

There are also many cannons and bronze anchors scattered throughout this part of the city, and several statues are also housed in the main square outside of the Government Offices.

Visit Turks and Caicos National Museum

This small museum is simple but worthwhile. Filled with artifacts from European shipwrecks, the historical salt industry, and the island’s native population, the museum has exhibits covering the entire storied history of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Turks and Caicos National Museum
Turks and Caicos National Museum (Photo Credit: Steph Couvrette)

You can even learn about a historic event that connected the island to the space race—when the Friendship Seven space capsule and astronaut John Glenn landed off the island’s coast. The museum is located on the north side of Cockburn Town, so it is a 3.7-mile taxi ride away. 

View Grand Turk Lighthouse

Located on the island’s most northern tip, the Grand Turk Lighthouse was built in 1852 and is its most iconic landmark. Not only are the views from this popular destination amazing, but it’s also located on the doorstep of a peaceful and secluded beach. It is well worth the 6-mile journey.

Grand Turk Lighthouse
Grand Turk Lighthouse (Photo Credit: CheckOutSam)

Dining In and Around the Port

The Cruise Center is home to several restaurants, all offering diners the opportunity to try locally-inspired dishes.

You’ll want to venture into Cockburn Town for a more authentic taste of Grand Turk cuisine. Peaches Restaurant and Barbie’s Bar & Restaurant both offer local dishes, like conch fritters, fried lionfish, grilled mahi mahi, and coconut conch chowder.

Wandering the streets of Cockburn Town will lead you to many other restaurants and bars. If you’re a beer lover, try some of the craft beers from Turk’s Head Brewery. While the brewery is located on another island, its beers are widely available in most bars and offer a refreshing taste of the island. 

Shopping In and Around the Port

The Cruise Center is also home to an indoor shopping mall, so you can easily purchase souvenirs without traveling far.

Craft Market at Grand Turk
Craft Market at Grand Turk (Photo Copyright: Cruise Hive)

Front Street in Cockburn Town also has several souvenir shops that carry locally-made goods. Rather than purchasing the mass-produced goods in the gift shops in the Cruise Center, having a chance to pick up a one-of-a-kind, hand-painted souvenir can make a trip into town worth the cab ride.

We also recommend picking up Grand Turk sea salt, which has a uniquely flaky texture and reflects the island’s once-thriving salt industry. 

Seasonal Weather Conditions

  • Spring: Warm and sunny weather with average highs around 85°F makes it a popular time to visit.
  • Summer: Summer weather tends to be hot and humid, with occasional showers. Expect average highs of roughly 90°F.
  • Fall: The milder temperatures of around 80°F and dryer conditions make the fall one of the nicer times to visit the tiny island.
  • Winter: Winter is the most popular time to visit, which makes sense when you consider it is mostly dry and sunny across Grand Turk. Daytime highs also usually sit around an enjoyable 79°F.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Is there a beach at Grand Turk cruise port? 

Yes, Cruise Center Beach is a stretch of sand that is open to all cruise passengers. There is even direct beachfront access just steps from the cruise terminal building. 

Is the pool at Grand Turk cruise port free? 

Yes! Access to the swimming pool is free for all visitors. However, some private poolside cabanas with waiter service must be rented for a fee. 

Is Grand Turk a tender port? 

No, cruise ships dock directly at the Cruise Center, making it easier for passengers to come and go from their ships.

P&O Cruises Confirms New Airline Partners for Caribbean Packages

Donna Tunney
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P&O Cruises Confirms New Airline Partners for Caribbean Packages

P&O Cruises has partnered with three airlines to provide charter service for its winter 2024-25 season of popular fly-cruise packages to the Caribbean from the UK. The Carnival Corporation brand caters to the British market, and homeports two ships for Southern Caribbean voyages.

The cruise line, which operates seven ships on global itineraries, revealed in February 2024 that it was seeking new airlift partners for the Caribbean cruise packages. The change was prompted by service issues with then-charter partner Maleth Aero, following complaints from cruise guests and travel agents.

The airline, for instance, offered no premium seating and no inflight entertainment on the long-haul routes from the UK to Barbados, where its cruise ships Britannia and Arvia are based.

P&O Arvia Cruise Ship in St. Lucia
Photo Courtesy: Ministry of Tourism Saint Lucia

Cruise line president Paul Ludlow detailed the service problems in a video posted on X (formerly named Twitter), and apologized to guests who were disappointed with the flights. In addition to Maleth Aero, P&O Cruises also partnered with TUI Airways, and that airline will continue to provide service.

Along with TUI Airways, P&O Cruises confirmed that Norse Atlantic Airways and Virgin Atlantic will be air partners for the upcoming season. The charter flights are scheduled to coincide with departure dates for each ship’s 7- and 14-night voyages.

Both Britannia and Arvia sail 14-night cruises roundtrip from Barbados, and Arvia also offers 7-night sailings between Barbados and Antigua.

Under the new partnerships, Norse Atlantic Airways will provide weekly service on Fridays from Manchester, England, to Barbados, and Saturday service from London Gatwick and Manchester to Antigua and Barbados on an alternating basis.

TUI Airways will provide service to Barbados on Friday and Saturday from three airports — London Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham, England. TUI will also operate regional feeder flights to larger airports from several destinations, including Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland; Bristol, Newcastle, and Bournemouth, England; Cardiff, Wales; and Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Virgin Atlantic will provide service from London Heathrow every 14 days, with Friday departures, to Barbados.

P&O Cruises Ship
P&O Cruises Ship (Photo Credit: ATGImages)

“We recognise that flights are a key part of the holiday experience and so I am delighted that we are continuing our longstanding partnership with TUI and that we are introducing a bespoke in-flight proposition with Norse Atlantic as well as fortnightly flights with Virgin Atlantic,” said Paul Ludlow, president of P&O Cruises. 

“This will ensure our guests have a consistent in-flight experience aligned across all three airlines matching the high quality standard they would expect from P&O Cruises,” Ludlow added.

Read Also: Barbados Cruise Port – Getting Around, What’s Nearby and Guide

The air service on P&O Cruises’ fly-cruise packages feature amenity kits in premium economy and Upper Class (on Virgin Atlantic); inflight drinks and meals; and valet luggage service that includes delivery to each guest’s cabin if the luggage is checked at the airport.

Both P&O Cruises’ Ships Offer Port-Rich Itineraries

The 3,647-guest Britannia, which entered service in 2015, will sail 14-night cruises roundtrip from Barbados and calling at Martinique, St. Kitts, Tortola, BVI, St. Maarten, Grenada, and St. Lucia. A special 14-night Christmas cruise, sailing roundtrip from Barbados on December 13, 2024, will call at Curacao, Bonaire, St. Lucia, Grenada, Antigua, St. Maarten, and St. Vincent.

The 5,200-guest Arvia offers 14-night voyages from Barbados, calling at the same ports as Britannia. A 7-night option onboard the bigger ship operates between Barbados and Antigua, calling at Martinique, St. Kitts, Tortola, and St. Maarten.

Arvia is an Excellence-class ship that launched in 2022. Bound for a long-term deployment to the Southern Caribbean, she was christened in Barbados in March 2023.

Cunard Reveals Andrea Bocelli Will Perform at Major Christening

Donna Tunney
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Cunard Reveals Andrea Bocelli Will Perform at Major Christening

Cunard has disclosed more exciting details about the upcoming christening ceremony for its new ship, Queen Anne, announcing that renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli will headline the roster of performers who will entertain at the gala event. The 3,000-guest ship will be named in Liverpool, England, on June 3, 2024.

Bocelli, the iconic singer famous for mixing opera and pop — creating what has become known as “popera” music, will be among celebrities performing at the ceremony, which is being hosted by musician Matt Willis and his wife, Emma Willis. Other performances will feature the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and musicians from the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

The christening will take place at the tail-end of Queen Anne’s 14-night British Isles Festival Cruise, which sails roundtrip from Southampton on May 24, 2024 and calls at Edinburgh, Kirkwall, Orkney Island, Invergordon, and Greenock-Glasgow, Scotland; and Belfast, Northern Ireland, before arriving in Liverpool on June 3 for her naming event.  One final port call, at Cobh-Cork, Ireland, will be made before the ship returns to Southampton.

Andrea Bocelli
Andrea Bocelli

“Liverpool is known the world over as Cunard’s spiritual home, and we are thrilled to announce Maestro Bocelli as part of our incredible line-up of talented artists and performers for this special event,” said Katie McAlister, president of Cunard.

“This celebration is a tribute to our rich history and a testament to the enduring bond between Cunard and the city of Liverpool. We look forward to honoring this legacy with a celebration of unforgettable performances that reflect the spirit and vibrancy of both our company and this magnificent city,” McAlister added.

Bocelli, who has been blind since the age of 12, has released 17 albums. He made his debut at the New York Philharmonic in 2006 and at the Metropolitan Opera in 2011.

“It’s an honour to be performing in Liverpool, for the Official Naming Ceremony of Queen Anne. This event promises to be a beautiful celebration of artistry and craftsmanship, which perfectly captures the spirit and elegance of Cunard’s new ship. To be taking part in such a historic occasion, in a city rich in cultural heritage, truly brings me great joy,” said Andrea Bocelli.

Queen Anne, which was delivered to Cunard by the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy, on April 19, 2024, sailed her maiden voyage from Southampton on May 3, 2024.

The 113,000-gross ton ship is currently operating a 14-day Canary Islands voyage roundtrip from Southampton, calling at Funchal, Portugal; Arrecife, Lanzarote, Las Palmas, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands; and La Coruna, Spain.

Queen Anne’s First Season Features 111-day World Voyage

Following her naming ceremony, Queen Anne will home-port in Southampton and sail a variety of cruises to the Western Mediterranean, Canary Islands, Norwegian fjords, Scandinavia, and Northern Europe. Getaway cruises as short as 2 nights are offered, along with longer voyages of up to 18 nights.

Read Also: Cunard Unveils Global Voyages for 2025-2027

Queen Anne Arrival in Southampton
Queen Anne Arrival in Southampton

In January 2025, she will operate her inaugural world voyage, setting sail on January 9, 2025 along a 111-day route that will take her to destinations in North America, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. The itinerary includes transits through the Panama Canal and the Suez Canal – if tensions in the Red Sea region ease, and passage is determined to be safe.

The 14-deck Queen Anne features Cunard’s three categories of service, Queens Grill, Princess Grill, and Britannia. Design highlights include a two-level Royal Court Theatre, 15 restaurants, several sports courts, and the Mareel Wellness & Beauty spa.

Cunard partnered with two-Michelin star chef Michel Roux, famous for his restaurant Le Gavroche, to devise a unique menu for Queen Anne‘s exclusive Queens Grill restaurant. Roux also has revamped the offerings in the ship’s Golden Lion pub.

The new-build joined three Cunard ships on the high seas: the 2,700-guest Queen Mary 2, and Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria, each with a capacity for 2,000 guests.

Norwegian Cruise Line Expands Operations Across Asia-Pacific Region

Lissa Poirot
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Norwegian Cruise Line Expands Operations Across Asia-Pacific Region

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced a significant expansion in the Asia-Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand regions, introducing over 30 new itineraries. The cruise line is now offering nearly 90 voyages from September 2024 through March 2026, marking the largest deployment in this area in its history.

The expansion includes the introduction of the 77,104-gross-ton Norwegian Sky, the 78,309-gross-ton Norwegian Sun, and the 75,904-gross-ton Norwegian Spirit to first-visits within the Asia-Pacific market.

“Our company is committed to delivering more opportunities for our guests to explore the world with remarkable vacation experiences,” said David J. Herrera, president of NCL. “Having lived in Asia with my family, I can attest to it being one of those unforgettable places.”

Norwegian Sun Cruise Ship
Norwegian Sun Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Karis48 / Shutterstock)

He continued, “With the increased interest in more immersive and exotic itineraries, we are excited to expand our season and offer additional ships to cater to travelers looking to uncover the most sought-out cities in the region, but also those less discovered.”

NCL’s new itineraries will offer an average of 10 hours in port, with over 30 overnight stays and visits to five new-to-brand locations in Australia and Japan. The season will feature seven debut Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific cruises.

Extensive New Offerings and Ports

Norwegian Cruise Line will deploy the most ships it has ever operated in the Asia-Pacific region with voyages from 15 departure ports, including new additions such as Cairns, Australia, and Lautoka, Fiji.

Other departure points include Auckland, New Zealand; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand; Manila, Philippines; Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia; Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Singapore; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; and Sydney and Melbourne, Australia.

The new itineraries span 9 to 19 days, covering over 60 destinations with extensive port stays, including 36 overnights. This includes a first-time overnight in Bali and Lembar (Lombok), Indonesia.

NCL’s first summer cruises in Asia will be part of this schedule, with the 2,032-passenger Norwegian Spirit making its debut on May 26, 2024, with a 10-day Japan cruise departing from Tokyo.

Norwegian Spirit Cruise Ship in Japan
Norwegian Spirit Cruise Ship in Japan

Following this, the Leo Class-ship will offer 9- to 15-day voyages through Japan and Southeast Asia from September 2024 to November 2025. Destinations include Himeji, Osaka, Tokyo, and Tokushima in Japan, and Hong Kong, Incheon, Taipei, and Bangkok.

From December 2025 to March 2026, Norwegian Spirit will embark on 11- to 14-day journeys between Australia and New Zealand. Ports of call will include Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Lyttelton, Marlborough (Picton), and Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand, as well as Melbourne, Eden, Portland, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, and Syndey, Australia. The ship will also visit Hobart, Tasmania.

Meanwhile, the 1,936-passenger Norwegian Sun, part of the cruise line’s Sun Class ships, will make its Australian debut in December 2024, sailing 12- to 15-day voyages between Australia and New Zealand, as well as island-hopping cruises in French Polynesia. Its Australian cruises will introduce new itineraries to the Great Barrier Reef and call on multiple ports in New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Fiji.

Norwegian Sky Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: pio3 / Shutterstock

Norwegian Sky, also a Sun Class ship that can accommodate 2,004 passengers, will also enter the Asian market in January 2025, offering select Japan and Southeast Asia cruises through March 2025.

Its Southeast Asia itineraries include calls in Ko Samui and Bangkok, Thailand; Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam; Muara, Brunei Darussalam; and Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang), Malaysia. Japan calls include Ishigaki, Naha, Miyakojima, Kyoto, Naze, Nagasaki, and Mount Fiju (Shimizu).

Norwegian Dawn will join the Asian lineup in 2026.

Passengers can also extend their vacations with NCL’s Cruisetours in Auckland, Taipei, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney.

Carnival Reminds Guests of Homeport Change, Difficult Destination

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Reminds Guests of Homeport Change, Difficult Destination

Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked on the May 26, 2024 departure of Carnival Pride to confirm the ship’s homeport change as well as remind them of challenges for their planned destinations. The upcoming cruise is a 14-night Journeys itinerary to Greenland and Canada, which can prove difficult for travelers with mobility concerns.

First, the cruise line has officially confirmed a homeport change – or rather, re-change – for Carnival Pride, and the ship will be operating from Baltimore as originally scheduled.

The ship had been temporarily relocated to homeport from Norfolk, Virginia, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge at the end of March, which closed Baltimore Harbor to marine traffic.

Carnival Pride
Carnival Pride (Photo Credit: PIXAS / Shutterstock)

“The best news was that we were able to say that official clearance has been received and we are confirming that we will be operating from Port of Baltimore,” said John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador.

For several weeks, it had been uncertain whether or not the cruise would be able to sail from Baltimore or if it would be necessary to depart from Norfolk. Fortunately, great progress has been made to return the Port of Baltimore to operation.

“We are so excited to be welcoming Carnival Cruise Line back to Baltimore! The Carnival Pride will embark its first cruise from Baltimore on May 26 for an epic 14-day cruise to Greenland and Canada,” Port of Baltimore posted on social media. “A beautiful time of the year to cruise north. Baltimore is back!”

This means that guests will not have to arrange transportation to Norfolk or take shuttle busses to the alternate homeport. Carnival Cruise Line has arranged complimentary bus transportation for travelers ever since the temporary homeport change.

The 86,071-gross-ton, Spirit-class Carnival Pride is homeported year-round from Baltimore, offering 7-night sailings to the Bahamas or the Eastern Caribbean, with select departures to Bermuda. The May 26 cruise is the ship’s first Greenland sailing of 2024, and she will also visit Greenland later this year with departures on August 18 and September 8.

Challenges in Greenland

Guests who are embarking Carnival Pride for this bucket-list sailing must take note of the challenges Greenland can pose for visitors, however. The cruise line is working to ensure everyone is informed of potential difficulties.

“Like some of our destinations, facilities are not equipped for people with mobility limitations. We will be anchoring in both Nanortalik and Qaqortoq and using water shuttles to take you from the ship to shore, and back,” the email notification read.

Nanortalik and Qaqortoq are the only two ports of call in Greenland. The ship will also be visiting St. Anthony and Corner Brook in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as Sydney in Nova Scotia, before returning to Baltimore on June 9.

Greenland
Greenland

On Carnival Cruise Line’s special needs page for guests with mobility limitations, St. Anthony is also listed as a water shuttle port of call.

The email notes that stairs are necessary to leave the ship and board the water shuttles, and guests must walk up an inclined ramp once they reach the shore. Any mobility devices must be collapsible to be taken aboard the water shuttles.

Read Also: Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Mobility Scooter Policy After Misunderstanding

Furthermore, “resting facilities” are limited or non-existent in these ports of call, and the local terrain can be hilly and uneven.

“Given these limitations, if you decide to remain on board, the Carnival Pride team will have a variety of activities and entertainment for you to enjoy,” the email said.

Travelers should also note that Carnival Cruise Line has been cracking down on mobility scooters and enforcing the policy that scooters may not be parked in corridors or public areas. Furthermore, larger scooters may not be permitted onboard if they are unable to fit within guests’ staterooms.

Holland America Line Introduces New Culinary Experience

Catie Kovelman
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Holland America Line Introduces New Culinary Experience

On Tuesday, May 21, 2024, Holland America Line made a timely announcement on International Tea Day. Over the next few weeks, the cruise line will begin offering a traditional Royal Dutch Tea experience on all of its 11 ships. 

Although the Seattle-based cruise line is now owned by Carnival Corporation, it was originally founded in Rotterdam, Netherlands, in April of 1873. Making the tea service available fleet-wide is a way to pay homage to the cruise line’s 150 years of Dutch heritage and traditions. 

The traditional tea service will take place in the afternoon on sea days in the main dining room of each ship and will consist of three courses, or tiers, that will feature Dutch snacks and treats.

Holland America Line Dutch Tea
Holland America Line Dutch Tea (Photo Credit: Holland America)

When guests first sit down, they’ll first be asked to select their tea. The galley will be well-stocked with a delicious variety of teas, such as loose-leaf Earl Gray, English Breakfast, Mint, Green, and Chai teas. 

Once passengers have something to sip, they can start tasting a mix of traditional Dutch sandwiches, including bay shrimp on brioche bread with Dutch cocktail sauce, egg Salad and cress on white bread with mayonnaise and mustard, smoked salmon and dill on whole wheat with cream cheese, and coronation chicken on whole wheat with curry, yogurt, dried apricots, and cilantro. 

Of course, no tea service would be complete without fresh scones. Between the sandwiches and dessert, raisin and plain scones will be served with jam and whipped cream – sort of as a palate cleanser.

Read Also: Expert Reveals How Cruise Passengers Should Drink Tea

Last but not least, guests will move on to the sweets. A variety of Dutch treats will be offered, including Moorkop (a cream puff with whipped cream and mandarin), Boterkoek (a butter cake with almond slices), Gevulde Koeken (a short sugary pastry with marzipan), Appletaarts (Mini Dutch apple tartlets with a cookie base), and Maple Stroopwafel Napoleon with cream and fresh berries. 

Gourmet Dining Experiences Offered By Holland America Line

Like many of the major cruise lines, Holland America Line is all-inclusive, meaning a variety of restaurants and eateries onboard are included in the price of the cruise.

On Holland America, this includes the main dining room for fine dining, and more casual fare from the Lido Market (a casual marketplace with options ranging from breakfast to late night snacks), Dive-In (a poolside grill), and New York Pizza (a poolside pizzeria with fresh Italian salads and personal pizzas).

New Holland America Line Menu
New Holland America Line Menu (Photo Credit: Gene R Samit)

For guests craving a more elevated dining experience, the cruise line offers a variety of specialty venues for an additional fee. These include Pinnacle Grill (a steakhouse), Canaletto (Italian cuisine), Tamarind (serves traditional Chinese and Japanese cuisine), Rudi’s Sel De Mer (serves classic French dishes and seafood), and Nami Sushi. 

But Holland America takes onboard dining to the next level by constantly looking for opportunities to refresh menus and provide unique and tasty culinary experiences for guests. 

For example, the cruise line introduced a first-of-its-kind fresh fish program at the end of 2023, through which the ships source 80 different types of fresh seafood from 60 ports around the world. This ensures passengers are always fed the best-quality seafood, whether it is the first or last day of their sailing. 

Another unique experience offered by Holland America is culinary cruises. During these popular specialty cruises, celebrity chefs take over the sailing for exclusive-chef hosted dinners, live cooking demonstrations and classes, and coffee chats where guests can interact with their culinary idols in a more intimate setting. 

The culinary cruise program, which debuted in 2022 with great success, has already been extended through 2025.

Cruise Guest Handed Hefty Bill – During Evacuation

Melissa Mayntz
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Cruise Guest Handed Hefty Bill – During Evacuation

Frequent cruise travelers know that one’s final onboard bill must be settled before debarking the ship, but what about if you are leaving the ship unexpectedly?

One couple has learned that even during an emergency medical evacuation, they can be handed a bill and expected to pay. Their story is a cautionary tale to others about what medical care on a cruise can cost, and when those bills are due.

According to an account first published with NPR, 31-year-old Vincent Wasney and his fiancée Sarah Eberlein received their first cruise as a gift from their real estate agent after buying their first home in 2018. Due to the pandemic shutdown, however, they did not set sail until December 2022.

Independence of the Seas, Vincent Wasney
Independence of the Seas, Vincent Wasney

The couple chose a 4-night Royal Caribbean voyage aboard Independence of the Seas that included Perfect Day at CocoCay, since they had heard great things about the award-winning private island destination. Their cruise departed on December 8 from Port Canaveral.

Yet, on the day they visited CocoCay, Wasney began to feel ill. The next day, he had three seizures within a 10-hour period. He was treated in the ship’s medical center, and while he had a history of seizures, he hadn’t had one recently. Still, each seizure was worse than the last, and ultimately a medical evacuation was ordered.

Worth Reading: Cruise Passenger’s Almost $10k Medical Bill Goes Viral

Before the couple boarded a rescue boat – they were close enough to Fort Lauderdale to make a boat evacuation feasible – they were handed a mid-cruise guest statement bill. The charges listed included internet access, drinks from several different bars onboard, four days of onboard gratuities, and $2,500 in medical fees from the ship’s medical facility.

The medical charges included anticonvulsant medication, blood gas testing, observation, and other services.

While Wasney does not recall much about receiving the bill as he was being debarked – seizures often cause brief memory loss, grogginess, and disorientation – Eberlein does remember the confusion and astonishment.

“Are we being held hostage at this point?” she remembers asking.

Independence of the Seas, Vincent Wasney
Independence of the Seas, Vincent Wasney

The couple was asked how much they could pay, and ultimately put hefty charges, including a significant overdraft, on their credit cards to cover the bulk of the bill.

Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ticket contract, section 5(d) specifically states that a “guest shall pay for all medical care or other personal services requested or required, whether onboard or ashore, including the cost of any emergency medical care or transportation.”

After the evacuation, the couple had additional medical charges from continuing care in Florida. To this day, Wasney is not sure what may have caused his seizures.

Would Insurance Help?

Wasney did not have personal medical coverage at the time of the incident onboard Independence of the Seas, though insurance from his employer began several weeks later.

The couple also did not have travel insurance, and had been unaware of the option to purchase it. Since the vacation had been a gift from their real estate agent, they were not prompted to purchase travel insurance at the time the cruise was booked.

Furthermore, because they were unfamiliar with the types of coverage offered by travel insurance policies, they believed such coverage would only apply for lost luggage, travel delays, or similar circumstances, not for medical emergencies.

Independence of the Seas Cruise Ship
Independence of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze / Shutterstock)

Read Also: Passenger Loses Out on Antarctica Cruise Over Lost Luggage

Travel insurance policies can vary widely based on the type of coverage purchased and the individual provisions within the policy. Travelers should always be careful to thoroughly understand the terms of their coverage – before they set sail.

Some policies may also require that travelers pay expenses themselves, then submit claims for reimbursement rather than paying upfront.

In the end, the couple arranged payment plans and a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the medical expenses. Now 18 months after the event, they still owe more than $3,000, but are gradually making progress on the payments.

To be clear, the couple is in no way blaming Royal Caribbean for the expenses, but acknowledges that better clarity of charges and how such emergencies should be handled would be helpful.

All cruise travelers should consider such experiences when planning their own cruise getaways, and be thoughtful about whether or not travel insurance would be a wise investment for their own voyages.

Cruise Lines Required to Be More Transparent In Pricing

Lissa Poirot
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Cruise Lines Required to Be More Transparent In Pricing

California’s new “Honest Pricing Law, effective July 1, 2024, will require cruise lines to include all mandatory fees, such as taxes and port fees, in their advertised prices. The legislation aims to provide consumers with clearer and more transparent pricing, eliminating the surprise of additional costs at checkout.

The law, also known as Senate Bill 478, prohibits all businesses from advertising a price without including nearly all required fees or charges.

Cruise ship in California
Cruise ship in California (Photo Credit: canadastock)

California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “Our price transparency law is about clear and honest communication with consumers, so consumers can make the financial choices that are best for them and their families.”

He added, “The law is simple: the price you see is the price you pay.”

This change will impact major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises, which often have additional costs exceeding $100 per person.

Some cruise lines, like Disney Cruise Line and Silversea Cruises, already include these fees in their advertised prices and will not need to make adjustments.

While the law mandates the inclusion of port fees and other necessary expenses, it does not require the inclusion of optional charges like gratuities.

New Law Requires Full Disclosure of Cruise Prices, Ending Hidden Fees

Cruise lines advertising and operating in California will now need to list all-inclusive prices encompassing mandatory fees, taxes, and other expenses, including cancellation fees.

Mandatory fees include costs imposed by port authorities for using their facilities and services, often passed along to cruise passengers as port fees. These fees cover various expenses, including docking fees, pilotage fees for a local pilot to navigate the ship, security fees, wharfage fees, harbor maintenance fees, environmental fees, and customs and immigration fees for processing passengers and crew. 

Port fees can vary widely depending on the port and the services provided, but cruise lines are aware of the costs when setting cruise prices. Traditionally, port fees are listed separately from the base price of the cruise.

Cruise Ship at Port of Los Angeles
Cruise Ship at Port of Los Angeles (Photo Credit: Underawesternsky / Shutterstock)

The regulation aims to end “drip pricing,” where customers are initially attracted by a low advertised price but end up paying more due to undisclosed mandatory fees.

Royal Caribbean Group, which operates Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, has announced it will implement California’s changes nationwide to maintain consistency and avoid confusion. This means that starting July 1, the advertised prices for all of its cruise lines across the United States will include all required taxes, fees, and port expenses. 

Royal Caribbean Group said of its decision, “We strive for simplicity and clarity in our pricing. Treating California differently than the rest of the United States could have created confusion and introduced unnecessary complexity.”

Read Also: Los Angeles Cruise Port – Terminals, Getting Around, What’s Nearby

Carnival Corporation has also confirmed similar changes for its brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Cunard North America. 

In an email sent to travel advisors, Carnival Corporation’s cruise lines stated, “At this time, the Carnival Cruise Line, Princess, Holland America, and Cunard North America brands have elected to include ALL the current taxes, fees, and port expenses into the advertised price. Seabourn already advertises fares this way, but the changes described for refunds and cancellation fees will apply to Seabourn as well.”

The letter explained pricing would list the cruise price, government taxes and fees, and required cruise fees and port expenses in its advertised prices.

“This will provide guests with the clear total price upfront for the cruise selected,” Carnival Corporation continued.

Cruise lines that do not comply with the new law may face fines, penalties, injunctions, and legal action.

Carnival Cruise Line Debunks Cabin Upgrade Hack

Melissa Mayntz
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Carnival Cruise Line Debunks Cabin Upgrade Hack

Carnival Cruise Line has responded to a viral cruise stateroom upgrade hack circulating on social media, noting that not only does it not work, but it’s a waste of time for passengers and crew members alike.

The so-called “hack” recommends that travelers book an inside stateroom but, on embarkation day, visit the Guest Services desk and claim to be scared, sick, and claustrophobic because of the small interior room. Theoretically, this will compel the Guest Services staff to upgrade travelers to a balcony stateroom at no extra charge.

“When you get on the ship go straight to the front desk. Say to them that you are scared because you get claustrophobic and sick in an inside room and and you have to get upgraded,” one purveyor of the hack proclaimed. “I have been on 4 cruises and only once was told no and on TWO occasions we were given a free upgrade to a balcony.”

Carnival Cruise Line Cabin
Carnival Cruise Line Cabin (Photo Credit: Cruise Hive)

The individual posting the so-called trick did not, however, provide the ship’s names, sailing dates, or other confirmation of where or when they were successful getting an upgrade. The post, however, was made on a social media site known for false and exaggerated claims.

The tip did come to the attention of Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald, who addressed its truthfulness with his characteristic colorful commentary.

“This ‘hack’ is only true in the same sense it’s true that I am on the front cover of ‘Cruise Industry News’ under the banner ‘Cruising’s Hottest and Most Influential Man, 2024,'” Heald said.

It is no secret that cruise bookings are up for all cruise lines. When a ship is sold out, there are no staterooms available for upgrading onboard, no matter what the reason or request may be.

“Our ships are mostly always sold out this year and many are in 2025 too,” Heald confirmed. “We simply cannot do upgrades so standing in line at Guest Services on their busiest day to ask for an upgrade is a waste your time and quite frankly, a waste of the guest services team as well who could be helping other guests.”

Many passengers have to visit Guest Services on the first day of the cruise to arrange paying for onboard accounts with cash, replacing Sail and Sign cards that may not work, requesting special needs accommodations, reporting lost luggage, or other issues.

Carnival Cruise Line Guest Relations Desk
Carnival Cruise Line Guest Relations Desk (Photo Credit: Ihor Koptilin / Shutterstock)

Other guests have responded with skepticism to the hack, noting that cruise lines clearly publish stateroom types and sizes. Any traveler who “needs” a larger room due to claustrophobia, accessibility, or simply personal preference, should book that type of room when they arrange their cruise.

Once onboard, guests may also notice signage posted near the Guest Services desk that states the ship is full and no upgrades are available.

If travelers are truly unhappy with their assigned stateroom, Guest Services can arrange for their luggage to be returned to the cruise terminal if they choose not to set sail. This would be without any refund or compensation, however.

Are Upgrades Ever Available?

Booking a lower category of stateroom and hoping for a free upgrade may be a cost-saving strategy, but it is not a foolproof one.

Travelers can, however, book a guaranteed stateroom in the lowest category they will be comfortable with. While they will not be able to pick out their exact stateroom number or location, it is possible they will receive an upgrade when their final stateroom assignment is made.

Carnival Sunrise Cabins

Read Also: Should You Book a Guaranteed Cruise Stateroom?

The risk, however, is that they may also receive a stateroom in their chosen category in a less desirable location, such as an obstructed view or positioned in a noisier part of the ship.

Other cost-saving ways to get upgrades are through bidding programs, which vary by cruise line. For these programs, guests are offered the opportunity to bid on upgrades as their cruise date approaches. Bids will be accepted or rejected depending on availability and cost.

Ultimately, the very best way to ensure the best possible stateroom is to book the exact room you want for your cruise vacation. Consider the size and location of the cabin, its amenities, and any perks, such as special benefits for suites or certain classes of staterooms. There will be no need to try an unconfirmed, uncertain trick for an upgrade if you’ve already reserved the upgrade you want!

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